bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of 11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase (11βHSD) Activity Biomarkers and Pharmacokinetics of PF-00915275, a Selective 11βHSD1 Inhibitor
Authors: Courtney Rachel , Stewart Paul M. , Toh Melvin , Ndongo Marie-Noella , Calle Roberto A. , Hirshberg Boaz
Published: November 2007

Context: 11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11βHSD1) is a promising target for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. 11βHSD1 catalyzes the intracrine conversion of inactive cortisone to the active glucocorticoid cortisol.

Objective: Demonstrating inhibition of 11βHSD1 is challenging because there is no accessible way to directly assess the enzyme activity in vivo. Thus, it was proposed to assess the enzyme activity, in an indirect fashion, using two biomarker methods: the prednisolone generation study (conversion of oral prednisone to prednisolone in plasma) and the ratio of cortisol and cortisone metabolites in urine.

Design: This was a phase 1, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, multiple-dose study.

Setting: The study was conducted in a clinical research unit.

Participants: Sixty healthy adult volunteers participated in the study.

Intervention: Oral doses of PF-00915275 (0.3–15 mg) and prednisone (10 mg) were administered during the study.

Main Outcome Measures: Safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of PF-00915275, a selective 11βHSD1 inhibitor, were measured.

Results: Overall, multiple oral doses of PF-00915275 were safe and well tolerated. After oral administration, PF-00915275 was rapidly absorbed, slowly eliminated, and generally displayed dose-proportional increases in exposure. At the 15-mg dose, mean exposure to prednisolone was reduced by 37%, and there was a dose-dependent fall in the 5α-tetrahydrocortisol + 5β-tetrahydrocortisol to tetrahydrocortisone ratio with maximum inhibition of 26% after 14 d. The urinary free cortisol to urinary free cortisone ratio, an indicator of 11βHSD2 inhibition, did not change.

Conclusion: PF-00915275 was safe at all doses tested. The results of the prednisolone generation test and the urinary metabolite ratios confirm that PF-00915275 is a selective 11βHSD1 inhibitor.
Prevalence of Potential Medication Problems Among Dually Eligible Older Adults in Medicaid Waiver Services
Authors: Alkema Gretchen E , Wilber Kathleen H , Simmons W June , Enguidanos Susan M , Frey Dennee
Published: November 2007

Background:

Methods for identifying potential medication problems among older adults at risk for nursing home placement have generally not included clinical risk factors in addition to medication lists.

Objective:

To assess the prevalence of potential medication problems for older adults enrolled in a Medicaid waiver service using tested Home Health Criteria that combine medication use and clinical risk factors for screening drug regimens.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey screened 615 community-dwelling, dually eligible, functionally impaired adults aged 65 years and older enrolled in a Medi-Cal (California's Medicaid) waiver care management program, California's Multipurpose Senior Services Program (MSSP). Measures included prevalence and predictors of having 1 of 4 potential medication problems: unnecessary therapeutic duplication, use of psychotropic drugs with concurrent falls or confusion, cardiovascular medication problems, and use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs with risk of peptic ulcer complications.

Results:

Forty-nine percent of the sample had a potential medication problem, with unnecessary therapeutic duplication being most prevalent (24%). Nearly 20% of patients screened had 2 or more potential problems. Independent predictors of any potential medication problem were age (OR 1.029; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.05), new MSSP enrollment (OR 1.634; 95% CI 1.14 to 2.35), and number of medications (OR 1.183; 95% CI 1.13 to 1.24).

Conclusions:

Prevalence of potential medication problems in MSSP was markedly higher than reported in the original home healthcare sample used to test the Home Health Criteria. The prevalence rate for older adults at risk for nursing home placement necessitates expanded screening and medication therapy management interventions, especially upon initial enrollment and for those taking multiple medications. Interventions are needed to increase medication problem identification and resolution while promoting collaboration among physicians, consultant pharmacists, and waiver service providers.
Working With Sexual Issues in Systemic Therapy
Authors: Markovic Desa
Published: November 2007

This study investigates ways in which systemic psychotherapists address sexual issues. Qualitative data were collected through semi‐structured group and individual interviews and analysed using discourse analysis. Particular attention was paid to participants' accounts of the ‘resources’ they draw on and of perceived ‘constraints’ when approaching the subject of sex. Main findings indicate that systemic training and practice would benefit from greater inclusion of sexual issues to overcome current deficiencies in the field.
Circulating levels of osteoprotegerin and receptor activator of NF-κB ligand in patients with chronic renal failure
Authors: Shaarawy Mohamed , Fathy Shadia A. , Mehany Nagy L. , Hindy Odette W.
Published: October 2007

Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:1498–503.
Noradrenergic Modulation of Basolateral Amygdala Neuronal Activity: Opposing Influences of α-2 and β Receptor Activation
Authors: Buffalari Deanne M. , Grace Anthony A.
Published: November 2007

Substantial data exists demonstrating the importance of the amygdala and the locus ceruleus (LC) in responding to stress, aversive memory formation, and the development of stress-related disorders; however, little is known about the effects of norepinephrine (NE) on amygdala neuronal activityin vivo. The basolateral nucleus of the amygdala (BLA) receives dense NE projections from the LC, NE increases in the BLA in response to stress, and the BLA can also modulate the LC via reciprocal projections. These experiments examined the effects of noradrenergic agents on spontaneous and evoked responses of BLA neurons. NE iontophoresis inhibited spontaneous firing and decreased the responsiveness of BLA neurons to electrical stimulation of entorhinal cortex and sensory association cortex (Te3). Confirmed BLA projection neurons exhibited exclusively inhibitory responses to NE. Systemic administration of propranolol, a β-receptor antagonist, decreased the spontaneous firing rate and potentiated the NE-evoked inhibition of BLA neurons. In addition, iontophoresis of the α-2 agonist clonidine, footshock administration, and LC stimulation mimicked the effects of NE iontophoresis on spontaneous activity. Furthermore, the effects of LC stimulation were partially blocked by systemic administration of α 2 and β receptor antagonists. This is the first study to demonstrate the actions of directly applied and stimulus-evoked NE in the BLAin vivo, and provides a mechanism by which β receptors can mediate the important behavioral consequences of NE within the BLA. The interaction between these two structures is particularly relevant with regard to their known involvement in stress responses and stress-related disorders.
TheFGF14F145SMutation Disrupts the Interaction of FGF14 with Voltage-Gated Na+Channels and Impairs Neuronal Excitability
Authors: Laezza Fernanda , Gerber Benjamin R. , Lou Jun-Yang , Kozel Marie A. , Hartman Hali , Marie Craig Ann , Ornitz David M. , Nerbonne Jeanne M.
Published: October 2007

Fibroblast growth factor 14 (FGF14) belongs to the intracellular FGF homologous factor subfamily of FGF proteins (iFGFs) that are not secreted and do not activate tyrosine kinase receptors. The iFGFs, however, have been shown to interact with the pore-forming (α) subunits of voltage-gated Na+(Nav) channels. The neurological phenotypes seen inFgf14−/−mice and the identification of anFGF14missense mutation (FGF14F145S) in a Dutch family presenting with cognitive impairment and spinocerebellar ataxia suggest links between FGF14 and neuronal functioning. Here, we demonstrate that the expression of FGF14F145Sreduces Navα subunit expression at the axon initial segment, attenuates Navchannel currents, and reduces the excitability of hippocampal neurons. In addition, and in contrast with wild-type FGF14, FGF14F145Sdoes not interact directly with Navchannel α subunits. Rather, FGF14F145Sassociates with wild-type FGF14 and disrupts the interaction between wild-type FGF14 and Navα subunits, suggesting that the mutant FGF14F145Sprotein acts as a dominant negative, interfering with the interaction between wild-type FGF14 and Navchannel α subunits and altering neuronal excitability.
The Role of Kisspeptin–GPR54 Signaling in the Tonic Regulation and Surge Release of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone/Luteinizing Hormone
Authors: Dungan Heather M. , Gottsch Michelle L. , Zeng Hongkui , Gragerov Alexander , Bergmann John E. , Vassilatis Demetrios K. , Clifton Donald K. , Steiner Robert A.
Published: October 2007

TheKiss1gene codes for kisspeptin, which binds to GPR54, a G-protein-coupled receptor. Kisspeptin and GPR54 are expressed in discrete regions of the forebrain, and they have been implicated in the neuroendocrine regulation of reproduction.Kiss1-expressing neurons are thought to regulate the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and thus coordinate the estrous cycle in rodents; however, the precise role of kisspeptin–GPR54 signaling in the regulation of gonadotropin secretion is unknown. In this study, we used female mice with deletions in theGPR54gene [GPR54knock-outs (KOs)] to test the hypothesis that kisspeptin–GPR54 signaling provides the drive necessary for tonic GnRH/luteinizing hormone (LH) release. We predicted that tonic GnRH/LH secretion would be disrupted inGPR54KOs and that such animals would be incapable of showing a compensatory rise in LH secretion after ovariectomy. As predicted, we found thatGPR54KO mice do not exhibit a postovariectomy rise in LH, suggesting that tonic GnRH secretion is disrupted in the absence of kisspeptin–GPR54 signaling. We also postulated that kisspeptin–GPR54 signaling is critical for the generation of the estradiol (E)-induced GnRH/LH surge and thus E should be incapable of inducing an LH surge in the absence of GPR54. However, we found that E induced Fos expression in GnRH neurons and produced a GnRH-dependent LH surge inGPR54KOs. Thus, in mice, kisspeptin–GPR54 signaling is required for the tonic stimulation of GnRH/LH secretion but is not required for generating the E-induced GnRH/LH surge.
Connected Corticospinal Sites Show Enhanced Tuning Similarity at the Onset of Voluntary Action
Authors: Yanai Yuval , Adamit Nofya , Harel Ran , Israel Zvi , Prut Yifat
Published: November 2007

Corticospinal (CS) pathways provide the structural foundation for executing voluntary movements. Although the anatomy of these pathways is well explored, little is known about spinal decoding of parametric information transmitted via this route during voluntary movements. We addressed this question by simultaneously recording cortical and spinal activity in primates performing an isometric wrist task with multiple targets while measuring CS interactions. Single-pulse cortical stimulation effectively produced a short-latency (presumably monosynaptic) spinal response and thus revealed functionally connected CS sites. Spinal and cortical neurons recorded from connected CS sites showed alignment of directional-torque tuning that peaked at torque onset, consistent with the enhanced cortical drive active during this period. This increased tuning similarity was accompanied by an increased trial-to-trial covariability of firing. Whereas functional CS interactions were dynamic, the efficacy of cortical stimulation was unaffected by the motor state. These results suggest that around the onset of motor action there is a period of facilitated information transfer during which cortical command has greater efficacy in recruiting spinal neurons with matching tuning properties. Dynamic alignment of response properties may form the basis for a spinal readout mechanism of descending motor commands in which directional-torque is a parameter that is preserved across interacting CS sites.
Differential Effects of Long-Term Potentiation Evoked at the CA3–CA1 Synapse before, during, and after the Acquisition of Classical Eyeblink Conditioning in Behaving Mice
Authors: Madroñal Noelia , Delgado-García José M. , Gruart Agnès
Published: November 2007

Experimentally induced long-term potentiation (LTP) is a persistent increase in synaptic strength that decays across time. In contrast, changes in synaptic strength during actual learning are gradual processes that increase with training. We have studied here the effects of LTP evoked before, during, and after the acquisition of a well known associative learning paradigm: the classical eyeblink conditioning. We used a trace paradigm, with a tone as the conditioned stimulus (CS) and an electric shock presented to the supraorbital nerve as the unconditioned stimulus (US). A single electrical pulse was presented to the Schaffer collateral-commissural pathway to evoke field EPSPs (fEPSPs) during the CS–US interval. LTP induced by high-frequency stimulation of the Schaffer collaterals lasted for 6–10 d. When LTP was evoked before conditioning, animals were unable to acquire conditioned eyeblinks if the training started 8 d after LTP disappearance, and no change was detected in fEPSP evoked at the CA3–CA1 synapse during conditioning. In contrast, LTP-induced animals learned as did controls when the conditioning test was presented 20 d after LTP had decayed to baseline, and presented a normal increase in fEPSP slopes across conditioning. When evoked during the first two conditioning sessions, LTP prevented both eyeblink conditioning and fEPSP increase. Finally, LTP did not disrupt the normal performance of a recall test of a previously acquired eyeblink conditioning. In this latter experiment, both the LTP-induced potentiation of fEPSPs and their physiological potentiation decayed across time with a similar time constant, with no apparent effect on memory recall.
Diffusion Tensor Imaging Reliably Detects Experimental Traumatic Axonal Injury and Indicates Approximate Time of Injury
Authors: Mac Donald Christine L. , Dikranian Krikor , Bayly Philip , Holtzman David , Brody David
Published: October 2007

Traumatic axonal injury (TAI) may contribute greatly to neurological impairments after traumatic brain injury, but it is difficult to assess with conventional imaging. We quantitatively compared diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) signal abnormalities with histological and electron microscopic characteristics of pericontusional TAI in a mouse model. Two DTI parameters, relative anisotropy and axial diffusivity, were significantly reduced 6 h to 4 d after trauma, corresponding to relatively isolated axonal injury. One to 4 weeks after trauma, relative anisotropy remained decreased, whereas axial diffusivity “pseudo-normalized” and radial diffusivity increased. These changes corresponded to demyelination, edema, and persistent axonal injury. At every time point, DTI was more sensitive to injury than conventional magnetic resonance imaging, and relative anisotropy distinguished injured from control mice with no overlap between groups. Remarkably, DTI changes strongly predicted the approximate time since trauma. These results provide an important validation of DTI for pericontusional TAI and suggest novel clinical and forensic applications.
A “Consumer's Right” to Choose a Midwife: Shifting Meanings for Reproductive Rights under Neoliberalism
Authors: CRAVEN CHRISTA
Published: November 2007

The “right to choose” has long served as the ideological rallying cry for reproductive rights activists. Yet critical attention to the social, political, and economic conditions under which individuals make such choices has been central to anthropological research on reproduction. In the context of neoliberal public policy shifts that favor trust in the market to remedy all social and economic inequality, I explore how women's reproductive rights are becoming characterized by one's ability to consume uneven reproductive “choices.” Based on my ethnographic fieldwork with midwifery supporters in Virginia, I examine how organizers have begun to utilize “consumer rights” rhetoric in their struggle for legal access to midwives. One often‐unintended result has been intensified divisions within this movement, particularly as low‐income “homebirthers” feel unable to claim the identity of “consumer.” I use Virginia as a case study to raise broader questions about women's shifting strategies toward securing reproductive rights under neoliberalism.
Preparation and characterization of mesoporous ceria–zirconia–alumina nanocomposite with high hydrothermal stability
Authors: Zahir Md. Hasan , Ikuhara Yumi H. , Fujisaki Shinji , Sato Koji , Nagano Takayuki , Iwamoto Yuji
Published: October 2007

CeO2–ZrO2–γ-Al2O3mixed oxides with different molar compositions have been synthesized by the sol-gel method using nitrate–alkoxide precursors. Some relationships between the molar composition of the ternary systems and their textural and structural properties are presented. CeO2–ZrO2–γ-Al2O3mixed oxides have been studied and characterized using x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopic analyses. By complete porosity analyses of all samples before and after hydrothermal (up to 75% steam) treatment at 500 °C, we have been able to optimize a highly hydrothermally stable CeO2–ZrO2–γ-Al2O3system with a molar ratio of 10:10:80 mol%. γ-Al2O3alone and CeO2-doped as well as ZrO2-doped γ-Al2O3were also investigated by the hydrothermal treatment, and their steam-sensitive properties have been compared with those of the ternary CeO2–ZrO2–γ-Al2O3system.
‘Secularisation’ and ‘Religion’ as Zombie Categories?
Authors: Possamai Adam M.
Published: November 2007

David Martin, On Secularization: Towards a Revised General Theory. Ashgate, Aldershot, UK, 2005, 206pp.
 
Régis Debray, Les communions humaines. Pour en finir avec la ‘religion’ [Human communion. For an ending to ‘Religion’]. Fayard, Paris, 2005, 159pp.
 
Kim Knott, The Location of Religion: A Spatial Analysis. Equinox, London, 2005, 264pp.
Identifying and Coping with Balance Sheet Differences: A Comparative Analysis of U.S., Chinese, and French Oil and Gas Firms Using the “Statement of Financial Structure”
Authors: Ding Yuan , Entwistle Gary M. , Stolowy Hervé
Published: November 2007

In a globalized business world it is often necessary to compare companies across national boundaries. This comparison often includes an examination of financial statements. While the harmonization of accounting standards continues to progress, there still remain differences in how accounting information is reported between companies located in different countries, especially with regard to the format used to present the balance sheet. It is consequently important that students be able to both identify these differences, and have a method for coping with them. Using three oil and gas firms from three different countries (Exxon in the United States, Sinopec in China, and Total in France), this paper provides a setting for students to identify differences in balance sheet formats across countries. The paper then introduces a standardizing model—the Statement of Financial Structure—that enables students to cope with these differences. In working with this Statement, students develop their financial analysis skills. In particular, the concept of working capital is reinforced, as is the importance of understanding the local business environment in order to interpret the numbers and ratios within the proper context.
Curvature Versus V-Bends in a Group B Titanium T-Loop Spring
Authors: Martins Renato Parsekian , Buschang Peter H. , Viecilli Rodrigo , dos Santos-Pinto Ary
Published: November 2007

Objective: To compare the system of forces acting on curvature and preactivated V-bends in titanium T-loop springs (TTLSs) made of 0.017- × 0.025-inch TMA (titanium molibdenium alloy) wire.

Materials and Methods: Pictures of TTLSs preactivated by curvature and V-bends were inserted in the LOOP software program to design both TTLSs. Symmetry was assured using the program. Both TTLSs used the same amount (length) of wire and had the same angulation between their anterior and posterior extremities when passive. The loops were activated 7 mm, and forces and moments were registered after each 0.5 mm of deactivation. The brackets were at the same height, separated by 23 mm and angulated 0°.

Results: The preactivated curvature TTLS delivered horizontal forces ranging from 34 gF to 456 gF, while the TTLS preactivated by V-bends delivered forces ranging from 54 gF to 517 gF. The forces decreased more (30 gF vs 33 gF) with every 0.5 mm of activation on the preactivated V-bend TTLS than on the preactivated curvature TTLS. Vertical forces were low and clinically insignificant for both TTLSs. The moment to force (MF) ratios were systematically higher on the preactivated curvature than on the preactivated V-bend TTLS (from 5.8 mm to 38.8 mm vs 4.7 mm to 28.3 mm).

Conclusions: Although both loops show symmetrical moments in their anterior and posterior extremities and can be used for group B anchorage, the curvature preactivated TTLS delivers lower horizontal forces and higher MF ratios than the acute preactivated V-bend TTLS.
Impacts on Daily Performances Related to Wearing Orthodontic Appliances
Authors: Bernabé Eduardo , Sheiham Aubrey , de Oliveira Cesar Messias
Published: November 2007

Objective: To assess the prevalence, intensity, and extent of the impacts on daily performances related to wearing different types of orthodontic appliances.

Materials and Methods: A total of 1657 students, 15 to 16 years old, were randomly selected from those attending all secondary schools in Bauru, São Paulo, Brazil. Only those wearing orthodontic appliances at the time of the survey were included. Face-to-face structured interviews were done to collect information about impacts on quality of life related to wearing orthodontic appliances, using the Oral Impact on Daily Performances (OIDP). Adolescents were also clinically examined to assess the type of orthodontic appliance they were wearing. Comparisons, by type of orthodontic appliance and covariables, were performed using nonparametric statistical tests.

Results: Three hundred fifty-seven adolescents (36.1% boys and 63.9% girls) undergoing orthodontic treatment participated in the study. The prevalence of condition-specific impacts related to wearing orthodontic appliances was 22.7%. Among adolescents with impacts related to wearing orthodontic appliances, 35.8% reported impacts of severe or very severe intensity and 90.1% reported impacts on only one daily performance, commonly eating or speaking. The prevalence, but not the intensity or the extent, of condition-specific impacts differed by type of orthodontic appliance (P = .001).

Conclusions: One in four Brazilian adolescents undergoing orthodontic treatment reported side effects, specific impacts on daily living, related to wearing orthodontic appliances. Such impacts were higher among adolescents wearing fixed rather than removable or a combination of fixed and removable orthodontic appliances. This information could help to inform patients about the frequency and intensity of sociodental impacts during the course of their treatment.
Force Magnitude and Duration Effects on Amount of Tooth Movement and Root Resorption in the Rat Molar
Authors: Gonzales Carmen , Hotokezaka Hitoshi , Yoshimatsu Masako , Yozgatian Joseph H. , Darendeliler M. Ali , Yoshida Noriaki
Published: November 2007

Objective: To test the hypothesis that there is no difference in the effect of different continuous moderate to very heavy forces on root resorption or amount of tooth movement.

Materials and Methods: In the study, 10, 25, 50 and 100 g mesial force were applied to the maxillary first molars of rat using nickel titanium closed-coil springs for 3 days, 14 days, and 28 days. The molars were extracted and the surface areas of the root resorption craters were measured using scanning electron microscope. The depths of the root resorption craters were measured using a three-dimensional laser scanning microscope. Tooth movement of the maxillary first molar was measured in relation to the maxillary second molar on digitized lateral cephalometric radiographs.

Results: Three days after force application, the tooth movement was not proportionally related to force magnitude. However, 14 days of force application resulted in significantly more tooth movement in the 10, 25, and 50 g force groups than in the 100 g force group. A force application of 10 g produced significantly more tooth movement at 28 days than all the other three force applications. The largest and deepest resorption craters were observed in the disto-buccal root followed by disto-palatal, middle-buccal, middle-palatal, and mesial root. Root resorption and tooth movement increased over time from 3 to 28 days. As heavier forces were applied, greater root resorption occurred.

Conclusion: The hypothesis is rejected. The light mesially oriented forces, as applied in this study, produced more tooth movement and less root resorption compared with heavier forces.
Results of the veterinary enalapril trial to prove reduction in onset of heart failure in dogs chronically treated with enalapril alone for compensated, naturally occurring mitral valve insufficiency
Authors: Atkins Clarke E. , Keene Bruce W. , Brown William A. , Coats Julie R. , Crawford Mary Ann , DeFrancesco Teresa C. , Edwards N. Joel , Fox Phillip R. , Lehmkuhl Linda B. , Luethy Michael W. , Meurs Kathryn M. , Petrie Jean-Paul , Pipers Frank S. , Rosenthal Steven L. , Sidley Jennifer A. , Straus Justin H.
Published: October 2007

Objective—To determine the efficacy of long-term enalapril administration in delaying the onset of congestive heart failure (CHF).

Design—Placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicenter, randomized trial.

Animals—124 dogs with compensated mitral valve regurgitation (MR).

Procedures—Dogs randomly assigned to receive enalapril or placebo were monitored for the primary endpoint of onset of CHF for ≤ 58 months. Secondary endpoints included time from study entry to the combined endpoint of CHF-all-cause death; number of dogs free of CHF at 500, 1,000, and 1,500 days; and mean number of CHF-free days.

Results—Kaplan-Meier estimates of the effect of enalapril on the primary endpoint did not reveal a significant treatment benefit. Chronic enalapril administration did have a significant benefit on the combined endpoint of CHF-all-cause death (benefit was 317 days [10.6 months]). Dogs receiving enalapril remained free of CHF for a significantly longer time than those receiving placebo and were significantly more likely to be free of CHF at day 500 and at study end.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Chronic enalapril treatment of dogs with naturally occurring, moderate to severe MR significantly delayed onset of CHF, compared with placebo, on the basis of number of CHF-free days, number of dogs free of CHF at days 500 and study end, and increased time to a combined secondary endpoint of CHF-all-cause death. Improvement in the primary endpoint, CHF-free survival, was not significant. Results suggest that enalapril modestly delays the onset of CHF in dogs with moderate to severe MR.
Long-term outcome of distal femoral osteotomy for treatment of combined distal femoral varus and medial patellar luxation: 12 cases (1999–2004)
Authors: Swiderski Jennifer K. , Palmer Ross H.
Published: October 2007

Objective—To determine long-term outcome of distal femoral osteotomy as a component of treatment for distal femoral varus and medial patellar luxation in large-breed dogs.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—12 dogs (16 stifle joints).

Procedures—Medical records and radiographs were reviewed to identify large-breed dogs with medial patellar luxation (grade ≥ 2) and femoral varus angle ≥ 12° treated with distal femoral osteotomy, with a minimum follow-up (by a veterinarian) of 18 months. Signalment, weight, medial patellar luxation and lameness grade, pre- and postoperative femoral varus angle, surgical technique, time to radiographic bone union, and complications were recorded. Follow-up with owners via questionnaire was performed > 18 months after surgery.

Results—16 corrective distal femoral osteotomies were performed with ancillary medial patellar luxation procedures in 12 dogs; 4 dogs had staged bilateral procedures. Mean ± SD preoperative and postoperative femoral varus angles were 16.3 ± 4.3° and 3.9 ± 2.5°, respectively. Mean ± SD time to radiographic union of the distal femoral osteotomy was 52.6 ± 13 days. One dog had Kirschner wire migration from the tibial tuberosity. Patellar luxation was not detected after surgery in any dog. Mean ± SD follow-up by a veterinarian was 1,335 ± 410 days and by use of an owner questionnaire was 1,497 ± 464 days. All 10 variables of owner-observed patient comfort and function were significantly improved.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Distal femoral osteotomy in combination with traditional treatment provided predictable osteotomy healing, patellar stabilization, and long-term improvement in patient comfort and function when used to treat combined distal femoral varus and medial patellar luxation in large-breed dogs.
See no lies, hear no lies: differences in discrimination accuracy and response bias when watching or listening to police suspect interviews
Authors: Mann Samantha Ann , Vrij Aldert , Fisher Ronald P. , Robinson Mark
Published: November 2007

In the present experiment, police officers attempted to detect truths and lies told by suspects in their police interviews in three different ways: They either saw the suspects (visual condition), only heard the suspects (audio condition) or both saw and heard the suspects (control condition). Research has demonstrated that vocal and speech‐related cues are better diagnostic cues to deceit than visual cues. Therefore, we predicted that participants in the visual condition would perform worst in the lie detection task. Having access only to visual cues may encourage observers to be more reliant on stereotypical beliefs when attempting to detect truths and lies. Since these stereotypes are related to the behaviour of liars, rather than to the behaviour of truth tellers, we further predicted that being exposed only to visual cues may result in a lie bias. The findings supported these hypotheses, and the implications are discussed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hybrid Supramolecular Naphthalene Diimide‐thiophene Structures and their Application in Polymer Electronics
Authors: Krüger H. , Janietz S. , Sainova D. , Dobreva D. , Koch N. , Vollmer A.
Published: November 2007

Solution‐processable molecules based on 1,4,5,8‐naphthalenetetracarboxylic diimide (NTCDI, 1), which constitutes the central unit, have been synthesized with thiophene substituents of varying chain length attached to the naphthalene core. In this paper, the synthetic route to this new class of star‐shaped NTCDI derivatives are given. Cyclovoltammetric, UV spectroscopic, photoelectron spectroscopy, and field effect transistor measurements are performed to characterize the electronic and optical properties of the new materials. The relationship between the donor–acceptor structure and the electronic and optical properties is thus shown in detail. Organic field‐effect transistor devices have been built from this series of molecules and the results clearly describe the transfer from n‐type to an ambipolar character depending on the structural components, i.e., naphthalene, diimide, and thiophene, of the molecules.
Kinetics of carbon dioxide absorption into aqueous glucosamine solutions
Authors: Gómez‐Díaz Diego , Navaza José M.
Published: November 2007

Chemical reaction kinetics of carbon dioxide with aqueous solutions of D (+) glucosamine hydrochloride (2‐amino‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose hydrochloride) has been studied using a stirred tank reactor with a planar interfacial area. The operational variables considered in this work have been the glucosamine concentration and the reaction temperature. Specific absorption rates have been obtained and different correlations have been employed to estimate physicochemical properties of carbon dioxide in glucosamine aqueous solutions. Results indicate that the absorption process occurs in a moderately fast reaction regime with a first‐order kinetic for amine and carbon dioxide. The reaction rate constant was calculated and correlated as a function of temperature. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Generalized self‐efficacy and performance on the 20‐metre shuttle run in children
Authors: Cairney John , Hay John A. , Faught Brent E. , Léger Luc , Mathers Brittany
Published: November 2007

It has been argued that motivation significantly affects the measurement of aerobic capacity when using field tests with children. In this study, the impact of generalized self‐efficacy on performance (Stage Completed) in the Léger shuttle run is examined in a cohort of children (N = 2,245, 9.38 ± 0.52 years old) in Grade 4 from 75 elementary schools. Children completed the Children's Self‐perceptions of Adequacy in and Predilection for Physical Activity scale (CSAPPA) to establish levels of generalized self‐efficacy toward physical activity, were measured for height and weight, and then completed the Léger Shuttle run to predict aerobic capacity. Regression analysis was used to study the impact of self‐efficacy on test performance. After adjusting for age, gender, and BMI, two of the three CSAPPA factor subscales, higher perceived adequacy regarding physical activity (β = 0.196, P < 0.001) and greater predilection to select physical over sedentary activities (β = 0.123, P < 0.001), were independently associated with better test performance as indicated by stage completed. Together, self‐efficacy accounted for 9% of the total variation in Léger shuttle run performance. A significant interaction between BMI and perceived adequacy was found (β = −0.106, P < 0.005). Children with both high BMI scores and below average perceived adequacy had the poorest performance results. Generalized self‐efficacy, as measured by the CSAPPA, is significantly related to Léger shuttle run performance. Moreover, self‐efficacy influences the relationship between other known factors affecting test performance (BMI), suggesting that self‐perception of ability/competence has a complex effect on test performance. These results illustrate the importance of considering psychological factors when interpreting physiologic assessments in children. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Biological condition of adult migrants and nonmigrants in Wrocław, Poland
Authors: Szklarska Alicja , Lipowicz Anna , Lopuszanska Monika , Bielicki Tadeusz , Koziel Sławomir
Published: November 2007

Human migration and its economic, social, and demographic effects can lead to health consequences for individuals and populations. In the present study, we estimated differences in health status between migrant (those who had come to Wrocław at the age of ≥16 years) and nonmigrant (those who had lived in Wrocław since birth or had come with their parents) inhabitants of Wrocław, Poland. Three hundred and sixty seven males and 496 females aged 40 and 50 underwent medical examination, and were asked to fill out a questionnaire comprising social, demographic, and life style information. Health status was assessed by blood pressure, heart rate, fasting lipid profile, glucose, height, and measures of fatness (BMI, WHR, sum of skinfolds). Comparisons were made based on Borkan's and Norris's profiles. Student's t‐test showed significant differences in diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, total cholesterol, and glucose levels between two groups of males, in favor of migrants. Male migrants were also significantly taller than their peers born in Wrocław. In females, migrants had significantly lower blood pressure and heart rate than nonmigrants. In interpreting the results two possible, not mutually exclusive, mechanisms are proposed: selective spatial mobility, and changes toward healthier life style as an adaptation to new urban environment. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Removal of proteins from natural rubber with urea and its application to continuous processes
Authors: Yamamoto Yoshimasa , Nghia Phan Trung , Klinklai Warunee , Saito Takayuki , Kawahara Seiichi
Published: November 2007

The removal of proteins from natural rubber through a batch process was studied by the incubation of the rubber latex with urea in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. Under suitable conditions, the total nitrogen content of deproteinized natural rubber (DPNR) decreased from 0.38 to 0.02 wt % after incubation for 10 min; this was similar to that of the rubber deproteinized with a proteolytic enzyme for 12 h. For applications, continuous incubation and centrifugation were individually investigated by the use of a semicircular channel and a continuous centrifuge, respectively, to scale up DPNR preparation. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Dielectric relaxation of binary mixtures of alcohols with acrylic esters
Authors: Dharmalingam K. , Ramachandran K. , Sivagurunathan P. , Prabhakar Undre B. , Khirade P. W. , Mehrotra S. C.
Published: November 2007

A dielectric relaxation study on alcohol–acrylic ester binary mixtures has been carried out at different concentrations using time domain reflectometry (TDR). The least‐squares fit method has been used to obtain the dielectric parameters (the static dielectric constant ϵ0 and the relaxation time τ). By using these parameters, the Bruggeman factor, the Kirkwood correlation factor, and excess inverse relaxation time were determined and discussed to yield information on the molecular structure and dynamics of the mixture. The ϵ0 and τ values decreased with an increase in the percent of acrylic ester in alcohol for all the systems. The value of t increased with an increase in chain length of both the alcohol and acrylic ester, whereas the reverse trend is observed for ϵ0. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Impacts of tropical cyclones on the regional climate: An East Asian summer monsoon case
Authors: Zhong Zhong , Hu Yijia
Published: November 2007

The contribution of tropical cyclones (TCs) over the Western Pacific Ocean (WPO) and China to the formation of the regional climate over East Asia is investigated by the use of a regional climate model. Our results show that the regional climate is significantly affected by the frequency of TC activity in terms of weakening the Western Pacific subtropical high when TCs are over the WPO and interrupting the summer monsoon when TCs make landfall over China. If there were no TCs, the atmosphere over southeast and northeast China would become drier, while that over southwest and north China would become wetter. Copyright © 2007 Royal Meteorological Society
Chlorogenic acid reduces the plasma glucose peak in the oral glucose tolerance test: effects on hepatic glucose release and glycaemia
Authors: Bassoli Bruna Kempfer , Cassolla Priscila , Borba‐Murad Glaucia Regina , Constantin Jorgete , Salgueiro‐Pagadigorria Clairce Luzia , Bazotte Roberto Barbosa , da Silva Rui Sérgio dos Santos Ferreira , de Souza Helenir Medri
Published: November 2007

The effects of chlorogenic acid (CA) on hepatic glucose output, blood glucose levels and on glucose tolerance were analysed. Hepatic uptake of CA and its effects on hepatic catabolism ofL‐alanine and glucose‐6‐phosphatase (G‐6‐Pase) activity were also evaluated. CA (1 mM) inhibited about 40% of G‐6‐Pase activity (p < 0.05) in the microsomal fraction of hepatocytes, but no effect was observed on production of glucose from gluconeogenesis or onL‐alanine catabolism, at various concentrations of CA (0.33, 0.5 and 1 mM), in liver perfusion experiments. Since there were indications of a lack of uptake of CA by the liver, it is possible that this compound did not reach sufficiently high intracellular levels to inhibit the target enzyme. Accordingly, intravenous administration of CA also failed to provoke a reduction in blood glucose levels. However, CA did promote a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the plasma glucose peak at 10 and 15 min during the oral glucose tolerance test, probably by attenuating intestinal glucose absorption, suggesting a possible role for it as a glycaemic index lowering agent and highlighting it as a compound of interest for reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Redox Properties of LOV Domains: Chemical versus Photochemical Reduction, and Influence on the Photocycle
Authors: Nöll Gilbert , Hauska Günter , Hegemann Peter , Lanzl Karin , Nöll Tanja , von Sanden‐Flohe Madlene , Dick Bernhard
Published: November 2007

LOV (light‐oxygen‐voltage‐sensitive) domains comprise the light‐sensitive parts of many blue light photoreceptor proteins. Photoexcitation of the chromophore flavin mononucleotide (FMN) in these LOV domains leads to formation of a covalent adduct between FMN and a cysteine residue. So far, the electronically excited singlet and triplet states of FMN have been identified as the only intermediates in the photocycles of LOV domains from several organisms. Since many flavoproteins are redox‐active, however, the photocycles of LOV domains might involve other redox states of FMN, and might be controlled by the external redox potential. Here we report on the redox properties of the LOV1 domain from phototropin of the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. By equilibrium‐redox spectropotentiometry a redox potential [Efq/fhq (flavoquinone/flavohydroquinone)] of −290 mV vs. the normal hydrogen electrode (NHE) was determined for the wild‐type domain (LOV1‐wt). A similar value of −280 mV was found for the mutant LOV1‐C57G, in which the photoreactive cysteine is replaced by glycine. The recovery kinetics (photoadduct→ground state) in the photocycle of LOV1‐wt are not influenced by a redox potential in the range between +500 and −260 mV versus NHE. No flavosemiquinone could be generated by chemical reduction with sodium dithionite. However, photoreduction of LOV1‐C57G with EDTA leads exclusively to the flavosemiquinone. This semiquinone is stable against disproportionation, and the photoreduction is not mediated by free FMN.
CFD in der mechanischen Trenntechnik
Authors: Schütz S. , Piesche M. , Gorbach G. , Schilling M. , Seyfert C. , Kopf P. , Deuschle T. , Sautter N. , Popp E. , Warth T.
Published: November 2007

Die numerische Strömungsmechanik hat sich zu einem wichtigen Werkzeug bei der Analyse, dem Design und der Optimierung mechanischer Trennprozesse entwickelt. Von Bedeutung sind hierbei die Leistungssteigerung verfügbarer Rechner und die Entwicklung von mathematisch‐physikalischen Rechenmodellen zur Beschreibung komplexer Transportprozesse in mehrphasigen Strömungen. Modelle zur Beschreibung freier Phasengrenzen, zur detaillierten Erfassung der komplexen Bewegung realer, nicht‐kugelförmiger Partikel bzw. Populationsmodelle zur Berücksichtigung von Agglomerations‐ und Koaleszenzprozessen berücksichtigen die klassischen Mehrphasenmodelle (Euler‐Lagrange‐ und Euler‐Euler‐Modell). Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden die grundlegenden klassischen und neuen Rechenmodelle zur Beschreibung von Mehrphasenströmungen vorgestellt und anhand verschiedener Beispiele der Filtration und der Zentrifugalabscheidung erläutert. Am Beispiel von Filtrationsprozessen lassen sich Simulationsrechnungen von der makroskopischen Apparateebene bis zur mikroskopischen Einzelfaserbetrachtung mit unterschiedlichen Ansätzen durchführen. Die Simulation von Trennprozessen im Zentrifugalfeld bedarf der Wahl geeigneter Simulationsmodelle und Rechentechniken, die im Ergebnis zu detaillierten Aussagen über den Ablauf mechanischer Trennprozesse und zu einem gesteigerten Prozessverständnis führen, das durch experimentelle Untersuchungen alleine nicht gewonnen werden kann.
Filtration und Separation in der Automobiltechnik
Authors: Durst M. , Klein G.‐M. , Moser N. , Trautmann P.
Published: November 2007

Alle Betriebsfluide im Automobil wie Öle, Kraftstoff, Luft und weitere werden filtriert. Mit Hilfe von Filtern und Separatoren werden Partikel mechanisch abgeschieden. Adsorption und Desorption sind weitere Standardprozesse, die zur Reinigung von Fluiden in Fahrzeugen eingesetzt werden. Dabei werden u. a. semipermeable Membranen eingesetzt, um selektiv Moleküle zurückzuhalten. Thermische und katalytische Regenerationsverfahren zur Entfernung abgeschiedener Rußpartikel und Moleküle haben die verfahrenstechnische Palette erweitert, die Einsatztemperaturen im Automobil reichen von –40°C bis über 1000°C. Bei den verwendeten Filtermedien handelt es sich um imprägnierte Papiere auf Zellulosebasis, Vliesstoffe und Meltblown aus synthetischen Fasern und, zumeist bei höheren Temperaturen, um Keramik, Metallgewebe und poröse Sintermetalle. Von der Struktur her gibt es homogen aufgebaute Tiefenfilter, Filtermedien mit Dichtegradienten und sogenannte Composites mit ≥ 2 Lagen, die funktionell aufeinander abgestimmt sind. Zunehmend betrachtet man auch Oberflächenfilter, z. B. mit Nanofasern, und neuerdings für spezielle Anwendungen Membranen. Je nach Fahrzeugtyp und Ausstattung werden in modernen Fahrzeugen acht bis 15 dieser Filterelemente verbaut, bei großen Lastkraftwagen sind es teilweise über 20 Abscheider, wobei kleine Polizeifilter aus Metallgewebe oder Sintermetall in den Hydraulikkreisläufen nicht mitgezählt wurden. Es wird ein Überblick über die komplexen mobilen Anwendungen und die wichtigsten Filterelemente und Separatoren in Fahrzeugen gegeben, ergänzt durch neue Entwicklungstrends aus aktuellen Serienfahrzeugen.
Applications of Terahertz Spectroscopy in Biosystems
Authors: Plusquellic David F. , Siegrist Karen , Heilweil Edwin J. , Esenturk Okan
Published: November 2007

Terahertz (THz) spectroscopic investigations of condensed‐phase biological samples are reviewed ranging from the simple crystalline forms of amino acids, carbohydrates and polypeptides to the more complex aqueous forms of small proteins, DNA and RNA. Vibrationally resolved studies of crystalline samples have revealed the exquisite sensitivity of THz modes to crystalline order, temperature, conformational form, peptide sequence and local solvate environment and have given unprecedented measures of the binding force constants and anharmonic character of the force fields, properties necessary to improve predictability but not readily obtainable using any other method. These studies have provided benchmark vibrational data on extended periodic structures for direct comparisons with classical (CHARMm) and quantum chemical (density functional theory) theories. For the larger amorphous and/or aqueous phase samples, the THz modes form a continuum‐like absorption that arises because of the full accessibility to conformational space and/or the rapid time scale for inter‐conversion in these environments. Despite severe absorption by liquid water, detailed investigations have uncovered the photo‐ and hydration‐induced conformational flexibility of proteins, the solvent shell depth of the water/biomolecule boundary layers and the solvent reorientation dynamics occurring in these interfacial layers that occur on sub‐picosecond time scales. As such, THz spectroscopy has enhanced and extended the accessibility to intermolecular forces, length‐ and timescales important in biological structure and activity.