bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute Phase Response to Surgery of Varying Intensity in Horses: A Preliminary Study
Authors: JACOBSEN STINE , NIELSEN JON VEDDING , KJELGAARD‐HANSEN MADS , TOELBOELL TRINE , FJELDBORG JULIE , HALLING‐THOMSEN MAJ , MARTINUSSEN TORBEN , THOEFNER MARTIN BANG
Published: July 2009

Objective—To evaluate the postoperative inflammatory response of horses to elective surgery of varying intensity.

Study Design—Prospective longitudinal study.

Animals—Horses referred to 2 hospitals for either arthroscopic removal of a unilateral osteochondritic lesion in the tibiotarsal joint (minimal surgical trauma, n=11), correction of recurrent laryngeal neuropathy by laryngoplasty and ventriculectomy (intermediate surgical trauma, n=10) or removal of an ovarian tumor by laparotomy (major surgical trauma, n=5).

Methods—Horses had a thorough clinical examination every day. White blood cell (WBC) counts and concentrations of serum amyloid A (SAA), fibrinogen, and iron were assessed in blood samples obtained before, and 1–3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 days after surgery. Differences in levels of the inflammatory markers between the 3 surgical groups were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA.

Results—Postoperative concentrations of SAA and fibrinogen were significantly higher in horses that had laparotomy and ovariectomy than in horses that had laryngoplasty and ventriculectomy, or arthroscopy. Iron concentrations decreased to lower levels after intermediate and major surgical trauma than after small surgical trauma. WBC count did not differ between the 3 groups.

Conclusions—Levels of SAA, fibrinogen, and iron reflected the intensity of the surgical trauma, whereas WBC count did not.

Clinical Relevance—Postoperative measurements of SAA, fibrinogen, and iron may be useful for comparing surgical trauma associated with new and established surgical techniques. Moreover, knowledge of the normal postoperative acute phase response is essential, if acute phase reactants are to be used for monitoring occurrence of postoperative infections.
Achilles Tendon Repair in Dogs Using the Semitendinosus Muscle: Surgical Technique and Short‐Term Outcome in Five Dogs
Authors: BALTZER WENDY I. , RIST PAUL
Published: July 2009

Objective—To describe augmentation of primary Achilles tendon repair using suture with a semitendinosus muscle flap and report outcome in 5 dogs.

Study Design—Prospective clinical study.

Animals—Dogs (n=5) with Achilles tendon rupture (n=6).

Methods—After tendon repair with #2 polypropylene in a 3‐loop pulley suture pattern, the lateral one‐half of the semitendinosus muscle was transected from the ischium, rotated distally then sutured with #2 polypropylene to the calcaneus in a 3‐loop pulley pattern. The epitenon was sutured to the muscle flap fascia with interrupted sutures. All dogs had a bivalved cast for 2 weeks then a cranial splint for 2–6 weeks. Lameness scores (0=stands and walks normally to 4=non‐weight‐bearing lameness, plantigrade stance on affected pelvic limb) were determined every 2–3 weeks postoperatively for 12 weeks. Outcome was determined from telephone questionnaire of owners.

Results—Four had lameness scores of 0, the 5th had a score of 1 at 12 weeks. Three owners were very satisfied with outcome. Minor complications included cast sores (2 dogs), infection (2), and acute swelling (1); 1 major complication occurred (infection resulting in reoperation).

Conclusions—Semitendinosus flap augmentation resulted in early return to function without prolonged postoperative immobilization. Three dogs returned to full work/activity after repair.

Clinical Relevance—Augmentation of primary Achilles tendon repair with a semitendinosus flap can be considered in dogs with chronic rupture but further investigation of the long‐term outcome using this technique is needed.
Multiple Rib Fracture Repair in a Neonatal Holstein Calf
Authors: AHERN BENJAMIN J. , LEVINE DAVID G.
Published: July 2009

Objectives— To report rib fracture repair in a neonatal calf using the Securos® Cranial Cruciate Ligament Repair System (SCCLRS).

Study Design— Case report.

Animals— A 2‐day‐old female Holstein calf with fracture of right ribs 4–10.

Methods— On the day of admission the calf was anesthetized and rib fractures were repaired using open reduction and the SCCLRS.

Results— Rib fractures were successfully stabilized and the calf discharged from the hospital 8 days postoperatively.

Conclusions— Modification of previously reported use of the SCCLRS to repair rib fractures in foals was required because of the different anatomy in the calf. This new technique was rapidly and easily performed for a large number of fractured ribs in this case.

Clinical Relevance— Effective rib fracture repair in calves can be readily performed using the SCCLRS with modification of the technique reported in foals.
Femoral Medullary Infarction Prevalence with the Zurich Cementless Canine Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: MARSOLAIS GREGORY S. , PECK JEFFREY N. , BERRY CLIFFORD , JOHNSON ANN
Published: July 2009

Objective—To document the prevalence of femoral medullary infarction associated with the Zurich Cementless Total Hip Replacement (ZCTHR) system in dogs.

Study Design—Case series.

Animals—Dogs (n=35) with 41 ZCTHR implants.

Methods—Medical records (February 1999–December 2002) were reviewed for dogs that had ZCTHR and at least 1 year follow‐up with radiographic evaluation. Thirty‐five dogs (41 ZCTHR) met the inclusion criteria. Femoral morphologic data, implant to bone relationships, and medullary infarcts were recorded. Data were analyzed for associations between infarct occurrence and morphologic details and dog characteristics.

Results—Eight of 41 femurs had radiographic evidence of infarcts (19.5%). Dogs with infarcts were significantly younger (mean [±SD] age, 18.5±5.2 months) compared with those without infarction (mean age, 44.4±5.6months;P=.027). None of the other variables were significantly different between dogs with and without infarcts. Three femurs with infarcts ultimately developed stem loosening.

Conclusion—A higher prevalence of femoral medullary infarcts was identified with ZCTHR compared with incidence reported for other total hip systems. Younger dogs were more likely to develop infarction.

Clinical Relevance—Femoral infarction appears to be associated with stem loosening. Adjustments in surgical technique or delaying surgery beyond 18 months of age may reduce incidence of infarction but needs further evaluation.
Can 3D Ultrasound and Doppler Angiography of Great Arteries Be Included in Second Trimester Ecocardiographic Examination? A Prospective Study on Low‐Risk Pregnancy Population
Authors: Tonni Gabriele , Centini G. , Taddei F.
Published: July 2009

The introduction of new applications such as the spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC) and the tomographic ultrasound imaging (TUI) has greatly enhanced the study of cardiac and vessels anatomy. The aim of our study was to assess the feasibility of including real‐time volumetric 3D reconstruction of heart anatomy and Doppler angiography of great vessels during routine second trimester pregnancy scan, in a low‐risk population. Visualization of the pulmonary veins, ductus venosus and inferior vena cava was significantly superior with 3D ultrasound. Therefore, STIC makes it possible to store heart beats for a mean time of 10 s, to replay acquired volumes in slow motion, to study the heart atrium along three axes and retrace volumetric image storage inversely from the apex to the base of the heart, making reconstruction of the four‐chamber view and great artery outflow tract much easier and faster. Furthermore, the use of digital communication allow operators to store and send volume of images that can be postprocessed by external consultant specialists worldwide. Although 3D echocardiography is less time‐consuming and independent of fetal positioning in utero when compared with 2D it may be premature to include 3D and 3D Doppler angiography among routine examination. However, the study of the outflow tracts by 2D echocardiography should be implemented in order to improve the diagnostic accuracy of CHDs. At present, only “targeted” cases in which a routine 2D scan has raised diagnostic doubts should undergo a second level sonography for a thorough 2D‐3D examination of cardiac and vessels anatomy.
Flow‐Mediated Dilatation: A Review of Techniques and Applications
Authors: Stout Martin
Published: July 2009

Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death in industrialized nations worldwide. Traditional assessment of cardiovascular disease often involves invasive procedures (e.g., coronary angiography) and also provides little functional information of arterial reactivity. The emergence of the assessment of “subclinical” atherosclerosis and the role of arterial stiffness in both cardiovascular prognosis and cardiovascular risk have become more widely accepted and used in modern clinical practice and research. Flow‐mediated dilatation can be used to directly assess endothelial function in healthy and diseased populations. This review aims to provide the reader with an insight into the technique and clinical applications of this recently new tool for the assessment of cardiovascular disease and risk.
They Saw a Triple Lutz: Bias and Its Perception in American and Russian Newspaper Coverage of the 2002 Olympic Figure Skating Scandal1
Authors: Stepanova Elena V. , Strube Michael J , Hetts John J.
Published: July 2009

We explored bias and its perception in newspaper reports of the 2002 Olympics figure skating controversy. American and Russian articles were examined for their perceptions of the Canadian and Russian pairs' performances, directionality of the Russian and American media and publics' biases, and media awareness of those biases. Reporters' accounts varied as a function of country of affiliation and indicated a one‐sided acknowledgment of media and public bias. The American media acknowledged a pro‐Canadian bias in their reporting; there was no self‐bias acknowledgment in the Russian press. Country of affiliation produced one‐sided coverage of this event, and even the American media's awareness of self‐biases did not ensure bias‐free reporting. These findings are discussed amid respective countries' cultural and political contexts.
The Biobehavioral Model of Persuasion: Generating Challenge Appraisals to Promote Health1
Authors: Schneider Tamera R. , Rivers Susan E. , Lyons Joseph B.
Published: July 2009

By borrowing from the biopsychosocial model of challenge and threat, we may understand when health communications adequately motivate behavior change or when they are overly distressing and inhibit behavior change. The present studies were guided by the biobehavioral model of persuasion, which predicts that different health appeals should evoke different appraisals, as well as psychological and physiological responses that motivate the adoption or rejection of health behaviors. Challenging messages should be associated with approach motivational tendencies, whereas threatening messages should be linked to avoidance. Findings from 2 experiments support the biobehavioral model of persuasion and offer mechanisms that confer message effectiveness. By understanding the psychological and physiological processes that drive message effectiveness, message designers can create more effective health appeals.
Expressions of p53, cyclinD1 and histopathological features in basal cell carcinomas
Authors: Koseoglu Resit D. , Sezer Engin , Eyibilen Ahmet , Aladag Ibrahim , Etikan Ilker
Published: July 2009

Background: We planned this study to analyze probable associations between p53, cyclinD1, Ki67 and histopathological features in basal cell carcinomas (BCC).

Methods: Histological differentiation types, histological growth patterns and tissue responses were analyzed in 50 cases of BCC. In immunohistochemical analysis, p53, cyclinD1 and Ki67 antibodies were investigated. P53 expression was evaluated based on a cut‐off value of 25% positivity. CyclinD1 expression was graded from 0 to 3+ according to the percentage of positive nuclear staining. The percentage of positively staining cells for Ki67 was recorded.

Results: The following significant correlations were detected. Solid infiltrative type differentiation was related to the infiltrative histological growth pattern. The rates of p53 positivity and severe fibrosis in the groups of mixed and infiltrative growth patterns were higher than others. Besides, p53‐positive cases showed more severe fibrosis and had a higher mean value for Ki67 index. Epidermal p53 and cyclinD1 clones in normal epidermal areas adjacent to tumors were noticed in 42% and 52% of the cases, respectively.

Conclusions: P53 expression seems to be related to Ki67 index and some histopathological features of BCC, such as infiltrative histological growth pattern and probably fibrosis.
Skin biopsy is helpful for the diagnosis of incontinentia pigmenti at late stage (IV): a series of 26 cutaneous biopsies
Authors: Fraitag Sylvie , Rimella Aude , De Prost Yves , Brousse Nicole , Hadj‐Rabia Smail , Bodemer Christine
Published: July 2009

Background: Hypochromic streaks can be the only cutaneous sign of incontinentia pigmenti (IP) in adulthood (stage IV). Discovery of such lesions in an adult female with no family history of IP is essential for appropriate genetic counselling.

Objective: To describe and to validate the histological features of residual skin lesions in adult IP.

Methods: The analysis and comparison of skin biopsies of 26 women affected with molecularly confirmed IP.

Results: Most biopsies showed slight atrophy and some scattered apoptotic cells in the epidermis, epidermal hypopigmentation and reduced melanocyte number. The dermis appeared thickened and homogeneous and revealed a complete absence of hair follicles (23/26) and sweat glands (22/26). There was no melanin incontinence or inflammatory cells, and the elastic network was normal.

Conclusion: These features lead unequivocally to the diagnosis of a stage IV IP skin lesion. Consequently, histology is a major confirmatory criterion for diagnoses of these mild clinical forms of IP. It is therefore a useful tool in genetic counselling and prenatal diagnosis. Moreover, the observations described here may contribute to understanding the physiopathology of the late stages of IP.
The universal detection of antigens from one skin biopsy specimen
Authors: Van Der Velden Haike M. J. , Van De Kerkhof Peter C. M. , Pasch Marcel C. , De Boer‐van Huizen Roelie T. , Van Lingen Rosanne G. , Van Erp Piet E. J.
Published: July 2009

Background: Immunohistochemistry is an important tool in dermatology but is limited. Certain antigens can only be preserved in formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded sections, while others can only be detected on frozen sections, resulting in situations where two biopsies are needed. We aimed to develop a technique for universal detection of different antigens out of just one biopsy specimen.

Methods: Single biopsies were obtained from lesional skin of patients with psoriasis. Standard sample procedures for frozen and paraffin‐embedded sections were used. To convert frozen tissue into paraffin‐embedded sections, the biopsy specimen was disposed of the embedding medium and subsequently fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin. We applied various antigen retrieval techniques with alkaline solutions. The differential expression of keratin 10, keratin 15, CD3, CD26 and human beta defensin‐2 (HBD‐2) was examined using immunohistochemical staining.

Results: We showed that keratin 10 and 15 can be stained on both frozen and paraffin‐embedded sections. Staining of paraffin‐embedded sections required unmasking with trypsin and Tris‐buffered saline Tween solution, respectively. CD3 and CD26 can only be detected on frozen sections, while HBD‐2 can only be detected on paraffin‐embedded sections.

Conclusion: We have described a straightforward technique that gives us the opportunity to use just one biopsy specimen to obtain frozen sections as well as paraffin‐embedded sections.
Oral verrucous hyperplasia: histologic classification, prognosis, and clinical implications
Authors: Wang Yi‐Ping , Chen Hsin‐Ming , Kuo Ru‐Cheng , Yu Chuan‐Hang , Sun Andy , Liu Bu‐Yuan , Kuo Ying‐Shiung , Chiang Chun‐Pin
Published: July 2009

Background:  Oral verrucous hyperplasia (OVH) is a premalignant lesion that may transform into an oral cancer.

Methods:  Sixty consecutive OVH cases were collected from 2003 to 2004. Clinicopathological features and the 5‐year malignant transformation rate of these 60 OVH lesions were evaluated and analyzed.

Results:  We found that 84% of OVH lesions occurred in patients between 40 and 69 years of age. The most common site for OVH lesions was the buccal mucosa (48%), followed by the tongue (20%), palate (18%), gingiva (7%), and labial mucosa (7%). Approximately 91% of OVH patients were areca quid chewers and 89% were smokers. When 60 OVH lesions were classified into 30 plaque‐typed and 30 mass‐typed OVH lesions, the mass‐typed OVH lesions had a higher malignant transformation rate of 17% (5/30) than the plaque‐typed OVH lesions (3%, 1/30) during a mean follow‐up period of 59 ± 7 months. The mean time for malignant transformation was 22 ± 11 months. Of the 6 OVH lesions with malignant transformation, 2 underwent total surgical excision and 4 did not receive any form of therapy.

Conclusions:  We conclude that OVH lesions occur more commonly on the buccal mucosa and are highly associated with the areca quid chewing and cigarette smoking habits. The overall 5‐year malignant transformation rate of 60 OVH lesions was 10%. The mass‐typed OVH lesions had a higher malignant transformation rate than the plaque‐typed OVH lesions and thus should receive an immediate treatment, such as total surgical excision or photodynamic therapy, after the histopathologic diagnosis.
N1‐guanyl‐1,7,‐diamineoheptane, an inhibitor of deoxyhypusine synthase, suppresses differentiation and induces apoptosis via mitochondrial and AMPK pathways in immortalized and malignant human oral keratinocytes
Authors: Lee S.‐K. , Lee J. , Lee S.‐I. , Bae W.‐J. , Lee Y.‐M. , Park J.‐S. , Lee S.‐K. , Park S.‐J. , Min S.‐K. , Kim E.‐C.
Published: July 2009

Background:  Although N1‐guanyl‐1,7,‐diamineoheptane (GC7), an inhibitor of deoxyhypusine synthase, has been shown to inhibit cell growth, the mechanism of its action is not completely understood. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of the effects of GC7 on cell growth, differentiation and apoptosis in relation to adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation, as AMPK is known to be a possible target for cancer treatment.

Methods:  The effects of GC7 on the growth of immortalized human oral keratinocytes (IHOK) and primary oral cancer cells (HN4), was investigated using MTT assay, Western blotting, cell cycle analysis, DNA fragmentation and expression of apoptotic pathway proteins.

Results:  N1‐guanyl‐1,7,‐diamineoheptane inhibited cell proliferation in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner in IHOK and HN4 cells. GC7 treatment decreased the expression of differentiation markers, such as involucrin, CK13 and CK19. The major mechanism of growth inhibition by GC7 treatment was induction of apoptosis, which is supported by sub‐G1 phase arrest, annexin V‐FITC staining and DNA fragmentation analysis. GC7 treatment increased the cytosolic level of cytochrome c and resulted in caspase‐3 activation. GC7 treatment also resulted in a strong activation of AMPK. Furthermore, specific AMPK activator blocked the GC7‐induced growth inhibition effect, as well as apoptosis.

Conclusion:  These results demonstrate that GC7 blocks immortalized and malignant keratinocyte cell proliferation and differentiation by inducing apoptosis through the mitochondrial and AMPK pathways. On the basis of these observations, we propose that a strategy combining GC7 and AMPK inhibition could be developed into a novel chemotherapeutic modality in oral cancer.
HCMV‐Encoded Glycoprotein M (UL100) Interacts with Rab11 Effector Protein FIP4
Authors: Krzyzaniak Magdalena A. , Mach Michael , Britt William J.
Published: July 2009

The envelope of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) consists of a large number of glycoproteins. The most abundant glycoprotein in the HCMV envelope is the glycoprotein M (UL100), which together with glycoprotein N (UL73) form the gM/gN protein complex. Using yeast two‐hybrid screening, we found that the gM carboxy‐terminal cytoplasmic tail (gM‐CT) interacts with FIP4, a Rab11‐GTPase effector protein. Depletion of FIP4 expression in HCMV‐infected cells resulted in a decrease in infectious virus production that was also associated with an alteration of the HCMV assembly compartment (AC) phenotype. A similar phenotype was also observed in HCMV‐infected cells that expressed dominant negative Rab11(S25N). Recently, it has been shown that FIP4 interactions with Rab11 and additionally with Arf6/Arf5 are important for the vesicular transport of proteins in the endosomal recycling compartment (ERC) and during cytokinesis. Surprisingly, FIP4 interaction with gM‐CT limited binding of FIP4 with Arf5/Arf6; however, FIP4 interaction with gM‐CT did not prevent recruitment of Rab11 into the ternary complex. These data argued for a contribution of the ERC during cytoplasmic envelopment of HCMV and showed a novel FIP4 function independent of Arf5 or Arf6 activity.
Most very low birth weight subjects do well as adults
Authors: Gäddlin P‐O , Finnström O , Sydsjö G , Leijon I
Published: July 2009

Aim:  To study health, quality of life, educational level and occupation in very low birth weight (VLBW) children in early adulthood and the relationship of the findings to neonatal risk factors and later handicap.

Methods:  This is a prospective long‐term follow‐up study of a regional cohort of 20‐year‐old VLBW subjects (n = 77) of all surviving VLBW children (n = 86) and 69/86 term controls born in 1987–1988 in the south‐east of Sweden. Postal questionnaires were used: 1. A study‐specific form, 2. Medical Outcomes Study, Short Form (SF‐36), 3. Sense of Coherence.

Results:  VLBW subjects did not differ significantly from their controls in self‐perceived health, use of tobacco, education, occupation and way of living, or scoring on SF‐36 and Sense of Coherence. Sixteen had cerebral palsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or isolated mental retardation, and these subjects differed significantly from controls on SF‐36 in physical functioning and physical health score, but not on Sense of Coherence. VLBW subjects were significantly lighter and shorter than their controls. Extremely low birth weight (ELBW), bronchopulmonary dysplasia and intraventricular haemorrhage were significantly associated with poorer scores on physical function.

Conclusion:  The 20‐year old VLBW subjects reported perceived health and managed transition to adulthood similar to controls. Handicapped subjects had poorer self‐perceived physical function. ELBW and severe neonatal complications were associated with poorer self‐perceived physical health.
The paediatrician – past, present and future – a conversation with Nils Rosén von Rosenstein
Authors: Kjellmer Ingemar
Published: July 2009

An imagined conversation takes place with the author of the first textbook of Paediatrics, Nils Rosén von Rosenstein. Enormous progress in the prevention and treatment of diseases of children is demonstrated. But a different spectrum of diseases has replaced the old one. And in spite of unprecedented material well‐being a substantial minority of our children cannot make full use of their capabilities.

Conclusion:  We must resume the full responsibility for our children and act as their advocates in society.
Applying a continua landscape approach to evaluate plant response to fragmentation: Primula vulgaris in the Cantabrian mountains
Authors: Valdés Alicia , García Daniel
Published: July 2009

Question: Continua landscape approaches conceptualize the effects of habitat fragmentation on the biota by considering fragmented landscapes as continuous gradients, departing from the view of habitat as either suitable (fragment) or unsuitable (matrix). They also consider the ecological gradients or the ‘Umwelt’ (species‐specific perception of the landscape) to represent the processes that ultimately limit organisms' ability to colonize and persist within habitat remnants. Are these approaches suitable for evaluating the response of plant species to fragmentation?

Location: Fragmented mid‐elevation temperate forests, Cantabrian range, Spain.

Methods: The presence, abundance and demographic structure of populations of the perennial herb Primula vulgaris were sampled across a continuous extent of 100 ha, subdivided into 400 50 m × 50 m sampling units. These variables were related to forest availability, forest subdivision and edge density, topography and the spatial clumpiness of populations (a measure of plant dispersal constraints and, hence, a major surrogate of plant Umwelt).

Results: Fragmentation processes, especially habitat loss, negatively affect P. vulgaris, with a stronger effect on presence than on abundance and demography. Despite the importance of habitat availability, P. vulgaris does not occupy all potentially suitable forest habitat, mostly owing to dispersal constraints. A positive effect of slope on plant presence also suggests some effect of habitat quality in determining establishment and occupancy of forest landscape.

Conclusions: Within‐habitat dispersal constraints are as important as forest fragmentation in determining the landscape‐scale distribution of P. vulgaris. By assessing the relative role of the diverse fragmentation processes, and of the species' landscape perception, a continua landscape approach proves to be a valuable tool for predicting plant response to landscape change.
Investigation of Gibbs sampling conditions to estimate variance components from Japanese Black carcass field data
Authors: ARAKAWA Aisaku , IWAISAKI Hiroaki , ANADA Katsuhito
Published: July 2009

The genetic evaluation using the carcass field data in Japanese Black cattle has been carried out employing an animal model, implementing the restricted maximum likelihood (REML) estimation of additive genetic and residual variances. Because of rapidly increasing volumes of the official data sets and therefore larger memory spaces required, an alternative approach like the REML estimation could be useful. The purpose of this study was to investigate Gibbs sampling conditions for the single‐trait variance component estimation using the carcass field data. As prior distributions, uniform and normal distributions and independent scaled inverted chi‐square distributions were used for macro‐environmental effects, breeding values, and the variance components, respectively. Using the data sets of different sizes, the influences of Gibbs chain length and thinning interval were investigated, after the burn‐in period was determined using the coupling method. As would be expected, the chain lengths had obviously larger effects on the posterior means than those of thinning intervals. The posterior means calculated using every 10th sample from 90 000 of samples after 10 000 samples discarded as burn‐in period were all considered to be reasonably comparable to the corresponding estimates by REML.
Genetic diversity of growth hormone receptor gene in cattle
Authors: LIN Bang Zhong , SASAZAKI Shinji , LEE June Heon , MANNEN Hideyuki
Published: July 2009

Growth hormone receptor (GHR) belongs to a member of the cytokine receptor superfamily. Polymorphism of presence or absence of an approximately 1.2 kbp LINE‐1 element is observed in bovine GHR gene. The present study was carried out for estimating the genetic diversity and the origin of the LINE‐1 element in 10 European, Southeastern Asian and East Asian cattle breeds or populations. Genotyping of the LINE‐1 revealed predominant LINE‐1 presence in European breeds (0.917∼0.991), absence in the Bos taurus indicus populations (0.000∼0.017), and intermediate presence in Northeast Asian cattle (0.417∼0.522). From genetic features of LINE families, LINE‐1 of GHR could be attributed to the same origin in both European and Asian cattle, and Asian LINE‐1 may not be derived from recent introgression. This result suggested that LINE‐1 in bovine GHR gene could have arisen in an ancestral population of Bos taurus taurus.
Balanced versus Unbalanced Psychological Contracts in Temporary and Permanent Employment: Associations with Employee Attitudes
Authors: Jong Jeroen de , Schalk René , de Cuyper Nele
Published: July 2009

This study concerns balance in exchange relationships as described in the psychological contract literature about employees’ and employers’ promises and fulfilment of these promises. Balance is investigated, firstly, in relation to temporary versus permanent employment and, secondly, in relation to employees’ attitudes (fairness, job satisfaction, and intention to quit). Analyses were based on a Dutch sample of 290 temporary and 489 permanent workers. Regarding balance in mutual promises, we found that temporary workers were more likely to have psychological contracts with few mutual promises than permanent workers, while permanent workers were more likely to have psychological contracts with many mutual promises compared to temporary workers. Regarding balance in the fulfilment of promises, we found the opposite pattern, namely, that fulfilment was higher in temporary workers compared to permanent workers. Furthermore, only mutual high fulfilment of promises was associated with higher job satisfaction and fairness and with lower intentions to quit.
The Development and Pilot Testing of an Instrument to Measure Nurses’ Working Environment: The Nursing Context Index
Authors: Slater Paul , McCormack Brendan , Bunting Brendan
Published: July 2009

Background: Evidence shows that adopting a person‐centered approach to nursing alters the work environment, reduces anxiety levels among nurses in the long term, promotes teamwork among staff, and increases job satisfaction. However, few studies have attempted to quantify the outcomes from the adoption of person‐centered nursing. The lack of outcome measurement is in part influenced by the lack of a standardized instrument to measure person‐centered nursing.

Aims: The aim of this study was to develop an instrument (the Nursing Context Index) to inform the development of person‐centered nursing and outcomes arising.

Methods: The Nursing Context Index (NCI) was developed through three stages. Stage 1 involved a systematic literature review to identify the key characteristics that needed to be considered in the instrument. Stage 2 involved the identification and selection of items for inclusion in the instrument identified through focus group discussions. A 19‐construct instrument was developed. Face validity and content validity were gauged. In Stage 3, a pilot study (n = 23) was conducted to test the instrument. Measures of internal consistency were ensured using Cronbach's alpha. Criterion‐related validity of the instrument was ensured through comparison between factors contained in the instrument.

Results: Findings show that the NCI is an accurate representation of the factors influenced by a clinical setting's progression to person‐centered nursing. The factors were deemed appropriate to the clinical settings, and possessed face and content validity. Initial statistical findings confirm the validity and usability of the NCI.

Implications and Conclusions: The process used for the development and testing of the instrument was found to be effective. The NCI was deemed to be an effective measure of factors influenced by the implementation of person‐centered nursing and would help in redressing a scarcity of quantitative evidence to examine the benefits of nurses working in a person‐centered manner.
“Insufficient Evidence of Effectiveness” Is Not “Evidence of No Effectiveness:” Evaluating Computer‐Based Education for Patients with Severe Mental Illness
Authors: Stoltz Peter , Skärsäter Ingela , Willman Ania
Published: July 2009

Rationale: This article reports on commissioned research funded by the Swedish Council of Technology Assessment in Health Care (SBU) and the Swedish Nursing Society (SSF). The objective was to review computer‐based education programs. However, as the review produced insufficient evidence of effectiveness, the publication was withheld due to a previous incident where such evidence was misunderstood by Swedish policy and health care decision makers.

Aims: This article highlights the concept of evidence with regard to the consequences of insufficient evidence of effectiveness being mistaken for evidence of no effectiveness. The aim is also to present a systematic review evaluating a computer‐based education program for patients suffering from severe mental illness.

Methods: Systematic database searches in Medline, CINAHL, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library identified a total of 131 potentially relevant references. Thereafter, 27 references were retrieved as full‐text documents, of which 5 were finally included and co‐reviewed by two independent researchers.

Findings: The review found no decisive evidence of effectiveness regarding computer‐based education programs designed to assist persons suffering from severe mental illness.

Implications for Practice and Policy: Failing to see the difference between insufficient evidence and evidence of no effectiveness may have unexpected consequences. As a result, practice may be misguided and treatments withheld, which at worse may have harmful consequences for patients. In the end, it is of utmost importance that researchers do good quality research by ensuring statistical power and quality of outcome measurement. For example, this review of computer‐based education programs could have revealed effective ways of dealing with severe mental illness if the studies included had been conducted using more sophisticated designs.
Macrocypins, a family of cysteine protease inhibitors from the basidiomycete Macrolepiota procera
Authors: Sabotič Jerica , Popovič Tatjana , Puizdar Vida , Brzin Jože
Published: July 2009

A new family of cysteine protease inhibitors from the basidiomycete Macrolepiota procera has been identified and the family members have been termed macrocypins. These macrocypins are encoded by a family of genes that is divided into five groups with more than 90% within‐group sequence identity and 75–86% between‐group sequence identity. Several differences in the promoter and noncoding sequences suggest regulation of macrocypin expression at different levels. High yields of three different recombinant macrocypins were produced by bacterial expression. The sequence diversity was shown to affect the inhibitory activity of macrocypins, the heterologously expressed macrocypins belonging to different groups showing differences in their inhibitory profiles. Macrocypins are effective inhibitors of papain and cysteine cathepsin endopeptidases, and also inhibit cathepsins B and H, which exhibit both exopeptidase and endopeptidase activities. The cysteine protease legumain is inhibited by macrocypins with the exception of one representative that exhibits, instead, a weak inhibition of serine protease trypsin. Macrocypins exhibit similar basic biochemical characteristics, stability against high temperature and extremes of pH, and inhibitory profiles similar to those of clitocypin from Clitocybe nebularis, the sole representative of the I48 protease inhibitor family in the merops database. This suggests that they belong to the same merops family of cysteine protease inhibitors, the mycocypins, and substantiates the establishment of the I48 protease inhibitor family.
Dissecting the role of the N‐terminal metal‐binding domains in activating the yeast copper ATPase in vivo
Authors: Morin Isabelle , Gudin Simon , Mintz Elisabeth , Cuillel Martine
Published: July 2009

In yeast, copper delivery to the trans‐Golgi network involves interactions between the metallo‐chaperone Atx1 and the N‐terminus of Ccc2, the P‐type ATPase responsible for copper transport across trans‐Golgi network membranes. Disruption of the Atx1–Ccc2 route leads to cell growth arrest in a copper‐and‐iron‐limited medium, a phenotype allowing complementation studies. Coexpression of Atx1 and Ccc2 mutants in an atx1Δccc2Δ strain allowed us to study in vivo Atx1–Ccc2 and intra‐Ccc2 domain–domain interactions, leading to active copper transfer into the trans‐Golgi network. The Ccc2 N‐terminus encloses two copper‐binding domains, M1 and M2. We show that in vivo Atx1–M1 or Atx1–M2 interactions activate Ccc2. M1 or M2, expressed in place of the metallo‐chaperone Atx1, were not as efficient as Atx1 in delivering copper to the Ccc2 N‐terminus. However, when the Ccc2 N‐terminus was truncated, these independent metal‐binding domains behaved like functional metallo‐chaperones in delivering copper to another copper‐binding site in Ccc2 whose identity is still unknown. Therefore, we provide evidence of a dual role for the Ccc2 N‐terminus, namely to receive copper from Atx1 and to convey copper to another domain of Ccc2, thereby activating the ATPase. At variance with their prokaryotic homologues, Atx1 did not activate the Ccc2‐derived ATPase lacking its N‐terminus.
Regulation of cathepsin B activity by 2A2 monoclonal antibody
Authors: Mirković Bojana , Premzl Aleš , Hodnik Vesna , Doljak Bojan , Jevnikar Zala , Anderluh Gregor , Kos Janko
Published: July 2009

Cathepsin B (EC 3.4.22.1) is a lysosomal cysteine protease with both endopeptidase and exopeptidase activity. The former is associated with the degradation of the extracellular matrix proteins, which is a process required for tumour cell invasion and metastasis. In the present study, we show that 2A2 monoclonal antibody, raised by our group, is able to regulate cathepsin B activity. The EPGYSP sequence, located between amino acid residues 133–138 of cathepsin B in the proximity of the occluding loop, was determined to be the epitope for 2A2 monoclonal antibody using SPOT analysis. By surface plasmon resonance, an equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd) of 4.7 nm was determined for the interaction between the nonapeptide CIAEPGYSP, containing the epitope sequence, and 2A2 monoclonal antibody. 2A2 monoclonal antibody potentiated cathepsin B exopeptidase activity with a activation constant (Ka) of 22.3 nm, although simultaneously inhibiting its endopeptidase activity. The median inhibitory concentration values for the inhibition of hydrolysis of protein substrates, BODIPY FL casein and DQ‐collagen IV were 761 and 702 nm, respectively. As observed by native gel electrophoresis and gel filtration, the binding of 2A2 monoclonal antibody to the cathepsin B/cystatin C complex caused the dissociation of cystatin C from the complex. The results obtained in the present study suggest that, upon binding, the 2A2 monoclonal antibody induces a conformational change in cathepsin B, stabilizing its exopeptidase conformation and thus disabling its harmful action associated with its endopeptidase activity.
Modeling of tRNA‐assisted mechanism of Arg activation based on a structure of Arg‐tRNA synthetase, tRNA, and an ATP analog (ANP)
Authors: Konno Michiko , Sumida Tomomi , Uchikawa Emiko , Mori Yukie , Yanagisawa Tatsuo , Sekine Shun‐ichi , Yokoyama Shigeuki
Published: July 2009

The ATP–pyrophosphate exchange reaction catalyzed by Arg‐tRNA, Gln‐tRNA and Glu‐tRNA synthetases requires the assistance of the cognate tRNA. tRNA also assists Arg‐tRNA synthetase in catalyzing the pyrophosphorolysis of synthetic Arg‐AMP at low pH. The mechanism by which the 3′‐end A76, and in particular its hydroxyl group, of the cognate tRNA is involved with the exchange reaction catalyzed by those enzymes has yet to be established. We determined a crystal structure of a complex of Arg‐tRNA synthetase from Pyrococcus horikoshii, tRNAArgCCU and an ATP analog with Rfactor = 0.213 (Rfree = 0.253) at 2.0 Å resolution. On the basis of newly obtained structural information about the position of ATP bound on the enzyme, we constructed a structural model for a mechanism in which the formation of a hydrogen bond between the 2′‐OH group of A76 of tRNA and the carboxyl group of Arg induces both formation of Arg‐AMP (Arg + ATP → Arg‐AMP + pyrophosphate) and pyrophosphorolysis of Arg‐AMP (Arg‐AMP + pyrophosphate → Arg + ATP) at low pH. Furthermore, we obtained a structural model of the molecular mechanism for the Arg‐tRNA synthetase‐catalyzed deacylation of Arg‐tRNA (Arg‐tRNA + AMP → Arg‐AMP + tRNA at high pH), in which the deacylation of aminoacyl‐tRNA bound on Arg‐tRNA synthetase and Glu‐tRNA synthetase is catalyzed by a quite similar mechanism, whereby the proton‐donating group (–NH–C+(NH2)2 or –COOH) of Arg and Glu assists the aminoacyl transfer from the 2′‐OH group of tRNA to the phosphate group of AMP at high pH.
Continuing Medical Education: Incision and Grafting for Severe Peyronie’s Disease (CME)
Authors: Richardson Brian , Pinsky Michael R. , Hellstrom Wayne J.G.
Published: July 2009

Background

Peyronie’s Disease is a wound healing disorder involving growth of fibrous plaques in the tunica albuginea, and often results in abnormal penile curvature and subsequent development of erectile dysfunction. A 59-year-old man with a history of untreated penile trauma who presented with a 6-year history of worsening penile curvature that interfered with sexual functioning and resulted in associated erectile dysfunction.

Methods

The patient’s Peyronie’s Disease was evaluated in clinic with a focused physical exam and a penile vasculature study using a color duplex Doppler ultrasound. Since the patient did not have proper insurance coverage for an inflatable penile prosthesis, but did have normal arterial flow with only boderline veno-occlusive disease, he instead underwent an incision and grafting procedure. After degloving the penis, a lateral approach parallel to the corpus spongiosum was used to enter Buck’s fascia and isolate the neurovascular bundles. The fibrous plaque was incised with a residual tunical defect of 4 × 5 cm, and covered with a pericardial graft.

Results

Preoperatively, artificially induced erection during the patient’s Doppler study demonstrated dorsal curvature greater than 80 degrees. Intraoperatively, after completing the incision and grafting procedure, artificial erection demonstrated minimal (less than 15 degrees) residual curvature. At his 1-week postoperative visit, he reported spontaneous erections and minimal pain. One month postoperatively, his incisions were well healed and an artificially induced erection continued to demonstrate minimal curvature.

Discussion

Management of severe Peyronie’s Disease with significant penile curvature is a challenging clinical problem. In extreme cases, placement of an inflatable penile prosthesis with ancillary techniques usually gives the best clinical outcome. Although more difficult to execute in severe cases, incision and grafting represents an acceptable alternative in the appropriately selected patient.
THE EFFECT OF DIFFERENT SUBSTRATES AND PROCESSING CONDITIONS ON THE TEXTURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF BACTERIAL CELLULOSE (NATA) PRODUCED BY ACETOBACTER XYLINUM*
Authors: JAGANNATH A. , MANJUNATHA S.S. , RAVI N. , RAJU P.S.
Published: July 2009

Bacterial cellulose (nata) produced by Acetobacter xylinum on different substrates like tomato juice, pineapple juice, pineapple wastes, tender coconut water and microbial undefined media was compared for textural properties. Different processing conditions typical to the manufacture of nata were also studied using three instrumental texture analyses, viz., puncture test, measurement of shear and texture profile analysis (TPA). Different processing conditions significantly (P < 0.05) influenced the water holding capacity of nata, while no effect of substrates was indicated. The moisture content was neither affected by processing conditions nor by various substrates. In the puncture test, significant effect of both substrates and processing conditions on all the puncture test parameters was seen at 3 mm probe penetration depths, while processing conditions did not significantly influence any of the studied puncture parameters at 1 and 2 mm penetration depths. Shearing stress and shearing energy (area under the curve) were affected only as a function of different substrates and not of processing conditions. TPA indicated significant effect of both the substrates and the processing conditions on all the textural attributes studied.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The work is a beginning to understand the textural properties of a novel product like nata and will help in setting standards and specifications for good‐quality nata with superior textural properties.
Clients' strict liability towards victims of sex-trafficking
Authors: Keren-Paz Tsachi , Levenkron Nomi
Published: July 2009

In this paper, we argue that clients who purchase commercial sex from victims of forced prostitution should be strictly liable in torts towards the victims. Such an approach is both normatively defensible and doctrinally feasible. Fairness and equality demand that clients would compensate victims, even if one refuses to acknowledge that purchasing sex from a prostitute who might be a victim is a faulty behaviour. Clients profit from the activity of purchasing commercial sex, so fairness demands they will bear the costs they impose on victims who are unable to refuse the contact. Strict liability will bring about desirable distributive results along the lines of sex, class and race. Imposing strict liability will ensure consistency of the English law of trespass and it is supported by several instrumental considerations.

Such strict liability could be grounded in battery, despite the appearance of apparent consent by the victim to sell sexual services to the client. This is so for two main reasons. First, the extreme coercion operated on the victim renders her consent void so that an innocent third party cannot rely on the appearance of consent. Secondly, the client should be considered as having constructive notice with respect to the trafficker's coercion. Our argument is supported by – but does not hinge upon accepting – the insight that the client's behaviour is ultimately faulty.
Turbidity and Protein Aggregation in Whey Protein Beverages
Authors: LaClair Caitlin E. , Etzel Mark R.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT:  During storage of heat‐treated acidic (pH ≤ 4.6) whey protein beverages, formation of protein aggregates can create undesirable turbidity and sedimentation. In this study, we found that a slow protein aggregation process controlled the rate of formation of sediment and turbidity. A heat‐treated model beverage containing 12.5 g/L whey protein at a pH of 4 was stored for 6 wk at 3 different storage temperatures and analyzed for turbidity, soluble protein, and protein aggregates. One sample was stored without further treatment and the other sample was filtered to remove protein aggregates formed during heating. This was done to test the hypothesis that aggregates formed during heat treatment served as nuclei for deposition of soluble protein. Turbidity increased and soluble protein decreased as protein aggregates formed during storage. Increasing the storage temperature accelerated this process. The loss of soluble protein during storage was fit to first‐ and second‐order kinetic equations, allowing the prediction of the effect of protein concentration, storage time, and storage temperature on the formation of protein aggregates.