bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of a Novel Air Toxic Risk Model with Air Monitoring
Authors: Pratt Gregory C. , Dymond Mary , Ellickson Kristie , Thé Jesse
Published: June 2011

Three modeling systems were used to estimate human health risks from air pollution: two versions of MNRiskS (for Minnesota Risk Screening), and the USEPA National Air Toxics Assessment (NATA). MNRiskS is a unique cumulative risk modeling system used to assess risks from multiple air toxics, sources, and pathways on a local to a state‐wide scale. In addition, ambient outdoor air monitoring data were available for estimation of risks and comparison with the modeled estimates of air concentrations. Highest air concentrations and estimated risks were generally found in the Minneapolis‐St. Paul metropolitan area and lowest risks in undeveloped rural areas. Emissions from mobile and area (nonpoint) sources created greater estimated risks than emissions from point sources. Highest cancer risks were via ingestion pathway exposures to dioxins and related compounds. Diesel particles, acrolein, and formaldehyde created the highest estimated inhalation health impacts. Model‐estimated air concentrations were generally highest for NATA and lowest for the AERMOD version of MNRiskS. This validation study showed reasonable agreement between available measurements and model predictions, although results varied among pollutants, and predictions were often lower than measurements. The results increased confidence in identifying pollutants, pathways, geographic areas, sources, and receptors of potential concern, and thus provide a basis for informing pollution reduction strategies and focusing efforts on specific pollutants (diesel particles, acrolein, and formaldehyde), geographic areas (urban centers), and source categories (nonpoint sources). The results heighten concerns about risks from food chain exposures to dioxins and PAHs. Risk estimates were sensitive to variations in methodologies for treating emissions, dispersion, deposition, exposure, and toxicity.
Repeat‐Sales Indexes: Estimation without Assuming that Errors in Asset Returns Are Independently Distributed
Authors: Graddy Kathryn , Hamilton Jonathan , Pownall Rachel
Published: June 2011

This article proposes an alternative specification for the second stage of the Case‐Shiller repeat‐sales method. This specification is based on serial correlation in the deviations from the mean one‐period returns on the underlying individual assets, whereas the original Case‐Shiller method assumes that the deviations from mean returns by the underlying individual assets are i.i.d. The methodology proposed in this article is easy to implement and provides more accurate estimates of the standard errors of returns under serial correlation. The repeat‐sales methodology is generally used to construct an index of prices or returns for unique, infrequently traded assets such as houses, art and musical instruments, which are likely to be prone to exhibit serial correlation in returns. We demonstrate our methodology on a data set of art prices and on a data set of real estate prices from the city of Amsterdam.
Management of Phrenic Stimulation in CRT Patients over the Long Term: Still an Unmet Need ?
Authors: BIFFI MAURO , BERTINI MATTEO , ZIACCHI MATTEO , GARDINI BEATRICE , MAZZOTTI ANDREA , MASSARO GIULIA , DIEMBERGER IGOR , MARTIGNANI CRISTIAN , VALZANIA CINZIA , BORIANI GIUSEPPE
Published: June 2011

Background:
 Phrenic stimulation (PS) may cause intolerable symptoms and prevent CRT delivery in 2–5% of patients. We sought to ensure effective cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) delivery by management of PS at the left ventricular (LV) target site.

Methods and Results
: Two hundred and eleven consecutive patients received a CRT device despite PS occurrence at the LV target site at implantation, when a PS‐LV difference >2V was achieved by LV stimulation programming (cathode, pacing vector). PS management strategy both at implantation and at follow‐up (FU) aimed to keep the target LV implantation site. LV reverse remodeling was assessed by echocardiography before implantation and at follow‐up.

LV lead placement was lateral/posterolateral in all the 211 patients; 51 of 211 had detectable PS at FU, 26 of 211 (12.3%) were symptomatic. Symptoms occurred more frequently when PS‐LV difference was <3V (16/16 vs 10/35, P < 0.001). Cathode and pacing vector reprogramming improved the PS‐LV difference and symptoms in 14 of 23 patients. LV output as threshold +0.5V was helpful to manage PS symptoms in patients with a PS‐LV ≤2V at FU. Median FU was 34.9 (16–50) months: 12 patients had tolerable PS symptoms, 76% (39/51) were objective responders at echocardiography compared to 74% (119/160) in patients without PS (P = NS).

Conclusions
: CRT delivery at long term is feasible despite PS at the target LV site. PS management is mandatory in about 12.3% of patients at FU, with 6.6% remaining symptomatic. Symptoms improve at FU when a PS‐LV >3V is achieved. Further improvement in lead manufacturing and pacing electronics are awaited to meet this clinical need. (PACE 2011; 34:1201–1208)
Correlation between AF Substrate Ablation Difficulty and Left Atrial Fibrosis Quantified by Delayed‐Enhancement Cardiac Magnetic Resonance
Authors: SEITZ JULIEN , HORVILLEUR JÉRÔME , LACOTTE JÉRÔME , O H‐ICI DARACH , MOUHOUB YAMINA , MALTRET ALICE , SALERNO FIORELLA , MYLOTTE DARREN , MONCHI MEHRAN , GAROT JÉRÔME
Published: June 2011

Background:
 Studies have shown that the presence of left atrial (LA) fibrosis can be assessed by LA delayed‐enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance (LA DE‐CMR) and may be predictive of outcome after ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF). We sought to test the hypothesis that the amount of LA fibrosis evaluated by DE‐CMR correlates with the difficulty of complex fractionated atrial electrograms (CFAE) ablation.

Methods:
 Twenty‐two consecutive patients (86.4% nonparoxysmal AF) underwent substrate CFAE radiofrequency (RF) ablation (±Pulmonary veins isolation) with AF termination as the endpoint. LA DE‐CMR was performed prior to ablation. A global index of DE was defined by an average of six LA segmental scores based on a four‐grade scale (no enhancement to maximum enhancement). Time between first RF application and AF termination, and RF duration until AF termination, was recorded. CFAE area/total LA surface was also measured on CARTO maps (Biosense Webster, Diamond Bar, CA, USA). These measures served to evaluate ablation difficulty, and were correlated with CMR images by double‐blinded analysis.

Results:
 Ablation restored sinus rhythm in 20 of 22 patients (91%), with a time to terminate AF of 140 ± 91 minutes. There was a significant correlation between the global averaged DE‐CMR fibrosis grade and the electrophysiological substrate indexes such as “time to terminate AF” (Rho = 0.70, P = 0.0003), “RF duration until AF termination” (Rho = 0.65, P = 0.001), and a trend toward correlation with “CFAE area/LA surface” (Rho = 0.47, P = 0.03).

Conclusions:
 LA DE‐CMR can predict increased difficulty of CFAE ablation in AF. This tool may be beneficial in both selection of patients and ablation strategy. (PACE 2011; 34:1267–1277)
Alteration of stratum corneum ceramide profiles in spontaneous canine model of atopic dermatitis
Authors: Yoon Ji‐Seon , Nishifuji Koji , Sasaki Ako , Ide Kaori , Ishikawa Junko , Yoshihara Toru , Iwasaki Toshiroh
Published: June 2011

Abstract:  Ceramides (CERs) in the stratum corneum (SC) are thought to play a key role in cutaneous barrier function. It has been reported that human SC contains 11 free CER classes and that their profiles are altered in humans with atopic dermatitis (AD). Although decreased proportions of free CERs or quantities of protein‐bound CERs in the SC have been reported in dogs with AD, the overall profile of CERs in the canine SC has not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was thus to investigate the profile of free CERs in the canine SC and to identify alterations in the CER profiles in dogs with AD. Normal‐phase liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry indicated 11 clusters of peaks for free CER classes, similar to those recognized in the human SC. The fractions of free SC CER in dogs with AD and in breed‐ and age‐matched healthy dogs were quantitatively compared using high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography. CER[EOS], CER[EOP] and CER[NP], which are known to be decreased in the skin of humans with AD, were also decreased in the skin of dogs with AD. These findings highlight canine AD as a spontaneous animal model for investigating the disruption of CER‐associated cutaneous barrier functions in the corresponding human disease.
Elevated sensitivity: riparian vegetation in upper mountain zones is especially vulnerable to livestock grazing
Authors: Samuelson Glenda M. , Rood Stewart B.
Published: June 2011

Question: Riparian zones provide ecologically rich interfaces between land and flowing water, and are favoured areas for grazing by native ungulates and livestock. Overgrazing can degrade riparian vegetation. Will sensitivity and vulnerability to grazing increase in upper mountain zones because of the harsh physical environment?

Location: We compared the impact of cattle grazing along natural elevational corridors provided by two first‐order creeks in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta, Canada.

Methods: Substrate and vegetation characteristics were assessed in quadrats within transects positioned in ungrazed or lightly grazed, versus moderately to heavily grazed sites extending from the alpine down through the subalpine, montane, parkland and prairie zones.

Results: Analyses revealed that 18 of 19 substrate and vegetation characteristics varied along the elevational profile (17 P<0.05; 1 P<0.1). Fifteen differed with grazing (12 P<0.05; 3 P<0.1), which was associated with coarser substrate with lower pH, reduced diversity and density of shrubs and trees, reduced vegetation cover, increased percent cover and species of weeds and changes in proportions of particular plants such as increasing yarrow (Achillea millefolium) and decreasing mountain valerian (Valeriana sitchensis). Significant grazing × elevation interactions for seven characteristics (5 P<0.05; 2 P<0.1) indicated greater impacts at higher elevations.

Conclusions: This study revealed that the upper elevations were heavily affected, despite their shorter, seasonally restricted grazing history. This indicates that riparian zones in upper mountain environments are particularly vulnerable to livestock grazing.
Selection of a CXCR4 antagonist from a human heavy chain CDR3‐derived phage library
Authors: Chevigné Andy , Fischer Aurélie , Mathu Julie , Counson Manuel , Beaupain Nadia , Plesséria Jean‐Marc , Schmit Jean‐Claude , Deroo Sabrina
Published: June 2011

Phage display technology is a powerful selection approach to identify strong and specific binders to a large variety of targets. In this study, we compared the efficacy of a phage library displaying human heavy chain complementarity determining region 3 (HCDR3) repertoires with a set of conventional random peptide libraries for the identification of CXCR4 antagonists using a peptide corresponding to the second extracellular loop of the receptor CXCR4 as target. A total of 11 selection campaigns on this target did not result in any specific ligand from the random peptide libraries. In contrast, a single selection campaign with an HCDR3 library derived from the IgM repertoire of a nonimmunized donor resulted in nine specific peptides with lengths ranging from 10 to 19 residues. Four of these HCDR3 sequences interacted with native receptor and the most frequently isolated peptide displayed an affinity of 5.6 μm and acted as a CXCR4 antagonist (IC50 = 23 μm). To comprehend the basis of the highly efficient HCDR3 library selection, its biochemical properties were investigated. The HCDR3 length varied from 3 to 21 residues and displayed a biased amino acid content with a predominant proportion of Tyr, Gly, Ser and Asp. Repetitive and conserved motifs were observed in the majority of the HCDR3 sequences. The strength and efficacy of the HCDR3 libraries reside in the combination of multiple size peptides and a naturally biased sequence variation. Therefore, HCDR3 libraries represent a powerful and versatile alternative to fully randomized peptide libraries, in particular for difficult targets.
Generalized Pustular Psoriasis Successfully Treated With Granulocyte and Monocyte Adsorption Apheresis
Authors: Fujisawa Tomomi , Murase Kana , Okumura Yoko , Kanoh Hiroyuki , Doi Tomoaki , Yoshida Shouzo , Ogura Shinji , Seishima Mariko
Published: June 2011

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is one of the neutrophilic dermatoses mainly caused by activated neutrophils and monocytes. Granulocyte and monocyte adsorption apheresis (GCAP) is a useful extracorporeal circulation therapy for removal of activated granulocytes and monocytes. In this study, GCAP was used to treat three patients with different types of GPP; the diagnoses indicated patient 1 had GPP, patient 2 had GPP developed from psoriasis vulgaris and patient 3 had GPP based on psoriatic erythroderma. We performed GCAP on each of these patients once a week, for a total of five times. We found that the patients' pustules and edema disappeared and their erythema was reduced by GCAP therapy. Moreover, no adverse effects were observed. Thus, we conclude GCAP could be effective for treating various types of GPP.
Investigation of flow properties in natural streams using the entropy concept
Authors: Ardiclioglu Mehmet , Genc Onur , Kalin Latif , Agiralioglu Necati
Published: June 2011

This paper examines the discharge and velocity distributions in natural open channel flows using the entropy theory. Flow measurements were carried out at four different cross‐sections in central Turkey. The mean and maximum velocities at these stations exhibited a linear distribution and the entropy parameter was calculated to be M=1.31. Using this value, discharges for all flow conditions were calculated as a function of the measured maximum velocities (umax). It was observed that the umax/H and zmax/H ratios remained relatively constant when 0.2≤y/T≤0.8, especially for the wider channels. Using these constant values for each station, umax and zmax could be determined solely as a function of the water depth H. Although the calculated velocities were higher than those measured at some verticals, the entropy‐based approach presents an attractive alternative to the traditional flow‐measurement techniques for the determination of flow properties because of its simplicity and quick application.
Identification of Tartary Buckwheat Tea Aroma Compounds with Gas Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Qin Peiyou , Ma Tingjun , Wu Li , Shan Fang , Ren Guixing
Published: June 2011

Abstract:  Tartary buckwheat tea, which is an important and healthy product, has a distinct malty aroma. However, its characteristic aroma compounds have not been elucidated. The aims of present study were identification and quantification of its aroma compounds. The analyses were performed by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) after 3 different isolation techniques. Seventy‐seven compounds were identified. Among these compounds, 35 were quantified by available standards. The compounds with a high probability of contribution to the tartary buckwheat tea aroma (OAV ≥ 10) were as follows: 2,5‐dimethyl‐4‐hydroxy‐3(2H)‐furanone, nonanal, 2,3‐diethyl‐5‐methylpyrazine, benzeneacetaldehyde, maltol, 2,5‐dimethylpyrazine, 2‐ethyl‐5‐methylpyrazine, trimethylpyrazine. Some nutritional and bioactive compounds were also identified in this study, such as linoleic acid, niacin, vanillic acid, 7‐hydroxycoumarin, butylated hydroxytoluene.
Serum LDH in chronic cough: a potential marker of airway inflammation
Authors: Faruqi Shoaib , Wilmot Rachel , Wright Caroline , Morice Alyn Hugh
Published: June 2011

Introduction and Objectives:  Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is found in almost all tissues of the body and five different isoenzymes are known (LDH‐1 to LDH‐5). LDH can be elevated in many pathological conditions. We have observed serum LDH to be increased in patients with chronic cough. We wanted to confirm this finding, study the reproducibility and determine the origin of the LDH.

Methods:  Patients prospectively seen at the Hull Cough Clinic had total and specific LDH isoenzyme levels in serum determined. A subgroup of patients also had a serum creatine phosphokinase (CK) measured. Patients completed cough symptom scores and the Hull Airway Reflux Questionnaire (HARQ). Spirometry was performed.

Results:  Eighty‐three patients were included. Forty‐two percent had LDH values above the reference range and 78% had LDH values in the fourth quartile of the reference range or above. This increase in LDH was predominantly because of a rise in isoenzymes 4 and 5. The increase in LDH was found to be reproducible at 8 weeks. Ten percent had CK values above the normal range. There was no correlation observed between LDH values and the cough scores, HARQ scores or lung function.

Conclusion:  Serum LDH levels are elevated in a substantial proportion of patients with chronic cough. This rise is likely to be due to airway inflammation known to be associated with chronic cough.

Please cite this paper as: Faruqi S, Wilmot R, Wright C and Morice AH. Serum LDH in chronic cough: a potential marker of airway inflammation. Clin Respir J 2012; 6: 81–87.
The relationship of glutathione‐S‐transferases copy number variation and indoor air pollution to symptoms and markers of respiratory disease
Authors: Hersoug Lars‐Georg , Brasch‐Andersen Charlotte , Husemoen Lise Lotte Nystrup , Sigsgaard Torben , Linneberg Allan
Published: June 2011

Introduction:  Exposure to particulate matter (PM) may induce inflammation and oxidative stress in the airways. Carriers of null polymorphisms of glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs), which detoxify reactive oxygen species, may be particularly susceptible to the effects of PM.

Objectives:  To investigate whether deletions of GSTM1 and GSTT1 modify the potential effects of exposure to indoor sources of PM on symptoms and objective markers of respiratory disease.

Methods:  We conducted a population‐based, cross‐sectional study of 3471 persons aged 18–69 years. Information about exposure to indoor sources of PM and respiratory symptoms was obtained by a self‐administered questionnaire. In addition, measurements of lung function (spirometry) and fractional exhaled nitric oxide were performed. Copy number variation of GSTM1 and GSTT1 was determined by polymerase chain reaction‐based assays.

Results:  We found that none of the symptoms and objective markers of respiratory disease were significantly associated with the GST null polymorphisms. An increasing number of positive alleles of the GSTM1 polymorphism tended to be associated lower prevalence of wheeze, cough, and high forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), but these trends were not statistically significant. Furthermore, we did not observe any statistically significant interactions between GST copy number variation and exposure to indoor sources of PM in relation to respiratory symptoms and markers.

Conclusions:  In this adult population, GST copy number variations were not significantly associated with respiratory outcomes and did not modify the effects of self‐reported exposure to indoor sources of PM on respiratory outcomes.

Please cite this paper as: Hersoug L‐G, Brasch‐Andersen C, Husemoen LLN, Sigsgaard T and Linneberg A. The relationship of glutathione‐S‐transferases copy number variation and indoor air pollution to symptoms and markers of respiratory disease. Clin Respir J 2012; 6: 175–185.
Association between self‐rated health and asthma: a population‐based study
Authors: Syk Jörgen , Alving Kjell , Undén Anna‐Lena
Published: June 2011

Introduction:  Self‐rated health (SRH) is a relevant measure of health as it can predict morbidity, mortality and health‐care use. Studies have shown an association between poor SRH and elevated levels of circulating inflammatory cytokines. It is therefore interesting to learn more about the association between asthma, a chronic inflammatory disease with a recognised systemic component and SRH.

Objectives:  To compare SRH ratings in respondents with and without current asthma. A second aim was to compare SRH with quality‐of‐life ratings in the same groups.

Methods:  In 1995, we randomly selected 8200 persons ≥18 years from the population of Stockholm County, Sweden and mailed them a questionnaire. A total of 5355 persons (67.5%) responded. Respondents were divided in two groups, those with and those without current asthma. The groups were further divided by sex and age (18–44 and ≥45 years). SRH was measured with the question ‘How do you rate your general health status?’ and quality of life with the Gothenburg Quality of Life Instrument and the Ladder of Life.

Results:  Respondents with asthma rated their health significantly worse than did those without asthma, except women aged 18–44 years. SRH was associated at least as strong as quality of life to asthma with the advantage of being easier to apply (only one item).

Conclusion:  Information on SRH is easy to obtain and represents an important dimension of health status that potentially can be used as a complement to identify patients who need extra attention to manage their asthma and its consequences.

Please cite this paper as: Syk J, Alving K and Undén A‐L. Association between self‐rated health and asthma: a population‐based study. Clin Respir J 2012; 6: 150–158.
Dermolipoma surgery with rotational conjunctival flaps
Authors: Sa Ho‐Seok , Kim Hyoung Kyun , Shin Jae Ho , Woo Kyung In , Kim Yoon‐Duck
Published: June 2011

Purpose:  To describe a useful technique of surgical resection of dermolipomas.

Methods:  This is a retrospective, noncomparative and interventional case series. Sixteen eyes of 16 patients with dermolipomas and large areas of conjunctiva strongly adherent to the masses underwent surgical removal of the dermolipomas. The anterior portion of the mass, including closely adherent conjunctiva and pilosebaceous areas, was excised, and the conjunctival defects were covered with rotational conjunctival flaps from the superior or inferior bulbar conjunctiva.

Results:  The mean follow‐up time was 12.5 months (range, 6–47 months). The cosmetic outcome was satisfactory in all 16 patients. There were no cases of reappearance of the mass, symblepharon or significant scar formation during follow‐up. One patient developed blepharoptosis and another showed limitation of medial gaze postoperatively. Both were resolved spontaneously within 3 months. There were no other significant complications.

Conclusion:  Rotational conjunctival flap is a useful technique of conjunctival reconstruction following removal of large dermolipomas and the overlying epithelium.
A comparative study of trabeculectomy and the new clear‐cornea filtering procedure, intrastromal diathermal keratostomy (IDK)
Authors: Bach‐Holm Daniella , Storr‐Paulsen Allan , Norregaard Jens Christian
Published: June 2011

Purpose:  For the first time to compare the 1‐year success rates of trabeculectomy and the new clear‐cornea filtering procedure, intrastromal diathermal keratostomy (IDK).

Methods:  Prospective clinical observational study including 99 consecutively operated eyes (69 patients) with well‐established primary open‐angle glaucoma referred for filtering operation. We compared the change in intraocular pressure (IOP), number of anti‐glaucomatous medication, complications and reoperations after 1 year. Seventy‐four eyes were operated with trabeculectomy, and 25 with IDK. Complete success was defined as IOP ≤18 mmHg, IOP lowered ≥30%, no medication and no reoperation. Qualified success was defined as IOP ≤18 mmHg, and IOP lowered ≥30% with or without medication or reoperation.

Results:  Intraocular pressure pre‐ and postoperatively in the trabeculectomy group was 25.3 and 14.1 mmHg versus 23.8 and 15.8 mmHg in the IDK group. The number of medications pre‐ and postoperatively in the trabeculectomy group was 3.1 and 0.5 versus 3.2 and 1.3 in the IDK group. Forty‐four (59%) of the eyes in the trabeculectomy group met the complete success criteria compared with 5 (20%) in the IDK group (p < 0.01). Sixty‐eight (92%) in the trabeculectomy group and 16 (64%) in the IDK fulfilled the qualified success criteria (p < 0.01).

Conclusion:  Both the complete and qualified 1‐year success rates of IDK are significantly lower compared with the success rates of trabeculectomy. The IDK does not reduce the IOP as much as the procedure of trabeculectomy, and it carries a higher frequency of reoperations and more medication postoperatively. Thus, our prospective data do not support the procedure of IDK as ‘the gold standard’ for filtering surgery in patients with open‐angle glaucoma.
Thymosin plus cisplatin with vinorelbine or gemcitabine for non‐small cell lung cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Jiang Jin , Wang Xiaojing , Tian Jinhui , Li Lun , Lin Qiao
Published: June 2011

Objective:  To evaluate the efficacy and safety of thymosin plus cisplatin with vinorelbine (NP)/gemcitabine with cisplatin (GP) program for patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods:  We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, ISI Web of Knowledge, Chinese Biomedical Database and other databases. Randomized controlled trials (RCT) comparing thymosin plus NP/GP with NP/GP alone for patients with NSCLC were eligible for our study. We evaluated the quality of included studies using Cochrane Handbook standards. Data analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.0 software (The Nordic Cochrane Centre, Copenhagen, Denmark).

Results:  Ten RCT including 724 patients were eligible. The results of our study showed that: compared with an NP program alone, thymosin plus NP could increase overall response rate (odds ratio (OR) 1.86; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08–3.20), tumor control rate (OR 3.06; 95% CI: 1.36–6.88) and 1‐year survival rate (OR 3.05; 95% CI: 1.34–6.96), improve the quality of life (OR 3.39; 95% CI: 1.54–7.47), CD4 (mean difference (MD) 6.7; 95% CI: 3.52–9.88) and NK cells (MD 6.53; 95% CI: 3.6–9.47). Compared with a GP program alone, thymosin plus GP could increase overall response rate (OR 1.67; 95% CI: 1.09–2.55), tumor control rate (OR 2.38; 95% CI: 1.01–5.62), improve quality of life (OR 3.84; 95% CI: 1.97–7.48), CD4 (MD 14.82; 95% CI: 8.05–21.59) and NK (MD 16.96; 95% CI: 4.90–29.03)

Conclusion:  Thymosin plus NP/GP is a better choice for patients with advanced NSCLC than NP/GP alone.
Magnetic resonance imaging and histological findings in the proximal aspect of the suspensory ligament of forelimbs in nonlame horses
Authors: NAGY A. , DYSON S.
Published: June 2011

Reasons for performing study:Detailed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histological appearances of the proximal aspect of the suspensory ligament (PSL) in the forelimb of nonlame horses have not been previously documented.

Objectives:1) to describe detailed anatomy of the PSL, 2) describe high‐ and low‐field MRI and histological appearances of the PSL and surrounding structures in the forelimb of horses with no carpal or proximal metacarpal pain, 3) assess the relationship between age, breed, gender, height, bodyweight and MRI findings and 4) describe the histological appearance of the PSL and compare this with MRI findings.

Methods:High‐ and low‐field MR images of the PSL and related structures from 30 cadaver limbs of nonlame horses were analysed subjectively and objectively. Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were used to assess the association of age, breed, gender, height and bodyweight with MRI findings. Histological and MRI findings of the PSL of 9 limbs were compared subjectively.

Results:The collagenous tissue of the PSL had low to intermediate signal intensity depending on the pulse sequence. There was a large variation among horses in the amount, shape and signal intensity of the muscle and adipose tissue within the PSL. Comparison of MR images with histological slides revealed that the high signal intensity areas corresponded to adipose tissue and intermediate signal intensity areas to muscle tissue. The medial lobe of the PSL had a smaller cross sectional area (CSA) than the lateral lobe; there was a positive association between CSA of the PSL and both horse height and bodyweight (P<0.001).

Conclusions and potential relevance:The large variability in the MRI appearance of the PSL in nonlame horses should be borne in mind when interpreting MR images of lame horses.
The arthroscopic and ultrasonographic boundaries of the equine femorotibial joints
Authors: BARRETT M. F. , FRISBIE D. D. , McILWRAITH C. W. , WERPY N. M.
Published: June 2011

Reasons for performing study:While descriptions of the visible soft tissues of the femorotibial joints exist for both arthroscopy and ultrasonography, there are few examples in the literature that discuss in detail the combined findings of these modalities.

Objectives:To further elucidate the ultrasonographic and arthroscopic boundaries of the normal equine femorotibial joints and improve the understanding of the benefits and limitations of each individual modality.

Methods:Simultaneous arthroscopy and ultrasonography were performed in 10 equine cadaver stifles as well as bilateral stifles on a horse that underwent nonrecovery surgery. The arthroscopic probe was visualised ultrasonographically and concurrent video and still images acquired.

Results:Arthroscopy provided good visualisation of the cranial meniscal ligaments, the distal portion of the cranial cruciate ligament, proximal portion of the medial collateral ligament within the fibrous tissue of the joint capsule and a limited view of the abaxial border of meniscus. Ultrasonography allowed for almost complete visualisation of the menisci, collateral ligaments and cranial meniscal ligaments and a portion of the cranial cruciate ligament.

Conclusions:By comparing the ultrasonographically and arthroscopically visible structures, this study allowed for a more complete understanding of the advantages and limitations of each modality. The ability of ultrasonography to resolve mild pathological changes should be further explored.

Potential relevance:When used together, these modalities can provide a more global image of the femorotibial joints.
Effect of thymoquinone on hepatorenal dysfunction and alteration of CYP3A1 and spermidine/spermine N-1-acetyl-transferase gene expression induced by renal ischaemia–reperfusion in rats
Authors: Awad Azza S , Kamel Rehab , Sherief Mohie-Aldien Elsayed
Published: June 2011

Objectives

Renal ischaemia–reperfusion (I/R) is a well-characterised model of acute renal failure that causes both local and remote organ injury. The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of thymoquinone, the main constituent of the volatile oil extracted from Nigella sativa seeds, on renal and hepatic changes after renal ischaemia–reperfusion.

Methods

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into sham I/R vehicle-treated groups, and I/R thymoquinone-treated groups. Thymoquinone (10 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered for ten consecutive days to the I/R thymoquinone group before injury. I/R and I/R thymoquinone groups were subjected to 30-min ischaemia followed by 4-h reperfusion.

Key findings

I/R resulted in a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) level and decreases in glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in liver and kidney tissues. Thymoquinone treatment caused the reversal of I/R-induced changes in MDA as well as GST and SOD activity. Moreover, I/R caused a significant rise in creatinine and alanine aminotransferase serum levels. CYP3A1 mRNA expression was induced significantly by I/R in both liver and kidney tissues compared with sham group. Thymoquinone reduced significantly this increase. I/R caused induction of mRNA expression of spermidine/spermine N-1-acetyl-transferase (SSAT), a catabolic enzyme that participates in polyamine metabolism, in liver and kidney tissues. Thymoquinone reduced SSAT mRNA expression significantly in liver and markedly in kidney.

Conclusions

These findings suggested that thymoquinone protected against renal I/R-induced damage through an antioxidant mechanism as well as the decrease of CYP3A1 and SSAT gene expression.
Examining the components of children's peer liking as antecedents of school adjustment
Authors: Betts Lucy R. , Rotenberg Ken J. , Trueman Mark , Stiller James
Published: June 2011

Children's social interactions with their peers influence their psychosocial adjustment; consequently, the relationship between class‐wide peer liking, same‐gender peer liking, and school adjustment was explored in two age groups. Peer liking was analysed using the social relations model (SRM). In Study 1, 205 children (103 female and 102 male, Mage= 7.15, SD= 7 months) completed measures of peer liking and school adjustment, and teachers completed the Short‐Form Teacher Rating Scale of School Adjustment (Short‐Form TRSSA). In Study 2, 197 children (98 female and 90 male, Mage= 9.87, SD= 5.9 months) completed measures of peer liking and school adjustment. Both studies yielded evidence of reciprocal liking and individual differences in the ratings of liking awarded to, and elicited from, both peer groups. Multigroup path analysis, with groups created according to gender, revealed that elements of liking predicted different aspects of school adjustment with some variation according to age and gender. Together, these findings suggest that the SRM can be used to examine peer liking and underscore the importance of children's peers for school adjustment.
Numerical Integration Method for Prediction of Milling Stability
Authors: Ding Ye , Zhu LiMin , Zhang XiaoJian , Ding Han
Published: June 2011

This paper presents a numerical scheme to predict the milling stability based on the integral equation and numerical integration formulas. First, the milling dynamics taking the regenerative effect into account is represented in the form of integral equation. Then, the tooth passing period is precisely divided into the free vibration phase during which the analytical solution is available and the forced vibration phase during which an approximate solution is needed. To obtain the numerical solution of the integral equation during the forced vibration phase, the time interval of interest is equally discretized. Over each small time interval, Newton-Cotes integration formulas or Gauss integration formulas are employed to approximate the integral term in the integral equation. After establishing the state transition matrix of the system in one period, the milling stability is predicted by using Floquet theory. The benchmark examples are utilized to verify the proposed approach. The results demonstrate that it is highly efficient and accurate.
Off-Target Lapatinib Activity Sensitizes Colon Cancer Cells Through TRAIL Death Receptor Up-Regulation
Authors: Dolloff Nathan G. , Mayes Patrick A. , Hart Lori S. , Dicker David T. , Humphreys Robin , El-Deiry Wafik S.
Published: June 2011

The breast cancer drug lapatinib increases the sensitivity of colon cancer cells to apoptosis through a HER2- and EGFR-independent mechanism.
Host Alloreactive Memory T Cells Influence Tolerance to Kidney Allografts in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Nadazdin Ognjenka , Boskovic Svjetlan , Murakami Toru , Tocco Georges , Smith Rex-Neal , Colvin Robert B. , Sachs David H. , Allan James , Madsen Joren C. , Kawai Tatsuo , Cosimi A. Benedict , Benichou Gilles
Published: June 2011

Only nonhuman primates with low frequencies of donor-specific memory T cells develop tolerance and accept allogeneic kidney transplants.
Transplantation Tolerance: Memories That Haunt Us
Authors: Ford Mandy L. , Larsen Christian P.
Published: June 2011

Screening for preformed donor-reactive memory T cells may advance the goal of organ transplant acceptance without immunosuppression.
Building Hearts, One Cell at a Time
Authors: Boxer Rebecca S.
Published: June 2011

Mechanical stress and vascularization move immature human cardiomyocytes a step closer to forming functional heart tissue.
When Light Gets On Your Nerves
Authors: Mashour George A.
Published: June 2011

After peripheral nerve injury, the healthy sensory cortex on one side of the brain inhibits its deprived counterpart on the other side.
Weeding the Tares, Sparing the Wheat
Authors: Rytting Erik
Published: June 2011

Hyaluronan-coated nanoparticles selectively treat CD44-expressing cancer cells, without damaging healthy tissue.
Pearls of Wisdom for Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Shum Anthony K.
Published: June 2011

Chronic inflammation mediated by alveolar epithelial cells through macrophages may contribute to the development of lung fibrosis in Hermansky Pudlak syndrome patients.
Synthesis of antagonists of muscarinic (M3) receptors
Authors: Broadley Kenneth J. , Davies Robin H. , Escargueil Christine , Lee Alan T. L. , Penson Peter , Thomas Eric J.
Published: June 2011

Several α-hydroxyamides with (2,6-dialkoxyphenoxy)methyl substituents have been prepared and their activities as antagonists of the M3 muscarinic receptor in guinea pig ileum have been evaluated. N-{1-[(Phenyl)methyl]piperidin-4-yl}-2-{2-[(2,6-dimethoxyphenoxy)-methyl]phenyl}-2-hydroxypropanamide and N-(1-[{6-amino-4-[(1-propylpiperidin-4-yl)methyl]pyridin-2-yl}methyl]piperidin-4-yl)-2-cyclopentyl-2-hydroxy-2-phenylacetamide were the most potent compounds prepared, the micromolar potency of the latter indicating that it may be worth further investigation.
Discrimination Accuracy between Real and Sham Needles using the Park Sham Device in the Upper and Lower Limbs
Authors: Tan Chee-Wee , Sheehan Padraig , Santos Derek
Published: June 2011

Objective

To evaluate the blinding effectiveness of the Park sham acupuncture device using participants’ ability to discriminate between the real and sham acupuncture needles in the (1) upper limb (TE points) compared with pure guessing and (2) lower limb (BL points) compared with pure guessing.

Methods

20 healthy acupuncture-naïve university students and staff were recruited through convenience sampling. Participants made Yes–No judgements on whether the real or sham needle was administered to four TE acupoints on the dominant upper limb, and four acupoints along the BL meridian on the dominant lower limb. The proportion of correct judgements, P(C), for each participant was calculated to indicate the discrimination accuracy of participants in distinguishing between the real and sham needles. Separate P(C) were computed for the upper limb acupoints and lower limb acupoints. The data were also pooled to calculate a P(C) for a combination of both body regions.

Results

The participants’ discrimination accuracy between the real and sham needles was not statistically significant from P(C)=0.5 (chance level) for the lower limb alone and combined body regions’ acupoint comparisons (lower limb: t19=0.00, unadjusted p=1.00; combined: t19=1.75, unadjusted p=0.10). However, the participants’ discrimination accuracy was statistically significant from P(C)=0.5 for the upper limb acupoints alone comparison (t19=2.36, unadjusted p=0.03).

Conclusions

This study showed that the Park sham device is more likely to blind participants in differentiating between the real and sham needles in the lower limb (BL meridian) acupoints than in the upper limb (TE meridian). However, the participants’ ability to differentiate between the needle types for the upper limb acupoints was significantly different from chance levels.
Effects of soaking on the water‐soluble carbohydrate and crude protein content of hay
Authors: Longland A. C. , Barfoot C. , Harris P. A.
Published: June 2011

The aim of this study was to determine the amounts of water‐soluble carbohydrate (WSC), WSC constituents and protein leached from a range of UK hays soaked according to common practice. Initial hay WSC content ranged from 123 to 230 g/kg dry matter (DM). Soaking the hays for up to 16 hours in water at a mean temperature of 8°C resulted in a mean loss of 27 per cent (range 6 to 54 per cent) of hay WSC. The mean percentage losses of WSC constituents were 24 per cent (range 14 to 31) for fructan, 41 per cent (range 21 to 70) for fructose, 45 per cent (range 28 to 100) for sucrose and 56 per cent (range 29 to 100) for glucose. The mean crude protein content of the initial hays was 58.7 g/kg DM (range 30 to 86 g/kg DM) and this value was not affected significantly by soaking. Despite a mean WSC loss of 27 per cent, the WSC contents of seven of the hays remained above the suggested upper limit for laminitic animals of 100 g/kg DM.
Gill disease in marine farmed Atlantic salmon at four farms in Ireland
Authors: Rodger H. D. , Murphy K. , Mitchell S. O. , Henry L.
Published: June 2011

A study of four marine salmon farms was undertaken in Ireland in 2008, with a focus on gill health and disease. All four farms suffered severe gill disease resulting in mortalities and, in some cases, failure to thrive. The aetiology of the gill pathologies in some cases was associated with small gelatinous zooplankton and bacteria, but also involved epitheliocystis and parasites such as marine costia (Ichthyobodo species) and amoebae (Neoparamoeba species). Treatments with oral broad‐spectrum antibiotics and/or freshwater baths had equivocal benefits. There was a strong association of susceptibility to gill disease with one genetic strain of salmon.
THE PAULI TERM AS A GENERATOR OF FRACTIONAL SPIN
Authors: FURTADO J. S. N. , NOBRE F. A. S.
Published: June 2011

In this work, we show that contrary to what is commonly accepted by the community, the Chern–Simons term is not essential to fractional statistics. A Lagrangian whose dynamics is governed only by the Pauli term coupled to matter fields leads to the fractional spin. Despite its simplicity, development of this Lagrangian gives rise to essentially the same terms that appear in Chern–Simons models, such as those reported by Nobre and Almeida.13,8,9
Organically modified silica nanoparticles as drug delivery vehicles in photodynamic therapy
Authors: Gupta Anurag , Goswami Lalit N. , Ethirajan Manivannan , Missert Joseph , Rao K.V.R. , Ohulchanskyy Tymish , Roy Indrajit , Morgan Janet , Prasad Paras N. , Pandey Ravindra K.
Published: June 2011

To investigate the effect of hydrophobicity, charge and size of photosensitizers (PS) on their encapsulation efficiency in organically modified silica nanoparticles (ORMOSIL), a series of alkyl ether analogs of 2-(1′-hexyloxyethyl)-2-devinyl pyropheophorbide-a (HPPH) containing varied number of carbon units, HPPH with anionic and cationic functionalities, and HPPH analogs with molecular weight ranging from ~630 to 6000 Daltons were synthesized. Our preliminary results suggest that these factors play a significant role in encapsulation of the photosensitizers and their release from ORMOSIL nanoparticles. The synthesis and characterization of PS-encapsulated ORMOSIL and a comparative study on the effect of PS size, lipophilicity and charge on encapsulation efficiency, photophysical characteristics and release kinetics are discussed.
Exercise-induced muscle-derived cytokines inhibit mammary cancer cell growth
Authors: Hojman Pernille , Dethlefsen Christine , Brandt Claus , Hansen Jakob , Pedersen Line , Pedersen Bente Klarlund
Published: June 2011

Regular physical activity protects against the development of breast and colon cancer, since it reduces the risk of developing these by 25–30%. During exercise, humoral factors are released from the working muscles for endocrinal signaling to other organs. We hypothesized that these myokines mediate some of the inhibitory effects of exercise on mammary cancer cell proliferation. Serum and muscles were collected from mice after an exercise bout. Incubation with exercise-conditioned serum inhibited MCF-7 cell proliferation by 52% and increased caspase activity by 54%. A similar increase in caspase activity was found after incubation of MCF-7 cells with conditioned media from electrically stimulated myotubes. PCR array analysis (CAPM-0838E; SABiosciences) revealed that seven genes were upregulated in the muscles after exercise, and of these oncostatin M (OSM) proved to inhibit MCF-7 proliferation by 42%, increase caspase activity by 46%, and induce apoptosis. Blocking OSM signaling with anti-OSM antibodies reduced the induction of caspase activity by 51%. To verify that OSM was a myokine, we showed that it was significantly upregulated in serum and in three muscles, tibialis cranialis, gastronemius, and soleus, after an exercise bout. In contrast, OSM expression remained unchanged in subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue, liver, and spleen (mononuclear cells). We conclude that postexercise serum inhibits mammary cancer cell proliferation and induces apoptosis of these cells. We suggest that one or more myokines secreted from working muscles may be mediating this effect and that OSM is a possible candidate. These findings emphasize that role of physical activity in cancer treatment, showing a direct link between exercise-induced humoral factors and decreased tumor cell growth.
Effect of exercise and training on phospholemman phosphorylation in human skeletal muscle
Authors: Benziane Boubacar , Widegren Ulrika , Pirkmajer Sergej , Henriksson Jan , Stepto Nigel K. , Chibalin Alexander V.
Published: June 2011

Phospholemman (PLM, FXYD1) is a partner protein and regulator of the Na+-K+-ATPase (Na+-K+pump). We explored the impact of acute and short-term training exercise on PLM physiology in human skeletal muscle. A group of moderately trained males ( n = 8) performed a 1-h acute bout of exercise by utilizing a one-legged cycling protocol. Muscle biopsies were taken from vastus lateralis at 0 and 63 min (non-exercised leg) and 30 and 60 min (exercised leg). In a group of sedentary males ( n = 9), we determined the effect of a 10-day intense aerobic cycle training on Na+-K+-ATPase subunit expression, PLM phosphorylation, and total PLM expression as well as PLM phosphorylation in response to acute exercise (1 h at ∼72% V̇o2peak). Biopsies were taken at rest, immediately following, and 3 h after an acute exercise bout before and at the conclusion of the 10-day training study. PLM phosphorylation was increased both at Ser63and Ser68immediately after acute exercise (75%, P < 0.05, and 30%, P < 0.05, respectively). Short-term training had no adaptive effect on PLM phosphorylation at Ser63and Ser68, nor was the total amount of PLM altered posttraining. The protein expressions of α1-, α2-,and β1-subunits of Na+-K+-ATPase were increased after training (113%, P < 0.05, 49%, P < 0.05, and 27%, P < 0.05, respectively). Whereas an acute bout of exercise increased the phosphorylation of PKCα/βII on Thr638/641pre- and posttraining, phosphorylation of PKCζ/λ on Thr403/410was increased in response to acute exercise only after the 10-day training. In conclusion, we show that only acute exercise, and not short-term training, increases phosphorylation of PLM on Ser63and Ser68, and data from one-legged cycling indicate that this effect of exercise on PLM phosphorylation is not due to systemic factors. Our results provide evidence that phosphorylation of PLM may play a role in the acute regulation of the Na+-K+-ATPase response to exercise.