bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coupled biogeochemical cycles: eutrophication and hypoxia in temperate estuaries and coastal marine ecosystems
Authors: Howarth Robert , Chan Francis , Conley Daniel J , Garnier Josette , Doney Scott C , Marino Roxanne , Billen Gilles
Published: February 2011

Nutrient fluxes to coastal areas have risen in recent decades, leading to widespread hypoxia and other ecological damage, particularly from nitrogen (N). Several factors make N more limiting in estuaries and coastal waters than in lakes: desorption (release) of phosphorus (P) bound to clay as salinity increases, lack of planktonic N fixation in most coastal ecosystems, and flux of relatively P‐rich, N‐poor waters from coastal oceans into estuaries. During eutrophication, biogeochemical feedbacks further increase the supply of N and P, but decrease availability of silica – conditions that can favor the formation and persistence of harmful algal blooms. Given sufficient N inputs, estuaries and coastal marine ecosystems can be driven to P limitation. This switch contributes to greater far‐field N pollution; that is, the N moves further and contributes to eutrophication at greater distances. The physical oceanography (extent of stratification, residence time, and so forth) of coastal systems determines their sensitivity to hypoxia, and recent changes in physics have made some ecosystems more sensitive to hypoxia. Coastal hypoxia contributes to ocean acidification, which harms calcifying organisms such as mollusks and some crustaceans.
Riverine coupling of biogeochemical cycles between land, oceans, and atmosphere
Authors: Aufdenkampe Anthony K , Mayorga Emilio , Raymond Peter A , Melack John M , Doney Scott C , Alin Simone R , Aalto Rolf E , Yoo Kyungsoo
Published: February 2011

Streams, rivers, lakes, and other inland waters are important agents in the coupling of biogeochemical cycles between continents, atmosphere, and oceans. The depiction of these roles in global‐scale assessments of carbon (C) and other bioactive elements remains limited, yet recent findings suggest that C discharged to the oceans is only a fraction of that entering rivers from terrestrial ecosystems via soil respiration, leaching, chemical weathering, and physical erosion. Most of this C influx is returned to the atmosphere from inland waters as carbon dioxide (CO2) or buried in sedimentary deposits within impoundments, lakes, floodplains, and other wetlands. Carbon and mineral cycles are coupled by both erosion–deposition processes and chemical weathering, with the latter producing dissolved inorganic C and carbonate buffering capacity that strongly modulate downstream pH, biological production of calcium‐carbonate shells, and CO2 outgassing in rivers, estuaries, and coastal zones. Human activities substantially affect all of these processes.
Death: The Ultimate Social Construction of Reality
Authors: Brabant Sarah
Published: February 2011

Using Berger and Luckmann's thesis (1966) on the social construction of reality as rationale, this research analyzes the death drawings of 946 university students enrolled in a Death and Dying course between 1985 and 2004 to investigate the basic constructs elicited by the word “death”: dying, moment of death, after death, after life, and bereavement. Consistent with earlier research, gender, race, religion, and religiosity proved to be significant factors. As expected, personal experience with grief was strongly correlated with drawings focused on bereavement. In contrast to earlier studies, fear of death was not significantly related to a particular construct. Implications for research, education, and counseling are discussed.
Predictors of per Capita Alcohol Consumption and Gender-Specific Liver Cirrhosis Mortality Rates: Thirteen European Countries, Circa 1970–1984 and 1995–2007
Authors: Cutright Phillips , Fernquist Robert M.
Published: February 2011

Regression models of cross-national differences in social and economic predictors of per capita alcohol consumption and gender-specific cirrhosis mortality rates are developed for 13 European countries, first using 1970–1984 (period 1) data and then replicating with 1995–2007 (period 2) data. Regression analysis finds that stronger alcohol control policy laws and income inequality are highly significant predictors of consumption in both periods. Further, results show that alcohol consumption is a significant predictor of male mortality rates in both periods, while it is significant only in the second period for female cirrhosis mortality rates. Psychological well-being is a significant predictor for male and female cirrhosis mortality rates in both periods.
Determinants of Common Mental Disorders Detection by General Practitioners in the Primary Health Care in Brazil
Authors: Gonçalves Daniel A. , Fortes Sandra , Tófoli Luís Fernando , Campos Mônica Rodrigues , De Jesus Mari Jair
Published: February 2011

Objective:

Common Mental Disorders (CMD) are highly prevalent among patients attending primary care. Many of these disorders remain unrecognized by general practitioners (GPs), with the detection rates varying from 30 to 60%. This study aims to evaluate the CMD detection rates by Primary Heath Care (PHC) practitioners in Brazil—and factors that affect CMD detection.

Methods:

A cross sectional study was conducted with users of five PHC units in the city of Petrópolis. The CMD prevalence of psychiatric morbidity was estimated by the General Health Questionnaire-12, and the physician's CMD detection was evaluated by a questionnaire completed by GPs after each consultation.

Results:

Seven hundred and fourteen subjects participated of the study, and 400 (56%) were screened positive using GHQ-12 cut-off point of 2/3. GPs diagnosed 379 people with CMD (53.1%), and 256(36%) subjects were detected by both GHQ and the GPs with an OR of 3.04 (95%CI 2.23–4.13). CMD detection accuracy by GPs was 65%. There was a strong association between the detection of CMD and the report of medically unexplained physical symptoms by GPs. Being female, married, and a frequent service user was also related to higher detection rates.

Conclusion:

CMD detection rate was similar to those reported worldwide, but contrary to other studies, the presence of MUS increased detection rates. The high frequency of CMD in Primary Health Care highlights the need for improving GP and health worker's training in order to enable them to accurately recognize and treat psychological distress with evidence-based interventions.
Exercise for the Treatment of Depression and Anxiety
Authors: Carek Peter J. , Laibstain Sarah E. , Carek Stephen M.
Published: February 2011

Depression and anxiety are the most common psychiatric conditions seen in the general medical setting, affecting millions of individuals in the United States. The treatments for depression and anxiety are multiple and have varying degrees of effectiveness. Physical activity has been shown to be associated with decreased symptoms of depression and anxiety. Physical activity has been consistently shown to be associated with improved physical health, life satisfaction, cognitive functioning, and psychological well-being. Conversely, physical inactivity appears to be associated with the development of psychological disorders. Specific studies support the use of exercise as a treatment for depression. Exercise compares favorably to antidepressant medications as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate depression and has also been shown to improve depressive symptoms when used as an adjunct to medications. While not as extensively studied, exercise has been shown to be an effective and cost-efficient treatment alternative for a variety of anxiety disorders. While effective, exercise has not been shown to reduce anxiety to the level achieved by psychopharmaceuticals.
A Japanese Scale to Assess Anxiety Severity: Development and Psychometric Evaluation
Authors: Mimura Chizu , Nishioka Miho , Sato Noriyuki , Hasegawa Ryoko , Horikoshi Ryu , Watanabe Yoshinori
Published: February 2011

Objective:

This study developed a Japanese self-rating anxiety scale, the Himorogi Self-rating Anxiety Scale (HSAS), and tested psychometric properties of its use in Japanese psychiatric patients.

Methods:

The process of developing the scale consisted of an intensive literature review, assessment of existing instruments, and detailed discussion on the content of the newly developed scale. Data for psychometric evaluation were collected from 419 outpatients of psychiatric clinics. The Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety Interview Guide (HAMA-IG) and the Sheehan Patient Rated Anxiety Scale (SPRAS) were used as standards against which the HSAS was compared.

Results:

Confirmatory factor analysis revealed a unifactorial nature for the HSAS and fewer insignificant items in the HSAS than the HAMA-IG and the SPRAS. Cronbach's alpha and test-retest coefficients indicated sufficient reliability. High correlation with the HAMA-IG and the SPRAS indicated evidence of convergence for the HSAS. ROC analysis showed high ability to distinguish between the presence and absence or remission of anxiety. Analysis of descriptive data suggested a larger dynamic range for the HSAS than the HAMA-IG and the SPRAS.

Conclusions:

The HSAS is a brief scale to assess anxiety severity, demonstrating evidence of good psychometric properties. It is recommended for use in research and clinical practice.
Anxiety and Depression in Caregivers are Associated with Patient and Caregiver Characteristics in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: García-Alberca José María , Lara Joséa Pablo , Berthier Marcelo Luis
Published: February 2011

Objective:

The aim of this study is to know the prevalence of anxiety and depression in caregivers of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and assess the association of caregiver burden (CB) with characteristics of both patients and caregivers.

Method:

Sociodemographic and clinical variables have been obtained (patients: age, gender, marital status, years of education, duration and severity of dementia, psychiatric disorders, previous history, and use of psychoactive and antidementia drugs; caregivers: age, gender, relationship with patient, and marital status). Cognition was assessed with Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE); severity of dementia was assessed with Global Deterioration Scale (GDS); caregiver burden was assessed with Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and the number of hours of attention to the basic activities of daily-living (H-BADL).

Results:

More than 50% of caregivers have shown high anxiety and depression scores. Patients with longer duration of dementia, greater severity of dementia, and lower education levels significantly differ in anxiety and depression mean scores.

Conclusion:

The presence of CB in AD patients is strongly associated with the duration and severity of dementia and the educational level of patients. The results of this study should encourage researchers and clinicians working with elderly persons to consider these modifiable psychological states.
Donepezil Significantly Improves Abilities in Daily Lives of Female down Syndrome Patients with Severe Cognitive Impairment: A 24-Week Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Kondoh Tatsuro , Kanno Atsushi , Itoh Hiroshi , Nakashima Mikiro , Honda Ryoko , Kojima Michio , Noguchi Mitsuru , Nakane Hideyuki , Nozaki Hidetsugu , Sasaki Hitoshi , Nagai Toshiro , Kosaki Rika , Kakee Naoko , Okuyama Torayuki , Fukuda Masafumi , Ikeda Masayuki , Shibata Yoshisada , Moriuchi Hiroyuki
Published: February 2011

Objective:

Down syndrome (DS) patients share certain neuropathological features with Alzheimer disease patients. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was performed to investigate the efficacy and safety of donepezil, an Alzheimer disease drug, for DS patients.

Method:

Twenty-one DS patients with severe cognitive impairment were assigned to take donepezil (3 mg daily) or a placebo for 24 weeks, and evaluated for activities in daily lives by concisely modified International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) scaling system.

Results:

ICF scores significantly increased without any adverse effects in the donepezil group in comparison to those in the placebo control. Among the individual functions tested, there was a dramatic improvement in the global mental functions and in specific mental functions.

Conclusions:

Donepezil may effectively and safely improve overall functioning of DS patients with severe cognitive impairment.
Fractional h-difference equations arising from the calculus of variations
Authors: Ferreira Rui , Torres Delfim
Published: February 2011

The recent theory of fractional h-difference equations introduced in [N.R.O.
Bastos, R. A. C. Ferreira, D. F. M. Torres: Discrete-time fractional
variational problems, Signal Process. 91 (2011), no. 3, 513{524], is
enriched with useful tools for the explicit solution of discrete equations
involving left and right fractional difference operators. New results for the
right fractional h sum are proved. Illustrative examples show the
effectiveness of the obtained results in solving fractional discrete
Euler{Lagrange equations.
Physical Exercise Reduces Circulating Lipopolysaccharide and TLR4 Activation and Improves Insulin Signaling in Tissues of DIO Rats
Authors: Oliveira Alexandre G. , Carvalho Bruno M. , Tobar Natália , Ropelle Eduardo R. , Pauli José R. , Bagarolli Renata A. , Guadagnini Dioze , Carvalheira José B.C. , Saad Mario J.A.
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

Insulin resistance in diet-induced obesity (DIO) is associated with a chronic systemic low-grade inflammation, and Toll–like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays an important role in the link among insulin resistance, inflammation, and obesity. The current study aimed to analyze the effect of exercise on TLR4 expression and activation in obese rats and its consequences on insulin sensitivity and signaling.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The effect of chronic and acute exercise was investigated on insulin sensitivity, insulin signaling, TLR4 activation, c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) and IκB kinase (IKKβ) activity, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) serum levels in tissues of DIO rats.

RESULTS

The results showed that chronic exercise reduced TLR4 mRNA and protein expression in liver, muscle, and adipose tissue. However, both acute and chronic exercise blunted TLR4 signaling in these tissues, including a reduction in JNK and IKKβ phosphorylation and IRS-1 serine 307 phosphorylation, and, in parallel, improved insulin-induced IR, IRS-1 tyrosine phosphorylation, and Akt serine phosphorylation, and reduced LPS serum levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show that physical exercise in DIO rats, both acute and chronic, induces an important suppression in the TLR4 signaling pathway in the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue, reduces LPS serum levels, and improves insulin signaling and sensitivity. These data provide considerable progress in our understanding of the molecular events that link physical exercise to an improvement in inflammation and insulin resistance.
Serum Vascular Adhesion Protein-1 Predicts 10-Year Cardiovascular and Cancer Mortality in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Li Hung-Yuan , Jiang Yi-Der , Chang Tien-Jyun , Wei Jung-Nan , Lin Mao-Shin , Lin Cheng-Hsin , Chiang Fu-Tien , Shih Shyang-Rong , Hung Chi Sheng , Hua Cyue-Huei , Smith David J. , Vanio Jani , Chuang Lee-Ming
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

Vascular adhesion protein-1 (VAP-1) participates in inflammation and catalyzes the breakdown of amines to produce aldehyde, hydrogen peroxide, and ammonia. Serum VAP-1 correlates positively with both acute hyperglycemia and diabetes. We conducted a cohort study to evaluate whether serum VAP-1 predicts 10-year survival in type 2 diabetic patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Between July 1996 and June 2003, we enrolled 661 type 2 diabetic subjects at National Taiwan University Hospital. Serum VAP-1 in the samples obtained at enrollment was measured by time-resolved immunofluorometric assay. The vital status of all subjects was ascertained by linking their data with computerized death certificates in Taiwan.

RESULTS

The medium follow-up period was 10.4 years. Subjects with serum VAP-1 in the highest tertile had a hazard ratio (HR) of 2.19 (95% CI 1.17–4.11) for all-cause mortality adjusted for age, sex, smoking, history of cardiovascular disease, obesity, hypertension, hemoglobin A1c, diabetes duration, total cholesterol, use of statins, abnormal ankle-brachial index, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and proteinuria. The adjusted HRs for logarithmically transformed serum VAP-1 were 5.83 (95% CI 1.17–28.97) for cardiovascular mortality, 6.32 (95% CI 1.25–32.00) for mortality from cardiovascular and diabetic causes, and 17.24 (95% CI 4.57–65.07) for cancer mortality. There were four variables, including age, serum VAP-1, proteinuria, and eGFR, which could enhance mortality prediction significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum VAP-1 can predict 10-year all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and cancer mortality independently in type 2 diabetic subjects. Serum VAP-1 is a novel biomarker that improves risk prediction over and above established risk factors.
Molecular Mechanism by Which AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Activation Promotes Glycogen Accumulation in Muscle
Authors: Hunter Roger W. , Treebak Jonas T. , Wojtaszewski Jørgen F.P. , Sakamoto Kei
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

During energy stress, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) promotes glucose transport and glycolysis for ATP production, while it is thought to inhibit anabolic glycogen synthesis by suppressing the activity of glycogen synthase (GS) to maintain the energy balance in muscle. Paradoxically, chronic activation of AMPK causes an increase in glycogen accumulation in skeletal and cardiac muscles, which in some cases is associated with cardiac dysfunction. The aim of this study was to elucidate the molecular mechanism by which AMPK activation promotes muscle glycogen accumulation.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We recently generated knock-in mice in which wild-type muscle GS was replaced by a mutant (Arg582Ala) that could not be activated by glucose-6-phosphate (G6P), but possessed full catalytic activity and could still be activated normally by dephosphorylation. Muscles from GS knock-in or transgenic mice overexpressing a kinase dead (KD) AMPK were incubated with glucose tracers and the AMPK-activating compound 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside (AICAR) ex vivo. GS activity and glucose uptake and utilization (glycolysis and glycogen synthesis) were assessed.

RESULTS

Even though AICAR caused a modest inactivation of GS, it stimulated muscle glycogen synthesis that was accompanied by increases in glucose transport and intracellular [G6P]. These effects of AICAR required the catalytic activity of AMPK. Strikingly, AICAR-induced glycogen synthesis was completely abolished in G6P-insensitive GS knock-in mice, although AICAR-stimulated AMPK activation, glucose transport, and total glucose utilization were normal.

CONCLUSIONS

We provide genetic evidence that AMPK activation promotes muscle glycogen accumulation by allosteric activation of GS through an increase in glucose uptake and subsequent rise in cellular [G6P].
Leucine Deprivation Increases Hepatic Insulin Sensitivity via GCN2/mTOR/S6K1 and AMPK Pathways
Authors: Xiao Fei , Huang Zhiying , Li Houkai , Yu Junjie , Wang Chunxia , Chen Shanghai , Meng Qingshu , Cheng Ying , Gao Xiang , Li Jia , Liu Yong , Guo Feifan
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

We have previously shown that serum insulin levels decrease threefold and blood glucose levels remain normal in mice fed a leucine-deficient diet, suggesting increased insulin sensitivity. The goal of the current study is to investigate this possibility and elucidate the underlying cellular mechanisms.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Changes in metabolic parameters and expression of genes and proteins involved in regulation of insulin sensitivity were analyzed in mice, human HepG2 cells, and mouse primary hepatocytes under leucine deprivation.

RESULTS

We show that leucine deprivation improves hepatic insulin sensitivity by sequentially activating general control nonderepressible (GCN)2 and decreasing mammalian target of rapamycin/S6K1 signaling. In addition, we show that activation of AMP-activated protein kinase also contributes to leucine deprivation–increased hepatic insulin sensitivity. Finally, we show that leucine deprivation improves insulin sensitivity under insulin-resistant conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

This study describes mechanisms underlying increased hepatic insulin sensitivity under leucine deprivation. Furthermore, we demonstrate a novel function for GCN2 in the regulation of insulin sensitivity. These observations provide a rationale for short-term dietary restriction of leucine for the treatment of insulin resistance and associated metabolic diseases.
Inflammatory Induction of Human Resistin Causes Insulin Resistance in Endotoxemic Mice
Authors: Park Hyeong-Kyu , Qatanani Mohammed , Briggs Erika R. , Ahima Rexford S. , Lazar Mitchell A.
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

Although adipocyte-derived murine resistin links insulin resistance to obesity, the role of human resistin, predominantly expressed in mononuclear cells and induced by inflammatory signals, remains unclear. Given the mounting evidence that obesity and type 2 diabetes are inflammatory diseases, we sought to determine the relationship between inflammatory increases in human resistin and insulin resistance.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

To investigate the role of human resistin on glucose homeostasis in inflammatory states, we generated mice lacking murine resistin but transgenic for a bacterial artificial chromosome containing human resistin (BAC-Retn), whose expression was similar to that in humans. The metabolic and molecular phenotypes of BAC-Retn mice were assessed after acute and chronic endotoxemia (i.e., exposure to inflammatory lipopolysaccharide).

RESULTS

We found that BAC-Retn mice have circulating resistin levels within the normal human range, and similar to humans, lipopolysaccharide markedly increased serum resistin levels. Acute endotoxemia caused hypoglycemia in mice lacking murine resistin, and this was attenuated in BAC-Retn mice. In addition, BAC-Retn mice developed severe hepatic insulin resistance under chronic endotoxemia, accompanied by increased inflammatory responses in liver and skeletal muscle.

CONCLUSIONS

These results strongly support the role of human resistin in the development of insulin resistance in inflammation. Thus, human resistin may link insulin resistance to inflammatory diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and atherosclerosis.
Microvascular Perfusion Abnormalities of the Thalamus in Painful but Not Painless Diabetic Polyneuropathy
Authors: Selvarajah Dinesh , Wilkinson Iain D. , Gandhi Rajiv , Griffiths Paul D. , Tesfaye Solomon
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

The pathogenesis of painful diabetic neuropathy (DN) remains undetermined, with both central and peripheral mechanisms implicated. This study investigates whether thalamic perfusion abnormalities occur in painful DN.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Eighteen subjects with type 1 diabetes (no DN = 6, painful DN = 5, painless DN = 7) and six healthy volunteers (HV) were recruited. Microvascular perfusion characteristics (relative cerebral blood volume [rCBV], flow [rCBF], and transit time [ttFM]) of the thalamus and caudate nucleus were assessed using magnetic resonance perfusion imaging. The caudate nucleus was chosen to serve as an in vivo control region.

RESULTS

Subjects with painful DN had significantly greater thalamic rCBV (means [SD]; painful DN, 228.7 [19.5]; no DN, 202.3 [25.8]; painless DN, 216.5 [65.5]; HV, 181.9 [51.7]; P = 0.04) and the longest ttFM(s) (painful DN, 38.4 [3.6]; no DN, 35.3 [13.2]; painless DN, 35.9 [13.7]; HV, 33.7 [14.9]; P = 0.07). There was no significant difference in markers of caudate nucleus perfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Painful DN is associated with increased thalamic vascularity. This may provide an important clue to the pathogenesis of pain in DN.
Assessment of five ELISAs for measurement of leptin concentrations in dogs
Authors: Tvarijonaviciute Asta , Ceron Jose J. , Martínez-Subiela Silvia
Published: February 2011

Objective—To evaluate 5 commercially available ELISAs for determination of leptin concentrations in serum samples from dogs.

Sample Population—Serum samples from overweight-obese and thin–ideal weight clientowned dogs.

Procedures—Serum samples with high and low leptin concentrations (n = 7 samples each) were used for validation of the assays. Intra- and interassay precision, linearity under dilution, spiking recovery, and limit of quantification were determined. In addition, leptin concentrations in thin–ideal weight (n = 8) and overweight-obese (37) dogs were quantified.

Results—Use of 2 of the 5 ELISAs (A and B) revealed reactivity with canine leptin. Intra-and interassay coefficients of variation were < 6.1% and 76%, respectively, for assay A and 14.0% and 13.7%, respectively, for assay B. In assays A and B, dilutions of canine serum pools were used to determine linear regression equations. Recoveries were 77% to 101% for assay A and 67% to 125% for assay B. Significant differences in leptin concentrations between thin–ideal weight and overweight-obese dogs were detected only when analyzed with assay A.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Among 5 leptin ELISAs evaluated, a canine-specific leptin ELISA had adequate precision, linearity, and ability to discriminate between high and low leptin concentrations corresponding to overweight-obese and thin–ideal weight dogs, respectively.
Evaluation of subcutaneous and oral administration of robenacoxib and meloxicam for the treatment of acute pain and inflammation associated with orthopedic surgery in dogs
Authors: Gruet Philippe , Seewald Wolfgang , King Jonathan N.
Published: February 2011

Objective—To assess efficacy and tolerability of robenacoxib for control of pain and inflammation in dogs undergoing orthopedic surgery.

Animals—140 client-owned dogs.

Procedures—A multicenter, prospective, randomized, blinded field trial was conducted to compare robenacoxib (97 dogs) and meloxicam (43 dogs). After randomization, each dog received an initial dose (robenacoxib, 2 mg/kg; meloxicam, 0.2 mg/kg) via SC injection before surgery and daily doses (robenacoxib, 1 to 2 mg/kg; meloxicam, 0.1 mg/kg) administered orally for up to 15 days after surgery. Efficacy was assessed by veterinarians and owners via numeric rating scales and visual analogue scales. Safety was assessed on the basis of reported adverse events, clinical signs, results of hematologic and biochemical analyses, and buccal mucosa bleeding times.

Results—Treatment groups were balanced with respect to baseline and demographic data. Both treatments provided similar adequate pain control, as assessed with a modified Glasgow pain scale as the primary end point and supported by secondary end points in evaluations conducted by veterinarians and owners. For the primary end point, the ratio of the reciprocal of the scores for robenacoxib to meloxicam was 1.16 (95% confidence interval, 0.98 to 1.37). No dogs required rescue analgesia. Both treatments were associated with only minor adverse events, which were not necessarily related to the administered treatments and did not affect mucosal bleeding times.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Robenacoxib provided efficacy and tolerability similar to those of meloxicam for the management of perioperative pain and inflammation in dogs undergoing orthopedic surgery.
Comparison of five blood-typing methods for the feline AB blood group system
Authors: Seth Mayank , Jackson Karen V. , Giger Urs
Published: February 2011

Objective—To compare the ease of use and accuracy of 5 feline AB blood-typing methods: card agglutination (CARD), immunochromatographic cartridge (CHROM), gel-based (GEL), and conventional slide (SLIDE) and tube (TUBE) agglutination assays.

Sample Population—490 anticoagulated blood samples from sick and healthy cats submitted to the Transfusion or Clinical Laboratory at the Veterinary Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

Procedures—Sample selection was purposely biased toward those from anemic, type B, or type AB cats or those with autoagglutination. All blood samples were tested by use of GEL, SLIDE, and TUBE methods. Fifty-eight samples were also tested by use of CARD and CHROM methods. The presence of alloantibodies in all cats expressing the B antigen as detected by use of any method was also assessed.

Results—Compared with the historical gold-standard TUBE method, good to excellent agreement was achieved with the other typing tests: CARD, 53 of 58 (91% agreement); CHROM, 55 of 58 (95%); GEL, 487 of 490 (99%); and SLIDE, 482 of 487 (99%; 3 samples were excluded because of autoagglutination). Four of the samples with discordant test results originated from cats with FeLV-related anemia.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Current laboratory and in-clinic methods provide simple and accurate typing for the feline AB blood group system with few discrepancies. Retyping after in-clinic typing with the GEL or TUBE laboratory methods is recommended to confirm any type B or AB cats.
Ultrasonographic characterization of the liver, caudal vena cava, portal vein, and gallbladder in goats
Authors: Braun Ueli , Steininger Kathrin
Published: February 2011

Objective—To characterize the localization, visible extent (ie, measurement of selected dimensions), and appearance of the liver, caudal vena cava, portal vein, and gallbladder during ultrasonography in healthy goats.

Animals—27 female Saanen goats.

Procedures—A 5.0-MHz linear transducer was used to ultrasonographically examine the localization, visible extent of various dimensions, and appearance of the liver, caudal vena cava, portal vein, and gallbladder from the right side of each goat.

Results—Images of the liver were obtained in all goats. The dorsal margin of the liver extended in a cranioventral to caudodorsal direction parallel to the caudal margin of the lungs. The greatest visible extent of the liver was evident at the seventh and eighth intercostal spaces (mean value, 15.9 cm), and width was evident at the 10th intercostal space (mean value, 5.2 cm). The caudal vena cava had a triangular shape on cross section; the maximum width in cross section, circumference, and surface area ranged from 1.2 to 1.8 cm, 4.8 to 5.2 cm, and 0.8 to 1.1 cm2, respectively. The portal vein was round on cross section (diameter, 0.8 to 1.7 cm) with stellate ramifications into the liver parenchyma. The gallbladder was pear-shaped and variable in size; it extended beyond the ventral margin of the liver to a variable degree depending on the amount of bile.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results provided information regarding the ultrasonographic appearance of the liver, caudal vena cava, portal vein, and gallbladder in healthy goats; these data may be useful during examination of goats with suspected liver disease.
Trends in intake and outcome data for animal shelters in Colorado, 2000 to 2007
Authors: Morris Kevin N. , Wolf Julie L. , Gies David L.
Published: February 2011

Objective—To measure trends in animal shelter intake and outcome data for dogs and cats in Colorado on a statewide, urban, and rural basis from 2000 through 2007.

Design—Retrospective cohort study.

Sample Population—A group of 104 animal shelters and rescue organizations from Colorado representing 92% and 94% of statewide dog and cat intake, respectively, in 2007.

Procedures—Annual animal shelter data were analyzed for trends by use of linear regression analysis. Trends in urban and rural subgroups of shelters were compared by use of Student t tests.

Results—Statewide, the number of intakes/1,000 residents decreased by 10.8% for dogs during the 8-year study period, but increased by 19.9% for cats. There was no change in the dog euthanasia rate at 3.7/1,000 residents/y, but the rate for cats increased by 35.7% to 3.9/1,000 residents/y. There was no change in the statewide live release rate for dogs or cats, but there was a decrease of 12.6% for cats in the urban subgroup.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The trends suggested that the number of unwanted dogs in Colorado decreased during the study period, whereas the number of unwanted cats in animal shelters increased. There were clear differences in the trends in the urban and rural data, suggesting different needs in each type of community. At the current level of resource allocation, the shelter dynamics for dogs appeared to have reached equilibrium with respect to euthanasia. Transfers were increasingly being used within all regions of the state to optimize the chances of adoption.
Comparison of oral administration of lomustine and prednisolone or prednisolone alone as treatment for granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis or necrotizing encephalitis in dogs
Authors: Flegel Thomas , Boettcher Irene C. , Matiasek Kaspar , Oevermann Anna , Doherr Marcus G. , Oechtering Gerhard , Henke Diana
Published: February 2011

Objective—To compare oral administration of lomustine and prednisolone with oral administration of prednisolone alone as treatment for granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis (GME) or necrotizing encephalitis (NE) in dogs.

Design—Retrospective cohort study.

Animals—25 dogs with GME and 18 dogs with NE (diagnosis confirmed in 8 and 5 dogs, respectively).

Procedures—Records of dogs with GME or NE were reviewed for results of initial neurologic assessments and clinicopathologic findings, treatment, follow-up clinicopathologic findings (for lomustine-treated dogs), and survival time. Dogs with GME or NE treated with lomustine and prednisolone were assigned to groups 1 (n = 14) and 3 (10), respectively; those treated with prednisolone alone were assigned to groups 2(11) and 4 (8), respectively.

Results—Prednisolone was administered orally every 12 hours to all dogs. In groups 1 and 3, mean lomustine dosage was 60.3 mg/m2, PO, every 6 weeks. Median survival times in groups 1 through 4 were 457, 329, 323, and 91 days, respectively (no significant difference between groups 1 and 2 or between groups 3 and 4). Within the initial 12 months of treatment, median prednisolone dosage was reduced in all groups; dosage reduction in group 1 was significantly larger than that in group 2 at 6, 9, and 12 months. Combination treatment most frequently caused leukopenia, but had no significant effect on liver enzyme activities.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In dogs with GME and NE, oral administration of lomustine and prednisolone or prednisolone alone had similar efficacy. Inclusion of lomustine in the treatment regimen was generally tolerated well.
Dyslipidemia in northeastern China
Authors: Shi Xiao , Jin Qinglong , Hu Yulin , Chi Xiumei , Gao Yanhang , Tao Yuchun , Sun Jie , Niu Jun
Published: February 2011

Dyslipidemia, is a major risk factor for premature coronary artery disease. Our aim was to estimate the prevalence of dyslipidemia (blood lipid abnormalities) and other risk factors associated with coronary artery diseases among an adult population in northeastern China. Throughout the months of September and October of 2007,a population-based cross-sectional study was conducted and a total of 3,815 individuals were included. Total cholesterol (TC), high-density cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG) were measured. A binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine risk factors associated with dyslipidemia. The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia, high LDL-C, low HDL-C, and hypertriglyceridemia were 17.3%, 27.8%, 11.66% and 29.85%, respectively. The prevalence of hypertension, central obesity, alcoholic liver disease (ALD), non-ALD, diabetes and metabolic syndrome was higher in serum lipid abnormality groups than in the non-dyslipidemia group (p < 0.001). In a binary logistic regression, hyperlipidemia was positively correlated with age, male, hypertension, high body mass index, etc. There were negative correlations with being female and the level of education a subject had attained. Dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for premature coronary artery diseases and an important public health issue in the northeastern part of China. Dyslipidemia is more frequent than expected based on previous studies. To control dyslipidemia, routine evaluations in clinics and community centers are needed, as well as effective public health education.
State of HPV16 integration in Lithuanian women with cervical neoplasia
Authors: Sepetiene Agne , Gudlevicienė Zivile , Bumbuliene Zana , Drasutiene Grazina , Didziapetriene Janina
Published: February 2011

Cervical cancer morbidity and mortality in Lithuania is one of the biggest in the European Union. The main risk factor of cervical cancer is human papillomavirus (HPV). The deletion of the HPV E2 gene influences HPV DNA integration into the cell genome, as well as a rapid progression of cervical lesions. The purpose of this study is to determine HPV, its types, and HPV 16 integration in different grades of cervical intraepithelial neoplasias (CIN). 253 women with cytological lesions were involved in the study. After a histology, 31 women were diagnosed with CIN I, 35 with CIN II, and 51 with CIN III. The biggest prevalence of HPV infection was detected in women younger than 25 years old (69.7%) and in women with CIN II (90.9%). HPV 16 was detected in 67.8% of all cases, with the highest prevalence in CIN III (84.4%). A partial integration form was detected in 65.0% of HPV 16 infected women, a complete virus integration in 26.5%, and an episomal form in 8.4% of cases. Our study concludes that in all the cases confirmed using a histology, the partial virus integration form of CIN was identified the most. It was less frequently detected in CIN I cases (60.0%), but more frequently in CIN II and CIN III cases (72.8 and 69.3%, respectively).
Photocatalytically-assisted electrochemical degradation of p-aminophenol in aqueous solutions using zeolite-supported TiO2 catalyst
Authors: Ratiu Cornelia , Manea Florica , Lazau Carmen , Orha Corina , Burtica Georgeta , Grozescu Ioan , Schoonman Joop
Published: February 2011

This paper reports the results of an investigation into enhancement of the electrochemical oxidation of p-aminophenol (4-AP) in an aqueous solution with a boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrode, assisted by photocatalysis using a zeolite-supported TiO2 (Z-TiO2) catalyst. The BDD electrode was characterised in 0.1 M Na2SO4-supporting electrolyte and the presence of 4-AP by open-circuit potential behaviour (OCP) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The electrode behaviour was investigated in the dark and following UV irradiation and in the absence/presence of the Z-TiO2 catalyst. The electro-oxidation process was carried out using chronoamperometry (CA) and multiple-pulsed amperometry (MPA) at the selected potential under potentiostatic conditions. The electrochemical degradation process of 4-AP on the BDD electrode was improved by the application of a pulsed potential, which allowed both in-situ electrochemical cleaning of the electrode and indirect oxidation of 4-AP by oxygen evolution. The application of photocatalysis using Z-TiO2 in the 4-AP electrochemical degradation exhibited an enhanced effect when the anodic potential was set at +1.25 V vs. Ag/AgCl in the water stability region, close to the oxygen evolution potential.
Effect of Knee Position on Gap Size Following Acute Achilles Rupture
Authors: Trickett Ryan W. , Hodgson Paul , Lyons Kathleen , Thomas Rhys
Published: February 2011

Background: Acute traumatic rupture of the tendoachilles is a common problem. Following a recent Cochrane review, operative treatment has been shown to have a lower re-rupture rate compared with conservative treatment, but is associated with a slightly higher rate of other complications. Debate concerning the method and duration of conservative treatment remains. We aimed to assess the effect of knee position on the gap in acute tendoachilles ruptures. Materials and Methods: Patients with a history and examination consistent with an acute rupture were collected prospectively. They were investigated by the same musculoskeletal consultant radiologist using ultrasonography. Tendon gap was measured with the foot in neutral and full tolerable equinus with the knee both flexed to 90 degrees and fully extended. A pilot study of 10 patients was used to provide data for a power calculation. Following this a total of 25 consecutive patients were recruited for inclusion. A paired Student t-test was used to compare mean differences between the knee flexed/ankle plantarflexed and knee extended/ankle plantarflexed positions on the gap at the rupture site. Results: A diagnosis of acute tendoachilles rupture was confirmed in all patients and tendon gap was measured with the knee flexed and extended with the ankle either neutral or plantarflexed. This confirmed there was no significant difference in the tendon gap with the knee flexed or extended provided the foot was in full equinus ( p > 0.05). Conclusion: This study showed that knee position had no significant effect on the tendon gap at the rupture site. This study could have considerable implications on the rationale behind conservative treatment and splinting of acute tendoachilles ruptures with no apparent role for knee flexed immobilization.

Level of Evidence: IV, Case Series
Association Between Plantar Fasciitis and Isolated Contracture of the Gastrocnemius
Authors: Patel Amar , DiGiovanni Benedict
Published: February 2011

Background: Current evidence suggests that limited ankle dorsiflexion is an etiologic factor for plantar fasciitis. This limitation can arise from either an isolated contracture of the gastrocnemius or from a contracture of the gastrocnemius-soleus complex. This study's aim was to determine the proportion of patients with plantar fasciitis that have an associated isolated gastrocnemius contracture. Materials and Methods: This investigation was a prospective evaluation of patients with either acute or chronic plantar fasciitis. Two hundred fifty-four patients with plantar fasciitis were included. Patients were assessed for the existence of limited ankle dorsiflexion which was further characterized by noting the presence of an isolated gastrocnemius contracture or contracture of the gastrocnemius-soleus complex. The patient's duration of symptoms, type of occupation, and body mass index were also documented. Patients with acute plantar fasciitis were defifined as having symptom duration of 9 months or less while those with chronic plantar fasciitis were those with over 9 months of symptoms. The Wilcoxon rank sum and chi square tests were used to compare characteristics between the acute and chronic populations. Results: Eighty-three percent (211 of 254 patients) had limited ankle dorsiflexion. Fifty-seven percent (145 of 254) had an isolated contracture of the gastrocnemius, 26% (66 of 254) had a contracture of the gastrocnemius-soleus complex, and 17% (43 of 254) did not have a dorsiflexion limitation. Patients were further stratified into acute versus chronic symptom duration at the time of presentation. Equinus contracture was noted in 83% (129 of 155) of acute cases, and 82% (82 of 99) of chronic cases. An isolated contracture of the gastrocnemius was found in 60% (93 of 155) of acute, and 52% (52 of 99) of chronic cases. A gastrocnemius-soleus complex contracture was noted in 23% (36 of 155) of acute cases, and 30% (30 of 99) of chronic cases. Patients with chronic plantar fasciitis had a significantly higher number ( p < 0.05) of medical comorbidities than those with acute plantar fasciitis. Conclusion: Limited ankle dorsiflexion is commonly associated with plantar fasciitis and more than half of these patients had evidence of an isolated gastrocnemius contracture. These findings can be utilized to develop and further refine non-operative and operative treatment strategies for those with recalcitrant plantar fasciitis.

Level of Evidence: IV, Case Series
Minimally Invasive Deltoid Ligament Reconstruction for Stage IV Flatfoot Deformity
Authors: Jeng Clifford L. , Bluman Eric M. , Myerson Mark S.
Published: February 2011

Background: Stage IV is the most advanced form of acquired adult flatfoot deformity (AAFD). It is present when valgus tibiotalar angulation occurs with foot deformities associated with AAFD. Tibiotalocalcaneal or pantalar fusion has been the gold standard for treatment of Stage IV AAFD. However, in some of these patients the tibiotalar deformity is correctable. We sought to determine whether minimally invasive deltoid ligament reconstruction in conjunction with triple arthrodesis (MIDLR/Triple) allows tibiotalar joint sparing surgical therapy in Stage IV-A AAFD patients. Materials and Methods: Patients diagnosed with Stage IV-A AAFD were given the option of undergoing ankle joint sparing surgery with the MIDLR/Triple technique. Those that chose this option were followed longitudinally. Eight patients underwent the ankle joint sparing procedure. Average followup was 36 months. Radiographic and functional outcome measures were obtained. Success was defined as maintenance of 3 degrees or less of valgus tibiotalar angulation and greater than 2 mm of lateral joint space remaining at final followup. Results: At final followup, five were judged to have a successful outcome. In those, tibiotalar valgus angulation was reduced from 6.4 ± 2.9 degrees to 2.0 ± 2.0 degrees, lateral ankle joint space was maintained at preoperative levels and SF-12 functional scores were equal to age matched normative scores. The only parameter found to be predictive of successful outcome was the magnitude of preoperative tibiotalar tilt. Conclusions: MIDLR/triple is a new treatment option that requires significant care in patient selection and surgical execution. It is a choice that allows for preservation of ankle motion in patients diagnosed with Stage IV-A AAFD who have less than 10 degrees of valgus tibiotalar tilt on preoperative standing ankle radiographs.

Level of Evidence: IV, Case Series
Limb Salvage in Severe Diabetic Foot Infection
Authors: Kim Bom Soo , Choi Woo Jin , Baek Mi Kyung , Kim Yong Sang , Lee Jin Woo
Published: February 2011

Background: The purpose of our study was to determine the efficacy of a management algorithm that includes negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in diabetic feet with limb-threatening infection. Materials and Methods: Forty-five septic diabetic feet were treated with NPWT between 2006 and 2008. After emergent abscess evacuation, early vascular intervention was performed if necessary. Debridement, with or without partial foot amputation, was followed by NPWT. Wound progress was measured using a digital scanner. A limb was considered salvaged if complete healing was achieved without any or with minor amputation through or below the ankle. The mean followup after complete wound healing was 17 (range, 6 to 35) months. Results: Thirty-two cases (71%) were infected with two or more organisms. Negative pressure wound therapy was applied for 26.2 ± 14.3 days. The median time to achieve more than 75% wound area granulation was 23 (range, 4 to 55) days and 104 (range, 38 to 255) days to complete wound healing. Successful limb salvage was achieved in 44 cases (98%); 14 (31%) without any amputation and 30 (67%) with partial foot amputations. Total number of operations per limb was 2.4 ± 1.3. One case of repeated infection and necrosis was managed with a transtibial amputation. There were no complications associated with NPWT. Conclusion: This study provides the outcome of a management algorithm which includes NPWT in salvaging severely infected diabetic feet. With emergent evacuation of abscess, early vascular intervention and appropriate debridement, NPWT can be a useful adjunct to the management of limb-threatening diabetic foot infections.

Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series