bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural and Textural Modifications of Ternary Phosphate Glasses by Thermal Treatment
Authors: Samickannian Aravindan , Venkatachalam Rajendran , Nallaiyan Rajendran , Abubakkar Nishara Begum
Published: July 2011

Phosphate‐based glasses of composition xNa2O−(45+(10−x))CaO−45P2O5 with different Na2O, CaO (x = 1, 5, 10, 15, and 20 mol%), and invariable P2O5 (45 mol%) contents were prepared using the rapid melt quench technique. The obtained thermal data from differential thermal analysis revealed a decline in glass transition (Tg) and crystallization (Tc) temperatures of glasses against the compositional changes. The inclusion of Na2O at the cost of CaO in the glass network led to a reduction in its thermal stability. The thermal treatment carried out on glasses helped to derive their glass‐ceramic counterparts. The amorphous and crystalline features of samples were characterized using X‐ray diffraction patterns. The crystalline species that emerged out of the calcium phosphate phases confirmed the dominance of Q1 and Q2 structural distributions in the investigated glass‐ceramics. The obtained scanning electron micrographs and atomic force microscopic images confirmed the surface crystallization and textural modification of the samples after thermal treatment. The N2‐adsorption–desorption studies explored the reduction of porous structures due to thermal treatment on the melt‐driven glass surface. The measured elastic moduli and Vicker's hardness values of the glasses showed an increase after thermal treatment, which were reduced against the inclusion of alkali content in both glass and glass‐ceramics.
Magnetic resonance imaging findings of bone marrow lesions in the equine distal tarsus
Authors: Biggi M. , Zani D. D. , De Zani D. , Di Giancamillo M.
Published: July 2011

Three horses with sudden onset severe lameness were admitted for further diagnostic investigation. All horses had variable changes on radiographs in the distal tarsal region. Because of the sudden onset and severe degree of lameness, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination was performed. All horses showed areas of increased signal intensity in short tau inversion recovery (STIR) images involving the central and/or third tarsal bones. These lesions involved both the subchondral bone and bone marrow and are currently defined as bone marrow lesions (BML). Two horses were treated with shockwave therapy, one received intra‐articular medication. Two of the horses returned to previous athletic level and one is still in rehabilitation.
Chronic laminitis in a 10‐month‐old Arabian filly
Authors: Schvartz G. , Kelmer G. , Berlin D.
Published: July 2011

The case report presented here describes in detail the treatment and clinical progression of a case of severe chronic laminitis in a 10‐month‐old Arabian filly. Starting from the acute onset of clinical signs through the severe, debilitating progression of the disease, the report describes the medical, surgical and farriery treatment over a period of 8 months. The combination of deep digital flexor tendon tenotomy, hoof wall resection, corrective trimming and shoeing was successful in halting progression of the disease. The successful treatment resulted in new healthy hoof wall growth, re‐establishment of normal third phalanx‐hoof wall alignment and reversal of the degenerative modelling changes that occurred in the third phalanx. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study describing treatment of severe chronic laminitis in such a young filly.
The effect of sedation on D(+)‐xylose absorption tests in 6 normal horses
Authors: FINTL C. , IHLER C. F.
Published: July 2011

Reasons for performing study:D(+)‐xylose absorption tests are commonly performed when investigating suspected small intestinal malabsorption in the horse. The test involves the administration of a D(+)‐xylose solution via a nasogastric tube followed by serial blood sampling to determine its rate of absorption. In some horses, nasogastric intubation cannot be safely performed without prior administration of a sedative. Due to its short duration of action, the α2agonist xylazine is commonly used for this purpose. However, α2agonists have also been reported to influence the rate of gastric emptying as well as small intestinal motility patterns.

Objective:To evaluate if prior sedation with xylazine would influence the rate of absorption of D(+)‐xylose in 6 normal Standardbred horses in a randomised cross‐over study.

Methods:D(+)‐xylose was administered by nasogastric intubation at a dose rate of 0.5 g/kg bwt given as a 10% solution with water while xylazine was administered iv at a dose rate of 0.5 mg/kg bwt. A heparinised blood sample was collected prior to administration of D(+)‐xylose (and xylazine when used) and then at 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120, 150, 180 and 240 min following administration. Samples were immediately analysed using a modified colorimetric micro method. The cumulative amount of D(+)‐xylose absorbed at each time point with and without prior sedation were. The significance rate was set at P<0.05.

Results:The study failed to demonstrate a statistically significant difference in the amount of D(+)‐xylose absorbed between sedated and unsedated animals, although there was a tendency for a less rapid initial uptake with prior sedation.

Conclusion:This study suggests that prior sedation with xylazine will not significantly affect the result of a D(+)‐xylose absorption test in the normal horse.
Comparison of primary closure of incisional hernias in horses with and without the use of prosthetic mesh support
Authors: WHITFIELD‐CARGILE C. M. , RAKESTRAW P. C. , HARDY J. , COHEN N. D. , DAVIS B. E.
Published: July 2011

Reasons for performing study: Repair of incisional hernias in horses has been described previously; however, this report describes the outcome of primary closure of incisional hernias in a large number of horses and compares these results with those of mesh implantation.

Objective: To report the perioperative care, complications and long‐term outcome of primary closure of incisional hernias in horses and to compare these results with a second population of horses in which prosthetic mesh was used.

Methods: Medical records of horses undergoing an incisional herniorrhaphy between 1998 and 2009 were reviewed. Information obtained included case details, factors from the initial surgery that contributed to the hernia formation, method of hernia repair and outcome. Comparisons between horses with and without mesh were made using logistic regression.

Results: Thirty‐eight horses with primary closure and 9 horses with mesh implantation met inclusion criteria. Long‐term follow‐up for cases in which a mesh was not used was available for 25 cases; of these, 21 horses (84%) had a normal cosmetic appearance and 4 (16%) had a visible defect. There was no significant difference between the 2 repair methods in terms of age, sex, breed, weight, size of the hernia, number of defects, timing of the repair or cosmetic outcome. Horses in which a mesh was used had significantly longer duration of surgery and hospitalisation, and were significantly more likely to develop post operative complications while having a longer duration of convalescence prior to return to use.

Conclusions: Primary apposition of incisional hernias in horses without the use of mesh support appears to result in a good cosmetic outcome while avoiding the complications associated with mesh implantation in this population of horses.

Potential relevance: Surgical time, duration of hospitalisation, and post operative complications may be reduced by using this technique of primary repair and avoiding mesh implantation.
In vitro validation of the lactose 13C‐ureide breath test for equine orocaecal transit time measurement
Authors: SUTTON D. G. M. , PRESTON T. , LOVE S.
Published: July 2011

Reasons for performing study: Validation of a reliable, noninvasive clinical test for quantification of equine orocaecal transit time (OCTT) is required. This would facilitate an evidence‐based approach to investigation and treatment of equine small intestinal disorders.

Objectives: 1) Comparison of the lactose 13C‐ureide breath test (LUBT) with the hydrogen breath test (H2BT) for OCTT measurement. 2) Identification of the characteristics of gastrointestinal microbial glycosylureide hydrolase activity in vitro. 3) Production of an optimised protocol for the LUBT for in vivo measurement of equine OCTT.

Hypothesis: Significant lactose 13C‐ureide (13C‐LU) hydrolase activity is restricted to the large bowel. The rate of expiratory 13CO2 production after ingestion of the isotope will provide an indirect quantifiable measure of orocaecal transit rate. Requisite bacterial activity may be enhanced by a primer dose of unlabelled substrate as shown in Man.

Methods: Combined LUBT and H2BT were performed in 8 healthy individuals. Analysis of sequential end expiratory breath samples was used to calculate OCTT and results compared. Digestion of 13C‐LU was investigated in vitro using fresh faecal material or intestinal aliquots collected post mortem. Isotopic fermentation rate was measured by rate of appearance of 13CO2.

Results: Peaks in expiratory 13CO2 occurred in all individuals after ingestion of the labelled test meal, whereas H2 expiration was variable. Both faecal and intestinal microbial digestion of 13C‐LU were maximised by prior exposure to 12C‐LU. Induced bacterial glucoseureide hydrolase activity was significantly greater in the caecum than in the small intestine (n = 10, P<0.05).

Conclusions: Significant 13C‐LU digestion is restricted to the equine large intestine under normal conditions, and is enhanced by prior exposure to 12C‐LU, making 13C‐LU a suitable noninvasive marker of equine OCTT. The LUBT is more reliable than the H2BT for measurement of equine OCTT.
Reporting natural health product related adverse drug reactions: is it the pharmacist's responsibility?
Authors: Walji Rishma , Boon Heather , Barnes Joanne , Welsh Sandy , Austin Zubin , Baker G Ross
Published: July 2011

Objectives

Herbal medicines and other natural health products (NHPs) are sold in Canadian pharmacies as over-the-counter products, yet there is limited information on their safety and adverse effect profile. Signals of safety concerns associated with medicines can arise through analysis of reports of suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) submitted to national pharmacovigilance centres by health professionals, including pharmacists and the public. However, typically such systems experience substantial under-reporting for NHPs. The objective of this paper is to explore pharmacists' experiences with and responses to receiving or identifying reports of suspected ADRs associated with NHPs from pharmacy customers.

Methods

A qualitative study in which in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 community pharmacists in Toronto, Canada.

Key findings

Pharmacists generally did not submit reports of adverse events associated with NHPs to the national ADR reporting system and cited several barriers, including lack of time, complexity of the reporting process and lack of knowledge about NHPs. Pharmacists who accepted responsibility for adverse event reporting appeared to have different perceptions of their professional role: they saw themselves as ‘knowledge generators’, contributing to overall healthcare knowledge.

Conclusions

Reporting behaviour for suspected ADRs associated with NHPs may be explained by a pharmacist's perception of his/her professional role and perceptions of the relative importance of generating knowledge to share in the wider system of health care.
Dendritic Cell Instructions for T Cells
Authors: Foley John F.
Published: July 2011

An inhibitor of mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling in dendritic cells affects T cell differentiation.
Simultaneous Determination of 12 β-Lactam Antibiotics in Human Plasma by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with UV Detection: Application to Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
Authors: Verdier Marie-Clémence , Tribut Olivier , Tattevin Pierre , Le Tulzo Yves , Michelet Christian , Bentué-Ferrer Danièle
Published: July 2011

A rapid and specific high-performance liquid chromatography method with UV detection (HPLC-UV) for the simultaneous determination of 12 beta-lactam antibiotics (amoxicillin, cefepime, cefotaxime, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, cloxacillin, imipenem, meropenem, oxacillin, penicillin G, piperacillin, and ticarcillin) in small samples of human plasma is described. Extraction consisted of protein precipitation by acetonitrile. An Atlantis T3 analytical column with a linear gradient of acetonitrile and a pH 2 phosphoric acid solution was used for separation. Wavelength photodiode array detection was set either at 210 nm, 230 nm, or 298 nm according to the compound. This method is accurate and reproducible (coefficient of variation [CV] < 8%), allowing quantification of beta-lactam plasma levels from 5 to 250 μg/ml without interference with other common drugs. This technique is easy to use in routine therapeutic drug monitoring of beta-lactam antibiotics.
PEGylated Liposome Encapsulation Increases the Lung Tissue Concentration of Vancomycin
Authors: Muppidi Krishna , Wang Jeffrey , Betageri Guru , Pumerantz Andrew S.
Published: July 2011

Pneumonia due to methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) often cannot be cured by vancomycin treatment. Poor lung tissue and intracellular penetration limits the ability to achieve effective bactericidal levels, particularly in alveolar macrophages, where MRSA can evade phagocytic killing. Compared to standard formulations, liposome encapsulation has been shown to enhance vancomycin intracellular killing of MRSA. In this murine pharmacokinetic and biodistribution study, PEGylated liposomal vancomycin, compared to standard and non-PEGylated formulations, significantly prolonged blood circulation time and increased deposition in lung, liver, and spleen and yet reduced accumulation in kidney tissue. As a result of optimizing antimicrobial targeting of infected lung tissue and limiting renal parenchymal exposure, administration of PEGylated liposomal vancomycin may improve the efficacy of treatment of MRSA pneumonia and reduce the risk of nephrotoxicity.
Interferon Regulatory Transcription Factor 3 Protects Mice from Uterine Horn Pathology during Chlamydia muridarum Genital Infection
Authors: Prantner Daniel , Sikes James D. , Hennings Leah , Savenka Alena V. , Basnakian Alexei G. , Nagarajan Uma M.
Published: July 2011

Mice with the type I interferon (IFN) receptor gene knocked out (IFNAR KO mice) or deficient for alpha/beta IFN (IFN-α/β) signaling clear chlamydial infection earlier than control mice and develop less oviduct pathology. Initiation of host IFN-β transcription during an
in vitro
chlamydial infection requires interferon regulatory transcription factor 3 (IRF3). The goal of the present study was to characterize the influence of IRF3 on chlamydial genital infection and its relationship to IFN-β expression in the mouse model. IRF3 KO mice were able to resolve infection as well as control mice, overcoming increased chlamydial colonization and tissue burden early during infection. As previously observed for IFNAR KO mice, IRF3 KO mice generated a potent antigen-specific T cell response. However, in contrast to IFNAR KO mice, IRF3 KO mice exhibited unusually severe dilatation and pathology in the uterine horns but normal oviduct pathology after infection. Although IFN-β expression
in vivo
was dependent on the presence of IRF3 early in infection (before day 4), the IFN-independent function of IRF3 was likely driving this phenotype. Specifically, early during infection, the number of apoptotic cells and the number of inflammatory cells were significantly less in uterine horns from IRF3 KO mice than in those from control mice, despite an increased chlamydial burden. To delineate the effects of IFN-β versus IRF3, neutralizing IFN-β antibody was administered to wild-type (WT) mice during chlamydial infection. IFN-β depletion in WT mice mimicked that in IFNΑR KO mice but not that in IRF3 KO mice with respect to both chlamydial clearance and reduced oviduct pathology. These data suggest that IRF3 has a role in protection from uterine horn pathology that is independent of its function in IFN-β expression.
Mutagenic Analysis of the Clostridium difficile Flagellar Proteins, FliC and FliD, and Their Contribution to Virulence in Hamsters
Authors: Dingle Tanis C. , Mulvey George L. , Armstrong Glen D.
Published: July 2011

Although toxins A and B are known to be important contributors to the acute phase of
Clostridium difficile
infection, the role of colonization and adherence to host tissues in the overall pathogenesis of these organisms remains unclear. Consequently, we used the recently introduced intron-based ClosTron gene interruption system to eliminate the expression of two reported
C. difficile
colonization factors, the major flagellar structural subunit (FliC) and the flagellar cap protein (FliD), to gain greater insight into how flagella and motility contribute to
C. difficile
's pathogenic strategy. The results demonstrate that interrupting either the
fliC
or the
fliD
gene results in a complete loss of flagella, as well as motility, in
C. difficile
. However, both the
fliC
and
fliD
mutant strains adhered better than the wild-type 630Δerm strain to human intestine-derived Caco-2 cells, suggesting that flagella and motility do not contribute to, or may even interfere with,
C. difficile
adherence to epithelial cell surfaces
in vitro
. Moreover, we found that the mutant strains were more virulent in hamsters, indicating either that flagella are unnecessary for virulence or that repression of motility may be a pathogenic strategy employed by
C. difficile
in hamsters.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of a cover with capillary barrier effect to control percolation into a waste disposal facility
Authors: Abdolahzadeh Amir M. , Lacroix Vachon Benoit , Cabral Alexandre R.
Published: July 2011

The goal of an instrumented experimental plot constructed on the Saint-Tite-des-Caps landfill site was to evaluate the field behaviour and performance of a cover with capillary barrier effect (CCBE) to control water percolation. The CCBE consists of a layer of deinking by-products (DBP) on top of a layer of sand overlying a gravel layer. The DBP layer acts as a seepage control layer to control the rate of seepage that can reach the top of the capillary barrier. Analysis of the field data shows that the seepage control layer consisting of DBP remained nearly saturated and controlled percolation to the desired level. In addition, for the first year of monitoring, the diversion length determined from field data was very similar to that estimated by the analytical solution that was used for the design of the experimental plot. Afterwards, the diversion length increased due to a decrease in the rate of seepage caused by settlement of the seepage control layer, which caused a decrease in its saturated hydraulic conductivity. At all times, the flows that reached the gravel layer at the toe of the experimental CCBE were, for all practical purposes, lower than the maximum seepage rates required by the most restrictive landfill regulations.
Cyclic behaviour of reconstituted and desiccated–rewet thickened gold tailings in simple shear
Authors: Al-Tarhouni M. , Simms P. , Sivathayalan S.
Published: July 2011

A simple-shear apparatus (Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) type) has been used to investigate the mechanical behaviour of gold tailings under monotonic, cyclic, and post-cyclic loading. Specimens were prepared either by reconstituting the tailings at different water contents or by employing a “dry–wet” preparation technique. The latter technique attempted to simulate a realistic stress history for thickened tailings deposition by preparing the specimen at the pumping water content, and subsequently allowing it to settle and then desiccate to a target water content. Subsequently, these specimens are rewetted and then consolidated. Cyclic resistance ratios for specimens prepared by the dry–wet preparation technique were considerably higher than those of specimens prepared by the standard technique, though there appears to be no advantage in drying the tailings past the shrinkage limit. In general, the tailings could experience significant deformation during cyclic and post-cyclic loading irrespective of whether the monotonic response at a given stress state was contractive or dilative. Shear strength normalized with consolidation pressure, and cyclic resistance ratios, can be plotted as unique functions of void ratio. Post-cyclic strengths require considerable strain to be mobilized. It is recommended that site-specific tolerable strain criteria be adopted to design thickened gold tailings stacks to resist earthquake loading.
In situ strength characterisation of peat and organic soil using full-flow penetrometers
Authors: Boylan N. , Long M. , Mathijssen F.A.J.M.
Published: July 2011

Full-flow penetrometers have been shown to overcome problems experienced with the cone penetrometer when measuring resistance in very soft peat and organic soil, and give a much more uniform measure of resistance than the cone in fibrous peat. However, at present there is no guidance on the interpretation of strength parameters in these soils using the T-bar and ball. This paper examines the results of tests using these devices at two research sites in the Netherlands in conjunction with high-quality Sherbrooke sampling for laboratory testing. In fibrous peat, the T-bar and ball provided a more uniform measure of resistance with a lower degree of scatter than the cone. The in situ testing results have been compared with the laboratory tests to assess the range of resistance factors relating penetration resistance to the undrained shear strength (su) and have been shown to occupy a lower range of values than the cone penetrometer. However, penetration tests in these soils are likely to be influenced by partial drainage effects and this should be considered during testing and the subsequent interpretation of results. Recommendations are made for the use of full-flow penetrometers to obtain strength parameters in these soils.
Numerical modeling of tunneling effect on buried pipelines
Authors: Wang Yu , Shi Jiangwei , Ng Charles W.W.
Published: July 2011

The underground space in urban areas is frequently congested with utilities, including pipelines and conduits, that are affected by underground construction, e.g., tunneling. This paper carries out finite element (FE) analyses to investigate the effects of tunneling-induced ground movement on pipelines, with special attention to the different soil responses to uplift and downward pipe–soil relative movements. A series of numerical parametric studies with 900 FE simulation runs in total is performed to encompass various combinations of ground settlement profiles, pipe dimensions, material properties, pipe burial depth, and soil properties that are typical for utility pipelines and tunnel construction in urban areas. The results are summarized in a dimensionless plot of relative pipe–soil stiffness versus ratio of maximum pipe curvature to maximum ground curvature, which can be used to directly estimate the maximum pipe bending strain and (or) to directly assess the tunneling-induced risk to pipelines. The FE results and dimensionless plot are validated against field and centrifuge test results reported in the literature. Effect of pipeline orientation with respect to the tunnel centerline is explored. It might be unconservative if design analysis only considers the case that the pipeline is perpendicular to the tunnel centerline.
Potential for wider application of 3P sampling in forest inventory
Authors: West P.W.
Published: July 2011

Sampling with probability proportional to prediction (3P sampling) is useful where the variable of interest to a forest inventory is costly to measure and where there exists a cheaper to measure auxiliary variable, which correlates positively with the variable of interest. Two forms of 3P sampling, termed “classical” and “point-” 3P sampling, have received some use in forest inventory. However, both have limitations that have restricted their use mainly to estimation of tree stem wood volume for timber sales over small forest areas in North America. A more general form of 3P sampling, termed here “ordinary” 3P sampling, has been all but ignored to date. It has potential for use in inventory of a broad range of forest attributes, both floral and faunal and both commercial and environmental, across large or small forest areas. Using a common mathematical approach, the present work derives the estimators of the population mean for these three forms of 3P sampling. Their properties are compared with simple random sampling through Monte Carlo simulations based on two example forest populations. The work lays a basis from which 3P sampling might develop further and enjoy wider application in forest inventory than has been the case previously.
Cytoplasmic DNA variation in and genetic delimitation ofAbies nephrolepisandAbies holophyllain northeastern China
Authors: Jiang Zu Yao , Peng Yan Ling , Hu Xiao Xiao , Zhou Yong Feng , Liu Jian Quan
Published: July 2011

It has recently been hypothesized that genetic markers experiencing high rates of gene flow would be better suited to differentiate closely related species. We tested this hypothesis by examining genetic variation in the chloroplast (cp) DNA (trnS–trnG and trnL–trnF) and mitochondrial (mt) DNA (nad5 intron 4 and nad7 intron 1) of two fir species, Abies nephrolepis (Trautv.) Maxim. and Abies holophylla Maxim., with overlapping distributions in northeastern China. Two mitotypes were identified; one was common to both species, whereas the other occurred only in A. holophylla. However, four chlorotypes were identified, clustered into two species-specific groups exhibiting distinct mutations; species delimitation using these generated genetic variants was congruent with those obtained by morphological delimitation. Our findings supported the hypotheses that cpDNA, with its high rates of gene flow, is more useful than mtDNA for species delimitation in fir trees. In addition, the low intraspecific diversity observed for both species may result from their repeated range retractions and expansions in response to climatic oscillations in the history.
Influence of stocking on radial and longitudinal variation in modulus of elasticity, microfibril angle, and density in a 24-year-old Pinus radiata thinning trial
Authors: Watt Michael S. , Zoric Branislav , Kimberley Mark O. , Harrington Jonathan
Published: July 2011

Detailed radial measurements of wood properties at four heights (0, 1.4, 5, and 20 m) were taken from 24-year-old Pinus radiata D. Don growing at four final crop stockings (200, 350, 500, and 1100 stems·ha–1). Using these measurements, the objectives of the study were to examine pith-to-bark trends at several heights to (i) determine how stocking influenced modulus of elasticity (MoE), wood density, and microfibril angle (MFA), (ii) quantify the relations among these properties and age at different stocking levels, and (iii) develop a graphical model for MoE across the stocking range. The influence of stocking on all wood properties was primarily expressed through a highly significant interaction between age and stocking. Wood properties in the highest stocking treatment diverged from those in the lowest stocking treatment at tree age 5 to reach a maximum difference of 92 kg·m–3 (488 vs. 580 kg·m–3) at tree age 18 for density, –5.7° (29.2° vs. 23.5°) at tree age 10 for MFA, and 5.1 GPa (12.1 vs. 17.2 GPa) at tree age 20 years for MoE. Graphical predictions from the model show greatest gains in MoE at high final crop stocking to occur over the lower part of the stem.
A GENERATING SET FOR THE AUTOMORPHISM GROUP OF A GRAPH PRODUCT OF ABELIAN GROUPS
Authors: CORREDOR L. J. , GUTIERREZ M. A.
Published: July 2011

We find a set of generators for the automorphism group Aut G of a graph product G of finitely generated abelian groups entirely from a certain labeled graph. In addition, we find generators for the important subgroup Aut ⋆ G defined in [Automorphisms of graph products of abelian groups, to appear in Groups, Geometry and Dynamics]. We follow closely the plan of M. Laurence's paper [A generating set for the automorphism group of a graph group, J. London Math. Soc. (2)52(2) (1995) 318–334].
1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 contributes to regulating mammary calcium transport and modulates neonatal skeletal growth and turnover cooperatively with calcium
Authors: Ji Ji , Lu Ruinan , Zhou Xiaojie , Xue Yingben , Shi Chunmin , Goltzman David , Miao Dengshun
Published: July 2011

To assess the interaction of 1,25(OH)2D3 and dietary calcium on mammary calcium transport in lactating dams and skeletal growth and turnover in the neonate, female lactating 1α(OH)ase+/− or 1α(OH)ase−/− mice were fed either a high-calcium diet containing 1.5% calcium in the drinking water or a “rescue diet.” Dietary effects on the expression of molecules mediating mammary calcium transport were determined in the dams, and the effects of milk calcium content were assessed on skeletal growth and turnover in 2-wk-old 1,25(OH)2D3-deficient pups. Results showed that the reduction of milk calcium levels in the 1α(OH)ase−/− dams and the elevation of milk calcium levels in dams fed the rescue diet were associated with the down- or upregulation of calbindin D9k and plasma membrane Ca2+ ATPase isoform 2b expression, respectively, in mammary epithelial cells. The action of ambient calcium in stimulating skeletal growth in the neonates appeared to supercede the direct action of 1,25(OH)2D3, and the response of chondrocytes in the neonates to elevated calcium was more sensitive in hypocalcemic animals. Osteopenia was more apparent in pups nursed by dams with lower milk calcium than in 1,25(OH)2D3-deficient pups nursed by dams with higher milk calcium. Bone formation parameters were increased significantly in all pups fed by dams on the rescue diet but were still lower in 1α(OH)ase−/− pups than in 1α(OH)ase+/− pups. Consequently, there is an important contributory role of calcium in conjunction with 1,25(OH)2D3 to mammary calcium transport in lactating dams and skeletal growth and turnover in the neonate.
Experimental Study of Closed System in the Chlorine Dioxide-Iodide-Sulfuric Acid Reaction by UV-Vis Spectrophotometric Method
Authors: Li Na , Shi Laishun , Wang Xiaomei , Guo Fang , Yan Chunying
Published: July 2011

The mole ratior(r=[I−]0/[ClO2]0)has great influence on ClO2-I−-H2SO4closed reaction system. By changing the initiate concentration of potassium iodide, the curve of absorbance along with the reaction time was obtained at 350 nm and 297 nm for triiodide ion, and 460 nm for iodine. The changing point of the absorbance curve's shape locates atr=6.00. For the reaction of ClO2-I−in the absence of H2SO4, the curve of absorbance along with the reaction time can be obtained at 350 nm for triiodide ion, 460 nm for iodine. The mole ratioris equal to 1.00 is the changing point of the curve's shape no matter at which wavelength to determine the reaction. For the reaction of ClO2-I−-H+in different pH buffer solution, the curve of absorbance along with the reaction time was recorded at 460 nm for iodine. Whenris greater than 1.00, the transition point of the curve's shape locates at pH 2.0, which is also the point of producing chlorite or chloride for chlorine dioxide at different pH. Whenris less than 1.00, the transition point locates at pH 7.0.
Staged Mucosal Advancement Flap versus Staged Fibrin Sealant in the Treatment of Complex Perianal Fistulas
Authors: van der Hagen S. J. , Baeten C. G. , Soeters P. B. , van Gemert W. G.
Published: July 2011

Background. In this prospective randomised study, the staged mucosal advancement flap is compared with staged fibrin sealant application in the treatment of perianal fistulas.Methods. All patients with high complex cryptoglandular fistulas were randomised to closure of the internal opening by a mucosal advancement flap (MF) or injection with fibrin sealant (FS) after treatment with setons. Recurrence rate and incontinence disorders were explored.Results. The MF group (5 females and 10 males) with a median age of 51 years and a median followup of 52 months. The FS group (4 females and 11 males) with a median age of 45 years and a median followup of 49 months. Three (20%) patients of the MF group had a recurrent fistula compared to 9 (60%) of the FS group (P=0.03). No new continence disorders developed.Conclusion. Staged FS injection has a much lower success rate compared to MF.
Efficacy of Chronic Antidepressant Treatments in a New Model of Extreme Anxiety in Rats
Authors: Javelot Hervé , Weiner Luisa , Terramorsi Roxane , Rougeot Catherine , Lalonde Robert , Messaoudi Michaël
Published: July 2011

Animal models of anxious disorders found in humans, such as panic disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder, usually include spontaneous and conditioned fear that triggers escape and avoidance behaviors. The development of a panic disorder model with a learned component should increase knowledge of mechanisms involved in anxiety disorders. In our ethological model of extreme anxiety in the rat, forced apnea was combined with cold water vaporization in an inescapable situation. Based on the reactions of vehicle controls, behaviors involved in paroxysmic fear were passive (freezing) and active (jumping) reactions. Our results show that subchronic fluoxetine (5 mg/kg, IP, 21 days) and imipramine (10 mg/kg, IP, 14 days) administration alleviated freezing and jumping behaviors, whereas acute fluoxetine (1 mg/kg, IP) provoked opposite effects. Acute low dose of diazepam (1 mg/kg, IP) was not effective, whereas the higher dose of 3 mg/kg, IP, and clonazepam (1 mg/kg, IP) only had an effect on jumping. Paroxysmic fear generated in this experimental condition may therefore mimic the symptomatology observed in patients with anxiety disorders.
Mean Square Stability of Impulsive Stochastic Differential Systems
Authors: Yang Shujie , Shi Bao , Li Mo
Published: July 2011

Based on Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functional method and stochastic analysis theory, we obtain some new delay‐dependent criteria ensuring mean square stability of a class of impulsive stochastic equations. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Association of Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Intron 16 Insertion/Deletion and Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor A1166C Gene Polymorphisms with Preeclampsia in South East of Iran
Authors: Salimi Saeedeh , Mokhtari Mojgan , Yaghmaei Minoo , Jamshidi Mohammad , Naghavi Anoosh
Published: July 2011

Some evidence suggests that a variety of genetic factors contributed in pathogenesis of the preeclampsia. The aim of this study was to assess the association between the angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) I/D and angiotensin II type1 receptor A1166C polymorphisms with preeclampsia. This study was performed in 125 preeclamptic pregnant women and 132 controls. The I/D Polymorphism of the ACE gene was assessed by polymerase chain reaction and the A1166C Polymorphism of the AT1R gene was determined by restriction fragment length polymorphism. The genotype and allele frequencies of I/D polymorphism differed between two groups. The risk of preeclampsia was 3.2‐fold in pregnant women with D allele (OR, 3.2 [95% CI, 1.1 to 3.8]; P = 0.01). The distribution of the AT1R gene A1166C polymorphism was similar in affected and control groups. Our results supported that presence of the I/D polymorphism of ACE gene is a marker for the increased risk of preeclampsia.
Bacterial Artificial Chromosome Libraries of Pulse Crops: Characteristics and Applications
Authors: Yu Kangfu
Published: July 2011

Pulse crops are considered minor on a global scale despite their nutritional value for human consumption. Therefore, they are relatively less extensively studied in comparison with the major crops. The need to improve pulse crop production and quality will increase with the increasing global demand for food security and people's awareness of nutritious food. The improvement of pulse crops will require fully utilizing all their genetic resources. Bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) libraries of pulse crops are essential genomic resources that have the potential to accelerate gene discovery and enhance molecular breeding in these crops. Here, we review the availability, characteristics, applications, and potential applications of the BAC libraries of pulse crops.
Tumor-Specific Targeting of Pancreatic Cancer with Shiga Toxin B-Subunit
Authors: Maak Matthias , Nitsche Ulrich , Keller Larissa , Wolf Petra , Sarr Marianne , Thiebaud Marine , Rosenberg Robert , Langer Rupert , Kleeff Jörg , Friess Helmut , Johannes Ludger , Janssen Klaus-Peter
Published: July 2011

Pancreatic carcinoma is one of the most aggressive tumor entities, and standard chemotherapy provides only modest benefit. Therefore, specific targeting of pancreatic cancer for early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention is of great interest. We have previously shown that the cellular receptor for Shiga toxin B (STxB), the glycosphingolipid globotriaosylceramide (Gb3 or CD77) is strongly increased in colorectal adenocarcinoma and their metastases. Here, we report an upregulation of Gb3 in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (21 of 27 cases) as compared with matched normal tissue (n = 27). The mean expression was highly significantly increased from 30 ± 16 ng Gb3/mg tissue in normal pancreas to 61 ± 41 ng Gb3/mg tissue (mean ± SD, P = 0.0006), as evidenced by thin layer chromatography. Upregulation of Gb3 levels did not depend on tumor stage or grading and showed no correlation with clinical outcome. Tumor cells and endothelial cells were identified as the source of increased Gb3 expression by immunocytochemistry. Pancreatic cancer cell lines showed rapid intracellular uptake of STxB to the Golgi apparatus, following the retrograde pathway. The therapeutic application of STxB was tested by specific delivery of covalently coupled SN38, an active metabolite of the topoisomerase I inhibitor irinotecan. The cytotoxic effect of the STxB-SN38 compound in pancreatic cancer cell lines was increased more than 100-fold compared with irinotecan. Moreover, this effect was effectively blocked by competing incubation with nonlabeled STxB, showing the specificity of the targeting. Thus, STxB constitutes a promising new tool for specific targeting of pancreatic cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 10(10); 1918–28. ©2011 AACR.
Role of Growth Hormone Deficiency and Treatment in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Gupta Diptesh , Gardner Michael , Whaley-Connell Adam
Published: July 2011

Malnutrition and inflammation are strong predictors of mortality in advanced kidney disease, especially in patients on renal replacement therapy. The complex relationship between kidney disease, uremia, and malnutrition significantly contributes to the increased morbidity and mortality in this patient population potentially through a relative deficiency in growth hormone (GH). With an approximate 26 million Americans currently affected by some stage of chronic kidney disease and a predicted 750,000 people to be on dialysis by 2020, there is a need to develop innovative strategies aimed at reducing the high mortality seen in dialysis patients. We will review evidence on one such intervention with infusion of recombinant GH to improve the nutritional and inflammatory state, thereby expecting to improve the mortality and morbidity in this patient population.
Effects of Calcimimetic Combined with an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor on Uremic Cardiomyopathy Progression
Authors: Mizobuchi Masahide , Ogata Hiroaki , Hosaka Nozomu , Kumata Chiaki , Nakazawa Ai , Kondo Fumiko , Koiwa Fumihiko , Kinugasa Eriko , Akizawa Tadao
Published: July 2011

Background/Aims: Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors have cardioprotective properties and functional calcium-sensing receptors express in cardiac myocytes. Methods: Rats were made uremic by 5/6 nephrectomy and treated as follows: uremic rats were fed on a regular diet (UC), uremic + enalapril (E), uremic + calcimimetic agent R-568 (R-568), and uremic + enalapril + R-568 (E+R-568). A group of normal rats served as controls (NC). Results: Blood pressure (BP) and left ventricle mass were elevated significantly in the UC and R-568 groups compared with those in the NC group, but were indistinguishable from normal controls in the E and E+R-568 groups. Cardiac fibrosis was significantly increased in the UC group compared with that in the NC group. This increase was significantly attenuated in the R-568 and E groups, and the attenuation was further enhanced in the E+R-568 group. Factors associated with cardiac hypertrophy such as proliferating cell nuclear antigen, cyclin D1, and cyclin D2, as well as factors associated with cardiac fibrosis such as type I collagen, fibronectin, and transforming growth factor-β1 were significantly increased in the UC group compared with those in the NC group. Monotherapy with R-568 or E attenuated this increase and the combination further attenuated these measures. Conclusions: Calcimimetics can suppress the progression of uremic cardiomyopathy and this effect is amplified when BP is controlled via renin-angiotensin system blockade.
Adipocyte-Derived Factors Regulate Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Through Mineralocorticoid and Glucocorticoid Receptors
Authors: Nguyen Dinh Cat Aurelie , Briones Ana M. , Callera Glaucia E. , Yogi Alvaro , He Ying , Montezano Augusto C. , Touyz Rhian M.
Published: July 2011

Adipose tissue influences vascular function through adipocyte-derived factors, including components of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Molecular mechanisms underlying these phenomena are elusive. We investigated the role of adipocyte-derived factors on mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), proinflammatory status, apoptosis, and mitogenic signaling in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and questioned whether these effects involve mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), glucocorticoid receptor (GR), and angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT
1
R). Cultured mouse VSMCs were exposed to adipocyte-conditioned medium (ACM) from differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes. ACM induced phosphorylation of stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinase, p38MAPK, and extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1/2 and increased expression of proinflammatory and proliferative markers in VSMCs. Eplerenone (MR antagonist), mifepristone (GR antagonist), and candesartan (AT
1
R antagonist) inhibited ACM-induced effects on extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1/2, p38MAPK, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen, without influencing apoptosis (Bax, Bcl, and caspase 3). Stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinase phosphorylation was inhibited by mifepristone and candesartan but not by eplerenone. ACM-induced increase of fibronectin, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 expression was blocked by MR and AT
1
R antagonism but not by GR inhibition. ACM has no effect on GR, MR, and AT
1
R expression. Our data show that adipocyte-derived factors influence MAPK signaling, leading to VSMC proinflammatory and profibrotic responses through distinct pathways. Although ACM stimulates p38MAPK and extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1/2 phosphorylation through MR, GR, and AT
1
R, activation of stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun N-terminal kinase involves GR and AT
1
R. These findings suggest that adipocyte-derived factors regulate VSMC function through specific MAPKs linked to MR, GR, and AT
1
R, a posttranslational phenomenon, because ACM did not influence receptor expression. Such cross-talk between adipocytes and VSMCs may provide a potential molecular mechanism linking renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, adipocytes, and vascular function.
Functional Importance of L- and P/Q-Type Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels in Human Renal Vasculature
Authors: Hansen Pernille B. , Poulsen Christian B. , Walter Steen , Marcussen Niels , Cribbs Leanne L. , Skøtt Ole , Jensen Boye L.
Published: July 2011

Calcium channel blockers are widely used for treatment of hypertension, because they decrease peripheral vascular resistance through inhibition of voltage-gated calcium channels. Animal studies of renal vasculature have shown expression of several types of calcium channels that are involved in kidney function. It was hypothesized that human renal vascular excitation-contraction coupling involves different subtypes of channels. In human renal artery and dissected intrarenal blood vessels from nephrectomies, PCR analysis showed expression of L-type (Ca
v
1.2), P/Q-type (Ca
v
2.1), and T-type subtype (Ca
v
3.1 and Ca
v
3.2) voltage-gated calcium channels (Ca
v
s), and quantitative PCR showed highest expression of L-type channels in renal arteries and variable expression between patients of subtypes of calcium channels in intrarenal vessels. Immunohistochemical labeling of kidney sections revealed signals for Ca
v
2.1 and Ca
v
3.1 associated with smooth muscle cells of preglomerular and postglomerular vessels. In human intrarenal arteries, depolarization with potassium induced a contraction inhibited by the L-type antagonist nifedipine, EC
50
1.2×10
−8
mol/L. The T-type antagonist mibefradil inhibited the potassium-induced constriction with large variations between patients. Interestingly, the P/Q-type antagonist, ω-agatoxin IVA, inhibited significantly the contraction with 24% at 10
−9
mol/L. In conclusion L-, P/Q, and T-type channels are expressed in human renal blood vessels, and L- and P/Q-type channels are of functional importance for the depolarization-induced vasoconstriction. The contribution of P/Q-type channels to contraction in the human vasculature is a novel mechanism for the regulation of renal blood flow and suggests that clinical treatment with calcium blockers might affect vascular reactivity also through P/Q-type channel inhibition.
Reduction in Sociology
Authors: McGinley William
Published: July 2011

In grappling with the micro-macro problem in sociology, philosophers of the field are finding it increasingly useful to associate micro-sociology with theory reduction. In this article I argue that the association is ungrounded and undesirable. Although of a reductive “disposition,” micro-sociological theories instantiate something more like “reductive explanation,” whereby the causal roles of social wholes are explained in terms of their psychological parts. In this form, micro-sociological theories may actually have a better shot at closing the sociology–psychology explanatory gap, and resist many antireductionist arguments, including the well-known argument from “multiple realization.”
Variable pay, collective bargaining and trade unions: A comparison of machinery and banking companies in Norway
Authors: Dølvik Jon Erik , Nergaard Kristine
Published: July 2011

This article analyses how the introduction of variable pay systems (VPS) has affected the role of trade unions and collective bargaining in company pay setting, and the role of these institutions in shaping VPS in Norwegian companies in blue-collar machinery production and white-collar banking services. The development of VPS has been fairly smoothly handled by the actors within, and with the help of, the established industrial relations institutions. In the machinery companies, VPS implied minimal changes in collective bargaining, whereas in banking significant individualization and more ambiguous effects for the role of company unions in pay setting were found.