bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein Kinase D1 Is Essential for the Proinflammatory Response Induced by Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis-Causing Thermophilic Actinomycetes Saccharopolyspora rectivirgula
Authors: Kim Young-In , Park Jeoung-Eun , Brand David D. , Fitzpatrick Elizabeth A. , Yi Ae-Kyung
Published: February 2010

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is an interstitial lung disease that results from repeated pulmonary exposure to various organic Ags, including Saccharopolyspora rectivirgula, the causative agent of farmer’s lung disease. Although the contributions of proinflammatory mediators to the disease pathogenesis are relatively well documented, the mechanism(s) involved in the initiation of proinflammatory responses against the causative microorganisms and the contribution of signaling molecules involved in the host immune defense have not been fully elucidated. In the current study, we found that S. rectivirgula induces the activation of protein kinase D (PKD)1 in lung cells in vitro and in vivo. Activation of PKD1 by S. rectivirgula was dependent on MyD88. Inhibition of PKD by pharmacological PKD inhibitor Gö6976 and silencing of PKD1 expression by small interfering RNA revealed that PKD1 is indispensable for S. rectivirgula-mediated activation of MAPKs and NF-κB and the expression of various proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. In addition, compared with controls, mice pretreated with Gö6976 showed significantly suppressed alveolitis and neutrophil influx in bronchial alveolar lavage fluid and interstitial lung tissue, as well as substantially decreased myeloperoxidase activity in the lung after pulmonary exposure to S. rectivirgula. These results demonstrate that PKD1 is essential for S. rectivirgula-mediated proinflammatory immune responses and neutrophil influx in the lung. Our findings also imply the possibility that PKD1 is one of the critical factors that play a regulatory role in the development of hypersensitivity pneumonitis caused by microbial Ags and that inhibition of PKD1 activation could be an effective way to control microbial Ag-induced hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
Elucidating the Evolutionary Relationships among Bos taurus Digestive Organs Using Unigene Expression Data
Authors: Beck D. C. , Jiang Honglin , Zhang Liqing
Published: February 2010

Although the nature of ruminant evolution is still disputed, current theory based on physiology and genetic analysis suggests that the abomasum is the evolutionarily oldest stomach compartment, the rumen evolved some time after the abomasum, and the omasum is the evolutionarily youngest stomach compartment. In addition, there is some evidence of relaxed selective constraint in the stomach-like organ and the foregut shortly after the foregut formation event. Along with the assumption of a mean, stochastic rate of evolution, analysis of differences in genetic profiles among digestive body organs can give clues to the relationships among these organs. The presence of large numbers of uniquely expressed entries in the abomasum and rumen indicates either a period of relaxed selective constraint or greater evolutionary age. Additionally, differences in expression profiles indicate that the abomasum, rumen, and intestine are more closely related to each other, while the reticulum and omasum are more closely related to the rumen. Functional analysis using Gene Ontology (GO) categories also supports the proposed evolutionary relationships by identifying shared functions, such as muscle activity and development, lipid transport, and urea metabolism, between all sections of the digestive tract investigated.
Primary central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Kumari N , Krishnani N , Rawat A , Agarwal V , Lal P
Published: February 2010

Background:

Primary central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma is being increasingly recognized in immunosuppressed as well as immunocompetent individuals. It has a poor prognosis and the majority of these have diffuse large B-cell type of morphology.

Aim:

To categorize cases of primary CNS lymphoma according to the International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group (IELSG) score and to correlate the score with reactive CD3 collar around blood vessels and necrosis.

Materials and Methods:

We reviewed the clinico-pathological, morphological and immuno-histochemical features of 30 cases of primary CNS lymphoma reported at our institute in the last nine years and categorized them according to the score given by IELSG.

Results:

All our cases were HIV-negative and had diffuse large cell histology. Twenty-seven of the 30 cases were associated with poor prognostic factors of intermediate to high risk according to the IELSG score. Reactive CD3 collar around the blood vessels was seen in seven cases which had low to intermediate IELSG score. However, no significant statistical difference of perivascular reactive CD3 collar and necrosis was seen with IELSG score.

Conclusion:

Approximately 90% (27 cases) were associated with poor prognostic factors in the present study according to the IELSG score. Perivascular reactive CD3 collar was seen in cases with low to intermediate IELSG score. A larger study is required to further validate that the presence of reactive perivascular CD3 collar is associated with good prognosis. This histological marker could be supplemented with IELSG score to stratify the patients of primary CNS lymphoma according to their aggressiveness.
Aspirin resistance in Indian patients with coronary artery disease and cardiovascular events
Authors: Thomson VS , John B , George P , Joseph G , Jose J
Published: February 2010

Background:

Aspirin resistance is a major problem and its incidence and clinical significance in Indian patients with documented coronary artery disease are not known.

Aim:

We sought to study the incidence of aspirin resistance and its clinical significance in a cohort of Indian patients with coronary heart disease on therapy with aspirin using urinary 11-Dehydrothromboxane B2 levels as a surrogate marker for antiplatelet efficacy.

Setting and Design:

Non randomized single center prospective study in cohort of patients with stable cardiovascular disease on chronic aspirin therapy attending the cardiology outpatient clinic of a tertiary care hospital.

Materials and Methods:

Urinary dehydrothromboxane levels were analyzed in a cohort of 63 patients with stable documented coronary artery disease and in 21 healthy volunteers. The cases were followed up prospectively for a median period of 36 (1-53) months. The clinical endpoint was a composite of acute coronary syndrome, stroke, revascularization and death.

Statistical Analysis:

Comparison of urinary dehydrothromboxane concentration values between various risk factors was done using Mann Whitney U test, a non parametric alternative of independent t test. All statistical analyses were done using SPSS 11.0 (Chicago, USA) software.

Results:

The median (range) absolute values of urinary11- dehydrothromboxane B2 levels for the healthy volunteers and cases were 440 (286-2050) pg/ml and 320 (72-2600) pg/ml (P=0.007). The corresponding normalized values were 87.3 (43-143) and 60.8 (16.7-943) ng/mmol of creatinine (P=0.131). Among the various vascular risk factors, patients who were overweight had higher absolute levels of 11- urinary dehydrothomboxane B2 levels (P=0.016). There were significantly more clinical events in patients with absolute urinary 11-dehydrothromboxane B2 levels in the upper two quartiles compared to the lower two quartiles (P=0.04).

Conclusion:

The incidence of aspirin resistance in the cohort of patients with documented heart disease was 38.1%. Patients with elevated absolute urinary dehydrothomboxane levels (>320 pg/ml) on chronic aspirin therapy constitute a high risk subset for recurrent vascular events.
A single dose of preoperative gabapentin for pain reduction and requirement of morphine after total mastectomy and axillary dissection
Authors: Grover VK , Mathew PJ , Yaddanapudi S , Sehgal S
Published: February 2010

Background:

Gabapentin has been recently found to be useful for reducing acute postoperative pain when administered preoperatively. Although various dose regimens have been tried in different surgical settings, the minimum effective dose is not established.

Aims:

We aimed to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of single low dose gabapentin in patients undergoing total mastectomy and axillary dissection.

Settings and Design:

Prospective randomized placebo-controlled double-blind trial in a tertiary care teaching hospital.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty women scheduled for total mastectomy and axillary dissection were randomized to receive either gabapentin 600 mg or placebo orally 1 h preoperatively. The intraoperative and postoperative management was standardized. Postoperative pain was assessed at rest and on movement for 12 h using the numerical rating scale (NRS). Morphine was administered if NRS exceeded 30. Primary outcome measure was total morphine consumption.

Statistical Analysis:

The morphine consumption was compared using independent t test while pain and sedation scores were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U test.

Results:

Forty-six patients completed the trial. The postoperative morphine consumption was significantly less (5.8 ± 4.2 vs. 11.0 ± 3.4 mg; P < 0.001) and the median [IQR] time to first analgesic was significantly longer (90 [37.5-120] vs. 0 [0-90] min; P < 0.001) in the gabapentin group than in the placebo group. The incidence of side effects was similar in the two groups.

Conclusions:

A single low dose of 600 mg gabapentin administered 1 h prior to surgery produced effective and significant postoperative analgesia after total mastectomy and axillary dissection without significant side effects.
Increase in CD4 cell counts between 2 and 3.5 years after initiation of antiretroviral therapy and determinants of CD4 progression in India
Authors: Rajasekaran S , Jeyaseelan L , Raja K , Vijila S , Krithigaipriya KA , Kuralmozhi R
Published: February 2010

Background:

Estimation of CD4 cell count remains the primary monitoring tool in assessing efficacy or failure of Anti Retroviral Therapy (ART) under national program conditions in India.

Aims:

To study the average trajectory of CD4 cell count after two years of initiation of potent ART and to find the determinants of CD4 progression over time.

Settings and Design:

A prospective cohort study under program conditions.

Materials and Methods:

Adult ART naïve patients, receiving drug regimens consisting of two NRTIs and one NNRTI were studied for CD4 progression. Laboratory monitoring included the baseline and follow-up CD4 cell count, hemoglobin level and absolute lymphocyte count estimation. The change in CD4 cell count, hemoglobin and bodyweight was calculated from the baseline to the latest follow up measurements.

Statistical Analysis:

Survival curve using Life table methods was plotted. Comparison between survival curves was done using Tarone-Ware statistics. Generalized estimating equation with exchangeable correlation structure was done to find the risk factors for CD4 progression.

Results:

Among 7,934 HIV positive patients in the ART program, one-year cohort of 714 adult patients who had completed two consecutive follow-up CD4 values were assessed. Those with baseline CD4 < 100 had cumulative probability of survival 85%, 82%, 82% and 82% at 12, 24, 36 and 42 months respectively. Those who had baseline CD4 count between 100-199 had cumulative probability of survival 96%, 93%, 92% and 90% at 12, 24, 36 and 42 months respectively (P <.001). Lower the CD4 count (< 100) lower the hemoglobin values.

Conclusions:

CD4 progression continues two years after ART in patients who had base level > 100 cells. Early initiation of ART is necessary before CD4 crashing to < 100 cells for increasing the survival function.
Combination of 18 F-FDG and 68 Ga-DOTATOC PET-CT to differentiate endobronchial carcinoids and inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors
Authors: Jindal T , Kumar A , Dutta R , Kumar R
Published: February 2010

Bronchial masses in young patients are a diagnostic challenge as the signs and symptoms are overlapping. Conventional radiological investigations reveal a mass but are not diagnostic and biopsy remains the only means of preoperative diagnosis. Functional imaging is now emerging as an important tool in the evaluation of these patients and may have a potential to suggest a possible diagnosis. A combination of18 F-FDG PET-CT and 68 Ga-DOTATOC PET-CT scan is one such example, which revealed contrasting findings in two patients that are being presented here.
Educating doctors in the clinical workplace
Authors: Busari JO , Arnold AER
Published: February 2010

In recent years, higher medical education has witnessed major changes in the structure and content of postgraduate medical training. Seven professional competencies have been described that address the medical doctors' ability to effectively communicate and transfer medical information, interact effectively and professionally, and demonstrate a good grasp of clinical knowledge and skills. Proficiency in didactic skills, however, is an important competency that has not received prominent attention. In the clinical setting, attending-physicians and medical residents are responsible for teaching. Consequently, several medical institutions have proposed the need for teacher training programs to improve the teaching skills of attending doctors and medical residents. The supporters of these programs believe that through teaching, medical doctors improve their individual professional and clinical problem-solving abilities. Hence, it is logical to assume that didactic skills' training would contribute to the professional development of doctors. In this paper, we re-examine the underlying theory of the didactic proficiency, how it relates to the clinical setting, and why it may be beneficial for the professional training of medical residents.
Inhibiting extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer maybe beneficial for diminishing the atherosclerotic plaque instability
Authors: Xie S , Nie R , Wang J
Published: February 2010

Atherosclerotic plaque rupture and local thrombosis activation in the artery cause acute serious incidents such as acute coronary syndrome and stroke. The exact mechanism of plaque rupture remains unclear but excessive degradation of the extracellular matrix scaffold by matrix-degrading metalloproteinases (MMPs) has been implicated as one of the major molecular mechanisms in this process. Convincing evidence is available to prove that extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN) induces MMP expression and is involved in the inflammatory responses in the artery wall. The inflammation and MMPs have been shown to play a critical role for atherosclerotic lesion development and progression. More recent data showed that increased EMMPRIN expression was associated with vulnerable atherosclerotic lesions. Therefore, we speculate that EMMPRIN may be pivotal for atherosclerotic plaque instability, and hence inhibition of EMMPRIN expression could be a promising approach for the prevention or treatment of atheroma instability.
Disulfiram-like reaction with ornidazole
Authors: Sharma V , Sharma A , Kumar V , Aggarwal S
Published: February 2010

Many drugs are implicated in causation of disulfiram-like reaction. The disulfiram-like reaction can vary in severity and can occasionally be fatal. The reaction is believed to result from inhibition of metabolism of acetaldehyde to acetate by inhibition of aldehyde dehydrogenase. The increase in serum acetaldehyde results in unpleasant clinical manifestations. Metronidazole is known to cause disulfiram-like reaction. Although no previous report has implicated ornidazole in causation of disulfiram-like reaction, caution has been advised with the use of all imidazoles. We report the case of a 48-year-old male, who was taking ornidazole and developed features of disulfiram-like reaction after taking alcohol. The patient was managed with supportive measures and improved. The report highlights the need for clinicians to advise patients to restrict intake of alcohol if they are being prescribed imidazole derivatives.
Structure-based drug design and modern medicine
Authors: Vijayakrishnan R
Published: February 2010

Drug discovery has evolved through various stages into more rational and evidence-based drug designing. Compared to conventional methods which were time consuming and less logical, new drug designing based on structure is rational, evidence based, faster and more scientific in nature. In the era of modern medicine, where newer insights into molecular level of disease processes are available, it is very essential that drug designing be based on molecular mechanism of pathologic processes. Structure-based drug designing has made tremendous contributions in the field of cancer chemotherapy, drug resistant infections, neurological diseases, to mention a few. New drug discovery methods are furthered by developments in the technology especially computers, bioassay techniques and calibrated instruments. Computational structure-based drug designing opens the door to novel treatments in modern medicine.
The effect of ractopamine supplementation at 5 ppm of swine finishing diets on growth performance, carcass composition and ultimate pork quality
Authors: Patience J F , Shand P. , Pietrasik Z. , Merrill J. , Vessie G. , Ross K A , Beaulieu A D
Published: February 2010

Five hundred thirty-six finishing pigs were placed on experiment for an average of 26 d prior to slaughter, to determine the effects of 5 mg ractopamine hydrochloride (RAC) per kg of diet on growth performance, carcass composition and the eating quality of pork. Treatments included a control diet similar to a western Canadian commercial finishing diet and a treatment diet containing 5 mg RAC kg-1 with elevated amino acids, vitamins and minerals. The experiment started when average animal weight was 86 kg; pigs were marketed at an average liveweight of 118 kg. Two pigs were selected from each of 32 pens in week 4 of the experiment, for detailed carcass and meat quality evaluation, providing 16 pigs per gender per treatment. RAC-fed pigs reached market weight 4 d sooner (P < 0.05), grew 13 % faster (P < 0.05) and had 13% better feed efficiency (P < 0.05) than the controls. RAC-fed pigs also had 1 mm less backfat and 2.5 mm thicker loins (P < 0.05). Ultimate pH, purge loss and visual colour scores were unaffected by treatment but RAC-fed pigs had lower CIE a* and b* measurements (P < 0.05). RAC had no effect on juiciness, flavour, saltiness or overall acceptability (P > 0.10), but increased Warner-Bratzler shear force and reduced taste panel tenderness slightly (P < 0.05). The inclusion of 5 mg RAC kg-1 in a commercial finishing diet will increase the rate and efficiency of gain and improve carcass composition. Minimal impact on pork quality can also be expected with the use of RAC fed at this level. Key words: Ractopamine, swine, carcass composition, pork quality, beta-adrenergic agonist
Selenium uptake by ruminal microorganisms from organic and inorganic sources in dairy cows
Authors: Mainville A M , Odongo N E , Bettger W J , McBride B W , Osborne V R
Published: February 2010

The objectives of this study were (i) to determine the amount of time required for microbial Se concentration to reach a plateau and the half-life of Se in the ruminal microorganisms (exp. 1) and (ii) to compare Se uptake by ruminal microorganisms from organic and inorganic sources (exp. 2). In exp. 1, four dry ruminally cannulated Holstein dairy cows (863 ± 98 kg of BW, mean ± SD) housed in a tie-stall facility were used in a completely randomized design with a 14-d adaptation and 9-d measurement period. Cows were offered 10 kg of timothy hay (divided in 12 equal portions and delivered at 2-h intervals) supplemented with 500 g of dry-cow mineral and vitamin premix at 0800 daily. The treatments were inorganic and organic Se that were each enriched with Se stable isotopes (inorganic 82Se and organic 77Se Sel-Plex®). The Se treatments were supplemented at 0.3 mg kg-1 DM and administered directly into the rumen under the rumen mat every 6 h. Rumen samples (both fluid and solid) were collected before treatment administration every 6 h and the microbial fraction were isolated. On day 9 after the administration of the last dose of tracer, 600 mL of ruminal content was collected every hour for 24 h to determine Se half-life in the ruminal microorganisms. In exp. 2, treatments were administered for only 5 d, i.e., 2 d to reach a plateau in Se concentration and 3 d of collection and measurement. The cows were supplemented with the control premix (no added Se) during the adaptation period and with the organic and inorganic Se premixes during the treatment and measurements period. In exp. 1, microbial 77Se concentration reached a plateau in 2 d, whereas 82Se reached a plateau in 1 d. The half-life of Se in the ruminal microorganisms was 16 and 48 h, for 77Se and 82Se, respectively. In exp. 2, 77Se uptake by ruminal microorganisms was higher (P < 0.05) than that for 82Se and averaged 330 ± 7.7 and 125 ± 3.9 µg kg-1 for 77Se and 82Se, mean ± SEM, respectively. The results show that inorganic Se has a lower ruminal microbial uptake than organic Se sources. Key words: Microbial selenium uptake, dairy cow
Effects of metabolizable energy and lysine restrictions on growth performance, blood profiles, and expression of myostatin and leptin genes in broilers
Authors: Yang Y X , Guo J. , Jin Z. , Yoon S Y , Choi J Y , Piao X S , Wang M H , Ohh S J , Kim B W , Chae B J
Published: February 2010

To investigate the effects of metabolizable energy and lysine restriction on performance, and gene expression of leptin and myostatin, three hundred twenty day-old Ross broiler chicks were randomly allotted to four treatments. Birds were subjected to their respective diets comprising two levels of ME (3200; 2880 kcal kg-1) and two levels of lysine (1.10; 0.88%) during days 8 to 21. The dietary crude protein levels were reduced with the proportion to the lysine levels, while ratios of essential amino acids relative to lysine were similar for all diets. During restriction, weight gain, breast muscle and abdominal fat yield were lower in birds fed lysine-restricted diets. Relative myostatin mRNA abundance was increased in breast muscle of lysine-restricted birds, while expression of leptin mRNA in abdominal fat was downregulated by energy and lysine restriction. During realimentation, birds previously fed with energy and/or lysine-restricted diets had comparable performance as birds fed unrestricted diets. At day 42, energy and lysine restriction increased relative myostatin mRNA expression in breast muscle and birds previously fed diet restricted in both energy and lysine had the highest relative myostatin mRNA expression (energy × lysine interaction, P < 0.001). The relative leptin mRNA abundance was significantly lower in birds previously fed energy-restricted diets. These results indicated that early energy and lysine restriction from day 8 to 21 exhibited growth compensation during realimentation. In addition, myostatin and leptin mRNA expression in breast muscle and abdominal fat were modulated by nutritional treatments and were closely associated with changes in breast muscle yield and abdominal fat deposition. Key words: Metabolizable energy, lysine, myostatin, leptin, broiler
Development of organs and tissues in lambs raised on Spanish mountain grassland
Authors: Álvarez-Rodríguez J. , Sanz A. , Joy M. , Carrasco S. , Ripoll G. , Teixeira A.
Published: February 2010

The present study was conducted to establish the pattern of body development in grass-raised Churra Tensina lambs. Forty-nine single male lambs were slaughtered at three body-weight intervals, according to the commercial categories of suckling (11.1 ± 1.0 kg), light (22.1 ± 0.8 kg) and heavy lamb (32.0 ± 2.9 kg). Non-carcass and carcass components were recorded and the half left carcasses were completely dissected. Lambs showed a low growth rate of main organs in relation to empty body weight (BW) (P < 0.01). Skin+ fleece and liver accompanied the rest of mass growth (P > 0.05). The allometric coefficients of forestomachs and large intestine were higher than that of the small intestine (P < 0.05). Joints related to locomotion had early development (P < 0.01), whereas those belonging to the trunk grew at faster rates than did carcass weight (P < 0.01). The fatty tissues had increased growth coefficients (P < 0.01), whereas bone and lean coefficients decreased (P < 0.01) with increasing carcass weight. Intermuscular fat attained greater growth rates in lambs slaughtered at light BW than in heavy lambs (P < 0.01). However, the former group displayed lower relative growth of pelvic-renal, subcutaneous and abdominal fat than the latter (P < 0.01). This trait might reflect improved investment of dietary energy towards deposition of adipose tissue through the increased digestive tract capacity. Key words: Sheep, carcass, non-carcass, tissues, fat depots, allometric growth
The effect of feeding crude glycerol on growth performance and nutrient digestibility in weaned pigs
Authors: Zijlstra R T , Menjivar K. , Lawrence E. , Beltranena E.
Published: February 2010

The effects of substituting wheat with crude glycerol as a dietary energy source were evaluated. Seventy-two weaned pigs were fed for 4 wk one of three pelleted wheat-based diets containing 0, 4, or 8% glycerol and formulated to 2.28 Mcal kg-1 net energy (NE) and 5.02 g standardized ileal digestible lysine Mcal-1 NE. For day 0 to 28, body weight increased linearly (P = 0.04); pigs fed 8% glycerol were 1.11 kg heavier than pigs fed 0% glycerol. Glycerol inclusion tended to increase average daily gain linearly (P = 0.066) and increased average daily feed intake quadratically (P = 0.037) without affecting feed efficiency (P > 0.10). Feeding up to 8% dietary crude glycerol by substituting wheat can enhance the growth performance of weaned pigs. Key words: Co-product, digestibility, glycerol, weaned pig
Supplementing selenium yeast to diets with adequate concentrations of selenium: Selenium status, thyroid hormone concentrations and passive transfer of immunoglobulins in dairy cows and calves
Authors: Koenig K M , Beauchemin K A
Published: February 2010

The objective of this study was to investigate whether supplementing organic Se yeast to diets with relatively high basal concentrations of Se was more effective than inorganic Se for improving Se status of dairy cows and their calves. Forty Holstein cows (primiparous and multiparous) were fed total mixed rations (TMR) supplemented with 0.3 mg kg-1 of Se (dry matter basis) as either selenized yeast (Se yeast) or sodium selenite from 60 d before the expected calving date until 60 d in milk (DIM). Cows were fed diets containing 0.38 to 0.40 mg Se kg-1 with no supplemental Se for 90 d before receiving the dietary Se treatments. The Se concentration of the TMR supplemented with Se ranged from 0.62 to 0.81 mg kg-1. Blood was collected from cows at 60 and 30 d before the expected calving date, at calving, and at 15, 30 and 60 DIM, and from their calves at 24 h and 56 d of age. Milk was collected at calving (colostrum) and at 15, 30 and 60 DIM. At birth, calves were removed from the dam and fed colostrum in an amount equivalent to 10% of their body weight within 12 h. Whole blood Se concentration averaged 11% greater (P < 0.05) in cows fed Se yeast compared with selenite (291 vs. 262 ± 4.5 ng mL-1) and serum Se concentration averaged 13% greater in cows fed Se yeast (128 vs. 113 ± 5.3 ng mL-1). Maternal supplementation of Se yeast increased (P < 0.05) the Se status of calves by increasing whole blood (252 vs. 211 ± 16 ng mL-1), serum (94 vs. 75 ± 4.7 ng mL-1), and colostrum (245 vs. 174 ± 5.8 ng mL-1) Se concentration by 19, 25 and 41%, respectively. There was, however, no beneficial effect (P > 0.10) of Se source on thyroid hormone concentrations or the passive transfer of immunoglobulins to the calf. Supplemental organic Se yeast increased the Se status of dairy cows and the transfer of Se to their calves even though the Se concentration of the basal diet was adequate (? 0.3 mg kg-1). Key words: Selenized yeast, selenium, thyroid hormone, immunoglobulin, dairy cows
Effect of xylanase supplementation of diets containing wheat distiller's dried grains with solubles on energy, amino acid and phosphorus digestibility and growth performance of grower-finisher pigs
Authors: Widyaratne G P , Patience J F , Zijlstra R T
Published: February 2010

Wheat-based diets with or without wheat distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS) were tested with or without supplementary xylanase (4000 U kg-1 feed) in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. In eight ileal-cannulated barrows, xylanase improved the apparent ileal digestibility of energy and threonine in wheat (P < 0.05), but not in wheat DDGS diets (P > 0.10). Xylanase did not affect total tract digestibility of energy or P (P > 0.10). In 72 grower-finisher pigs, xylanase did not increase growth performance of pigs fed either wheat or wheat DDGS (P > 0.10). The differential response of supplementary xylanase to wheat versus wheat DDGS diets indicates that the arabinoxylans in wheat DDGS did not match the specific xylanase activity. Key words: Distiller's dried grains with solubles, digestibility, energy, pig, xylanase
Soil properties and lodgepole pine growth on forest landings rehabilitated by tillage and fertilizer application
Authors: Krzic M. , Zabek L. , Bulmer C E , Chapman B K , Trethewey C.
Published: February 2010

Soils on forest landings are often degraded and unable to support optimal growth of planted conifers unless rehabilitation practices are applied. This study evaluated the effects of tillage and fertilization on soil properties and growth of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Dougl. ex Loud. var. latifolia Engelm.) seedlings on rehabilitated forest landings in the central interior of British Columbia. Six study sites were rehabilitated in 1998 (but without topsoil replacement) and planted with lodgepole pine in 1999. Tillage treatments were: (i) no tillage; (ii) low intensity (one pass of an excavator and six-toothed rake, target clod size 8–10 cm); (iii) medium intensity (two passes, target clod size 4–7 cm); and, (iv) high intensity (three passes, target clod size 1–3 cm). Fertilizers were applied at the time of planting as slow-release formulations; treatments included: (i) no fertilizer; (ii) NPK-fertilizer; and, (iii) NPK + S-fertilizer. After 5 yr, soil mechanical resistance was higher on the untilled control than the tilled treatments. Neither tillage nor fertilization had any effects on soil chemical properties (total C and N, pH, cation exchange capacity, exchangeable cations). Tillage effects after one growing season were variable; however, after four or five growing seasons, the low-intensity tillage resulted in greater seedling height and diameter growth than the untilled control. After one growing season, fertilization increased seedling height and diameter growth relative to the untreated control, but after four or five growing seasons, fertilization had no effect on lodgepole pine growth. Our findings indicate that a single pass with the excavator and rake was the most suitable rehabilitation practice on these sites. Key words: Forest soil rehabilitation, landing and road rehabilitation, soil conservation, soil degradation, soil compaction, soil productivity
Developing site disturbance standards in Ontario: Linking Science to Forest Policy within an Adaptive Management Framework
Authors: Duckert Dan R , Morris Dave M , Deugo Dave , Duckett Shelagh , McPherson Scott
Published: February 2010

In anticipation of the review and revision of Ontario's current site protection guidelines, a site disturbance task team was formed in 2004. Over the next two years, they conducted an extensive review of the scientific literature and existing guidelines from other jurisdictions, as well as engaging both forest industry partners and Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) field services personnel in a consensus building exercise (i.e., client survey, field tours, and formal workshops). The goal of their efforts was to develop a set of provincial-level site disturbance standards with metrics to be considered as part of Ontario's new stand/site guide scheduled for release in 2009 and implemented in the 2011 forest management plans. The process developed by the task team was a pro-active approach that engaged the end users of the product throughout the process and should provide stronger accountability to the public and increase competency in our practices. Setting the first iteration of a standard as a practical benchmark for rutting (depth 3 cm, length 4 m and cumulative limits for each harvest block - 10% for clearcut and 2% for partial cut systems) will allow the forest industry to adapt to the approach relatively easily and provide a visual indicator of performance. It was stressed that there needs to be a rigorous effectiveness monitoring protocol based on objective-based silviculture that is integrated within an adaptive management framework. This, in turn, will provide local science and evidence to: (1) conduct a comprehensive evaluation to the effects and impacts of site disturbance, (2) provide a quantitative, results-based evaluation of the effectiveness of the proposed guidelines, and (3) increase core competency and performance with respect to silviculture effectiveness and the role of soil disturbance in meeting our forest management objectives. Without a strong commitment and linkage of compliance, effectiveness, and validation monitoring, Ontario's forest policy development will largely remain in a state of "repeat or react" rather than "evaluate and adjust". Key words: Soil disturbance standards, science/policy linkages, adaptive management
Changes in DOC and DON fluxes in response to harvest intensity of black-spruce-dominated forest ecosystems in northwestern Ontario
Authors: Morris Dave M
Published: February 2010

The current study was conducted to quantify and compare dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) fluxes through black-spruce-dominated forests, to compare the source/sink characteristics of sphagnum- versus feathermoss-dominated forest floors, and to identify changes in DOC and DON flow patterns occurring as a result of clearcut harvesting. After 2 yr of pre-harvest monitoring, replicated, experimental harvests of varying intensities of biomass removals were conducted followed by 4 yr of post-harvest sampling. Prior to harvest, the upland site type, dominated by feathermoss, was a significant source of DOC and DON, whereas, the wet-sphagnum-dominated sites exported minor amounts of these solutes. After harvest, DOC and DON fluxes peaked in the second year, but then dropped off significantly to at or below pre-harvest levels. On the upland site type, chipper debris appeared to be a major source of DOC and DON generating fluxes well above the pre-harvest levels. On the wetter site types, it appeared that microclimate differences between harvest treatments had a stronger influence on DOC and DON production than did the amount or type of harvest residue. Full-tree harvesting did not significantly alter the production of DOC and DON when compared with stem-only harvesting on the sites included in this study. Key words: DOC, DON, forest floor leachate, black spruce, harvesting response
The influence of soil rutting severity on regeneration potential and seedling performance for black spruce-dominated peatlands
Authors: Morris Dave M , Mackereth Rob W , Duckert Dan R , Hoepting Michael K
Published: February 2010

Excessive rutting continues to be recorded in post-harvest compliance inspections in black spruce peatlands across Ontario. These qualitative, visual assessments, however, cannot provide the necessary data to determine a site disturbance threshold that is linked to poor regeneration and seedling growth. In an attempt to provide this quantitative link, harvested black spruce [Picea mariana (Mill.) B.S.P.] peatland sites were surveyed and divided into severely rutted (non-compliant), moderately rutted, and non-rutted (compliant) blocks. In 1995, 2001, and 2006, each block was assessed for areal extent of rutting, number of plantable spots, moisture status, planting medium, competition level, stand density, species composition, and black spruce seedling survival and growth. Black spruce seedling survival in the severely-rutted block was significantly lower when compared with either the moderately rutted or the non-rutted blocks. A derived seedling survival model identified moisture class as having the largest influence on the probability of seedling survival. In terms of seedling growth, however, it was the non-rutted blocks that had the poorest performance. Based on a canonical discriminant analysis (CDA), competition factors, particularly ericaceous shrub cover, were the most important microsite factors influencing black spruce seedling growth. Overall, the moderately rutted block generated conditions that resulted in high conifer recruitment and good seedling survival and growth. Although the inference space of the study is small, the results suggest that black spruce peatland sites may benefit from a moderate level of site disturbance caused during harvest operations. Key words: Rutting severity, black spruce peatlands, survival, growth, microsite assessment
Science-based management of forest soil disturbance
Authors: Curran M P , Maynard D G
Published: February 2010

The challenge for all agencies managing public or private forest lands is to develop resource management policy and procedures based on the best available information. Science-based resource management occurs through an adaptive management process that includes three types of monitoring: implementation (compliance), effectiveness, and validation (research). Continued research, and the establishment of new trials is required to support soil conservation efforts and to investigate new concerns, such as climate change, bio-fuel harvest, and changing practices. Cooperative scientific networks and other collaborations are required to secure benefits from a common approach to soil disturbance management and reporting under various provincial/state, national and international sustainability protocols such as the Montréal Process. The technical session on Forest Soil Disturbances at the 2006 Annual Meeting of the Canadian Society of Soil Science in Banff, Alberta, is one step in collaboration, and brought together a group of experts from across Canada, and some from the United States of America, to share knowledge and experience and to discuss issues related to soil disturbance effects, policies and practices on forest lands. Selected papers are presented in this special issue on Forest Soil Disturbance, with this background paper focusing on the types of scientific support activities needed for science-based management of forest soil disturbance. Key words: Soil compaction, adaptive management, soil conservation, Montréal Process, natural resource management, monitoring
Choosing and Preparing Antigen‐Presenting Cells
Authors: Harding Clifford V. , Canaday David , Ramachandra Lakshmi
Published: February 2010

The first issue in selecting a system for antigen‐presentation experiments is to define the appropriate type of antigen‐presenting cell (APC) to study. For some experiments, crude preparations such as splenocytes or peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) may suffice to provide APC function for stimulating T cells. This unit develops approaches for preparation of more defined APC populations, including dendritic cells (DCs), macrophages, and B lymphocytes, the three types of “professional” APC. Each of these cell types exists in different stages of differentiation, maturation, and activation, or in some cases different lineages. For example, dendritic cells may be divided into subsets, including myeloid DCs (mDCs) and plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs). Each APC type has an important antigen‐presentation function, although they contribute to different aspects of the immune response. Therefore, selection of an APC type for study must include consideration of the stage or aspect of immune response that is to be modeled in the experiment. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 88:16.1.1‐16.1.30. © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Enhanced Thermal Stability and Efficiency of Polymer Bulk‐Heterojunction Solar Cells by Low‐Temperature Drying of the Active Layer
Authors: Lin Ching , Lin En‐Yung , Tsai Feng‐Yu
Published: February 2010

This study addresses two key issues, stability and efficiency, of polymer solar cells based on blended poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and [6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) by demonstrating a film‐forming process that involves low‐temperature drying (−5 °C) and subsequent annealing of the active layer. The low‐temperature process achieves 4.70% power conversion efficiency (PCE) and ∼1250 h storage half‐life at 65 °C, which are significant improvements over the 3.39% PCE and ∼143 h half‐life of the regular room‐temperature process. The improvements are attributed to the enhanced nucleation of P3HT crystallites as well as the minimized separation of the P3HT and PCBM phases at the low drying temperature, which upon post‐drying annealing results in a morphology consisting of small PCBM‐rich domains interspersed within a densely interconnected P3HT crystal network. This morphology provides ample bulk‐heterojunction area for charge generation while allowing for facile charge transport; moreover, the P3HT crystal network serves as an immobile frame at heating temperatures less than the melting point (Tm) of P3HT, thus preventing PCBM/P3HT phase separation and the corresponding device degradation.
Preparation of Open‐Cage Fullerenes and Incorporation of Small Molecules Through Their Orifices
Authors: Gan Liangbing , Yang Dazhi , Zhang Qianyan , Huang Huan
Published: February 2010

Open‐cage fullerenes can act as hosts for small molecules such as water, nitrogen, or hydrogen, forming endohedral fullerenes. Following a brief summary of carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen insertion in the fullerene framework to form homofullerenes, methods of creating a hole in the fullerene surface are surveyed. Techniques of hole enlargement and the insertion of atoms or molecules through the orifice to form endohedral fullerenes are described. Finally, the possibility of subsequent closure of the hole is considered.
Laboratory tests for protein C deficiency
Authors: Khor Bernard , Van Cott Elizabeth M.
Published: February 2010

Hereditary protein C deficiency is a hypercoagulable state associated with an increased risk for venous thrombosis. The recommended initial test for protein C is an activity (functional) assay, which may be clotting time based or chromogenic. The advantages and disadvantages of the various testing options are presented. The causes of acquired protein C deficiency are much more common than hereditary deficiency. Therefore, this article describes the appropriate steps to take when protein C activity is low, to confirm or exclude a hereditary deficiency. The causes of falsely normal results are also described, including lupus anticoagulants and direct thrombin inhibitors. Am. J. Hematol., 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phenotypic manifestations and management of hyperostosis cranialis interna, a hereditary bone dysplasia affecting the calvaria and the skull base
Authors: Waterval J.J. , Stokroos R.J. , Bauer N.J.C. , De Bondt R.B.J. , Manni J.J.
Published: February 2010

Hyperostosis cranialis interna is a hereditary bone disorder that is characterized by endosteal hyperostosis and osteosclerosis of the calvaria and the skull base (OMIM 144755). The progressive bone overgrowth causes entrapment and dysfunction of cranial nerves I, II, V, VII, and VIII, its first symptoms often presenting during the second decade. This study analyzes the clinical course of 13 affected individuals of three related families (32 individuals). The disorder appears to have an autosomal‐dominant transmission pattern. Facial and vestibulocochlear nerve dysfunction are most frequently reported. Surgical decompression of the accessible impaired cranial nerves is advised in the early symptomatic period or even in the presymptomatic period in high‐risk individuals. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Binuclear NiII‐DpaTyr Complex as a High Affinity Probe for an Oligo‐Aspartate Tag Tethered to Proteins
Authors: Ojida Akio , Fujishima Sho‐hei , Honda Kei , Nonaka Hiroshi , Uchinomiya Sho‐hei , Hamachi Itaru
Published: February 2010

A complementary recognition pair of a short‐peptide tag and a small molecular probe is a versatile molecular tool for protein detection, handling, and purification, and so forth. In this manuscript, we report that the binuclear NiII‐DpaTyr (DpaTyr=bis((dipicolylamino)methyl)tyrosine) complex serves as a strong binding probe for an oligo‐aspartate tag tethered to a protein. Among various binuclear metal complexes of M‐DpaTyr (M=ZnII, NiII, MnII, CuII, CdII, CoIII, and FeIII), we have found that NiII‐DpaTyr (1‐2Ni2+) displays a strong‐binding affinity (apparent binding constant: Kapp≈105 M−1) for an oligo‐aspartate peptide under neutral aqueous conditions (50 mM HEPES, 100 mM NaCl, pH 7.2). Detailed isothermal‐titration calorimetry (ITC) studies reveal that the tri‐aspartate D3‐tag (DDD) is an optimal sequence recognized by 1‐2Ni2+ in a 1:1 binding stoichiometry. On the other hand, other metal complexes of DpaTyr, except for NiII‐ and ZnII‐DpaTyr, show a negligible binding affinity for the oligo‐aspartate peptide. The binding affinity was greatly enhanced in the pair between the dimer of NiII‐DpaTyr and the repeated D3 tag peptide (D3×2), such as DDDXXDDD, on the basis of the multivalent coordination interaction between them. Most notably, a remarkably high‐binding affinity (Kapp=2×109 M−1) was achieved between the NiII‐DpaTyr dimer 4‐4Ni2+ and the D3×2 tag peptide (DDDNGDDD). This affinity is ≈100‐fold stronger than that observed in the binding pair of the ZnII‐DpaTyr (4‐4Zn2+) and the D4×2 tag (DDDDGDDDD), a useful tag‐probe pair previously reported by us. The recognition pair of the NiII‐DpaTyr probe and the D3×2 tag can also work effectively on a protein surface, that is, 4‐4Ni2+ is strongly bound to the FKBP12 protein tethered with the D3×2 tag (DDDNGDDD) with a large Kapp value of 5×108 M−1. Taking advantage of the strong‐binding affinity, this pair was successfully applied to the selective inactivation of the tag‐fused β‐galactosidase by using the chromophore‐assisted light inactivation (CALI) technique under crude conditions, such as cell lysate.
Fluorescence Turn‐On Sensing of Lectins with Mannose‐Substituted Tetraphenylethenes Based on Aggregation‐Induced Emission
Authors: Sanji Takanobu , Shiraishi Kentaro , Nakamura Mitsutaka , Tanaka Masato
Published: February 2010

The synthesis of mannose‐substituted tetraphenylethenes (TPEs) and their aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) behavior, induced by interactions with concanavalin A (Con A), are reported. A mixture of the mannose‐TPE conjugates and Con A in a buffer solution displays an intense blue emission on agglutination within a few seconds, which serves as a “turn‐on” fluorescent sensor for lectins. The sensing is also selective: the conjugates act as a sensor for Con A, but do not sense a galactose‐binding lectin, PNA. Con A‐recognition is not affected even in the presence of other proteins in a mixture. The conjugates also exhibit high sensitivity to detect Con A. An increased sensitivity of the conjugates results if mannopyranoside substituents are linked to the TPE‐core unit with a flexible chain and/or when the number of mannose residues increases.