bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential responses of human B‐lymphocyte subpopulations to graded levels of CD40–CD154 interaction
Authors: Néron Sonia , Racine Claudia , Roy Annie , Guérin Matthieu
Published: September 2010

Naïve and memory B‐lymphocyte populations are activated by CD154 interaction through cell‐surface CD40. This interaction plays an important role in the regulation of the humoral immune response, and increasing evidence indicates that fine variation in CD40 binding influences B lymphocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells in murine models. Here we have investigated whether and how variations in the intensity of the CD40–CD154 interaction could contribute to differential regulation of human B‐lymphocyte populations. Proliferation and differentiation of B lymphocytes were monitored in response to graded levels of CD40 stimulation in the presence of interleukin (IL)‐2, IL‐4 and IL‐10. Our results show that the level of CD154 binding to CD40 on B lymphocytes can directly influence the evolution of CD19+ CD27–and CD19+ CD27+cell populations. Furthermore, proliferation, global expansion of CD19+cells and emergence of CD38++ CD138+cells, as well as immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM secretion, were affected by the level of exposure of B lymphocytes to CD154. These results suggest that the CD40–CD154 interaction is more like a rheostat than an on/off switch, and its variation of intensity may play a role in the regulation of B‐lymphocyte activation following the primary and/or secondary humoral immune response.
Norm‐based agency for designing collaborative information systems
Authors: Liu Kecheng , Sun Lily , Dix Alan , Narasipuram Mohan
Published: September 2010

Abstract. Information systems are organizations in which signs are created, processed and consumed. In order to fulfil the organizational goals and objectives, its members must understand their responsibilities and authorities, and must act co‐operatively. The key to this organization and co‐ordination lies in norms, which define responsibilities and authorities for each human agent, and establish regularities of behaviour. In the context of co‐operative work, where ‘intelligent’ software agents are involved, to understand the norms of behaviour of various human agents becomes critical. Software agents can perform some tasks autonomously on the user's behalf. Such delegation involves a set of complicated philosophical and legal issues. After discussion on delineation of various boundaries of responsibility and authorities, this paper addresses norms and normative behaviour of human agents within an organization. It discusses the taxonomies of norms and a method of norm specification, with examples. Finally it presents an approach of norm‐based agency for designing collaborative information systems and a case study of an insurance claim for illustration.
Bridging the gap between the IS organization and the rest of the business: plotting a route
Authors: Peppard Joe
Published: September 2010

Abstract. Much of the research literature advocates a strong information system (IS) organization‐business relationship if the IS organization and, in particular, technology is to make a value‐added contribution to the business. Although research also highlights that in many organizations this relationship is poor, little guidance is provided as to how this ‘gap’ might be bridged. The research reported in this paper is a longitudinal study of three organizations that are actively seeking to bridge the gap, improve the relationship and consequently the value that they derive from their IS investments. A process model containing six stages, illustrating the route to creating high performance from IS, is constructed from cross‐case analysis of the collected data. The paper ends with conclusions and implications.
A critical analysis of current in vitro and in vivo angiogenesis assays
Authors: Staton Carolyn A. , Reed Malcolm W. R. , Brown Nicola J.
Published: September 2010

The study of angiogenesis has grown exponentially over the past 40 years with the recognition that angiogenesis is essential for numerous pathologies and, more recently, with the advent of successful drugs to inhibit angiogenesis in tumours. The main problem with angiogenesis research remains the choice of appropriate assays to evaluate the efficacy of potential new drugs and to identify potential targets within the angiogenic process. This selection is made more complex by the recognition that heterogeneity occurs, not only within the endothelial cells themselves, but also within the specific microenvironment to be studied. Thus, it is essential to choose the assay conditions and cell types that most closely resemble the angiogenic disease being studied. This is especially important when aiming to translate data from in vitro to in vivo and from preclinical to the clinic. Here we critically review and highlight recent advances in the principle assays in common use including those for endothelial cell proliferation, migration, differentiation and co‐culture with fibroblasts and mural cells in vitro, vessel outgrowth from organ cultures and in vivo assays such as chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM), zebrafish, sponge implantation, corneal, dorsal air sac, chamber and tumour angiogenesis models. Finally, we briefly discuss the direction likely to be taken in future studies, which include the use of increasingly sophisticated imaging analysis systems for data acquisition.
Neutrophils: key mediators of tumour angiogenesis
Authors: Tazzyman Simon , Lewis Claire E. , Murdoch Craig
Published: September 2010

It is now well known that most malignant tumours contain a significant amount of leucocytic infiltrates the presence of which has, on many occasions, been linked to poor patient prognosis. These leucocyte populations are recruited to tumours by chemotactic factors released by either viable or necrotic tumour cells, or by cells within the tumour stroma. In recent times, most studies have analysed the role that tumour‐associated macrophages (TAM) have on tumour progression. However, there is now increasing evidence to show that neutrophils also actively participate in this process. Whilst there are some data to suggest that neutrophil‐derived factors can promote genetic mutations leading to tumourigenesis, or secrete factors that promote tumour cell proliferation; there is now substantial evidence to show that neutrophils, like TAM, significantly affect tumour angiogenesis. In this review, we discuss the likely mechanisms by which neutrophils are recruited into the tumour and then elaborate on how these cells may induce tumour vascularization by the secretion of powerful pro‐angiogenic factors. We also discuss possible future chemotherapeutic strategies that are aimed at limiting tumour angiogenesis by inhibiting neutrophil recruitment.
Apoptosis, cell proliferation and modulation of cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor p21cip1 in vascular remodelling during vein arterialization in the rat
Authors: Borin Thaiz Ferraz , Miyakawa Ayumi Aurea , Cardoso Leandro , De Figueiredo Borges Luciano , Gonçalves Giovana Aparecida , Krieger Jose Eduardo
Published: September 2010

Neo‐intima development and atherosclerosis limit long‐term vein graft use for revascularization of ischaemic tissues. Using a rat model, which is technically less challenging than smaller rodents, we provide evidence that the temporal morphological, cellular, and key molecular events during vein arterialization resemble the human vein graft adaptation. Right jugular vein was surgically connected to carotid artery and observed up to 90 days. Morphometry demonstrated gradual thickening of the medial layer and important formation of neo‐intima with deposition of smooth muscle cells (SMC) in the subendothelial layer from day 7 onwards. Transmission electron microscopy showed that SMCs switch from the contractile to synthetic phenotype on day 3 and new elastic lamellae formation occurs from day 7 onwards. Apoptosis markedly increased on day 1, while α‐actin immunostaining for SMC almost disappeared by day 3. On day 7, cell proliferation reached the highest level and cellular density gradually increased until day 90. The relative magnitude of cellular changes was higher in the intima vs. the media layer (100 vs. 2 times respectively). Cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKIs) p27Kip1 and p16INKA remained unchanged, whereas p21Cip1 was gradually downregulated, reaching the lowest levels by day 7 until day 90. Taken together, these data indicate for the first time that p21Cip1 is the main CDKI protein modulated during the arterialization process the rat model of vein arterialization that may be useful to identify and validate new targets and interventions to improve the long‐term patency of vein grafts.
High dietary methionine plus cholesterol stimulates early atherosclerosis and late fibrous cap development which is associated with a decrease in GRP78 positive plaque cells
Authors: Zulli Anthony , Hare David L.
Published: September 2010

The role of homocysteine, or its precursor methionine, in the formation of fibrous caps and its association with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is unclear. Homocysteine can stimulate collagen accumulation and upregulate the ER stress chaperone glucose regulated protein 78 (GRP78). The aim of this study was to determine if high dietary methionine would increase fibrous caps, and that removal of an atherogenic diet would decrease the amount of ER stressed cells. New Zealand white rabbits were fed for 2, 4, or 12 weeks an atherogenic diet [1% methionine + 0.5% cholesterol (2MC, 4MC or 12MC)]; for 4 or 12 weeks a 0.5% cholesterol diet (4Ch, 12Ch); and to study plaque regression, an MC diet for 2 or 4 weeks accompanied by 10 weeks of a normal diet (2MCr, 4MCr). Endothelial function, atherosclerosis and GRP78 positive cells were studied. Endothelial function was abolished in 4MC and atherosclerosis increased 17‐fold (P < 0.05) compared with 4Ch. Fibrous caps composed 48% of total plaque area in 12MC vs. 10% in 12Ch (P < 0.01), and 12MC expressed less GRP78 plaque cells vs. 12Ch (P < 0.01). Four MCr had less plaque GRP78 cells than 12MC (P < 0.05) and less endothelial GRP78 cells (P < 0.01). In addition, GRP78 positive cells were the highest in 4MC, but decreased in all other groups (P < 0.01). GRP78 positive cells within the fibrous cap inversely correlated with cap size (r2 = 0.9). These studies suggest that high dietary methionine could be beneficial for plaque stabilisation, and a normal diet also stabilises plaque and decreases the number of stressed plaque cells.
Angiogenesis drives psoriasis pathogenesis
Authors: Heidenreich Regina , Röcken Martin , Ghoreschi Kamran
Published: September 2010

Psoriasis pathogenesis is closely associated with disease‐inducing Th1 and Th17 cells. Yet, several studies suggest that aberrant keratinocyte or endothelial cell signalling significantly contributes to disease manifestation. Histological hallmarks of psoriatic skin include the infiltration of multiple immune cells, keratinocyte proliferation and increased dermal vascularity. Formation of new blood vessels starts with early psoriatic changes and disappears with disease clearance. Several angiogenic mediators like vascular endothelial growth factor, hypoxia‐inducible factors, angiopoietins and pro‐angiogenic cytokines, such as tumour necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin (IL)‐8 and IL‐17, are up‐regulated in psoriasis development. Contact‐ and mediator‐dependent factors derived from keratinocytes, mast cells and immune cells may contribute to the strong blood vessel formation of psoriasis. New technologies and experimental models provide new insights into the role of angiogenesis in psoriasis pathogenesis. Interestingly, many therapies target not only immune cells, but also protein structures of endothelial cells. Here we summarize the role of pro‐angiogenic factors in psoriasis development and discuss angiogenesis as a potential target of novel therapies.
Genetic Transformation in Methylococcus capsulatus
Authors: Williams E. , Bainbridge B. W.
Published: September 2010

SUMMARY: Deoxyribonucleic acid (final concentration 100 μg/ml) extracted from wild‐type cells of Methylococcus capsulatus was used to transform a p‐amino benzoic acid (PABA) requiring strain (paba‐). Maximum levels of transformants were obtained towards the end of the exponential phase of growth in shake flask culture and the level of the population of transformants was not significantly altered by post‐treatment incubation in enriched medium. The maximum transformation frequency was 0.17% of the initial population of PABA requiring cells and the back mutation frequency was 1 : 3.12 × 108.
Comparison of Methods of Estimating the Number of Escherichia coli in Edible Mussels and the Relationship between the Presence of Salmonellae and E. coli
Authors: Thomas K. L. , Jones Armorel M.
Published: September 2010

SUMMARY: Of 4 methods of assessing the bacteriological quality of mussels the semiquantitative method of the Fishmongers’Company was the most useful from the public health aspect where facilities may be limited. A modification of Clegg & Sherwood's method, using pour plates, was more sensitive and more simple to perform than the original method and is to be recommended for routine use. Two Escherichia coli cells/ml of mussel tissue probably represents the upper acceptable limit for satisfactory grading of mussels. The presence of small numbers of salmonellae in purified mussels is probably not highly significant but tests for their presence will yield useful epidemiological data.
The Yeasts of Strawberries
Authors: Buhagiar R. W. M. , Barnett J. A.
Published: September 2010

SUMMARY: Nine hundred and fiftyseven strains of yeasts were isolated from fresh marketed strawberries over 2 seasons. There were c. 105 viable yeasts/g of strawberry: many more were isolated at 5° than at 25°. Most of the yeasts belonged to the genus Cryptococcus. Every yeast colony counted was subjected to identification tests selected by means of a computer‐made key, and identifications were done chiefly by semiquantitative aerobic growth tests combined with fermentation tests and microscopical examination of vegetative cells.
Residual Disinfection of Wool Blankets Treated with Formaldehyde
Authors: Alder V. G. , Boss Eleanor , Gillespie W. A. , Swann Angela J.
Published: September 2010

SUMMARY: Treatment with formaldehyde during laundering conferred a persistent residual disinfectant action on wool blankets but not on cotton ones. The former was shown by a slower rate of bacterial contamination of blankets during use or by the more rapid disappearance of nonsporing bacteria from contaminated blankets during storage. The formaldehyde treated blankets had no perceptible odour during use, and did not cause irritation of the skin or mucous membranes. It is suggested that the formaldehyde treatment of wool blankets might be worthy of trial as a means of reducing bacterial contamination in rooms occupied by patients with a high risk of infection.
A Quantal Method for Determining Numbers of Erwinia carotovora var. carotovora and E. carotovora var. atroseptica in Soils and Plant Material
Authors: Pérombelon M. C. M.
Published: September 2010

SUMMARY: A quantal method is described, based on the maximum likelihood method, which was found especially suitable for quantitatively estimating small populations of Erwinia carotovora in soils and plant material. Drops from serial dilutions of the test material are placed on replicated defined areas of a solid, semiselective medium with a pectate overlayer. The presence or absence of one or more of the characteristic, deep cavities formed by E. carotovora colonies in the pectate layer is the basis of the quantal count from which estimates of the population size can be derived.
Teacher factors associated with innovative curriculum goals and pedagogical practices: differences between extensive and non‐extensive ICT‐using science teachers
Authors: Voogt J.
Published: September 2010

Second Information Technology in Education Study (SITES) 2006 was an international study about pedagogical practices and the use of information and communication technology (ICT) in math and science classrooms. One of the findings of SITES 2006 was that – across educational systems – a proportion of the math and science teachers in the 22 countries researched in the SITES 2006 study were using ICT extensively and their pedagogy was oriented towards lifelong learning which is considered relevant for the 21st century. Starting from this finding, a secondary analysis has been conducted to explore differences between extensive and non‐extensive ICT‐using science teachers with respect to pedagogical orientation, ICT competencies and professional engagement. Based on selected questions from the SITES 2006 teacher questionnaire, indicators have been developed for these constructs. Differences between the two groups were calculated using simple t‐tests and effect sizes. The findings showed that both groups of science teachers had a pedagogical orientation that reflected traditionally important as well as lifelong learning curriculum goals and practices, but extensive ICT‐using science teachers, much more than their non‐extensive ICT‐using colleagues pursued curriculum goals and practices that are oriented towards lifelong learning. In addition, extensive ICT‐using science teachers appeared more confident about their ICT competencies and felt more professionally engaged; two factors that were also found in other studies to positively relate to a lifelong learning orientation towards teaching and learning.
Renal myxozoanosis in weedy sea dragons, Phyllopteryx taeniolatus (Lacepède), caused by Sinuolinea phyllopteryxa n. sp.
Authors: Garner M M , Atkinson S D , Hallett S L , Bartholomew J L , Nordhausen R W , Reed H , Adams L , Whitaker B
Published: September 2010

Renal myxozoanosis was diagnosed histologically in 11 captive, wild caught, adult weedy (common) sea dragons, Phyllopteryx taeniolatus, from three separate public aquaria in the United States. Myxozoan spores were visible in wet mounts of kidney tissue and were associated with renal tubular dilatation and tubular epithelial cell hypertrophy. Light and electron microscopy revealed spore morphology consistent with the genus Sinuolinea. Spores were spheroidal, slightly dorso‐ventrally compressed, length (L) 17.1 × width (W) 16.4 × thickness (T) 15.6 μm, with two shell valves joined at a distinct, sinuous sutural ridge, and had two nearly spherical polar capsules, L 5.5 × W 5.0 μm, with five to seven turns of the polar filament. There were no extra‐valvular ridges or protrusions. DNA sequencing required the design of three new primers that yielded 1740 bp of 18S ribosomal DNA sequence. The parasite was determined to be novel based on morphological and molecular data, and was given the name Sinuolinea phyllopteryxa after its vertebrate host.
Isolation and quantification of infectious pancreatic necrosis virus from ovarian and seminal fluids of Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L.
Authors: Smail D A , Munro E S
Published: September 2010

Methods for the isolation and quantification of infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV) from ovarian and seminal fluids of Atlantic salmon are described. Both have utility for the non‐lethal detection of IPNV in mature broodstock and for research into vertical transmission. Two experiments are described to check the efficiency of an elution method for the removal of IPNV from milt. The isolation rate for ovarian fluid of females was generally higher than that for seminal fluid of males from the same populations. In IPNV milt mixing experiments up to 99.98% of available IPNV adsorbed to Atlantic salmon spermatozoa and 20–100% of virus eluted using a variety of procedures. Titration of virus from naturally infected milt can be useful in estimating the relative vertical transmission risk from male broodstock.
The influence of salmon surface mucus on the growth of Flavobacterium columnare
Authors: Staroscik A M , Nelson D R
Published: September 2010

Flavobacterium columnare is the causative agent of columnaris disease. The presence of lesions on the gills, skin and fins of diseased fish suggests that F. columnare is able to utilize fish skin mucus as a substrate for growth and that exposure to this material would alter the expression of genes involved in the colonization of the outer surfaces of the fish. Growth, biofilm formation, extracellular protease production and changes in protein expression of F. columnare strain C#2 cultured in media supplemented with juvenile Atlantic salmon skin mucus were compared with the same media without mucus. C#2 was able to grow by using mucus as the sole nutrient source. Growth in mucus‐containing media induced cells to grow as a biofilm and extracellular protease activity increased in mucus‐containing cultures. SDS‐PAGE protein profiles showed that expression of six extracellular proteins increased in mucus‐containing media. These results demonstrate that salmon surface mucus promotes the growth of F. columnare and that exposure to mucus alters the growth characteristics of this bacterium with regard to protease production and biofilm formation. Further characterization of mucus‐induced physiological changes will increase our understanding of the basis of virulence of this economically important fish pathogen.
Vaccination of turbot, Psetta maxima (L.), against the protozoan parasite Philasterides dicentrarchi: effects on antibody production and protection
Authors: Sanmartín M L , Paramá A , Castro R , Cabaleiro S , Leiro J , Lamas J , Barja J L
Published: September 2010

The efficacy of a vaccine against the fish pathogen Philasterides dicentrarchi was evaluated in turbot by measuring the production of specific antibodies and duration of protection. Four groups of turbot were vaccinated twice, on days 0 and 30, with phosphate‐buffered saline, mineral oil adjuvant, antigen or antigen plus adjuvant. Specific serum antibodies were determined on day 0 and 1 month after the first and the second vaccinations. Protection was evaluated 1 month after the first vaccination and 1 and 5 months after the second vaccination. Serum antibody titres, measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and protection, assessed by challenges, increased significantly 1 month after the second vaccination in the group injected with antigen plus adjuvant and the protection lasted for at least a further 5 months in this group. The relative protection was 77% and 66% 1 and 5 months after the second vaccination, respectively. Administration of antigen or adjuvant separately had no effect on antibody response or protection. The results indicate that emulsion containing antigen plus adjuvant induced durable protection against P. dicentrarchi after the administration of the two vaccinations, and that this preparation can be used as a vaccine against the pathogen.
Risk of malnutrition in a sample of acute and long‐stay NHS Fife in‐patients: an audit
Authors: Ruxton C. H. S. , Gordon J. , Kirkwood L. , McMillan B. , Ryan E.
Published: September 2010

Background  Hospital malnutrition (undernutrition) continues to attract concern. The implementation of standards for food and fluids in Scotland provided the stimulus for an audit of current practices in NHS Fife hospitals in order to provide baseline data with which to evaluate progress.

Methods  One hundred and fifty in‐patients were recruited from wards likely to yield those with a high risk of malnutrition. Using patient records and anthropometry, data were collected on weight, weight change, body mass index (BMI), mid‐upper‐arm circumference (MUAC), dietetic referral, therapeutic diets and patients’ perceptions of nutritional status. Malnutrition was estimated by comparing BMI, weight change and MUAC with the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) and standards published by the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN).

Results  Depending upon the standard used, the minimum risk of malnutrition varied from 14 to 25%. The prevalence was lower than that reported previously, although methods were not directly comparable. Obesity was also evident with 42% of patients having a BMI > 25. Mean weight change from admission to audit was +0.4 kg, with a wide range (−11 kg to +13 kg). Most patients identified as malnourished were referred to the dietitian or given nutritional support.

Conclusions  Fewer patients were at risk of malnutrition than expected. However, improving the provision of food and fluids remains a priority in Fife as malnutrition and eating problems can occur across the entire BMI spectrum.
Qualitative similarities in cognitive impairment associated with 24 h of sustained wakefulness and a blood alcohol concentration of 0.05%
Authors: Falleti Marina G. , Maruff Paul , Collie Alexander , Darby David G. , McStephen Michael
Published: September 2010

Previous studies that have quantified fatigue‐related cognitive impairment as blood alcohol concentration (BAC) equivalents have been limited by two issues: the effect of practice on tests of cognition and, more importantly, the statistic used to quantify change in cognitive performance. The current study addressed these issues by adopting an ABACA design, which allowed for the adequate control of practice effects, and by using effect size metrics, which enabled direct comparisons to be made in performance impairments as a result of fatigue (i.e. sustained wakefulness of 24 h) and alcohol (i.e. BAC of 0.05%). Cognitive performance under the fatigue and alcohol conditions required the use of the CogStateTM battery. It was demonstrated that fatigue caused greater impairment than alcohol on the speed of continuous attention and memory and learning, and on the accuracy of complex matching. Alcohol was more detrimental than fatigue only on the accuracy of memory and learning. Performances on the remaining tasks were the same for both the fatigue and alcohol conditions. These differences and similarities in performance impairment are discussed emphasizing the deleterious cognitive effects of relatively short periods of sustained wakefulness.
Pharmacokinetics and residual behaviour in milk of oxytetracycline in cows following administration of uterine pessaries
Authors: Roncada P. , Ermini L. , Schleuning A. , Stracciari G. L. , Strocchia A.
Published: September 2010

The plasma kinetics and residual depletion in milk of cows treated by the intrauterine route with pessaries containing oxytetracycline (OTC) were evaluated. The antibiotic was administered to five healthy Friesian cows at a dosage of 3g/head in the earlypost partumphase. Blood samples were collected before and at different time intervals (3, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, 84, and 96 h) after treatment. Milk was drawn before treatment and at 12‐h intervals for 4 consecutive days.  Samples were analysed by a high‐performance liquid chromatography method and the pharmacokinetic parameters were processed using the minimum Akaike information criterion estimation (MAICE) test. The mean values obtained indicated a relatively low area under the concentration time curve (25.19±12.61 μg/mg per h) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) (0.549±0.278 μg/mL) with delayed time toCmax (11.71±4.15 h) and elimination half‐life (21.96±4.42 h).  A similar pattern could be shown for milk, in which measurable residual levels are found in two out of five animals until the 72nd hour after treatment. Data obtained demonstrate that OTC administered as a solid form is poorly and slowly absorbed from the uterus of cows.
Intravenous pentoxifylline does not affect the exercise‐induced pulmonary arterial, capillary or venous hypertension in Thoroughbred horses
Authors: Manohar M. , Goetz T. E. , Rothenbaum P. , Humphrey S.
Published: September 2010

The present study was carried out to examine whether intravenously administered pentoxifylline—a phosphodiesterase inhibitor which increases red blood cell deformability and decreases blood viscosity—would attenuate the magnitude of exercise‐induced pulmonary capillary hypertension in healthy, fit Thoroughbred horses and in turn, diminish the occurrence of exercise‐induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH). Experiments were carried out on six healthy, sound, exercise‐trained Thoroughbred horses. Hemodynamic data were collected at rest, and during exercise performed at 8 and 14 m/sec on 3.5% uphill grade in the control (no medications) and the pentoxifylline (8.5 mg/kg, i.v.) experiments. The sequence of treatments was randomized for every horse and 7 days were allowed between treatments. Galloping at 14 m/sec on 3.5% uphill grade elicited maximal heart rate. In both treatments, simultaneous measurements of phasic and mean right atrial and pulmonary arterial, capillary and wedge pressures were made using catheter‐tip‐manometers whose signals were carefully referenced at the point of the left shoulder. In the control study, exercise resulted in progressive significant increments in heart rate, right atrial and pulmonary arterial, capillary and venous pressures; thereby, confirming that exercising Thoroughbreds develop significant pulmonary hypertension. All horses experienced exercise‐induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) in the control experiments. Pentoxifylline administration to standing horses caused anxiety, tachycardia, muscular fasciculations/tremors and mild sweating, but statistically significant changes in right atrial and pulmonary arterial, capillary and venous pressures were not detected. Exercise in the pentoxifylline treatment also resulted in progressive significant increments in heart rate and right atrial as well as pulmonary vascular pressures, but these data were not statistically significantly different from those in the control study and the incidence of EIPH remained unchanged. Thus, it was concluded that i.v. pentoxifylline is ineffective in attenuating the exercise‐induced pulmonary arterial, capillary and venous hypertension in healthy, fit Thoroughbred horses.
Comparison of fluoroquinolone pharmacokinetic parameters after treatment with marbofloxacin, enrofloxacin, and difloxacin in dogs
Authors: Frazier D. L. , Thompson L. , Trettien A. , Evans E. I.
Published: September 2010

Plasma, urine, and skin drug concentrations were determined for dogs (n=12) given five daily oral doses of marbofloxacin (MAR) (2.75 mg/kg), enrofloxacin (ENR) (5.0 mg/kg) or difloxacin (DIF) (5.0 mg/kg). Concentrations of the active metabolite of ENR, ciprofloxacin (CIP), were also determined. The three‐period, three‐treatment crossover experimental design included a 21‐day washout period between treatments. Area under the plasma drug concentration vs. time curve (AUC0‐last, μg/mL×h of MAR was greater than for ENR, CIP, ENR/CIP combined, and DIF. Maximum concentration (Cmax) of MAR was greater than ENR, CIP, and DIF. Time of maximum plasma concentration (Tmax) was similar for MAR and DIF;Tmax occurred earlier for ENR and later for CIP. Plasma half‐life (t1/2) of MAR was longer than for ENR, CIP, and DIF. Urine concentrations of DIF were less than MAR or ENR/CIP combined, but urine concentrations of MAR and ENR/CIP combined did not differ. DIF skin concentrations were less than the concentrations of MAR or ENR/CIP combined 2 h after dosing, but skin concentrations of MAR and ENR/CIP combined did not differ.
The effects of medetomidine and its reversal with atipamezole on plasma glucose, cortisol and noradrenaline in cattle and sheep
Authors: RANHEIM B. , HORSBERG T. E. , SØLI N. E. , RYENG K. A. , ARNEMO J. M.
Published: September 2010

In the present study, we report the effect of medetomidine followed by atipamezole on plasma glucose, cortisol and noradrenaline in calves, cows and sheep. Eight calves, eight lactating dairy cows and eight adult female sheep were included in a crossover trial. The animals were injected i.v. with medetomidine (40 μg/kg), followed 60 min later by atipamezole i.v. (200 μg/kg) or saline. The wash‐out period between experiments was 1 or 2 weeks. In every animal, medetomidine induced a marked hyperglycaemia, which was reversed by atipamezole. Cortisol levels increased significantly in cows and sheep, reaching levels 4–8‐fold higher than the baseline levels 25–45 min after injection of medetomidine. Atipamezole did not affect the cortisol levels, except in sheep where an increase was observed. Plasma levels of noradrenaline decreased in cows and sheep after medetomidine injection, reflecting the inhibition of sympathetic activity by the drug. After injection of the antagonist, there was a large increase in noradrenaline levels. In conclusion, a high dose of medetomidine does not seem to reduce the overall endocrine stress response in cattle and sheep, which has previously been reported in other species.
Pharmacokinetics of tramadol in horses after intravenous, intramuscular and oral administration
Authors: SHILO Y. , BRITZI M. , EYTAN B. , LIFSCHITZ T. , SOBACK S. , STEINMAN A.
Published: September 2010

Tramadol is a centrally acting analgesic drug that has been used clinically for the last two decades to treat moderate to moderately severe pain in humans. The present study investigated tramadol administration in horses by intravenous, intramuscular, oral as immediate‐release and oral as sustained‐release dosage‐form routes. Seven horses were used in a four‐way crossover study design in which racemic tramadol was administered at 2 mg/kg by each route of administration. Altogether, 23 blood samples were collected between 0 and 2880 min. The concentration of tramadol and its M1 metabolite were determined in the obtained plasma samples by use of an LC/MS/MS method and were used for pharmacokinetic calculations. Tramadol clearance, apparent volume of distribution at steady‐state, mean residence time (MRT) and half‐life after intravenous administration were 26 ± 3 mL/min/kg, 2.17 ± 0.52 L/kg, 83 ± 10 min, and 82 ± 10 min, respectively. The MRT and half‐life after intramuscular administration were 155 ± 23 and 92 ± 14 min. The mean absorption time was 72 ± 22 min and the bioavailability 111 ± 39%. Tramadol was poorly absorbed after oral administration and only 3% of the administered dose was found in systemic circulation. The fate of the tramadol M1 metabolite was also investigated. M1 appeared to be a minor metabolite in horses, which could hardly be detected in plasma samples. The poor bioavailability after oral administration and the short half‐life of tramadol may restrict its usefulness in clinical applications.
The Social Vole Microtus socialis in the Near East
Authors: Kryštufek B. , Kefelioǧlu H.
Published: September 2010

The Social Vole Microtus socialis differs from non‐socialis voles from Iran by its smaller size and relatively broader inter‐orbital region. Discriminant Function Analysis based on 14 cranial measurements classified all Iranian specimens into their actual group (i.e. socialis or non‐socialis). A dotted distribution map of M. socialis is provided for Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Iran. Isolated records from Khorassan and Fars, both in Iran, are discussed. Inter‐locality variations were significant in dimensions of the tooth‐row, diastema, rostrum, bullae and braincase breadth. The postero‐internal loop of the second upper molar was either absent or rare; only in voles from Lebanon and Syria was the incidence of this morphotype observed in about one‐third of the specimens. Marginal populations seemed to be morphologically most distant.
Chemostimuli implicated in selection of oviposition substrates by the stable fly Stomoxys calcitrans
Authors: JEANBOURQUIN P , GUERIN P. M.
Published: September 2010

Abstract Horse and cow dung were tested as substrates for oviposition by the stable fly Stomoxys calcitrans (L) (Diptera: Muscidae) in laboratory cages. Odour alone from either horse or cow dung was sufficient to attract flies for oviposition. This was confirmed in wind tunnel experiments, where both horse and cow dung were shown to attract gravid stable flies. However, when S. calcitrans was offered a choice between these two oviposition substrates, flies always chose horse dung over cow dung, both when allowed to contact the substrates and when relying on dung odour alone. Analyses of volatile compounds emanating from horse and cow dung by gas chromatography linked antennogram recordings from S. calcitrans antennae revealed no differences in the chemostimuli released from the two substrates. The predominant chemostimulant compounds in both substrates were carboxylic acids (butanoic acid), alcohols (oct‐1‐en‐3‐ol), aldehydes (decanal), ketones (octan‐3‐one), phenols (p‐cresol), indoles (skatole), terpenes (β‐caryophyllene) and sulphides (dimethyl trisulphide). Higher levels (20–40 p.p.m.) of carbon dioxide were recorded over horse dung compared with cow dung, a factor that may contribute to the preference exhibited by S. calcitrans for this substrate for oviposition.
Fly abundance and climate as determinants of sheep blowfly strike incidence in southwest England
Authors: BROUGHAN J. M. , WALL R.
Published: September 2010

Abstract The relationships between abundance of the blowfly Lucilia sericata (Meigen) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), climate, animal management procedures and the incidence of cutaneous myiasis (blowfly strike) in sheep were examined in three sheep pasture systems in southwest England during the summers of 2002 and 2003. In each year, flies were collected using liver‐baited sticky targets, daily weather and routine husbandry practices were noted and the age‐class of each animal infested and body position of each strike were recorded. On sites where no strike control was used, 5.8–12.1% of ewes and 5.7–15.8% of lambs were struck. Ewe strikes predominated at the beginning of the season. The incidence of ewe strikes was significantly associated with higher mean temperature, rainfall and shearing; shearing was associated with a 95% reduction in the risk of ewe strike. In lambs, the incidence of strike was significantly related to higher fly abundance, ewe shearing, treatment and mean ambient temperature. Lambs were 4.6 times more likely to be struck after the ewes had been shorn than before; however, the strongest relationship was with mean L. sericata abundance. Average minimum threshold temperatures of 9.5 °C for lamb strikes and 8.5 °C for all strikes were extrapolated, below which oviposition did not occur. Over 80% of ewe strikes occurred in the breech region in 2002, as did 100% in 2003. However, in lambs both body and breech strikes occurred in both years. The distribution of lamb strikes appeared to change over time, with breech strikes predominating in May, June and July and body strikes occurring increasingly later in the season. The incidence of lamb breech strikes was significantly associated with higher L. sericata abundance and ewe shearing but there was no relationship with weather conditions. By contrast, the risk of body strike in lambs was significantly associated with higher blowfly abundance, higher rainfall and higher maximum temperatures. The relationship between strike incidence and L. sericata abundance is important because it enhances our understanding of strike incidence patterns and management of this disease. Clearly, any factors that facilitate larger L. sericata populations, such as inappropriate carcass burial or increased average ambient temperatures, are likely to increase the incidence of strike.
Effects of blood and virus‐infected blood on protein expression in the midgut of the dengue vector Aedes albopictus
Authors: DIENG H. , BOOTS M. , HIGASHIHARA J. , OKADA T. , KATO K. , SATHO T. , MIAKE F. , ESHITA Y.
Published: September 2010

Abstract Although the mosquito midgut is the primary site of bloodmeal storage and the first line of defence against pathogenic infection, little is known about its proteic composition at a time when an increasing number of proteins are reported to impair viral infection. Aedes albopictus Skuse (Diptera: Culicidae) is an important vector of the dengue virus. We compared 2‐dimensional protein profiles of the adult midgut in this species, taking into account bloodmeal status. The comparison of profiles from sugar‐fed and blood‐fed females showed that a considerable number of proteins were present in both midguts. In addition, one set of proteins was present only after sugar intake and another set only after blood intake. The comparison of profiles of blood‐fed midguts and dengue virus‐2 infected blood‐fed midguts revealed that at least six proteins were present only in the infected midguts. These results are discussed in the context of the identification of midgut proteins involved in the dengue virus infection process.
Investigations of dengue‐2 susceptibility and body size among Aedes aegypti populations
Authors: SCHNEIDER J. R. , MORI A. , ROMERO‐SEVERSON J. , CHADEE D. D. , SEVERSON D. W.
Published: September 2010

Abstract The mosquito Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) is the primary global vector for dengue virus (DENV), yet considerable genetic variation exists among populations in terms of its competence to vector DENV. Variability in adult body size has also been observed among various mosquito populations and several studies have reported a relationship between body size and arbovirus dissemination, although most of these relied on artificially derived variation in body size. Here we examine the relationship between body size and disseminated DENV infection among 10 Ae. aegypti populations reared under optimum laboratory conditions. Body size variability was inferred from wing length measurements and DENV competence was evaluated as the proportion of individuals with disseminated infections following exposure to the dengue‐2 JAM1409 strain. There were significant differences in mean wing lengths among populations (anova, F9,22= 7.10, P < 0.0001), ranging from 2.16 mm (Bangkok population) to 2.79 mm (MOYO‐S [susceptible] population). We also observed significant differences among some populations in mean DENV infection rates (Waller−Duncan K‐ratio t‐test), ranging from 19.54% (MOYO‐R [refractory] population) to 56.60% (MOYO‐S population). However, we did not observe evidence for significant interactions between body size and DENV dissemination. We suggest that either the two traits are genetically independent or that our ability to detect interactions between them was limited by their respective inheritances as quantitative traits.
Endectocide residues affect insect attraction to dung from treated cattle: implications for toxicity tests
Authors: FLOATE K. D.
Published: September 2010

Abstract A 3‐year study was performed in southern Alberta, Canada to assess the effect of endectocide residues on the attractiveness of cattle dung to colonizing insects. In 2003 and 2004, insect captures were compared between pitfall traps baited with dung of untreated cattle and paired traps baited with dung of cattle that had been treated 7 days previously with topically applied doramectin, eprinomectin, ivermectin or moxidectin. Faecal residues associated with each compound affected insect captures in both spring and autumn of each year. Effects were detected (P < 0.05) for a total of 94 cases representing 27 insect taxa from 13 families in three orders (Coleoptera, Diptera, Hymenoptera). Two‐fold differences in captures were common. Up to six‐fold differences were observed. Eleven cases of attraction and 11 cases of repellency were associated with residues of doramectin. Eprinomectin tended to repel insects, with decreased captures for 19 of 29 cases of effect. Ivermectin showed a strong attractive effect, with increased captures for 17 of 25 cases. Moxidectin also showed a strong attractive effect, with increased captures for 17 of 18 cases. Comparisons between compounds suggested that results for doramectin best predicted results for eprinomectin and vice versa. In 2005, insect captures were compared between pitfall traps baited with dung of untreated cattle and traps baited with dung from cattle treated 3, 7 or 14 days previously with topically applied doramectin. Effects were detected in 14 cases plus one case of near significance (P= 0.053). Significant differences between control vs. days 3, 7 and/or 14 dung were detected in nine cases. Residues enhanced captures in seven of these cases. Day 14 dung affected captures in six of these cases. This study shows that endectocide residues can affect the number of insects attracted to colonize and oviposit in dung. Hence, the emergence of their offspring from field‐colonized dung of untreated vs. endectocide‐treated cattle should not be used as a measure of residue toxicity per se, but rather as a measure of ‘insect activity’. Insect activity is a composite measure of residue toxicity, the number and species composition of insect colonists, and the mortality factors (e.g. predation, parasitism, competition) associated with the co‐occurrence of these species in the dung pat.
Is there safety in numbers? The effect of cattle herding on biting risk from tsetse flies
Authors: TORR S. J. , PRIOR A. , WILSON P. J. , SCHOFIELD S.
Published: September 2010

AbstractIn sub‐Saharan Africa, tsetse (Glossinaspp.) transmit species ofTrypanosomawhich threaten 45–50 million cattle with trypanosomiasis. These livestock are subject to various herding practices which may affect biting rates on individual cattle and hence the probability of infection. In Zimbabwe, studies were made of the effect of herd size and composition on individual biting rates by capturing tsetse as they approached and departed from groups of one to 12 cattle. Flies were captured using a ring of electrocuting nets and bloodmeals were analysed using DNA markers to identify which individual cattle were bitten. Increasing the size of a herd from one to 12 adults increased the mean number of tsetse visiting the herd four‐fold and the mean feeding probability from 54% to 71%; the increased probability with larger herds was probably a result of fewer flies per host, which, in turn, reduced the hosts’ defensive behaviour. For adults and juveniles in groups of four to eight cattle, > 89% of bloodmeals were from the adults, even when these comprised just 13% of the herd. For groups comprising two oxen, four cows/heifers and two calves, a grouping that reflects the typical composition of communal herds in Zimbabwe, ∼ 80% of bloodmeals were from the oxen. Simple models of entomological inoculation rates suggest that cattle herding practices may reduce individual trypanosomiasis risk by up to 90%. These results have several epidemiological and practical implications. First, the gregarious nature of hosts needs to be considered in estimating entomological inoculation rates. Secondly, heterogeneities in biting rates on different cattle may help to explain why disease prevalence is frequently lower in younger/smaller cattle. Thirdly, the cost and effectiveness of tsetse control using insecticide‐treated cattle may be improved by treating older/larger hosts within a herd. In general, the patterns observed with tsetse appear to apply to other genera of cattle‐feeding Diptera (Stomoxys,Anopheles, Tabanidae) and thus may be important for the development of strategies for controlling other diseases affecting livestock.