bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Timing of protein ingestion relative to resistance exercise training does not influence body composition, energy expenditure, glycaemic control or cardiometabolic risk factors in a hypocaloric, high protein diet in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Wycherley T. P. , Noakes M. , Clifton P. M. , Cleanthous X. , Keogh J. B. , Brinkworth G. D.
Published: September 2010

Aim: To investigate timing of protein ingestion relative to resistance exercise training (RT) on body composition, cardiometabolic risk factors, glycaemic control and resting energy expenditure (REE) during weight loss on a high‐protein (HP) diet in overweight and obese patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Methods: Thirty‐four men/women with T2DM (age 57 ± 7 years and body mass index 34.9 ± 4.2 kg m−2) were randomly assigned to the ingestion of a HP meal (860 kJ, 21 g protein, 0.7 g fat, 29.6 g carbohydrate) either immediately prior to RT or at least 2 h following RT. All participants followed a 16‐week, energy‐restricted (6–7 MJ day−1), HP diet (carbohydrate : protein : fat 43 : 33 : 22) and participated in supervised RT (3 day week−1). Outcomes were assessed pre‐ and postintervention at 16 weeks.

Results: There was an overall reduction in bodyweight (−11.9 ± 6.1 kg), fat mass (−10.0 ± 4.4 kg), fat‐free mass (−1.9 ± 3.1 kg), waist circumference (−12.1 ± 5.3 cm), REE (−742 ± 624 kJ day−1), glucose (−1.9 ± 1.7 mmol l−1), insulin (−6.1 ± 6.7 mU l−1) and glycosylated haemoglobin (−1.1 ± 0.1%), p ≤ 0.01 time for all variables, with no difference between groups (p ≥ 0.41 group effect). Strength improved and cardiometabolic risk factors were reduced similarly in both groups; single repetition maximum chest press 11.0 ± 8.7 kg, single repetition maximum lat pull down 9.9 ± 6.0 kg, total cholesterol −0.6 ± 0.5 mmol l−1, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol −0.1 ± 0.2 mmol l−1, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol −0.3 ± 0.5 mmol l−1, triglycerides −0.6 ± 0.7 mmol l−1, blood pressure (systolic/diastolic) −13 ± 10/−7 ± 7 mmHg (p ≤ 0.04 time effect, p ≥ 0.24 group effect).

Conclusion: A HP, energy‐restricted diet with RT was effective in improving glycaemic control, body composition, strength and cardiometabolic risk factors in overweight/obese patients with T2DM irrespective of altering the timing of protein ingestion relative to RT.
Pathological results and rates of treatment failure in high‐risk prostate cancer patients after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Walz Jochen , Joniau Steven , Chun Felix K. , Isbarn Hendrik , Jeldres Claudio , Yossepowitch Ofer , Chao‐Yu Hsu , Klein Eric A. , Scardino Peter T. , Reuther Alwyn , Poppel Hein Van , Graefen Markus , Huland Hartwig , Karakiewicz Pierre I.
Published: September 2010

Study Type – Therapy (outcomes research)

Level of Evidence 2b

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

In the current literature, cT3 stage, biopsy Gleason > 8, PSA > 20 ng/ml, and D’Amico high‐risk category are frequently used definitions of high‐risk prostate cancer.

Patients with clinically localized high‐risk prostate cancer do not have a uniformly poor prognosis after surgery. The rates of favourable pathological characteristics and biochemical‐recurrence free survival vary depending on the definition used for high‐risk prostate cancer.

OBJECTIVE

• To investigate the pathological characteristics and the rates of biochemical recurrence (BCR) ‐free survival after radical prostatectomy (RP) in men with high‐risk prostate cancer.

METHODS

• Of 4760 patients treated with RP for prostate cancer at three institutions, 293 patients (6.2%) had clinical stage T3, 269 (5.7%) had a biopsy Gleason sum ≥ 8, 370 (7.8%) had preoperative PSA ≥ 20 ng/mL and 887 (18.6%) were considered high‐risk according to the D’Amico classification (clinical stage ≥ T2c or prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) ≥ 20 ng/mL or biopsy Gleason sum ≥ 8).

• Actuarial BCR‐free survival probabilities after RP and the rate of favourable pathology (organ‐confined cancer, negative surgical margin and Gleason ≤ 7) were assessed.

RESULTS

• Median follow up was 2.4 years and 1179 (24.8%) patients had follow up beyond 5 years.

• The rate of favourable pathology increased in the following order: clinical stage T3 (13.7%), biopsy Gleason ≥ 8 (16.4%), the D’Amico high‐risk group (21.4%) and PSA ≥ 20 ng/mL (21.6%).

• The 5‐year BCR‐free survival probabilities were 35.4% for Gleason ≥ 8, 39.8% for PSA ≥ 20 ng/mL, 47.4% for D’Amico high‐risk group and 51.6% for clinical stage T3.

• Patients with only one risk factor had the most favourable 5‐year BCR‐free survival (50.3%), relative to patients with two or more risk factors (27.5%)

CONCLUSIONS

• Men with clinically localized high‐risk prostate cancer do not have a uniformly poor prognosis after RP.

• The rate of favourable pathology and of BCR‐free survival may vary substantially, depending on the definition used.

• RP should be considered a valid treatment modality for high‐risk prostate cancer patients, as many can be surgically down‐staged.
Oxidative stress biomarkers in urine and plasma of rabbits with partial bladder outlet obstruction
Authors: Lin Wei‐Yu , Chen Chih–Shou , Wu Shi–Bei , Lin Yi‐Pai , Levin Robert M. , Wei Yau–Huei
Published: September 2010

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

It has been known that there is an increase of oxidative damage in the bladder tissues of animals after PBOO. However, no reliable oxidative stress biomarkers in either urine or plasma have been available for the assessment of the severity of PBOO.

This study clearly demonstrated that the levels of oxidative stress biomarkers are increased in urine and plasma of the rabbits with PBOO.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate oxidative stress and oxidative damage biomarkers in urine and plasma after partial bladder outlet obstruction (PBOO) in rabbits.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In all, 16 male New Zealand White rabbits were separated equally into four groups: a control group and PBOO‐treated groups for 2, 4 and 8 weeks.

The oxidative stress biomarkers assessed included urinary 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA).

We also measured the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in blood plasma.

8‐OHdG, MDA and TAC were measured at both the beginning and indicated time points of the experimental design.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in body weight among rabbits in the four groups.

However, there was a significant increase in bladder weight after 2 weeks of PBOO. After 4 and 8 weeks of PBOO, there was an additional significant increase in bladder weight in all three groups.

There was no difference in blood creatinine levels among the groups.

In the 4‐ and 8‐week PBOO groups, there was a significant increase of 8‐OHdG in urine and of MDA in plasma, while there was a significant decrease in TAC in plasma.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that oxidative stress could be detected in the plasma and urine of rabbits after 4 and 8 weeks of PBOO, and not only from bladder tissue as previously reported. Thus, there could be an easy and alternative way to evaluate bladder function by analysis of urine and/or plasma.

Additionally, rabbits with chronic PBOO showed an increase in systemic oxidative stress, which could be a novel starting point for examining the link between the lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostate hyperplasia and metabolic syndrome in future studies.
Inhaled anticholinergic drugs and risk of acute urinary retention
Authors: Afonso Ana S.M. , Verhamme Katia M.C. , Stricker Bruno H.C. , Sturkenboom Miriam C.J.M. , Brusselle Guy G.O.
Published: September 2010

Study Type – Harm (case series) Level of Evidence 4

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Inhaled anticholinergic drugs have been associated with the risk of acute urinary retention (AUR), but this association was never studied under real life circumstances nor was this risk ever quantified.

Use of inhaled anticholinergic drugs increases the risk of AUR by 40%. The risk of AUR is highest in recent starters, in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and in patients receiving their anticholinergic drugs via nebulizer. It might be advisable to consider alternatives for inhaled anticholinergic drugs in COPD patients with BPH.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between the use of inhaled anticholinergic drugs and the risk of acute urinary retention (AUR) under real‐life circumstances.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted a nested case‐control study within a cohort of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD; as AUR has been associated with the use of inhaled anticholinergic drugs, which are used as first‐line treatment for COPD) from the Integrated Primary Care Information (IPCI) database.

The cohort consisted of all patients with COPD aged ≥45 years, registered between 1996 and 2006, with ≥12 months of valid history. Cases were patients with a first diagnosis of AUR.

To each case, controls were selected matched for age, gender and index date.

Multivariate conditional logistic regression analysis was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (ORadj) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

RESULTS

Within the cohort of 22 579 patients with COPD, 209 cases were identified.

Current use of inhaled anticholinergic drugs was associated with a 40% increase in risk for AUR (ORadj 1.40; 95% CI 0.99–1.98) compared with non‐users.

Among current users, the risk was highest for the recent starters (ORadj 3.11; 95% CI 1.21–7.98). The risk of long‐acting anticholinergic drug tiotropium was not substantially different from that of the short‐acting anticholinergic ipratropium.

The association was not dose‐dependent, but changed by mode of administration, with nebulizers having the highest risk (ORadj 2.92; 95% CI 1.17–7.31).

In men with COPD and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) the association was strongest (ORadj 4.67; 95% CI 1.56–14.0).

CONCLUSION

Current use of inhaled anticholinergic drugs increases the risk of AUR, especially in patients with BPH or if administered via a nebulizer.
The Politics of Transnational Agrarian Movements
Authors: Borras Saturnino M.
Published: September 2010

The transnational agrarian movements (TAMs) which have emerged in recent decades have been actively engaged in the politics and policies of international (rural) development. Intergovernmental and non‐governmental development agencies have welcomed and supported TAMs in the context of promoting international ‘partnerships for development’. The analysis in this article revolves around the politics of TAM representation, intermediation and mobilization around the issue of land. It focuses on La Vía Campesina in relation to three other coalitions: the International Federation of Agricultural Producers, IPC for Food Sovereignty and International Land Coalition. It is argued here that ‘people linked to the land’ are socially differentiated and thus have varied experiences of neoliberal globalization. Their social movements and organizations are just as differentiated, ideologically, politically and institutionally. This differentiation is internalized within and between TAMs, and partly shapes TAMs’ political agendas and strategies in their interaction with international development institutions.
The International Monetary Fund and its New Economics
Authors: Gabor Daniela
Published: September 2010

This article focuses on a key element of the IMF's agenda for change: the repackaging of its economics of crisis around inflation targeting. It examines how this new policy regime redefines the political economy of the IMF's policy advice, and contextualizes it by focusing on Eastern Europe, the region worst affected by the global financial crisis which began in 2007. The article compares the conditionalities designed under the new and old policy regimes and argues that the mainstreaming of inflation targeting reproduces the IMF's function within a neoliberal political economy. It shows how, depending on the role of the IMF in the policy process, the models that inform policy are employed differently. During ‘normal’ times, models engender a contractionary bias that favours speculative capital. When acting as ‘lender of last resort’, the IMF retains the traditional emphasis on fiscal contractions, paying only lip service to its new economics of crisis while further ignoring crucial questions of macroeconomic policy coordination or the destabilizing potential of short‐term capital inflows.
THE REAL JOB OF BOARDS
Authors: Korine Harry , Alexander Marcus , Gomez Pierre‐Yves
Published: September 2010

Widely seen as the key for ensuring quality in corporate governance, the board of directors has been a particular focal point for reform. Harry Korine, Marcus Alexander and Pierre‐Yves Gomez believe that more leadership at board level could avert many corporate crises in the future.
THINK AGAIN: WHAT MAKES A LEADER?
Authors: Goffee Rob , Jones Gareth
Published: September 2010

Leadership cannot be faked, say Rob Goffee and Gareth Jones. All the self‐help books in the world won't make you a leader — but there are four characteristics you must have.
VOICES: BREAKING THE CORRUPTION HABIT
Authors: De Cremer David
Published: September 2010

In times of crisis, it seems natural that people will work together for the common good. David De Cremer cautions us that, on the contrary, both economic and social researches prove otherwise. He proposes steps for organisations to take to prevent corrupt behaviours.
HOW MANY EUROPES? VARIETIES OF CAPITALISM, DIVERGENCE AND CONVERGENCE AND THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE EUROPEAN SERVICES LANDSCAPE
Authors: DANIELS PETER , RUBALCABA LUIS , STARE METKA , BRYSON JOHN
Published: September 2010

The prospects for a single European economy or the existence of a variety of different European formations of capitalism are explored in the context of the enlargement of the EU in 2004 and 2007. Using evidence based on major sectoral trends, with particular reference to service industries, a comparative analysis of the ‘quantitative’ structure of the national economies of the EU Member States is undertaken. Convergence analysis is used to establish whether any common trajectories can be identified using the EU15 and the EU10 as the main pillars for the analysis. It is shown that a wide gap still exists between the two EU country groups, particularly in relation to the supply of the most advanced services. Catching up may occur in the long run but only if drivers such as market competition, better utilisation of information and communications technology, the introduction of innovative services, or upgrading service‐specific knowledge and skills, are enabled.
DEVELOPING SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES IN HISTORIC NEIGHBOURHOODS OF ISTANBUL
Authors: ERCAN MÜGE AKKAR
Published: September 2010

This paper aims to explore the success of the recent regeneration efforts in building sustainable communities in historic housing areas of Istanbul that have suffered from growing problems of urban deprivation and poverty. It explains the interplay between conservation, community needs and sustainability, based on the assumption that finding a balance between the needs, aspirations and concerns of local communities and the conservation of the built environments will lead to the creation of more equitable and sustainable communities in Istanbul's historic quarters. After investigating the Turkish urban conservation policy agenda, and the recent changes in the urban and socio‐spatial structure of Istanbul, it examines the European Union‐funded regeneration initiative of Fener and Balat, a declining neighbourhood in the Historic Peninsula. Debating the strengths and weaknesses of the community‐based and participatory programme, the paper attempts to give clues for future regeneration initiatives to develop sustainable community policies in the historic neighbourhoods of Istanbul.
The Social Organisation of Penal Tattooing in Two Canadian Federal Male Prisons: Locating Sites of Risk for Empirically‐Based Health Care Interventions
Authors: BONNYCASTLE KEVIN DENYS
Published: September 2010

Abstract: Based in two Canadian male penitentiaries, this study explores the social organisation of prison tattooing, a widespread but under‐researched practice identified in some epidemiological studies as a risk factor for Hepatitis C and HIV transmission. Qualitative and quantitative data are drawn from interviews with five incarcerated prison tattoo artists and 36 penal tattooing participants, who are also prison drug injectors, the sub‐population known to report the highest prison tattooing rates. Unlike epidemiological studies, respondents' ‘everyday knowledge’ and experiential accounts illuminate the highest risk moments intrinsic to prison tattooing and possible points of intervention and advocacy for penal health care providers. The article argues for a sterile (‘safe’) prison tattooing programme to be available in prisons.
Not in my Backyard? Crime in the Neighbourhood
Authors: BRADLEY TREVOR , ROWE MICHAEL , SEDGWICK CHARLES
Published: September 2010

Abstract: Contrary to much political and media discourse, quantitative and qualitative results of a research study suggest that the New Zealand public does not regard crime and disorder as escalating or serious problems in local neighbourhoods. Across a range of different areas, the study found that a majority of respondents did not regard crime in their local community as a serious problem compared with other districts; neither did they report that it was an escalating problem. In contrast, respondents were much more likely to report that crime problems were serious and increasing across the nation as a whole. This discrepancy might be explained by the reliance of the public on media coverage of crime for information on national crime trends and patterns. Analysis of qualitative ‘crime talk’ in local communities showed that respondents had highly‐nuanced perspectives on crime patterns in the neighbourhood and often regarded problems as relatively unproblematic nuisance behaviour that often was not a significant concern in wider terms. The article concludes that key components of populist politics, apparently based on meeting widespread concerns about law and order, assume public fear, concern and intolerance of crime and anti‐social behaviour that is often not actually apparent in public discussion.
Germ layer differentiation during early hindgut and cloaca formation in rabbit and pig embryos
Authors: Hassoun Romia , Schwartz Peter , Rath Detlef , Viebahn Christoph , Männer Jörg
Published: September 2010

Relative to recent advances in understanding molecular requirements for endoderm differentiation, the dynamics of germ layer morphology and the topographical distribution of molecular factors involved in endoderm formation at the caudal pole of the embryonic disc are still poorly defined. To discover common principles of mammalian germ layer development, pig and rabbit embryos at late gastrulation and early neurulation stages were analysed as species with a human‐like embryonic disc morphology, using correlative light and electron microscopy. Close intercellular contact but no direct structural evidence of endoderm formation such as mesenchymal–epithelial transition between posterior primitive streak mesoderm and the emerging posterior endoderm were found. However, a two‐step process closely related to posterior germ layer differentiation emerged for the formation of the cloacal membrane: (i) a continuous mesoderm layer and numerous patches of electron‐dense flocculent extracellular matrix mark the prospective region of cloacal membrane formation; and (ii) mesoderm cells and all extracellular matrix including the basement membrane are lost locally and close intercellular contact between the endoderm and ectoderm is established. The latter process involves single cells at first and then gradually spreads to form a longitudinally oriented seam‐like cloacal membrane. These gradual changes were found from gastrulation to early somite stages in the pig, whereas they were found from early somite to mid‐somite stages in the rabbit; in both species cloacal membrane formation is complete prior to secondary neurulation. The results highlight the structural requirements for endoderm formation during development of the hindgut and suggest new mechanisms for the pathogenesis of common urogenital and anorectal malformations.
Prevalence of headache and migraine in children and adolescents: a systematic review of population‐based studies
Authors: ABU‐ARAFEH ISHAQ , RAZAK SHEIK , SIVARAMAN BASKARAN , GRAHAM CATRIONA
Published: September 2010

Aim  The aim of this study was to review systematically the prevalence of headache and migraine in children and adolescents and to study the influence of sex, age, and region of residence on the epidemiology.

Method  We systematically searched the literature in electronic databases to cover the period between 1 January 1990 and 31 December 2007. We assessed and included population‐based studies on epidemiology of headache and migraine in children and adolescents if they fulfilled the following criteria: (1) reporting on unselected childhood population; (2) reliable methods of data collection using a questionnaire or face‐to‐face interviews; (3) using the International Headache Society’s (IHS) criteria (1988 or 2004) for the diagnosis of migraine; and (4) provision of sufficient and explicit data for analysis. We used Excel, Stata, and Confidence Interval Analysis software.

Results  We identified and analysed 50 population‐based studies reporting the prevalence of headache and/or migraine in children and adolescents (<20y). The estimated prevalence of headache over periods between 1 month and lifetime in children and adolescents is 58.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 58.1–58.8). Females are more likely to have headache than males (odds ratio [OR] 1.53, 95% CI 1.48–1.6). The prevalence of migraine over periods between 6 months and lifetime is 7.7% (95% CI 7.6–7.8). Females are more likely than males to have migraine (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.60–1.75). Regional differences in prevalence of migraine, though statistically significant, may not be of clinical significance. The change in the IHS’s criteria for the diagnosis of migraine was not associated with any significant change in the prevalence of migraine.

Interpretation  This study confirms the global high prevalence of headache and migraine in children and adolescents. Sex, age, and regional differences are evident.
The effect on human sex ratio at birth by assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures – an assessment of babies born following single embryo transfers, Australia and New Zealand, 2002–2006
Authors: Dean JH , Chapman MG , Sullivan EA
Published: September 2010

Please cite this paper as: Dean J, Chapman M, Sullivan E. The effect on human sex ratio at birth by assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures – an assessment of babies born following single embryo transfers, Australia and New Zealand, 2002–2006. BJOG 2010;117:1628–1634.

Objective  To assess the effect on the human sex ratio at birth by assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures.

Design  Retrospective population‐based study.

Setting  Fertility clinics in Australia and New Zealand.

Population  The study included 13 368 babies by 13 165 women who had a single embryo transfer (SET) between 2002 and 2006.

Methods  Logistic regression was used to model the effect on the sex ratio at birth of ART characteristics [in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm insemination (ICSI) SET, cleavage‐stage or blastocyst SET, and fresh or thawed SET] and biological characteristics (woman’s and partner’s age and cause of infertility).

Main outcome measures  Proportion of male births.

Results  The crude sex ratio at birth was 51.3%. Individual ART procedures had a significant effect on the sex ratio at birth. More males were born following IVF SET (53.0%) than ICSI SET (50.0%), and following blastocyst SET (54.1%) than cleavage‐stage SET (49.9%). For a specific ART regimen, IVF blastocyst SET produced more males (56.1%) and ICSI cleavage‐stage SET produced fewer males (48.7%).

Conclusions  The change in the sex ratio at birth of SET babies is associated with the ART regimen. The mechanism of these effects remains unclear. Fertility clinics and patients should be aware of the bias in the sex ratio at birth when using ART procedures.
Independent effects of habitat loss, habitat fragmentation and structural connectivity on forest‐dependent birds
Authors: Mortelliti Alessio , Fagiani Stefano , Battisti Corrado , Capizzi Dario , Boitani Luigi
Published: September 2010

Aim  Habitat loss and fragmentation are amongst the greatest threats to biodiversity world‐wide. However, there is still little evidence on the relative influence of these two distinct processes on biodiversity, and no study, to date, has investigated the independent contribution of structural connectivity in addition to habitat loss and fragmentation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the independent effects of habitat loss (the decrease in total amount of habitat), habitat fragmentation per se (habitat subdivision) and structural connectivity (in the form of hedgerow networks) on the distribution of seven resident forest‐dependent birds in central Italy.

Location  Central Italy.

Methods  We strategically selected 30 landscapes (each of 16 km2 in size) with decreasing total amount of forest cover and with contrasting configuration of patches and contrasting lengths of hedgerow networks. Presence/absence of birds in each landscape unit was studied through point counts.

Results  The amount of forest cover in the landscape had the strongest relative influence on birds’ occupancy, whilst habitat subdivision played a negligible role. Structural connectivity and the geographic position of the landscape unit played a relatively important role for four species.

Main conclusions  Our study shows the importance of disentangling the contribution of different landscape properties in determining distribution patterns. Our results are consistent with the fact that halting habitat loss and carrying out habitat restoration should be conservation priorities, since habitat loss is the main factor affecting the distribution of the target species; implementation of structural connectivity through hedgerows, instead, should be evaluated with caution since its contribution is secondary to the predominant role of habitat loss.
Getting Physicians to Respond: The Impact of Incentive Type and Timing on Physician Survey Response Rates
Authors: James Katherine M. , Ziegenfuss Jeanette Y. , Tilburt Jon C. , Harris Ann M. , Beebe Timothy J.
Published: September 2010

Objective. To study the effects of payment timing, form of payment, and requiring a social security number (SSN) on survey response rates.

Data Source. Third‐wave mailing of a U.S. physician survey.

Study Design. Nonrespondents were randomized to receive immediate U.S.$25 cash, immediate U.S.$25 check, promised U.S.$25 check, or promised U.S.$25 check requiring an SSN.

Data Collection Methods. Paper survey responses were double entered into statistical software.

Principal Findings. Response rates differed significantly between remuneration groups (χ32=80.1, p<.0001), with the highest rate in the immediate cash group (34 percent), then immediate check (20 percent), promised check (10 percent), and promised check with SSN (8 percent).

Conclusions. Immediate monetary incentives yield higher response rates than promised in this population of nonresponding physicians. Promised incentives yield similarly low response rates regardless of whether an SSN is requested.
Age‐associated changes to pathogen‐associated molecular pattern‐induced inflammatory mediator production in dogs
Authors: Deitschel Sarah J. , Kerl Marie E. , Chang Chee‐Hoon , DeClue Amy E.
Published: September 2010

Objective –To determine whether older dogs will have a more pronounced pro‐inflammatory response and blunted anti‐inflammatory response to pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) compared with younger dogs.

Design –Prospective.

Setting –University teaching hospital.

Animals –Thirty‐eight privately owned sexually altered dogs of various ages.

Interventions –Blood was collected for HCT, WBC count, plasma biochemical analysis, and whole blood culture. Whole blood was stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or, lipoteichoic acid or, peptidoglycan or, addition of phosphate‐buffered saline. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin (IL)‐6, and IL‐10 production from whole blood were compared among young, middle aged, and geriatric dogs.

Measurements and Main Results –LPS, lipoteichoic acid, and peptidoglycan stimulated significant TNF, IL‐6, and IL‐10 production from canine whole blood compared with phosphate‐buffered saline. Whole blood from geriatric dogs had a blunted IL‐10 response to LPS stimulation and middle‐aged dogs had increased LPS‐induced TNF production compared with the other groups.

Conclusion –PAMPs from gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria stimulate TNF, IL‐6, and IL‐10 production from canine whole blood. The inflammatory mediator response to PAMPs from gram‐negative bacteria alters with age and may be one factor contributing to mortality in geriatric dogs with sepsis.
Comparison of regular insulin infusion doses in critically ill diabetic cats: 29 cases (1999–2007)
Authors: Claus Melissa A. , Silverstein Deborah C. , Shofer Frances S. , Mellema Matthew S.
Published: September 2010

Objective –To compare biochemical parameters, neurologic changes, length of hospital stay, and clinical improvement in 3 groups of cats with diabetic ketosis/diabetic ketoacidosis (DK/DKA) prescribed varied doses of regular insulin as a continuous rate of infusion (CRI).

Design –Retrospective study.

Setting –University teaching hospital.

Animals –Twenty‐nine client‐owned cats with DK/DKA prescribed a regular insulin CRI.

Interventions –Cats were grouped as follows: 7 cats each in Group 1 and 2, (prescribed 1.1 and 2.2 U/kg/d, respectively), and 15 cats in Group 3 (prescribed increasing doses as needed).

Measurements and Main Results –None of the groups received the total prescribed dose of insulin. The mean actual dose administered/kg/d ranged from 0.30 (0.21) to 0.87 (0.32) U/kg/d in Groups 1, 2, and 3. There was no difference in mean minimum blood glucose (BG) per 4 hours or change in BG from baseline per 4 hours between Groups 1 and 2 (P=0.63, 0.50). There was no difference between groups regarding the time required to reach a BG ≤13.9 mmol/L (250 mg/dL), serum phosphorus or potassium concentrations relative to baseline values (P=0.53, 0.90), length of time until urine or serum ketones were no longer detected (P=0.73), the animal commenced eating (P=0.24), or length of hospital stay (P=0.63). Four of the cats had declining mentation during hospitalization; there were no relationships between osmolality at presentation, either prescribed or administered insulin dose, and mentation changes. Three of the 4 cats with declining mentation survived. Twenty‐seven of the 29 cats (93%) survived to discharge.

Conclusions –In this study, prescribing the published canine dose (2.2 U/kg/d) of regular insulin to cats with DK/DKA does not appear to increase the frequency of adverse neurologic or biochemical sequelae compared with cats that are prescribed the published cat dose (1.1 U/kg/d). The use of a sliding scale for determination of infusion rates significantly reduces the amount of insulin cats receive in this setting. Determination of whether adverse sequelae would occur more frequently if cats with DK/DKA received the full insulin prescribed doses of 1.1, 2.2, or >2.2 U/kg/d is warranted. Further controlled studies are necessary to determine if higher doses of insulin are associated with beneficial effects on morbidity or mortality.
Continuous positive airway pressure administered via face mask in tranquilized dogs
Authors: Briganti Angela , Melanie Pierre , Portela Diego , Breghi Gloria , Mama Khursheed
Published: September 2010

Objective
–
To evaluate the tolerance of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) mask in tranquilized dogs and compare PaO2 in arterial blood in dogs receiving oxygen with a regular face mask or CPAP mask set to maintain a pressure of 2.5 or 5 cm H2O.

Design
–
Prospective, randomized clinical study.

Setting
–
University teaching hospital.

Animals
–
Sixteen client‐owned dogs without evidence of cardiopulmonary disease were studied.

Interventions
–
Eight animals were randomly assigned to each of 2 treatment groups: group A received 2.5 cm H2O CPAP and group B received 5 cm H2O CPAP after first receiving oxygen (5 L/min) by a regular face mask. Animals were tranquilized with acepromazine 0.05 mg/kg, IV and morphine 0.2 mg/kg, IM. An arterial catheter was then placed to facilitate blood sampling for pHa, PaO2, and PaCO2 determinations before and after treatments. Direct mean arterial pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature were also recorded after each treatment.

Measurements and Main Results
–
CPAP administration was well tolerated by all animals. The mean arterial pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, PaCO2, and pHa, did not differ at any time point between groups. Differences were seen in oxygenation; in group A, PaO2 significantly increased from a mean of 288.3±47.5 mm Hg with a standard mask to a mean of 390.3±65.5 mm Hg with the CPAP mask and in group B, PaO2 increased similarly from 325.0±70.5 to 425.2±63.4 mm Hg (P<0.05); no differences were detected between the 2 CPAP treatments.

Conclusions
–
In healthy tranquilized dogs noninvasive CPAP is well tolerated and increases PaO2 above values obtained when using a regular face mask.
Levosimendan improves calcium sensitivity of diaphragm muscle fibres from a rat model of heart failure
Authors: van Hees HWH , Andrade Acuña GL , Linkels M , Dekhuijzen PNR , Heunks LMA
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Diaphragm muscle weakness occurs in patients with heart failure (HF) and is associated with exercise intolerance and increased mortality. Reduced sensitivity of diaphragm fibres to calcium contributes to diaphragm weakness in HF. Here we have investigated the ability of the calcium sensitizer levosimendan to restore the reduced calcium sensitivity of diaphragm fibres from rats with HF.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Coronary artery ligation in rats was used as an animal model for HF. Sham‐operated rats served as controls. Fifteen weeks after induction of HF or sham operations animals were killed and muscle fibres were isolated from the diaphragm. Diaphragm fibres were skinned and activated with solutions containing incremental calcium concentrations and 10 µM levosimendan or vehicle (0.02% DMSO). Developed force was measured at each calcium concentration, and force–calcium concentration relationships were plotted.

KEY RESULTS

Calcium sensitivity of force generation was reduced in diaphragm muscle fibres from HF rats, compared with fibres from control rats (P< 0.01). Maximal force generation was ∼25% lower in HF diaphragm fibres than in control fibres (P< 0.05). Levosimendan significantly increased calcium sensitivity of force generation in diaphragm fibres from HF and control rats, without affecting maximal force generation.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Levosimendan enhanced the force generating capacity of diaphragm fibres from HF rats by increasing the sensitivity of force generation to calcium concentration. These results provide strong support for testing the effect of calcium sensitizers on diaphragm muscle weakness in patients with HF.
Pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic assessment of topiramate dosing regimens for children with epilepsy 2 to <10 years of age
Authors: Girgis Ihab G. , Nandy Partha , Nye Jeffrey S. , Ford Lisa , Mohanty Surya , Wang Steven , Ochalski Stefan , Eerdekens Marielle , Cox Eugène
Published: September 2010

Purpose: To identify and validate the efficacious monotherapy dosing regimen for topiramate in children aged 2 to <10 years with newly diagnosed epilepsy using pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic (PK–PD) modeling and simulation bridging.

Methods: Several models were developed in pediatric and adult populations to relate steady‐state trough plasma concentrations (Cmin) of topiramate to the magnitude of clinical effect in monotherapy and adjunctive settings. These models were integrated to derive and support the monotherapy dosing regimen for pediatric patients.

Key Findings: A two‐compartmental population PK model with first‐order absorption described the time course of topiramate Cminas a function of dosing regimen. Disposition of topiramate was related to age, body weight, and use of various concomitant antiepileptic drugs. The PK–PD model for monotherapy indicated that the hazard of time to first seizure decreased with increasing Cminand time since randomization. Higher baseline seizure frequency increased risk for seizures. Age did not significantly influence hazard of time to first seizure after randomization to monotherapy. For adjunctive therapy, the distribution of drug and placebo responses was not significantly different among age groups. Based on the available PK–PD modeling data, the dosing regimen expected to achieve a 65–75% seizure freedom rate after 1 year for pediatric patients age 2–10 years is approximately 6–9 mg/kg per day.

Significance: This analysis indicated no difference in PK–PD of topiramate between adult and pediatric patients. Effects of indication and body weight on PK were adequately integrated into the model, and monotherapy dosing regimens were identified for children 2–10 years of age.
Is the Coach Paid too Much?: Coaching Salaries and the NCAA Cartel
Authors: Farmer Amy , Pecorino Paul
Published: September 2010

Recently, a great deal of controversy has been generated from the salaries earned by head coaches in the NCAA. Although many figures in the world of sports earn high salaries, one important difference in the case of the NCAA is that the players do not get paid. We develop a model that shows that a cartel agreement to not pay the players raises the coach's salary if some players choose where to play based on the identity of the coach. The agreement not to pay the players improves competitive balance in the baseline model, but this result does not generalize.
Plerixafor and granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) in patients with lymphoma and multiple myeloma previously failing mobilization with G‐CSF with or without chemotherapy for autologous hematopoietic stem cell mobilization: the Austrian experience on a named patient program
Authors: Worel Nina , Rosskopf Konrad , Neumeister Peter , Kasparu Hedwig , Nachbaur David , Russ Gudrun , Namberger Konrad , Witt Volker , Schloegl Ernst , Zojer Niklas , Linkesch Werner , Kalhs Peter , Greinix Hildegard T.
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND: Plerixafor in combination with granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) has been shown to enhance stem cell mobilization in patients with multiple myeloma, non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma, and Hodgkin's disease who demonstrated with previous mobilization failure. In this named patient program we report the Austrian experience in insufficiently mobilizing patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty‐seven patients from eight Austrian centers with a median (range) age of 58 (19‐70) years (18 female, nine male) were included in the study. Plerixafor was limited to patients with previous stem cell mobilization failure and was given in the evening of Day 4 of G‐CSF application.

RESULTS: A median increase of circulating CD34+ cells within 10 to 11 hours from administration of plerixafor by a factor of 4.7 over baseline was noted. Overall, 20 (74%) patients reached more than 10 × 106 CD34+ cells/L in the peripheral blood, resulting in 17 (63%) patients collecting at least 2 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg body weight (b.w.; median, 2.6 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg b.w.; range, 0.08 × 106‐8.07 × 106). Adverse events of plerixafor were mild to moderate and consisted of gastrointestinal side effects and local reactions at the injection site. Thirteen (48%) patients underwent autologous transplantation receiving a median of 2.93 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg (range, 1.46 × 106‐5.6 × 106) and showed a trilinear engraftment with a median neutrophil recovery on Day 12 and a platelet recovery on Day 14.

CONCLUSION: Our study confirms previous investigations showing that plerixafor in combination with G‐CSF is an effective and well‐tolerated mobilization regimen with the potential of successful stem cell collection in patients with previous mobilization failure.
Why Near‐Miss Events Can Decrease an Individual's Protective Response to Hurricanes
Authors: Dillon Robin L. , Tinsley Catherine H. , Cronin Matthew
Published: September 2010

Prior research shows that when people perceive the risk of some hazardous event to be low, they are unlikely to engage in mitigation activities for the potential hazard. We believe one factor that can lower inappropriately (from a normative perspective) people's perception of the risk of a hazard is information about prior near‐miss events. A near‐miss occurs when an event (such as a hurricane), which had some nontrivial probability of ending in disaster (loss of life, property damage), does not because good fortune intervenes. People appear to mistake such good fortune as an indicator of resiliency. In our first study, people with near‐miss information were less likely to purchase flood insurance, and this was shown for both participants from the general population and individuals with specific interests in risk and natural disasters. In our second study, we consider a different mitigation decision, that is, to evacuate from a hurricane, and vary the level of statistical probability of hurricane damage. We still found a strong effect for near‐miss information. Our research thus shows how people who have experienced a similar situation but escape damage because of chance will make decisions consistent with a perception that the situation is less risky than those without the past experience. We end by discussing the implications for risk communication.
Analysis of Physical Properties and Hydroxyapatite Precipitation In Vitro of TiO2‐Containing Phosphate‐Based Glass Systems
Authors: Rajendran Venkatachalam , Rajkumar Gurusamy , Aravindan Samickannian , Saravanakumar Balasubramani
Published: September 2010

In vitro studies are carried out on a phosphate‐based glass system with different compositions (45P2O5–30CaO–(25−x) Na2O–xTiO2) of TiO2 (0≤x1 mol%). The optimization of bone‐bonding ability of prepared glass samples is carried out by using studies such as ultrasonic velocities, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectra, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), in vitro, pH, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The result that is observed indicates a possible change in the structural property of glasses due to the addition of TiO2. The strong absorption band at 1100 cm−1 in FTIR pattern in all compositions that is observed indicates the presence of Ca2P2O7 after immersion in simulated body fluid solution. A high degree of absorption is noticed in 1.0 mol% of glass sample to which TiO2 was added, which ensures the growth of a rich Ca–P crystalline layer on the glass surface during in vitro studies. The XRD study on 1.0 mol% TiO2 after in vitro study confirms the formation of crystalline hydroxyapatite (HAp). SEM micrographs, FTIR, and pH observations show a small amount of formation of HAp in all prepared glass samples whereas a higher formation of HAp is noted on glass samples with 1.0 mol% TiO2.
Effects of Precursor Chemistry on the Structural Characteristics of Y2O3–MgO Nanocomposites Synthesized by a Combined Sol–Gel/Thermal Decomposition Route
Authors: Muoto Chigozie K. , Jordan Eric H. , Gell Maurice , Aindow Mark
Published: September 2010

A combined sol–gel/thermal decomposition process has been used to produce powders of Y2O3‐50 vol% MgO nanocomposites from four different precursor mixtures of acetate and/or nitrate salts. The influence of precursor chemistry on phase homogeneity in the ceramic materials produced from these powders has been investigated. Solutions of the precursor salts were mixed, dried to form a gel, and then calcined to give ceramic powders. The effects of precursor chemistry were investigated using a combination of thermal analysis, X‐ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy techniques. All of the calcined powders, and most of the consolidated materials produced from them, consist of nanosized grains of the cubic Y2O3and MgO phases clustered into phase domains. For the materials synthesized from precursor mixtures containing only acetates or only nitrates, these grains and domains are rather coarse and are distributed rather inhomogeneously. Precursor mixtures containing an acetate and a nitrate, however, give materials with finer and more homogeneous phase domains. These phenomena are related to the thermal characteristics for the decomposition of the precursors and their effect on phase separation during oxide crystallization.
Nucleation of Rhombohedral Regions Within a Tetragonal Matrix in Mn‐Doped Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3Crystals: Origins of a Diffuse Transformation, Thermal Hysteresis, and Isotropization
Authors: Ge Wenwei , Yao Jianjun , Luo Liang , Devreugd Christopher P. , Li Jiefang , Viehland D. , Zhang Qinhui , Luo Haosu
Published: September 2010

Dielectric, X‐ray diffraction, and domain structure evolution for Mn‐doped sodium bismuth titanate (Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3) single crystals was investigated as a function of temperature. A notable thermal hysteresis was found at the tetragonal→rhombohedral transition between heating and cooling measurements for the structural and dielectric properties. Domain studies by polarized light microscopy (PLM) revealed a corresponding thermal hysteresis at an isotropization point, where the contrast in the images disappeared but reappeared both at higher and lower temperatures. The images below the isotropization point exhibited stripe‐like color bands, whose contrast became more intense and whose formation temperature on cooling was increased under electric field. Studies by piezoelectric force microscopy revealed fine‐scale ferroelectric domains of about 0.1–0.3 μm in size that existed within these color bands at room temperature.
Synthesis of BaSi2O2N2:Ce3+,Eu2+ Phosphors and Determination of their Luminescence Properties
Authors: Song Xiufeng , Fu Renli , Agathopoulos Simeon , He Hong , Zhao Xinran , Yu Xiaodong
Published: September 2010

BaSi2O2N2:Ce3+,Eu2+ phosphors were successfully synthesized via the solid‐state reaction method. Their luminescence properties were experimentally investigated and qualify them for further consideration as components in white light‐emitting diodes. In particular, BaSi2O2N2:Eu2+ phosphors have an efficient bluish–green emission band that peaks at 490 nm. Ce3+‐doped BaSi2O2N2 showed a bright emission band at 390 nm. A red shift tuning capability of emission bands was achieved by increasing the Eu2+ or Ce3+ contents. Measurements of the intensity of emission spectra suggested a concentration quenching effect for both Eu2+ and Ce3+. Analysis of the experimental results suggests that the enhancement of emission intensity in the produced codoped BaSi2O2N2:Ce3+,Eu2+ phosphors is due to resonance‐type energy transfer from Ce3+ to Eu2+ ions, which is predominantly governed by dipole–dipole interaction mechanism. The efficiency of energy transfer was calculated and the critical distance of energy transfer between Ce3+ and Eu2+ was determined as ∼25 Å.