bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AXIOLOGY, SELF‐DECEPTION, AND MORAL WRONGDOING IN BLAISE PASCAL'S PENSÉES
Authors: Wood William D.
Published: May 2009

Blaise Pascal is highly regarded as a religious moralist, but he has rarely been given his due as an ethical theorist. The goal of this article is to assemble Pascal's scattered thoughts on moral judgment and moral wrongdoing into an explicit, coherent account that can serve as the basis for further scholarly reflection on his ethics. On my reading, Pascal affirms an axiological, social‐intuitionist account of moral judgment and moral wrongdoing. He argues that a moral judgment is an immediate, intuitive perception of moral value that we willfully disregard in favor of the attractive, though self‐deceptive, deliverances of our socially constructed imaginations. We can deceive ourselves so easily because our capacity to evaluate goods is broken, a dark legacy of the fall. In the article's concluding section, I briefly compare Pascal to contemporary ethicists and suggest directions for future research.
Prevalence of ‘deep’ rectal varices in patients with cirrhosis: an EUS‐based study
Authors: Wiechowska‐Kozłowska Anna , Białek Andrzej , Milkiewicz Piotr
Published: May 2009

Background: Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) permits identification of dilated veins of the intrinsic rectal venous system (deep varices) in portal hypertension. The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to assess the prevalence of, and risk factors for, deep rectal varices, using EUS.

Methods: A cohort of 96 patients with cirrhosis was studied. Both routine rectoscopy and rectal EUS were performed. Deep varices were assessed as peri‐rectal and para‐rectal. A three‐grade scale was used to assess the size of the deep varices.

Results: On rectoscopic examination, congestive rectopathy was seen in 11(11%) patients, blue veins in 36(38%) and rectal varices in 13 (14%). On EUS, deep varices were seen in 49(51%) subjects. Small peri‐rectal varices were seen in 29 (30%) patients and large peri‐rectal varices in 10 (10%). Small para‐rectal varices were seen in 22 (23%) patients and large para‐rectal in 13 (14%). Of the 83 patients without rectal varices on rectoscopy, 39 (47%) had varices detectable with EUS. Patients with large deep varices had more advanced liver disease and significantly thicker rectal wall. They did not differ from other patients in terms of the other analysed factors.

Conclusion: EUS permits identification of deep rectal varices in a large proportion of patients without detectable varices on rectoscopy. Unlike in previous study, we found that the presence of large deep rectal varices correlates with the degree of liver failure and thickness of rectal wall but not with the grade of portal hypertension in the oesophagus or the stomach. The clinical significance of these varices is uncertain and requires further study.
Conceptions of Literature in University Language Courses
Authors: ALVSTAD CECILIA , CASTRO ANDREA
Published: May 2009

In this article we set out to explore and discuss reasons for reading literary texts in university curricula of foreign languages. Our analysis is based on 2 sources of information: 16 syllabi of Spanish as a foreign language and a questionnaire in which 11 university instructors teaching these syllabi express their intentions. We point to a number of risks when emphasis is predominantly placed on instrumental goals such as acquisition of vocabulary and grammar or cultural knowledge. We suggest, instead, that the literary modules within language curricula should formulate their own specific goals. Rather than privileging linguistic and cultural competences to be trained, the literary modules could, for example, raise students' awareness of the facts that there are many ways of reading a text but that interpretation nevertheless remains a historically situated and constrained activity.
Exchanging Missing Information in Tasks: Old and New Interpretations
Authors: JENKS CHRISTOPHER JOSEPH
Published: May 2009

Information gap tasks have played a key role in applied linguistics (Pica, 2005). For example, extensive research has been conducted using information gap tasks to elicit second language data. Yet, despite their prominent role in research and pedagogy, there is still much to be investigated with regard to what information gap tasks offer research on second language learning and use. Do both participants in information gap tasks have the same participatory responsibilities and rights? How are these responsibilities and rights managed and co‐constructed? This article answers these questions by investigating the issue of information distribution and the interactional roles that manifest during the completion of information gap tasks. Using conversation analysis, the findings show how information gap tasks create specific interactional roles that result in specific interactional constraints. For example, the task design characteristic of exchanging referential information forms the basis of a two‐part interaction sequence, where the recipient of missing information is predisposed to expose problematic utterances. It is then argued that these findings can be used to improve the design and implementation of tasks for both pedagogical and empirical purposes.
Chemistry and Morphology of Hydrogarnets Formed in Cement‐Based CASH Hydroceramics Cured at 200° to 350°C
Authors: Kyritsis Konstantinos , Meller Nicola , Hall Christopher
Published: May 2009

We have studied the chemistry and the morphology of hydrogarnet crystals produced in cement‐based hydroceramic materials at elevated temperatures (200°–350°C) with silica and alumina additions. Such materials lie within the hydrothermal CaO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O (CASH) system. Hydrogarnet Ca3Al2(SiO4)3−y(OH)4y is the dominant aluminum bearing phase formed and its composition is influenced mainly by the curing temperature and to a lesser degree by the addition of silica. The composition parameter y was estimated by Rietveld refinement of X‐ray diffraction (XRD) data. Electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) shows that the hydrogarnets incorporate minor elements such as Fe, Mg, and S. EPMA data confirmed the hydrogarnet composition estimated from XRD. Both octahedral and icositetrahedral forms are observed. The icositetrahedral form is associated with higher minor element content.
Tape‐Casting Performance of Ethanol Slurries for the Processing of Textured PMN–PT Ceramics from Nanocrystalline Powder
Authors: Amorín Harvey , Santacruz Isabel , Holc Janez , Thi Mai Pham , Kosec Marija , Moreno Rodrigo , Algueró Miguel
Published: May 2009

The rheological behavior and tape‐casting performance of ethanol‐based Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 (PMN–PT) slurries is studied. A nanocrystalline powder obtained by mechanochemical activation was used. Suspensions were prepared up to solid contents of 32 vol%, significantly higher than those usually reported for nonaqueous systems. The feasibility of replacing toxic solvents commonly used for tape casting of functional ferroelectric materials, often toluene, with ethanol is demonstrated. The density, phases and microstructure of the green tapes and sintered ceramics are presented. Cube‐shaped templates were successfully aligned during the tape casting for the processing of 〈001〉‐textured PMN–PT ceramics by templated grain growth. An effect of the lamination of tape stacks on the template orientation is described.
Molten Salt Synthesis of Magnesium Aluminate (MgAl2O4) Spinel on Ti3AlC2 Substrate
Authors: Zhang Jie , Li Danhua , Zhou Yanchun
Published: May 2009

A MgAl2O4 (MA) spinel layer was synthesized on Ti3AlC2 substrate through the molten salt synthesis (MSS) method. The Ti3AlC2 substrate was immersed in MgCl2·6H2O powders and treated at 800°, 850°, and 900°C for 4 h in air. A continuous and 10‐μm‐thick MgAl2O4 layer was obtained at 900°C, by which the surface hardness of Ti3AlC2 can be effectively improved. The combined scanning electron microscopy observations and crystal morphology simulation further revealed that the as‐formed MgAl2O4 presents tetragonal bipyramids morphology with (400)‐orientation.
A Slurry Injection Method for the Fabrication of Multiple Microchannel SOFCs
Authors: Shimizu Sota , Yamaguchi Toshiaki , Fujishiro Yoshinobu , Awano Masanobu
Published: May 2009

A fabrication technology has been developed for a novel high‐performance solid oxide fuel cells with honeycomb structure via the extrusion of a cathode‐honeycomb monolith and subsequent channel surface coating with electrolyte/anode bilayers. A novel coating technique for the preparation of dense electrolyte films on the channel surfaces in cathode honeycomb supports is reported. When the dipping method is used, the high viscous resistance of the electrolyte slurry inhibited slurry penetration into the microchannels, which resulted in insufficient channel surface coating. By contrast, the newly developed channel coating technique, i.e. the slurry injection method, allowed the slurry to be injected into the honeycomb channels without the formation of any coating defects.
Clinical characteristics at implants with a history of progressive bone loss
Authors: Fransson Christer , Wennström Jan , Berglundh Tord
Published: May 2009

Objective: The aim of the present study was to describe the clinical characteristics at implants with a history of progressive bone loss.

Material and methods: Eighty‐two out of 184 previously identified subjects with a history of progressive bone loss volunteered for the study. Clinical assessments of plaque, bleeding on probing (BoP), probing pocket depth (PPD), suppuration following probing (Pus), presence of calculus on implants surfaces (Calc) and ‘recession’ i.e. the mucosal margin in level with or apical of the fixture/abutment junction were performed at the mesial, distal, buccal and lingual aspects of each implant and without removing the bridge constructions.

Results: It was demonstrated that the frequencies of BoP, Pus, ‘recession’ and PPD≥6 mm were higher at implants with than without ‘progressive’ bone loss. In addition, smokers had larger numbers of affected implants than non‐smokers, and the proportion of affected implants that exhibited Pus and PPD≥6 mm was higher in smokers than in non‐smokers. The logistic regression analysis revealed that the findings of Pus, ‘recession’ and PPD≥6 mm at an implant in a smoking subject had a 69% accuracy in identifying the history of progressive bone loss.

Conclusion: The results from this study demonstrate an association between clinical signs of pathology and bone loss at implants. It is recommended to include clinical assessments in the evaluation of implant therapy.
Factors influencing the degree of generalization in flower use by Mediterranean butterflies
Authors: Stefanescu Constantí , Traveset Anna
Published: May 2009

Despite the enormous importance of nectar sources in butterfly ecology, little research has been carried out in determining broad patterns of flower use at the community level. In this paper we report the results of a long‐term study (12 years) of the flowers visited by adult butterflies at four sites in northeast Spain encompassing an altitudinal gradient of 1100 m and a rich variety of biotopes. The complete dataset consists of 29 305 recorded flower visits by 100 butterfly and one burnet moth species to 214 different plant species. Our analysis showed firstly that the degree of generalization in flower use is a species trait that remains fairly constant throughout the biotopes and regions occupied by a butterfly species. Related to this pattern, we also found that phylogeny had an important effect on flower use. Of the ecological traits influencing the degree of generalization, the length of the flight period was identified as the most important. Habitat preference was also important, since forest butterflies were more specialized than the butterflies of open habitats. The existence of a link between the degree of generalization in flower use and the degree of larval polyphagy seems more doubtful as we obtained conflicting results that contradict the most plausible biological explanation. Our data provided no support for the hypothesis that rarer species are more specialized than commoner ones, but did seem to confirm a previous finding that body size is not relevant to any explanation of the degree of generalization in adult butterflies.
Cervical cytology in vulnerable pregnant women
Authors: Loomis Dianne M. , Pastore Patricia A. , Rejman Karol , Gutierrez Karen L. , Bethea Bridget
Published: May 2009

Purpose: To identify the prevalence of abnormal Papanicolau (Pap) smears in pregnancy in a vulnerable urban family practice, determine the percentage of abnormal Pap smears that persist into the postpartum period, and identify associated risk factors.

Data sources: A retrospective chart review of all prenatal patients (N = 192) from a large urban family practice in upstate New York from 2000 to 2004. Descriptive statistic analysis was performed on demographic information, risk factors for abnormal Pap smears, and disposition of the patients.

Conclusions: This study provides information on the risk factors associated with abnormal Pap smears in pregnancy in a population at high risk. A significant relationship was seen between a positive marijuana toxicology screen and an abnormal Pap smear. In addition, the younger the patient age, the higher the probability of having a positive toxicology result. As expected, human papillomavirus (HPV) was the only sexually transmitted infection associated with an abnormal Pap smear in those that had reflex testing with liquid based cytology. Patients with primary care providers were much more likely to return for cervical cancer screening within 1 year of previous testing.

Implications for practice: There are many barriers to screening and prevention for cervical cancer in vulnerable populations. Newer technologies with HPV testing have helped to identify those women at highest risk for cervical cancer. Implementing strategies among healthcare providers to avoid missed opportunities for screening, assessment and education of risk factors, and offering vaccination against HPV are needed. Empowering women may begin to reduce disparities through the development of educational programs that reduce cultural and linguistic barriers to screening and awareness that socioeconomic factors may be impediments to care and adherence.
Examining the evidence for the use of vitamin C in the prophylaxis and treatment of the common cold
Authors: Heimer Kathryn A. , Hart Ann Marie , Martin Linda Gore , Rubio‐Wallace Sherrie
Published: May 2009

Purpose: To present a critical evaluation of the current evidence concerning the therapeutic value of vitamin C for the prophylaxis and treatment of the common cold.

Data sources: Cochrane, PubMed, Natural Standard, and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine databases were searched to identify and acquire primary research reports, literature reviews, and secondary analyses related to the clinical objective. Published clinical trials, literature reviews, meta‐analyses, and systematic reviews were evaluated for evidence‐based practice implications.

Conclusions: Vitamin C is frequently used for the treatment and prophylaxis of the common cold; however, no published recommendations were found in a review of the nurse practitioner literature that specifically address the efficacy of vitamin C for the common cold. Our literature review revealed that vitamin C is not effective at preventing the common cold in the general adult population; however, it is effective at preventing colds when consumed regularly by athletes training in subarctic conditions. We also found that regular vitamin C consumption may reduce the duration of cold symptoms in both adults and children, but it does not decrease the severity of cold symptoms.

Implications for practice: NPs should counsel their patients that regular vitamin C consumption may decrease the duration of cold symptoms, but does not affect symptom severity or act as a prophylaxis.
Development of a Δ
glnA
Balanced Lethal Plasmid System for Expression of Heterologous Antigens by Attenuated Vaccine Vector Strains of
Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Ryan Edward T. , Crean Thomas I. , Kochi Sims K. , John Manohar , Luciano Angel A. , Killeen Kevin P. , Klose Karl E. , Calderwood Stephen B.
Published: May 2009

We have previously shown that more prominent immune responses are induced to antigens expressed from multicopy plasmids in live attenuated vaccine vector strains of
Vibrio cholerae
than to antigens expressed from single-copy genes on the
V. cholerae
chromosome. Here, we report the construction of a Δ
glnA
derivative of
V. cholerae
vaccine strain Peru2. This mutant strain, Peru2Δ
glnA
, is unable to grow on medium that does not contain glutamine; this growth deficiency is complemented by pKEK71-
Not
I, a plasmid containing a complete copy of the
Salmonella typhimurium glnA
gene, or by pTIC5, a derivative of pKEK71-
Not
I containing a 1.8-kbp fragment that directs expression of CtxB with a 12-amino-acid epitope of the serine-rich
Entamoeba histolytica
protein fused to the amino terminus. Strain Peru2Δ
glnA
(pTIC5) produced 10-fold more SREHP-12-CtxB in supernatants than did ETR3, a Peru2-derivative strain containing the same fragment inserted on the chromosome. To assess immune responses to antigens expressed by this balanced lethal system in vivo, we inoculated germfree mice on days 0, 14, 28, and 42 with Peru2Δ
glnA
, Peru2Δ
glnA
(pKEK71-
Not
I), Peru2(pTIC5), Peru2Δ
glnA
(pTIC5), or ETR3. All
V. cholerae
strains were recoverable from stool for 8 to 12 days after primary inoculation, including Peru2Δ
glnA
; strains containing plasmids continued to harbor pKEK71-
Not
I or pTIC5 for 8 to 10 days after primary inoculation. Animals were sacrificed on day 56, and serum, stool and biliary samples were analyzed for immune responses. Vibriocidal antibody responses, reflective of in vivo colonization, were equivalent in all groups of animals. However, specific anti-CtxB immune responses in serum (
P
≤ 0.05) and bile (
P
≤ 0.001) were significantly higher in animals that received Peru2Δ
glnA
(pTIC5) than in those that received ETR3, confirming the advantage of higher-level antigen expression in vivo. The development of this balanced lethal system thus permits construction and maintenance of vaccine and vector strains of
V. cholerae
that express high levels of immunogenic antigens from plasmid vectors without the need for antibiotic selection pressure.
Enhanced Production of Recombinant
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Antigens in
Escherichia coli
by Replacement of Low-Usage Codons
Authors: Lakey David L. , Voladri Rama K. R. , Edwards Kathryn M. , Hager Cynthia , Samten Buka , Wallis Robert S. , Barnes Peter F. , Kernodle Douglas S.
Published: May 2009

A major obstacle to development of subunit vaccines and diagnostic reagents for tuberculosis is the inability to produce large quantities of these proteins. To test the hypothesis that poor expression of some mycobacterial genes in
Escherichia coli
is due, in part, to the presence of low-usage
E. coli
codons, we used site-directed mutagenesis to convert low-usage codons to high-usage codons for the same amino acid in the
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
genes for antigens 85A and 85B and superoxide dismutase. Replacement of five codons in the wild-type gene for antigen 85B increased recombinant protein production in
E. coli
54-fold. The recombinant antigen elicited proliferation and gamma interferon production by lymphocytes from healthy tuberculin reactors and was recognized by monoclonal antibodies to native antigen 85, indicating that the recombinant antigen contained T-cell and B-cell epitopes. Northern blotting demonstrated only a 1.7- to 2.5-fold increase in antigen 85B mRNA, suggesting that the enhanced protein production was due primarily to enhanced efficiency of translation. Codon replacement in the genes encoding antigen 85A and superoxide dismutase yielded four- to sixfold increases in recombinant protein production, suggesting that this strategy may be generally applicable to overexpression of mycobacterial genes in
E. coli
.
Increased Expression of Periplasmic Cu,Zn Superoxide Dismutase Enhances Survival of
Escherichia coli
Invasive Strains within Nonphagocytic Cells
Authors: Battistoni Andrea , Pacello Francesca , Folcarelli Silvia , Ajello Maria , Donnarumma Giovanna , Greco Rita , Grazia Ammendolia Maria , Touati Danièle , Rotilio Giuseppe , Valenti Piera
Published: May 2009

We have studied the influence of periplasmic Cu,Zn superoxide dismutase on the intracellular survival of
Escherichia coli
strains able to invade epithelial cells by the expression of the
inv
gene from
Yersinia pseudotuberculosis
but unable to multiply intracellularly. Intracellular viability assays, confirmed by electron microscopy observations, showed that invasive strains of
E. coli
engineered to increase Cu,Zn superoxide dismutase production are much more resistant to intracellular killing than strains containing only the chromosomal
sodC
copy. However, we have found only a slight difference in survival within HeLa cells between a
sodC
-null mutant and its isogenic wild-type strain. Such a small difference in survival correlates with the very low expression of this enzyme in the wild-type strain. We have also observed that acid- and oxidative stress-sensitive
E. coli
HB101(pRI203) is more rapidly killed in epithelial cells than
E. coli
GC4468(pRI203). The high mortality of
E. coli
HB101(pRI203), independent of the acidification of the endosome, is abolished by the overexpression of
sodC
. Our data suggest that oxyradicals are involved in the mechanisms of bacterial killing within epithelial cells and that high-level production of periplasmic Cu,Zn superoxide dismutase provides bacteria with an effective protection against oxidative damage. We propose that Cu,Zn superoxide dismutase could offer an important selective advantage in survival within host cells to bacteria expressing high levels of this enzyme.
Identification and Cloning of Genes from
Porphyromonas gingivalis
after Mutagenesis with a Modified Tn
4400
Transposon from
Bacteroides fragilis
Authors: Chen Tsute , Dong Hong , Tang Yixin P. , Dallas Mary M. , Malamy Michael H. , Duncan Margaret J.
Published: May 2009

Porphyromonas gingivalis
is a gram-negative, black-pigmented, oral anaerobe strongly associated with adult periodontitis. Previous transposon mutagenesis studies with this organism were based on the
Bacteroides
transposon Tn
4351
. Characterization of Tn
4351
-disrupted genes by cloning has not been an efficient way to analyze large numbers of mutants and is further complicated by the high rate of cointegration of the suicide delivery vector containing Tn
4351
. In this study, we mutagenized
P. gingivalis
with a modified version of the
Bacteroides fragilis
transposon Tn
4400
. Plasmid pYT646B carrying the transposon was mobilized from
Escherichia coli
to
P. gingivalis
ATCC 33277 by conjugation. Both normal and inverse transposition frequencies were similar (3 × 10
−8
). However, the inverse transposon (Tn
4400
′) contains a pBR322 replicon and a β-lactamase gene; thus, the cloning of disrupted genomic DNAs from inverse transposition mutants was easily accomplished after ligation of genomic fragments and transformation into
E. coli
. Thousands of transconjugants could be obtained in a single mating experiment, and inverse transposition was random as demonstrated by Southern hybridization. By this procedure the disrupted genes from
P. gingivalis
pleiotropic mutants were quickly cloned, sequenced, and identified.
A brief bout of exercise alters gene expression and distinct gene pathways in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of early- and late-pubertal females
Authors: Radom-Aizik Shlomit , Zaldivar Frank , Leu Szu-Yun , Cooper Dan M.
Published: May 2009

Recent studies show that brief exercise alters circulating neutrophil and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) gene expression, ranging from cell growth to both pro-and anti-inflammatory processes. These initial observations were made solely in males, but whether PBMC gene expression is altered by exercise in females is not known. Ten early-pubertal girls (8–11 yr old) and 10 late-pubertal girls (15–17 yr old) performed ten 2-min bouts of cycle ergometry (∼90% peak heart rate) interspersed with 1-min rest intervals. Blood was obtained at rest and after exercise, and microarrays were performed in each individual subject. RNA was hybridized to Affymetrix U133+2.0 Arrays. Exercise induced significant changes in PBMC gene expression in early (1,320 genes)- and late (877 genes)-pubertal girls. The expression of 622 genes changed similarly in both groups. Exercise influenced a variety of established gene pathways (EASE < 0.04) in both older (6 pathways) and younger girls (11 pathways). Five pathways were the same in both groups and were functionally related to inflammation, stress, and apoptosis, such as natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity, antigen processing and presentation, B cell receptor signaling, and apoptosis. In summary, brief exercise alters PBMC gene expression in early- and late-pubertal girls. The pattern of change involves diverse genetic pathways, consistent with a global danger-type response, perhaps readying PBMCs for a range of physiological functions from inflammation to tissue repair that would be useful following a bout of physical activity.
Airway wall attenuation: a biomarker of airway disease in subjects with COPD
Authors: Washko George R. , Dransfield Mark T. , Estépar Raúl San José , Diaz Alejandro , Matsuoka Shin , Yamashiro Tsuneo , Hatabu Hiroto , Silverman Edwin K. , Bailey William C. , Reilly John J.
Published: May 2009

The computed tomographic (CT) densities of imaged structures are a function of the CT scanning protocol, the structure size, and the structure density. For objects that are of a dimension similar to the scanner point spread function, CT will underestimate true structure density. Prior investigation suggests that this process, termed contrast reduction, could be used to estimate the strength of thin structures, such as cortical bone. In this investigation, we endeavored to exploit this process to provide a CT-based measure of airway disease that can assess changes in airway wall thickening and density that may be associated with the mural remodeling process in subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). An initial computer-based study using a range of simulated airway wall sizes and densities suggested that CT measures of airway wall attenuation could detect changes in both wall thickness and structure density. A second phantom-based study was performed using a series of polycarbonate tubes of known density. The results of this again demonstrated the process of contrast reduction and further validated the computer-based simulation. Finally, measures of airway wall attenuation, wall thickness, and wall area (WA) divided by total cross-sectional area, WA percent (WA%), were performed in a cohort of 224 subjects with COPD and correlated with spirometric measures of lung function. The results of this analysis demonstrated that wall attenuation is comparable to WA% in predicting lung function on univariate correlation and remain as a statistically significant correlate to the percent forced expiratory volume in 1 s predicted when adjusted for measures of both emphysema and WA%. These latter findings suggest that the quantitative assessment of airway wall attenuation may offer complementary information to WA% in characterizing airway disease in subjects with COPD.
In Vitro and in Vivo Effects of Adiponectin on Bone
Authors: Williams Garry A. , Wang Yu , Callon Karen E. , Watson Maureen , Lin Jian-ming , Lam Janice B. B. , Costa Jessica L. , Orpe Ajay , Broom Neil , Naot Dorit , Reid Ian R. , Cornish Jillian
Published: May 2009

Fat mass impacts on both bone turnover and bone density and is a critical risk factor for osteoporotic fractures. Adipocyte-derived hormones may contribute to this relationship, and adiponectin is a principal circulating adipokine. However, its effects on bone remain unclear. We have, therefore, investigated the direct effects of adiponectin on primary cultures of osteoblastic and osteoclastic cells in vitro and determined its integrated effects in vivo by characterizing the bone phenotype of adiponectin-deficient mice. Adiponectin was dose-dependently mitogenic to primary rat and human osteoblasts (∼50% increase at 10 μg/ml) and markedly inhibited osteoclastogenesis at concentrations of 1 μg/ml or greater. It had no effect on osteoclastogenesis in RAW-264.7 cells or on bone resorption in isolated mature osteoclasts. In adiponectin knockout (AdKO) male C57BL/6J mice, trabecular bone volume and trabecular number (assessed by microcomputed tomography) were increased at 14 wk of age by 30% (P = 0.02) and 38% (P = 0.0009), respectively. Similar, nonsignificant trends were observed at 8 and 22 wk of age. Biomechanical testing showed lower bone fragility and reduced cortical hardness at 14 wk. We conclude that adiponectin stimulates osteoblast growth but inhibits osteoclastogenesis, probably via an effect on stromal cells. However, the AdKO mouse has increased bone mass, suggesting that adiponectin also has indirect effects on bone, possibly through modulating growth factor action or insulin sensitivity. Because adiponectin does influence bone mass in vivo, it is likely to be a contributor to the fat-bone relationship.
Metalloproteinase-Dependent Shedding of Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor-Related Protein-1 Ectodomain Decreases Endocytic Clearance of Endometrial Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 and -9 at Menstruation
Authors: Selvais Charlotte , Gaide Chevronnay Héloïse P. , Lemoine Pascale , Dedieu Stéphane , Henriet Patrick , Courtoy Pierre J. , Marbaix Etienne , Emonard Hervé
Published: May 2009

Cyclic elimination of the endometrium functional layer through menstrual bleeding results from intense tissue breakdown by proteolytic enzymes, mainly members of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) family. In contrast to menstrual-restricted MMPs, e.g. interstitial collagenase (MMP-1), gelatinases A (MMP-2) and B (MMP-9) mRNAs are abundant throughout the cycle without detectable tissue degradation at proliferative and secretory phases, implying a tight posttranslational control of both gelatinases. This paper addresses the role of low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP)-1 in the endocytic clearance of endometrial gelatinases. LRP-1 mRNA and protein were studied using RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunolabeling. Posttranslational control of LRP-1 was analyzed in explant culture. The receptor-associated protein (RAP), used as LRP antagonist, strongly increased (pro)gelatinase accumulation in medium conditioned by endometrial explants, suggesting a role for LRP-1 in their clearance. Although LRP-1 mRNA remained constant throughout the cycle, the protein ectodomain vanished at menses. LRP-1 immunolabeling selectively disappeared in areas of extracellular matrix breakdown in menstrual samples. It also disappeared from explants cultured without estrogen and progesterone (EP) due to ectodomain shedding in the medium. The shedding was inhibited by metalloproteinase inhibitors, including a disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) inhibitor, and by tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMP)-3 and -2, but barely by TIMP-1, pointing to ADAM-12 as the putative sheddase. In good agreement, ADAM-12 mRNA expression was repressed by EP. In conclusion, the efficient LRP-1-mediated clearance of gelatinase activity in nonbleeding endometrium is abrogated upon EP withdrawal, due to shedding of LRP-1 ectodomain by a metalloproteinase, presumably ADAM-12, itself regulated by EP.
Physiological evidence for binaural directional computations in the brainstem of the oyster toadfish,Opsanus tau(L.)
Authors: Edds-Walton Peggy L. , Fay Richard R.
Published: May 2009

Comparisons of left and right auditory input are required for sound source localization in most terrestrial vertebrates. Previous physiological and neuroanatomical studies have indicated that binaural convergence is present in the ascending auditory system of the toadfish. In this study, we introduce a new technique, otolith tipping, to reversibly alter directional auditory input to the central nervous system of a fish. The normal directional response pattern (DRP) was recorded extracellularly for auditory cells in the first-order descending octaval nucleus (DON) or the midbrain torus semicircularis (TS) using particle motion stimuli in the horizontal and mid-sagittal planes. The same stimuli were used during tipping of the saccular otolith to evaluate changes in the DRPs. Post-tipping DRPs were generated and compared with the pre-tipping DRPs to ensure that the data had been collected consistently from the same unit. In the DON, ipsilateral or contralateral tipping most often eliminated spike activity, but changes in spike rate(±) and DRP shape were also documented. In the TS, tipping most often caused a change in spike rate (±) and altered the shape or best axis of the DRP. The data indicate that there are complex interactions of excitatory and inhibitory inputs in the DON and TS resulting from the convergence of binaural inputs. As in anurans, but unlike other terrestrial vertebrates,binaural processing associated with encoding the direction of a sound source begins in the first-order auditory nucleus of this teleost.
Breaking Out of the Mainstream: The Evolution of Peer Support Alternatives to the Mental Health System
Authors: Adame Alexandra L. , Leitner Larry M.
Published: May 2009

The consumer/survivor/ex-patient (c/s/x) movement has been instrumental in the development of a variety of peer-support alternatives to traditional mental health services in both the United States in Canada. This article explores the role of the c/s/x movement in the creation of such alternatives and discusses the various ways peer support is defined and has been put into practice. We also discuss the potential for future alliances and dialogues between progressive mental health professionals and the c/s/x movement as both groups seek ways to reconceptualize mental illness and recovery outside of the medical model paradigm.
The Empathic Ward: Reality and Resistance in Mental Health Reform
Authors: Whitaker Leighton C. , Deikman Arthur J.
Published: May 2009

This article provides perspective on our experiment to change a psychiatric hospital ward from reliance on drug therapy to psychological treatment. Resistances to the change took many forms, including delaying publication of the results for nearly a decade. Although successful, the treatment program itself was never adopted. The work did have a major impact on the “right to refuse treatment” case originally titled Rogers v. Okin (1979), which barred forced medication and involuntary seclusion except in certain emergencies if an outside consultant agreed. Two publications (Deikman & Whitaker, 1979; Whitaker & Deikman, 1980) described much of the program and its vicissitudes but did not include some of the more resisted features reported in this article.
Evaluation of changes in cardiac biomarker concentrations and enzyme activities in serum after short- and long-duration transcutaneous cardiac pacing in dogs
Authors: Lee Seungkeun , Pak Son-Il , Hyun Changbaig
Published: May 2009

Objective—To evaluate serum cardiac biomarker concentrations and selected enzyme activities in dogs with experimentally induced bradyarrhythmias after short- (1-hour) and long- (3-hour) duration transcutaneous cardiac pacing (TCP).

Animals—10 healthy Beagles.

Procedures—In each dog, anesthesia was induced with propofol (5 mg/kg, IV) and maintained via inhalation of isoflurane in oxygen. To induce bradyarrhythmia, diltiazem was administered IV (20 to 50 mg/dog). Transcutaneous cardiac pacing was performed for 1 hour (5 dogs) or 3 hours (5 dogs) by use of an automated external cardiac pulse generator and a transdermal electrode. Serum concentrations of creatine kinase-MB fraction and cardiac troponin I and activities of aspartate transaminase, creatine kinase, and lactate dehydrogenase were evaluated the day before (baseline) and at intervals until 7 days after TCP.

Results—Increases (from baseline) in serum cardiac biomarker concentrations and enzyme activities were detected in the long-duration TCP group; changes in the short-duration TCP group were more minor and largely not significant. Although severity of myocardial and skeletal muscular injuries was apparently greater with greater duration of TCP, the injuries were not persistent; most variables were within reference range within 3 days after TCP.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that application of TCP for > 1 hour in dogs may cause myocardial and skeletal muscular injuries. Serum concentrations of creatine kinase-MB fraction and cardiac troponin I and activities of aspartate transaminase, creatine kinase, and lactate dehydrogenase should be more carefully monitored after TCP of > 1 hour's duration to evaluate potential myocardial damages.
Kinetics of inhibition of purified bovine neutrophil matrix metalloproteinase 9 by low–molecular-weight inhibitors
Authors: Bannikov Gregory A. , Lakritz Jeffrey , Premanandan Christopher , Mattoon John S. , Abrahamsen Eric J.
Published: May 2009

Objective—To measure the effects of lowmolecular-weight inhibitors on the activity of bovine neutrophil matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9).

Sample Population—Bovine MMP-9 purified from bovine neutrophilconditioned medium.

Procedures—Neutrophils were degranulated by stimulation with phorbol ester. Enzyme purification was performed by use of gelatin affinity and gel-filtration chromatography. Activated enzyme was incubated with inhibitors prior to addition of substrate (gelatin fluorescein conjugate or fluorogenic peptide). Rates of enzymatic cleavage were determined by monitoring fluorescence as the reactions progressed. Values of IC50 (molar concentration of compound that inhibits specific activity by 50%) and KI (in vitro inhibition constant) were determined.

Results—Rates of enzymatic activity of monomeric and dimeric bovine MMP-9 measured by use of gelatin and peptide substrates were linear with respect to time and concentrations of enzyme and substrate. The MMP-9 was potently inhibited by hydroxamic acids (IC50 for gelatin, 29.2 to 55.7nM; IC50 for peptide, 4.8 to 24.6nM; KI, 0.2 to 0.5nM), whereas tetracyclines (IC50 for gelatin, 30.1 to 112.7MM; IC50 for peptide, 48.0 to 123.8MM; KI, 25.2 to 61.4µM) and chlorhexidine (IC50 for gelatin, 139.1MM; IC50 for peptide, 672.5MM to 1.7mM; KI, 495.0 to 663.0MM) had limited inhibition. Gelatinase-specific inhibitor SB-3CT had intermediate potency (IC50 for peptide, 185.0 to 290.0nM; KI, 66.5 to 86.0nM).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Bovine MMP-9 was potently inhibited by hydroxamic acids and gelatinase inhibitor. These compounds may be useful as modulators of neutrophil-mediated protease activity in cattle.
Microsatellite loci in urine supernatant and stored samples from racehorses
Authors: Chen Jin-Wen , Uboh Cornelius E. , Soma Lawrence R. , Li Xiaoqing , Guan Fuyu , You Youwen
Published: May 2009

Objective—To evaluate whether urine supernatant contains amplifiable DNA and to determine factors that influence genotyping of samples from racehorses after storage and transportation.

Sample Population—580 urine, 279 whole blood, and 40 plasma samples obtained from 261 Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds.

Procedures—Genomic DNA was isolated from stored blood and urine samples collected from racehorses after competition. Quantified DNA was evaluated to determine whether 5 equine microsatellite loci (VHL20, HTG4, AHT4, HMS6, and HMS7) could be amplified by use of PCR techniques. Fragment size of each amplified locus was determined by use of capillary electrophoresis.

Results—High–molecular-weight and amplifiable DNA were recovered from refrigerated blood samples, but recovery from urine varied. Deoxyribonucleic acid was recovered from both urine supernatant and sediment. Freeze-thaw cycles of urine caused accumulation of amplifiable DNA in the supernatant and clearance of naked DNA. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles significantly decreased DNA yield and induced DNA degradation, which resulted in failure to detect microsatellite loci. Select drugs detected in test samples did not affect PCR amplification. Contaminants in DNA isolates inhibited PCR amplification and resulted in partial microsatellite profiles.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Properly stored urine and blood samples were successfully genotyped, but subjecting urine to freeze-thaw cycles was most detrimental to the integrity of DNA. Increasing the volume of urine used improved recovery of DNA.
Gastric histopathologic abnormalities in dogs: 67 cases (2002–2007)
Authors: Lidbury Jonathan A. , Suchodolski Jan S. , Steiner Jörg M.
Published: May 2009

Objective—To test the hypothesis that intestinal pathologic changes are often concurrent with gastric pathologic changes in dogs and to characterize the historical, physical, clinicopathologic, imaging, and endoscopic findings in dogs with gastric histopathologic abnormalities.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—67 dogs with gastric histopathologic abnormalities.

Procedures—Medical records from dogs that had undergone gastrotomy, gastroduodenoscopy, or gastroscopy between September 2002 and September 2007 were identified. Dogs were included in the study when histopathologic abnormalities were detected during evaluation of gastric tissue sections. History, clinical examination findings, results of diagnostic tests, diagnoses, treatments, and outcome were recorded for each dog.

Results—67 dogs with gastric histopathologic abnormalities were included in the study. The most frequent clinical sign recorded was vomiting (36/67 [53.7%] dogs). The most common biochemical abnormality recorded was panhypoproteinemia (27/64 [42.2%] dogs). Lymphoplasmacytic gastritis was the most frequent histopathologic finding recorded (34/67 [50.7%] dogs). For dogs in which both intestinal biopsy specimens and gastric biopsy specimens were collected, concurrent pathologic changes were recorded in 43 of 60 (71.7%) dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of this study suggested that intestinal pathologic changes are commonly concurrent in dogs with gastric pathologic changes. This supports the practice of collecting both gastric and duodenal biopsy specimens every time gastroduodenoscopy is performed. Lymphoplasmacytic gastritis was the most commonly recorded gastric histopathologic finding and was often of minimal or mild severity.
Effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy on wounds of the distal portion of the limbs in horses
Authors: Morgan Dean D. , McClure Scott , Yaeger Michael J. , Schumacher Jim , Evans Richard B.
Published: May 2009

Objective—To evaluate the effects of focused, extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) on the healing of wounds of the distal portion of the limbs in horses.

Design—Randomized controlled trial.

Animals—6 healthy adult horses.

Procedures—In each horse, a 4-cm-diameter full-thickness wound that included underlying periosteum was created on the dorsomedial aspect of each metacarpus and two 3-cm-diameter full-thickness wounds that included underlying periosteum were created on the dorsomedial aspect of each metatarsus. One randomly selected metacarpal wound and a randomly selected pair of metatarsal wounds were treated once weekly with ESWT at an energy flux density of 0.11 mJ/mm2. For metacarpal wounds, swab specimens were collected for bacterial culture on days 1, 2, and 3 and area of epithelialization and extent of wound contraction were measured at 3- to 4-day intervals. Metatarsal wounds were biopsied after 2 and 4 weeks, and immunohistochemical staining for vascular endothelial growth factor, transforming growth factor-β1, and insulin-like growth factor-1 was performed.

Results—Results of bacterial culture, area of epithelialization, and percentage of wound contraction did not differ between treated and untreated wounds; however, healing time for treated wounds (mean, 76 days) was significantly shorter than healing time for untreated wounds (90 days). Staining intensity of growth factors did not differ significantly between treated and untreated wounds.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Findings suggested that ESWT may stimulate healing of wounds of the distal portion of the limbs in horses, although the mechanism by which healing was stimulated could not be identified.
Efficacy of feeding plasma-derived commercial colostrum replacer for the prevention of transmission of Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis in Holstein calves
Authors: Pithua Patrick , Godden Sandra M. , Wells Scott J. , Oakes Michael J.
Published: May 2009

Objective—To estimate the relative risk of paratuberculosis (Johne's disease [JD]) in calves fed a plasma-derived colostrum-replacement (CR) product versus raw bovine maternal colostrum (MC).

Study Design—Randomized controlled clinical trial.

Animals—497 heifer calves born in 12 JD-endemic commercial Holstein dairy farms located in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Procedures—Every calf was separated from its dam within 30 to 60 minutes after birth and systematically assigned to be fed raw bovine MC (control group, n = 261 calves) or CR (treatment group, 236 calves). The calves were monitored to adulthood and tested for Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis (MAP) infection by use of an ELISA to detect serum antibodies against MAP and bacterial culture for MAP in feces at approximately 30, 42, and 54 months of age. Weibull regression models were used to evaluate the effect of feeding CR (vs raw bovine MC) on the risk of developing JD infection.

Results—Calves fed CR at birth were less likely (hazard ratio = 0.559) to become infected with MAP (as determined by use of an ELISA, bacterial culture, or both diagnostic tests), compared with the likelihood for calves fed MC at birth.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—This study revealed that feeding CR reduced the risk of developing MAP infection in Holstein calves born in JD-endemic herds, which implied that feeding raw bovine MC may be a source of MAP for calves. Plasma colostrum-replacement products may be an effective management tool for use in dairy herds attempting to reduce the prevalence of JD.
Impairment of intracerebral arteriole dilation responses after subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Park Ik-Seong , Meno Joseph R. , Witt Cordelie E. , Chowdhary Abhineet , Nguyen Thien-Son , Winn H. Richard , Ngai Al C. , Britz Gavin W.
Published: May 2009

Object

Cerebrovascular dysfunction after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) may contribute to ischemia, but little is known about the contribution of intracerebral arterioles. In this study, the authors tested the hypothesis that SAH inhibits the vascular reactivity of intracerebral arterioles and documented the time course of this dysfunction.

Methods

Subarachnoid hemorrhage was induced using an endovascular filament model in halothane-anesthetized male Sprague-Dawley rats. Penetrating intracerebral arterioles were harvested 2, 4, 7, or 14 days postinsult, cannulated using a micropipette system that allowed luminal perfusion and control of luminal pressure, and evaluated for reactivity to vasodilator agents.

Results

Spontaneous tone developed in all pressurized (60 mm Hg) intracerebral arterioles harvested in this study (from 66 rats), with similar results in the sham and SAH groups. Subarachnoid hemorrhage did not affect dilation responses to acidic pH (6.8) but led to a persistent impairment of endothelium-dependent dilation responses to adenosine triphosphate (p < 0.01), as well as a transient attenuation (p < 0.05) of vascular smooth muscle–dependent dilation responses to adenosine, sodium nitroprusside, and 8-Br-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Impairment of NO-mediated dilation was more sustained than adenosine- and 8-Br-cGMP–induced responses (up to 7 days postinsult compared with 2 days). All smooth muscle–dependent responses returned to sham levels by 14 days after SAH.

Conclusions

Subarachnoid hemorrhage led to a persistent impairment of endothelium-dependent dilation and a transient attenuation of vascular smooth muscle–dependent dilation responses to adenosine. Impairment of NOmediated dilation occurred when the response to cGMP was intact, suggesting a change in cGMP levels rather than an alteration in intracellular mechanisms downstream from cGMP.