bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of 22 novel single nucleotide polymorphism markers in steelhead and rainbow trout
Authors: CAMPBELL NATHAN R. , OVERTURF KEN , NARUM SHAWN R.
Published: January 2009

Thirty‐two individuals representing coastal and inland populations of steelhead and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were sequenced at 18 expressed sequence tags and nine microsatellite loci to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms. A total of 98 polymorphisms were discovered during the screen and 22 were developed into 5′ exonuclease assays (Taqman assays). Genotypes from TaqMan assays were compared to sequence data from individuals in the ascertainment panel to confirm proper allele designations. A larger number of samples (n = 192) from six regions were tested with the validated assays. Per‐locus FST values ranged from 0.001 to 0.414.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite markers in the black spiny tailed iguana (Ctenosaura pectinata) and their cross‐utility in other Ctenosaura
Authors: ZARZA EUGENIA , PEREYRA RICARDO T. , REYNOSO VICTOR H. , EMERSON BRENT C.
Published: January 2009

We isolated and characterized 10 polymorphic microsatellite loci from the Mexican black iguana (Ctenosaura pectinata) and assessed levels of polymorphism in sampling sites located in the northern areas of the species’ distribution range. Two to 19 alleles per locus and observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.15 to 0.96 were detected. These markers will be useful to describe population genetic structure, the extent of gene flow in contact zones, to study the mating system of the species and to address conservation genetics issues. Additionally, we evaluated the potential utility of these markers for studies of other species within the genus Ctenosaura (i.e. C. hemilopha, C. similis and C. oaxacana).
Microsatellite markers for the Amazon peacock bass (Cichla piquiti)
Authors: CARVALHO D. C. , OLIVEIRA D. A. A. , SAMPAIO I. , BEHEREGARAY L. B.
Published: January 2009

A set of primers to amplify 10 microsatellite DNA loci was developed for the Neotropical fish Cichla piquiti, one of the largest sized cichlids in the Amazon Basin. These loci were used to genotype individuals from two populations, one native population from the Tocantins River, the other an introduced population in southeast Brazil, Upper Paraná River. Cross‐amplification was also successful for another species of peacock bass, C. kelberi. An average of 4.4 alleles per locus (2–9 alleles) was detected. These markers will be useful for the characterization of genetic structure of native populations, and also for invasive biology studies since Cichla species have been introduced in many river basins outside their native ranges.
Development and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci in the endangered Miami blue butterfly (Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri)
Authors: SAARINEN EMILY V. , DANIELS JARET C. , MARUNIAK JAMES E.
Published: January 2009

The Miami blue butterfly (Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri) is a state‐endangered taxon in Florida and a candidate for federal listing. Here we report 12 polymorphic microsatellite loci appropriate for use in population and conservation studies. We genotyped 114 individuals sampled from a metapopulation in the lower Florida Keys over a 2‐year period (2005–2006). These results show 4–14 alleles per locus, and ranges of observed and expected heterozygosities are 0.02679–0.79630 and 0.06154–0.69565, respectively. Large deviations from Hardy‐Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) are observed across the whole sample set. When a single breeding population is analysed alone, seven of the loci are in HWE.
Polymorphic microsatellite markers of freshwater prawn Palaemon paucidens (De Haan, 1844) (Crustacea: Palaemonidae)
Authors: SONG KYO‐HONG , JUNG JONGWOO , KIM WON
Published: January 2009

We report 11 polymorphic microsatellite loci developed from the freshwater prawn Palaemon paucidens. Their genetic characteristics were assessed in 48 individuals selected from six Korean populations. The number of alleles ranged from two to 21, and the observed and expected heterozygosities were between 0.13 and 0.83, and 0.46 and 0.95, respectively. We examined the cross‐specific amplification of each locus in three species of palaemonid prawn and one species of atyid prawn.
Isolation and characterization of 11 microsatellite primers for a temperate reef fish, the California sheephead (Semicossyphus pulcher)
Authors: POORTVLIET MARLOES , OLSEN JEANINE L. , SELKOE KIMBERLY A. , COYER JAMES A. , BERNARDI GIACOMO
Published: January 2009

Eleven microsatellites were characterized for Semicossyphus pulcher (California sheephead) using an enrichment protocol. The number of alleles varied from three to 14 for a sample of 40 individuals from two populations. Expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.311 to 0.891. All loci but one were in Hardy‐Weinberg equilibrium. No evidence for linkage disequilibrium was observed. These polymorphic microsatellites will be useful for genetic diversity and connectivity analyses of S. pulcher.
Isolation and characterization of 16 polymorphic microsatellite loci for Frangula alnus (Rhamnaceae)
Authors: RIGUEIRO C. , ARROYO J. M. , RODRÍGUEZ R. , HAMPE A. , JORDANO P.
Published: January 2009

We report the first 16 polymorphic nuclear microsatellite markers developed for Frangula alnus (Rhamnaceae). Markers were tested on all three subspecies as well as on three local populations, including analyses of both leaf and seed endocarps. A total of 87 alleles were found (mean number of alleles per locus was 5.44) for 72 individuals genotyped. Observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.097 to 0.792 and from 0.093 to 0.794, respectively. The levels of polymorphism and exclusionary power of the developed markers render them applicable for parentage analyses and measurements of seed dispersal through direct comparison of endocarps and adult tree genotypes.
Intron‐spanning primers for the amplification of the nuclear ANT gene in decapod crustaceans
Authors: TESKE PETER R. , BEHEREGARAY LUCIANO B.
Published: January 2009

We describe polymerase chain reaction primers that amplify the low‐copy nuclear adenine nucleotide transporter gene in decapod crustaceans. These were tested on 35 species from 14 decapod families, and a single polymerase chain reaction product amplified in 32 species. Of 49 sequences generated, only two did not contain an intron, and the longest intron identified was more than 834 nucleotides in length. The amplified fragment is likely to be useful at various taxonomic levels. While the intron is suitable for phylogeographical/population genetic studies and to identify cryptic speciation, the second exon region is sufficiently long to provide signal at both the phylogeographical and phylogenetic levels.
Religion and Voting: A Study of the 1968 Canadian Federal Election in Ontario
Authors: Mcdonald Lynn
Published: January 2009

On a cherchC A ddceler le genre de liaisons qui existaient entre certaines dimensions de la ferveur religieuse et les prdfdrences dans le vote a l'aide de donndes recueillies sur questionnaire dam la Province de l'Ontario au moment de 1'Clection fCdCrale canadienne de 1968. Les dimensions de la ferveur religieuse sont les suivantes: engagement social dans la communautd religieuse, orthodoxie doctrinale, I'intensitC de la pratique religieuse, les attitudes vis‐his les autres groupes religieux et la question des Ccoles dpardes, et l'affiliation religieuse des candidats. Les mesures de l'engagement social sont trks dtroitement reliees A celles des preferences dans le vote tandis que la religion des interrogks ne produit aucun resultat tangible. La liaison entre la religion et le vote est de meme nature et intensite tant au niveau provincial que federal.

Propositions on the association of a number of dimensions of religiosity with voting preferences were tested by survey data collected in Ontario at the time of the 1968 Canadian federal election. The religiosity variables include: social involvement in the religious community, doctrinal orthodoxy, devotionalism, attitudes to other religious groups and to the separate schools issue, and the religion of the candidates. Measures of social involvement had the strongest association with voting preferences while the religion of the candidate had no significant effect. The association between religion and voting was of the same kind and strength at the provincial level as at the federal.
Clinicopathological Features and Outcome for Dogs with Mast Cell Tumors and Bone Marrow Involvement
Authors: Marconato L. , Bettini G. , Giacoboni C. , Romanelli G. , Cesari A. , Zatelli A. , Zini E.
Published: January 2009

Background:Mast cell tumors (MCTs) with bone marrow (BM) involvement are poorly documented in dogs and are associated with a poor prognosis. Successful treatment strategies have not been described.

Hypothesis:Clinicopathologic findings of affected dogs are not specific. Administration of lomustine or imatinib is beneficial.

Animals:Fourteen dogs with MCT and BM involvement.

Methods:Clinical and laboratory evaluations were performed in each dog on admission and during follow‐up. All dogs received prednisone. Additionally, 8 dogs received lomustine and 3 dogs received imatinib. Imatinib was administered if tumor‐associated tyrosine kinase KIT was aberrant.

Results:On admission, 11 dogs had a single cutaneous nodule and 3 dogs had multiple nodules. Involvement of regional lymph nodes, liver, or spleen was observed in each dog. BM infiltration with mast cells (MCs) was observed in all dogs. On CBC, nonregenerative anemia, leukopenia, or thrombocytopenia was common. Four dogs had circulating MCs. Increased alkaline phosphatase or alanine transferase activity was observed in 12 and 10 dogs, respectively. Treatment with lomustine induced partial remission in 1 of 8 dogs. Median survival time was 43 days (range, 14–57). Dogs on imatinib experienced complete remission. Two dogs survived for 117 and 159 days, and the third was alive after 75 days. Dogs treated symptomatically did not improve and were euthanized after 1, 14, and 32 days.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:A combination of clinical and laboratory evaluation helps in identifying dogs with MCT and BM infiltration. Administration of lomustine is not helpful in affected dogs. The beneficial effect of imatinib warrants further investigation.
Effects of Norepinephrine and Combined Norepinephrine and Fenoldopam Infusion on Systemic Hemodynamics and Indices of Renal Function in Normotensive Neonatal Foals
Authors: Hollis A.R. , Ousey J.C. , Palmer L. , Stephen J.O. , Stoneham S.J. , Boston R.C. , Corley K.T.T.
Published: January 2009

Background: Norepinephrine increases arterial blood pressure but may have adverse effects on renal blood flow. Fenoldopam, a dopamine‐1 receptor agonist, increases urine output in normotensive foals. The combination of norepinephrine and fenoldopam may lead to improved renal perfusion compared with an infusion of norepinephrine alone. The combined effects of these drugs have not been reported in the horse.

Hypothesis: Norepinephrine will alter the hemodynamic profile of foals without affecting renal function. Addition of fenoldopam will change the renal profile during the infusions without changing the hemodynamic profile.

Animals: Five conscious pony foals.

Methods: Each foal received norepinephrine (0.3 μg/kg/min), combined norepinephrine (0.3 μg/kg/min) and fenoldopam (0.04 μg/kg/min), and a control dose of saline in a masked, placebo‐controlled study. Heart rate (HR), arterial blood pressure (direct), and cardiac output (lithium dilution) were measured, and systemic vascular resistance (SVR), stroke volume, cardiac index (CI), and stroke volume index were calculated. Urine output, creatinine clearance, and fractional excretion of electrolytes were measured.

Results: Norepinephrine and a combined norepinephrine and fenoldopam infusion increased arterial blood pressure, SVR, urine output, and creatinine clearance and decreased HR and CI compared with saline. The combination resulted in higher HR and lower arterial blood pressure than norepinephrine alone.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Norepinephrine might be useful for hypotensive foals, because in normal foals, this infusion rate increases SVR without negatively affecting renal function (creatinine clearance increased). Fenoldopam does not provide additional benefit to renal function. These findings warrant further investigation.
Investigating TrkA Expression in Canine Appendicular Osteosarcoma
Authors: Fan T.M. , Barger A.M. , Sprandel I.T. , Fredrickson R.L.
Published: January 2009

Background: The tropomyosin‐related kinase A (TrkA) proto‐oncogene encodes for a receptor that binds with high affinity to the neurotrophin ligand, nerve growth factor (NGF). Intracellular signaling mediated by the TrkA/NGF axis orchestrates neuronal cell differentiation, mitogenesis, and survival. Interestingly, TrkA also is expressed by bone forming cells, and its signaling promotes antiapoptotic effects in actively dividing osteoblasts.

Hypothesis: In canine immortalized cell lines and naturally occurring tumor samples, osteosarcoma (OSA) cells will express TrkA. In canine OSA cell lines, TrkA signaling will promote cell mitogenesis and survival.

Methods: In vitro, TrkA expression in canine OSA cell lines was assessed by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction, flow cytometry, and immunocytochemistry. In vitro, the involvement of TrkA‐mediated signaling for cell mitogenesis and survival were investigated with commercially available assays. In vivo, TrkA expression was evaluated in primary tumors and pulmonary metastases with immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry, respectively.

Results: In vitro, canine OSA cells expressed TrkA mRNA and protein. Ligation of TrkA with exogenous NGF did not induce mitogenesis. Blockade of TrkA signaling with either a protein kinase inhibitor or NGF‐neutralizing antibody induced apoptosis of canine OSA cell lines. In vivo, the majority (10/15) of canine OSA primary tumors and pulmonary metastases (9/12) expressed TrkA protein.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Canine OSA cells express TrkA, and its signaling protects against apoptosis. Most dogs with spontaneously arising OSA express TrkA within their primary tumors and pulmonary metastatic lesions, warranting further investigations with TrkA antagonists as a novel treatment option for canine OSA.
Plasma Vasopressin Concentrations in Healthy Foals from Birth to 3 Months of Age
Authors: Wong D.M. , Vo D.T. , Alcott C.J. , Peterson A.D. , Brockus C.W. , Hsu W.H.
Published: January 2009

Background:Arginine vasopressin (AVP) has received increased attention in equine critical care but there is minimal information of AVP concentration in foals. The clinical usefulness of measuring AVP in ill foals depends on knowledge of age‐related changes in AVP concentrations in healthy foals.

Hypothesis:Plasma AVP concentrations will be significantly different when measured from birth to 3 months of age in healthy foals.

Animals:Thirteen healthy university‐owned foals.

Methods:Prospective, observational study. Blood was collected from healthy foals at birth and 3, 5, 7, 10, 14, 21, 28, 42, 56, and 84 days of age. Plasma was harvested and plasma AVP concentrations were determined by radioimmunoassay.

Results:No statistically significant differences were detected in plasma AVP concentrations over the study period. Plasma AVP concentrations over the entire study period was 6.2 ± 2.5 pg/mL.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:There was no age‐related variation in plasma AVP concentrations detected in healthy foals from birth to 3 months of age suggesting that AVP concentrations are similar across foals of these ages.
Glycogen Synthase 1 (GYS1) Mutation in Diverse Breeds with Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy
Authors: McCue M.E. , Valberg S.J. , Lucio M. , Mickelson J.R.
Published: January 2009

Background:A missense mutation in theGYS1gene was recently described in horses with polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM).

Objectives:The first objective was to determine the prevalence of theGYS1mutation in horses with PSSM from diverse breeds. The second objective was to determine if the prevalence of theGYS1mutation differed between horses diagnosed with PSSM based on grade 1 (typically amylase‐sensitive) or grade 2 (typically amylase‐resistant) polysaccharide.

Animals:Eight hundred and thirty‐one PSSM horses from 36 breeds.

Procedures:Horses with PSSM diagnosed by histopathology of skeletal muscle biopsy samples were identified from the Neuromuscular Disease Laboratory database. Eight hundred and thirty‐one cases had blood or tissue that was available for DNA isolation; these 831 cases were genotyped for theGYS1mutation by restriction fragment length polymorphism.

Results:The PSSM mutation was identified in horses from 17 different breeds. The prevalence of theGYS1mutation in PSSM horses was high in Draft‐ (87%) and Quarter Horse‐related breeds (72%) and lower in Warmbloods (18%) and other light horse breeds (24%), when diagnosis was based on grade 2 diagnostic criteria. Overall, the PSSM mutation was present in 16% of grade 1 and 70% of grade 2 PSSM horses.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:GYS1mutation causes PSSM in diverse breeds and is the predominant form of PSSM in Draft‐ and Quarter Horse‐related breeds. False‐positive diagnosis, as well as the possibility of a second glycogenosis in horses with neuromuscular disease (type 2 PSSM), might explain the absence of theGYS1mutation in horses diagnosed with excessive glycogen accumulation in muscle.
Impact of Telomerase Status on Canine Osteosarcoma Patients
Authors: Kow K. , Thamm D.H. , Terry J. , Grunerud K. , Bailey S.M. , Withrow S.J. , Lana S.E.
Published: January 2009

Background:We demonstrated previously that canine osteosarcoma (OSA) cell lines and samples from clinical patients are predominantly telomerase positive. In contrast, the majority of OSA samples from human patients appear to be telomerase negative, maintaining telomere length by an alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) mechanism. The purpose of the current study was to examine the telomerase status of a large number of OSA samples from dogs and determine if telomerase status can serve as a prognostic factor.

Hypothesis:The majority of clinical canine OSA appendicular lesions will be telomerase positive, and telomerase positivity will negatively impact disease outcome.

Animals:Sixty‐seven dogs with appendicular OSA presenting to the Colorado State University Animal Cancer Center for treatment.

Methods:The Telomeric Repeat Amplification Protocol was performed on tissue samples from primary canine appendicular OSA to determine the presence of telomerase activity. Telomere restriction fragment (TRF) analysis was utilized to determine telomere length and detect ALT. Outcome data were obtained in a retrospective manner and correlated with telomerase status.

Results:Seventy‐three percent of canine OSA samples were telomerase positive. Telomerase status did not have an impact on disease‐free interval or survival time. Nine of 10 telomerase‐negative samples examined were consistent with an ALT phenotype, based on TRF analysis.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:These results are consistent with the hypothesis that the majority of canine OSA are telomerase positive, suggesting that telomerase may be a valuable target for canine OSA therapy. Additionally, telomerase status does not appear to be a prognostic factor in canine OSA.
Use of Electrohydraulic Lithotripsy in 28 Dogs with Bladder and Urethral Calculi
Authors: Defarges A. , Dunn M.
Published: January 2009

Background: Electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL) has been used as an alternative to cystotomy in human medicine to remove urinary calculi. This prospective study evaluated the efficacy and safety of EHL to remove urinary calculi in dogs.

Hypothesis: EHL is an efficient and safe method of treatment of bladder and urethral calculi in dogs.

Methods: Dogs presented between January 1, 2005 and June 1, 2007 with lower urinary tract calculi diagnosed by radiographs or ultrasound examination were included in the study. Physical examination, CBC, biochemistry, urinalysis, and urine culture were performed at presentation. EHL and voiding urohydropulsion were performed under general anesthesia. Patients received IV fluids for 12 hours after which they were rechecked by ultrasound examination and discharged with antibiotics and anti‐inflammatory drugs for 5 days. All patients were reevaluated 1, 3, and 6 months after presentation by physical examination, urinalysis, and ultrasonography.

Results: Twenty‐eight dogs (19 males, 9 females) presented with bladder or urethral calculi or both underwent lithotripsy. Their median weight was 8.3 kg. Calcium oxalate calculi were present in 22 dogs, struvite in 4, and mixed calculi in 2. Fragmentation was done in the bladder (23 dogs) and in the urethra (12 dogs). Calculus‐free rate was higher for urethral than for bladder calculi in males and higher for bladder calculi in females than in males. No major complications were reported. Twelve dogs relapsed within 6 months.

Conclusions: Results of this study support the use of EHL as a minimally invasive treatment for bladder calculi in females and for urethral calculi in male dogs.
Pharmacokinetics of Amoxicillin in Maternal, Umbilical Cord, and Neonatal Sera
Authors: Muller Anouk E. , Oostvogel Paul M. , DeJongh Joost , Mouton Johan W. , Steegers Eric A. P. , Dörr P. Joep , Danhof Meindert , Voskuyl Rob A.
Published: January 2009

The pharmacokinetics of amoxicillin were studied in umbilical cord and neonatal sera relative to maternal concentrations in prevention of neonatal group B streptococcus infection. The subjects were 44 pregnant women receiving amoxicillin as 1 or 2 g as an intravenous infusion. To measure the concentrations, blood samples were obtained from the mother, the arterial and venous umbilical cord, and the neonate. The pharmacokinetics were characterized by a five-compartment model by using nonlinear mixed-effects (population) modeling. The population estimates for the clearance, central volume of distribution, and the two peripheral maternal volumes of distribution were 19.7 ± 0.99 liters/h, 6.40 ± 0.61 liters, and 5.88 ± 0.83 liters (mean ± standard error), respectively. The volume of distribution of the venous umbilical cord and the neonatal volume of distribution were 3.40 liters and 11.9 liters, respectively. The pharmacokinetic parameter estimates were used to simulate the concentration-time profiles in maternal, venous umbilical cord, and neonatal sera. The peak concentration in the venous umbilical cord serum was 18% of the maternal peak concentration. It was reached 3.3 min after the maternal peak concentration. The concentration-time profile in neonatal serum was determined by the profile in venous umbilical cord serum, which in turn depended on the profile in maternal serum. Furthermore, the simulated concentrations in maternal, venous umbilical cord, and neonatal sera exceeded the MIC for group B streptococcus for more than 90% of the 4-h dosing interval. In a first approximation, the 2-g infusion to the mother appears to be adequate for the prevention of group B streptococcal disease. However, to investigate the efficacy of the prophylaxis, further studies of the interindividual variability in pharmacokinetics are indicated.
Efficacy of Ciprofloxacin in an Experimental Model of
Escherichia coli
Chorioamnionitis in Rabbits
Authors: Launay Elise , Joram Nicolas , Jacqueline Cédric , Miegeville Anne Francoise , Caillon Jocelyne , Potel Gilles , Roze Jean Christophe , Gras-Le Guen Christèle
Published: January 2009

Pregnant rabbits were treated with ciprofloxacin alone or with gentamicin in a model of
Escherichia coli
chorioamnionitis, and the results were compared with those for untreated rabbits. The survival rate increased and the bacteremia decreased significantly in treated fetuses in comparison to controls (
P
= 0.003). Nevertheless, rapid selection of resistant mutants is a major limit to ciprofloxacin applications.
Distinct Mode of Interaction of a Novel Ketolide Antibiotic That Displays Enhanced Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Kouvela Ekaterini C. , Kalpaxis Dimitrios L. , Wilson Daniel N. , Dinos George P.
Published: January 2009

Ketolides represent the latest generation of macrolide antibiotics, displaying improved activities against some erythromycin-resistant strains, while maintaining their activity against erythromycin-susceptible ones. In this study, we present a new ketolide, K-1325, that carries an alkyl-aryl side chain at C-13 of the lactone ring. According to our genetic and biochemical studies, K-1325 binds within the nascent polypeptide exit tunnel, at a site previously described as the primary attachment site of all macrolide antibiotics. Compared with telithromycin, K-1325 displays enhanced antimicrobial activity against wild-type
Escherichia coli
strains, as well as against strains bearing the U2609C mutation in 23S rRNA. Chemical protection experiments showed that the alkyl-aryl side chain of K-1325 interacts specifically with helix 35 of 23S rRNA, a fact leading to an increased affinity of U2609C mutant ribosomes for the drug and rationalizing the enhanced effectiveness of this new ketolide.
Polymorphism in the CagA EPIYA Motif Impacts Development of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Jones Kathleen R. , Joo Young Min , Jang Sungil , Yoo Yun-Jung , Lee Hak Sung , Chung In-Sik , Olsen Cara H. , Whitmire Jeannette M. , Merrell D. Scott , Cha Jeong-Heon
Published: January 2009

Helicobacter pylori
causes diseases ranging from gastritis to peptic ulcer disease to gastric cancer. Geographically, areas with high incidences of
H. pylori
infection often overlap with areas with high incidences of gastric cancer, which remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Strains of
H. pylori
that carry the virulence factor cytotoxin-associated gene A (
cagA
) are much more likely to be associated with the development of gastric cancer. Moreover, particular C-terminal polymorphisms in CagA vary by geography and have been suggested to influence disease development. We conducted a large-scale molecular epidemiologic analysis of South Korean strains and herein report a statistical link between the East Asian CagA EPIYA-ABD genotype and the development of gastric cancer. Characterization of a subset of the Korean isolates showed that all strains from cancer patients expressed and delivered phosphorylatable CagA to host cells, whereas the presence of the
cagA
gene did not strictly correlate to expression and delivery of CagA in all noncancer strains.
The inguinal release procedure for groin pain: initial experience in 73 sportsmen/women
Authors: Mann C D , Sutton C D , Garcea G , Lloyd D M
Published: January 2009

Objective:

To assess the impact of the laparoscopic inguinal release procedure with mesh reinforcement on athletes with groin pain.

Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Setting:

Private sector.

Patients:

Professional and amateur sportsmen/women undergoing the inguinal release for groin pain.

Main outcome measurements:

Change in patient’s symptoms, functional limitation and time to resuming sporting activity following surgery.

Results:

73 sportsmen/women underwent laparoscopic inguinal release in the study period, 37 (51%) of whom were professionals. 95% were male with a median age of 30 years. Following operation, patients returned to light training at a median of 1 week, full training at 3 weeks (professionals—2 weeks) and playing competitively at 4 weeks (professionals—3 weeks). 74% considered themselves match-fit by 4 weeks (84% of professionals). Following surgery, there was a highly significant improvement in frequency of pain, severity of pain and functional limitation in both the whole cohort and professional group. 88% reported a return to full fitness at follow-up, with 73% reporting complete absence of symptoms. 97% of the cohort thought the operation had improved their symptoms.

Conclusions:

This study shows that the laparoscopic inguinal release procedure may be effective in the treatment of a subgroup of athletes with groin pain.
DIFFERENTIAL LOG-DOMAIN WAVE ACTIVE FILTERS
Authors: FRAGOULIS NIKOS
Published: January 2009

In this paper, the design of differential log-domain wave filters is outlined which is based on the log-domain wave technique. The differential configuration is achieved by introducing the differential log-domain wave equivalent. The resulting filters inherit the good characteristics of the wave active filters, are very modular and easy to design. The method is demonstrated by a design example and its validity is verified through simulations results.
SPARTAN SIMPLICITY: A PRUNING ALGORITHM FOR NEURAL NETS
Authors: JEARANAITANAKIJ KIETIKUL , PINNGERN OUEN
Published: January 2009

Having more hidden units than necessary can produce a neural network that has a poor generalization. This paper proposes a new algorithm for pruning unnecessary hidden units away from the single-hidden layer feedforward neural networks, resulting in a Spartan network. Our approach is simple and easy to implement, yet produces a very good result. The idea is to train the network until it begins to lose its generalization. Then the algorithm measures the sensitivity and automatically prunes away the most irrelevant unit. We define this sensitivity as the absolute difference between the desirable output and the output of the pruned network. Unlike other pruning methods, our algorithm is distinct in calculating the sensitivity from the validation set, instead of the training set, without increasing the asymptotic time complexity of the back-propagation algorithm. In addition, for a classification problem, we raise a point that the sensitivities of some well-known pruning algorithms may still underestimate the irrelevance of hidden unit even though the validation set is used in measuring the sensitivity. We resolve this problem by considering the number of misclassified patterns as the main concern. The Spartan simplicity algorithm is applied to three artificial and seven standard benchmarks. In most problems, the algorithm can produce a compact-sized network with high generalization ability in comparison with other pruning algorithms.
AN EFFICIENT DESIGN FOR MOTION-JPEG2000 SYSTEM IN REAL-TIME VIDEO ENCODING
Authors: TSAI TSUNG-HAN , TSAI LIAN-TSUNG
Published: January 2009

Motion-JPEG2000 is derived from Part 1 of the JPEG2000 standard and provides high quality image compression in video coding system. This paper presents a real-time Motion-JPEG2000 encoding which is built on a fixed-point digital signal processor (DSP) as a single-chip implementation. The design addresses on the system-level design considerations. Among several modules in JPEG2000, Embedded Block Coding with Optimized Truncation (EBCOT) algorithm contains the highest computation complexity and also becomes the bottleneck of JPEG2000. Two speed-improved methods are proposed to significantly reduce the processing time of EBCOT. The fast algorithm is used by processing the three coding passes in sequential and is very suitable to the execution on programming-based processor. For Motion-JPEG2000 implementation, a real-time encoding system is built on the single-chip DSP processor without any extra hardware support. The optimization techniques are also applied to enhance the performance. Due to the contribution on algorithm and implementation issue, the complexity of Motion-JPEG2000 is largely reduced. Simulation results show that the proposed system can process 30 frames per second in CIF size (352 × 288 pixels) with 4:2:0 video sequences. For SDTV size resolution (760 × 480 pixels), the system can achieve near 20 frames per second.
AMBIGUITY REDUCTION IN NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
Authors: BRUN ERIC , SAETRE ALF STEINAR
Published: January 2009

In this paper, we argue that ambiguity is an essential component of "fuzziness" in the Fuzzy Front End of New Product Development (NPD), and that a better understanding of how ambiguity emerges and is reduced, is called for. We explore the process by which ambiguity was reduced in four NPD projects, and propose a model that enhances our understanding of this process. Ambiguity arises as multiple interpretations, and interpretations can be understood as hypotheses, hence these can be tested by using the hypothetical-deductive method (HDM). We present a model showing that ambiguity in NPD projects is efficiently reduced by applying the HDM to test the multiple interpretations that give rise to ambiguity and the assumptions underlying these interpretations. We discuss theoretical implications and the usefulness of the model for practitioners of NPD.
Young Investigator Award Lecture of the APS Water and Electrolyte Homeostasis Section, 2008: The pathophysiology of hypertension in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ryan Michael J.
Published: January 2009

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorder that predominantly affects women during their reproductive years. Although SLE can affect any organ system, the kidneys are prominently involved in the form of immune complex glomerulonephritis. In addition, in women with SLE, risk for the development of cardiovascular disease is dramatically increased. Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and is highly prevalent in women with SLE. Nevertheless, there has been little exploration of the pathophysiological mechanisms that promote SLE hypertension. This review discusses the role of several mechanisms, with an emphasis on the kidney, in SLE hypertension. These mechanisms include the renin-angiotensin system, endothelin, oxidative stress, sex steroids, metabolic changes, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ, and, perhaps most importantly, chronic inflammation and cytokines. Growing evidence suggests a link between chronic inflammation and hypertension. Therefore, elucidation of mechanisms that promote SLE hypertension may be of significant value not only for patients with SLE, but also for a better understanding of the basis for essential hypertension.
On the Superstrings‐Induced Four‐Dimensional Gravity and Its Applications to Cosmology
Authors: Iihoshi Masao , Ketov Sergei V.
Published: January 2009

We review the status of the fourth‐order (quartic in the spacetime curvature) terms induced by superstrings/M‐theory (compactified on a warped
torus) in the leading order with respect to the Regge slope parameter, and
study their (nonperturbative) impact on the evolution of the Hubble scale
in the context of the four‐dimensional FRW cosmology. After taking into
account the quantum ambiguities in the definition of the off‐shell superstring
effective action, we propose the generalized Friedmann equations, find the
existence of their (de Sitter) exact inflationary solutions without a spacetime
singularity, and constrain the ambiguities by demanding stability and
the scale factor duality invariance of our solutions. The most naive (Bel‐Robinson tensor squared) quartic terms are ruled out, thus giving the evidence
for the necessity of extra quartic (Ricci tensor‐dependent) terms in
the off‐shell gravitational effective action for superstrings. Our methods are
generalizable to the higher orders in the spacetime curvature.
Characterization of Amino Groups for Cotton Fibers Coated with Chitosan
Authors: Fras Zemljič Lidija , Strnad Simona , Šauperl Olivera , Stana-Kleinschek Karin
Published: January 2009

The adsorption of chitosan onto cellulose cotton fibers introduces antimicrobial properties, mainly created by the amount and location of amino groups. Therefore, it is important to be able to analyze both parameters, especially in a heterogeneous system, namely cotton fibers coated with chitosan. In this research, three different analytical techniques were applied to determine amino groups of cotton fibers coated with chitosan. The number of positively charged groups was determined indirectly by the spectrophotometric method using Acid Orange 7 dye, and the use of polyelectrolyte titration. In addition, the chemical surface composition regarding non-modified, as well as modified cotton fibers (coated with chitosan), was investigated using X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). The results from a combination of these methods show that chitosan treatment introduces more than 14 mmol/kg of accessible amino groups onto the cotton fibers. The results were in good agreement with the results of XPS. The use of spectrophotometric and titration methods in combination with XPS appears to be a very useful tool for identifying the formation of amino groups in modified cotton fibers and their surfaces.
Rapamycin Reduces Seizure Frequency in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Muncy Jennifer , Butler Ian J. , Koenig Mary Kay
Published: January 2009

The authors present a 10-year-old girl with tuberous sclerosis complex who has been receiving rapamycin for 10 months for seizure control. She was started at 0.05 mg/kg/d and titrated to an effective dose of 0.15 mg/kg/d. There was a dramatic reduction in seizure frequency with rapamycin therapy. Further studies are needed to objectively investigate the benefits of rapamycin in tuberous sclerosis complex and to clarify its mechanism of seizure control.
Disappearance of Spasticity After Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy Does Not Prevent Muscle Shortening in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Case Report
Authors: Spijker Margje , Strijers Rob L. M. , van Ouwerkerk Willem J. R. , Becher Jules G.
Published: January 2009

Selective dorsal rhizotomy is an effective treatment for spasticity in children with cerebral palsy who have a spastic motor disorder. It is hypothesized that muscle shortening is related to spasticity; the lack of stretch of a muscle is thought to be the cause of muscle shortening. If this is true, the treatment for spasticity should prevent the occurrence of muscle shortening during growth. We present the case of 1 child with cerebral palsy and spastic diplegia, for whom the treatment with selective dorsal rhizotomy was successful in improving the walking abilities. She did, however, develop muscle shortening during growth. In conclusion, the development of muscle shortening during growth in children with cerebral palsy and spastic paresis cannot be prevented by treatment for the spasticity alone.
Variable Expression of a Novel PLP1 Mutation in Members of a Family With Pelizaeus-Merzbacher Disease
Authors: Fattal-Valevski Aviva , DiMaio Miriam S. , Hisama Fuki M. , Hobson Grace M. , Davis-Williams Angelique , Garbern James Y. , Mahoney Maurice J. , Kolodny Edwin H. , Pastores Gregory M.
Published: January 2009

Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease is a rare X-linked disorder caused by mutations of the proteolipid protein 1 gene that encodes a structural component of myelin. It is characterized by progressive psychomotor delay, nystagmus, spastic quadriplegia, and cerebellar ataxia. Variable clinical expression was seen in 5 members of a family bearing a novel missense mutation in proteolipid protein 1, c.619T>C. Symptomatic patients included a 6-year-old girl, her younger brother, and their maternal uncle, a 29-year-old college graduate initially diagnosed with cerebral palsy; their brain magnetic resonance imaging studies showed diffuse dysmyelination. The mother had a history of delayed walking, achieved independently by age 3; she and the maternal grandmother were asymptomatic on presentation. Review of clinical information and family history led to consideration of Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease. Subsequent identification of the causal mutation enabled preimplantation genetic diagnosis and the birth of an unaffected child.
Recurrent Stroke in a Child With Incontinentia Pigmenti
Authors: Cartwright Michael S. , White David L. , Miller Lewis M. , Roach E. Steve
Published: January 2009

We report a child with genetically proven incontinentia pigmenti who had bilateral strokes at 5 days of age, and was subsequently found to have recurrent acute strokes on magnetic resonance imaging both at 10 days and 3 months of age. Brain magnetic resonance imaging at 5 days of age showed multiple areas of restricted diffusion throughout both hemispheres. The child was started on antiplatelet therapy after a second stroke was noted on magnetic resonance imaging at 10 days of age. Despite this treatment, she had a third punctate infarct on magnetic resonance imaging 3 months later. A magnetic resonance imaging at 10 months of age showed maturation of the old infarcts but no new strokes. The purpose of this article is to describe a unique presentation of recurrent stroke secondary to incontinentia pigmenti and to highlight the need for a better understanding of the pathophysiology of incontinentia pigmenti to develop appropriate treatment of stroke in incontinentia pigmenti.
Successful Treatment of Encephalopathy and Myoclonus with Levetiracetam in a Case of Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis
Authors: Becker Daniel , Patel Anup , Abou-Khalil Bassel W. , Pina-Garza Jesus E.
Published: January 2009

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis is a devastating progressive degenerative disease of the nervous system presumably caused by a persistent measles virus. Patients commonly present with myoclonia or encephalopathy. There are currently no known curative therapeutic options or effective symptomatic therapy. We treated a 12-year-old boy with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis who presented with acute encephalopathy and myoclonus. Electroencephalogram showed characteristic generalized periodic discharges. Levetiracetam produced dramatic improvement in both myoclonus and encephalopathy. The improvement was clear within 4 days. The electroencephalogram pattern showed improvement as well. Levetiracetam is a promising symptomatic therapy in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis for both the myoclonus and the encephalopathy. In this patient, it also appeared to improve the electroencephalographic pattern. We suggest that the generalized periodic discharges associated with the myoclonus contributed to the patient's encephalopathy.
The Neuroanatomic Localization of Epstein-Barr Virus Encephalitis May be a Predictive Factor for its Clinical Outcome: A Case Report and Review of 100 Cases in 28 Reports
Authors: Abul-Kasim Kasim , Palm Lars , Maly Pavel , Sundgren Pia C.
Published: January 2009

Encephalitis is one of the manifestations of infection with Epstein-Barr virus with clinical outcome varying from complete recovery to death. A 16-year-old boy with Epstein-Barr virus encephalitis with global cortical and subcortical gray matter involvement and a full clinical recovery is reported. The case inspired a literature review which yielded 100 cases of Epstein-Barr virus encephalitis subjected to radiological investigation and published in 28 reports. Cerebellum and basal ganglia were reported to be equally involved by Epstein-Barr virus infection, next to cerebral hemisphere. Patients with isolated hemispheric gray or white matter involvement were reported to achieve good recovery while almost half of the patients with thalamic involvement developed sequelae. The highest mortality rate was among patients with isolated brain stem involvement. In conclusion, neuroanatomic distribution of the radiological abnormalities in Epstein-Barr virus encephalitis may be useful as a prognostic marker.
Pseudo cardiac tamponade in the setting of excess pericardial fat
Authors: Nguyen Thang , Kumar Kanwal , Francis Andrew , Walker Jonathan R , Raabe Michael , Zieroth Shelley , Jassal Davinder S
Published: January 2009

Cardiac tamponade is the phenomenon of hemodynamic compromise caused by a pericardial effusion. Following a myocardial infarction, the most common causes of pericardial fluid include early pericarditis, Dressler's syndrome, and hemopericardium secondary to a free wall rupture. On transthoracic echocardiography, pericardial fluid appears as an echo-free space in between the visceral and parietal layers of the pericardium. Pericardial fat has a similar appearance on echocardiography and it may be difficult to discern the two entities. We present a case of a post-MI patient demonstrating pseudo tamponade physiology in the setting of excessive pericardial fat.
The interaction of xKaiso with xTcf3: a revised model for integration of epigenetic and Wnt signalling pathways
Authors: Ruzov Alexey , Hackett Jamie A. , Prokhortchouk Anna , Reddington James P. , Madej Monika J. , Dunican Donncha S. , Prokhortchouk Egor , Pennings Sari , Meehan Richard R.
Published: January 2009

We demonstrate that a direct interaction between the methyl-CpG-dependent transcription repressor Kaiso and xTcf3, a transducer of the Wnt signalling pathway, results in their mutual disengagement from their respective DNA-binding sites. Thus, the transcription functions of xTcf3 can be inhibited by overexpression of Kaiso in cell lines and Xenopus embryos. The interaction of Kaiso with xTcf3 is highly conserved and is dependent on its zinc-finger domains (ZF1-3) and the corresponding HMG DNA-binding domain of TCF3/4 factors. Our data rule out a model suggesting that xKaiso is a direct repressor of Wnt signalling target genes in early Xenopus development via binding to promoter-proximal CTGCNA sequences as part of a xTcf3 repressor complex. Instead, we propose that mutual inhibition by Kaiso/TCF3 of their DNA-binding functions may be important in developmental or cancer contexts and acts as a regulatory node that integrates epigenetic and Wnt signalling pathways.
Reaf firm ing the Ideal: A Focus Group Analysis of the Campaign for Real Beauty
Authors: Scott Julie-Ann , Cloud Nicole E.
Published: January 2009

The following piece is an analysis of the responses of two focus groups, consisting of 12 women between the ages of 23 and 34, to Unilever’s Dove Campaign for Real Beauty. The authors trace the emergence of potential consumers’ interpretations of the concepts real, beauty, feminism, and marketing within the cultural space of advertising and educational campaigns. We end with the cultural implications of the women’s reactions and offer suggestions for future advertisements that seek to challenge dominant beauty advertising standards.
Journey to the Headwaters: Bartolomé de Las Casas in a Comparative Context
Authors: Orique David T.
Published: January 2009

This essay compares the theological orientation of Bartolomé de Las Casas (1484–1566) with those of two other notable colonial Latin American ecclesial figures: Toribio de Benavente Motolinía (1494/95–1565), and Juan Vasco de Quiroga (1477/78–1565). An examination of the experiential and theoretical epistemological sources of their theological orientations reveals the influence of different temporal, social, and geographic experiences as well as of their common and distinctive intellectual formations. Their understandings of and activities in the New World reflect these epistemological influences. The data demonstrate that Las Casas’s theological orientation was primarily prophetic in his quest for justice for the Indigenous and drew from Thomism and Scripture; Motolinía’s was predominantly millenarian in his ardor to establish the New Jerusalem and mirrored the Franciscan Spirituals’ tradition; Quiroga’s was principally utopian in his approach to Christianize, civilize, and educate the Indigenous as well as employed Christian humanist ideas. A summary analysis argues that the prophetic dimension of Las Casas’s theological orientation is further differentiated from that of his two contemporaries by its universalist character and its dynamic development during the course of his lifetime.
Jacques Maritain, the Mystery of Israel, and the Holocaust
Authors: Crane Richard Francis
Published: January 2009

French philosopher Jacques Maritain (1882–1973) gained a reputation both as a leading Catholic intellectual and as an outspoken critic of antisemitism, and as such has been lauded for more than fifty years as a progressive influence within twentieth-century Catholicism. He also has been cited as a dissident voice within the Church, his public statements about the Holocaust throwing the alleged silence of Pope Pius XII into sharp relief. Examining the development of Maritain’s philosemitism, this article presents a more nuanced assessment, challenging historically rooted generalizations about his attitudes toward Jews in the modern world before, during, and after the Shoah.