bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF‐A) and its Receptors in the Umbilical Cord in the Course of Pregnancy in the Pig
Authors: Chruściel M , Zięcik AJ , Andronowska A
Published: September 2010

Contents

The umbilical cord (UC) and the placenta are important organs through which respiratory gases, nutrients, wastes and biologically active substances are exchanged between the maternal and the foetal system. A rapid placental vascularization observed in the second half of pig pregnancy is positively correlated with the mRNA expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Based on these findings, we hypothesized that VEGF may have a stimulatory effect in the dynamically growing UC. To further understand the role of the VEGF–VEGFR system during UC development, mRNA and protein expression as well as the cellular localization of VEGF‐A, VEGFR‐1 and VEGFR‐2 in UC were examined on days 40, 60, 75 and 90 of pregnancy and after physiological delivery in the pig (day 114 of pregnancy). Real Time RT‐PCR analysis showed an increase in the mRNA levels of VEGF120 and VEGF164 from day 90 of pregnancy. VEGFR‐1 mRNA expression was significantly increased on day 75 of pregnancy. No significant changes in VEGFR‐2 mRNA expression were detected. In turn, western blot analysis revealed an increase in VEGF‐A protein expression on day 40, compared to the later days of pregnancy. A rapid increase in the VEGFR‐1 protein level was noted on day 75 and 90 of gestation. No significant changes in VEGFR‐2 protein expression were detected on any of the analysed days of pregnancy. Immunohistochemical staining enabled detection of VEGF–VEGFR system, in endothelial and tunica media cells of the umbilical vessels and in allantoic duct and amniotic epithelium on all analysed days of pregnancy. Positive reactions for VEGF‐A and VEGFR‐1, but not VEGFR‐2, were also observed in myofibroblasts. In conclusion, this data shows that members of the VEGF–VEGFR system are temporally and spatially well localized for playing key roles during umbilical cord formation and its intensive growth observed after day 75 of pregnancy.
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, in patients with end‐stage kidney disease on dialysis, in the greater Auckland region, from 2000–2006
Authors: KENDRICK‐JONES JAMIE C , VOSS DAVID M , DE ZOYSA JANAK R
Published: September 2010

Aim:  Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a rare and serious disease characterised by thickening and hardening of the skin with fibrosis of the dermis with CD34‐positive fibrocytes. NSF occurs in patients with renal failure and has been linked to exposure of gadolinium contrast agents. The Auckland region has a population of 1.3 million with consultation and dialysis services for patients with end stage kidney disease provided by two separate renal units. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and frequency of NSF in the Auckland region and determine the risk based on exposure to gadolinium based contrast agents.

Methods:  A retrospective case notes review of all patients with end stage kidney disease under the care of the renal services between 1st January 2000 and 31st December 2006 was undertaken. All cases of proven or suspected NSF were identified. Using a picture archive and communications support system all imaging and exposure to contrast was identified.

Results:  Three cases of biopsy proven NSF and two further cases of clinical NSF were identified. In all cases there was exposure to Gadolinium. This risk of NSF on exposure to any gadolinium based contrast agents was 0.67%. Gadodiamide was used in one institution where all five cases of NSF were seen, gadodiamide was used in 1% of patients in the other institution with no recognised cases.

Conclusion:  The incidence of NSF is low with the greatest risk on exposure to linear, non‐ionic chelates, with no ethnic predisposition.
The central motor conductivity of genioglossus in obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: WANG Wei , KANG Jian , KONG Delei
Published: September 2010

Background and objective:  During wakefulness, the electromyography (EMG) activities of upper airway dilator muscles are higher in OSA syndrome (OSAS) patients than those in normal subjects. This is believed to be related to central compensatory mechanisms. This study aimed to assess the central motor conductivity of genioglossus (GG) during wakefulness and to evaluate the compensatory site in OSAS patients.

Methods:  Twelve OSAS patients and 12 normal subjects were recruited to record motor evoked potential (MEP) of GG to transcranial magnetic stimulation applied at dominant‐sided anterolateral area and GG response to magnetic stimulation at the third cervical level. Stimuli were delivered at the end of expiration and inspiration respectively. The central motor conduction time (CMCT) was calculated by the latency difference between cortical and cervical stimulations.

Results:  The MEP latency and CMCT of GG in OSAS patients were shorter than those in normal subjects at the end of expiration (MEP latency: 6.08 ± 2.06 ms and 8.24 ± 2.66 ms, respectively, P < 0.05; CMCT: 2.41 ± 1.20 ms and 3.58 ± 1.53 ms, respectively, P < 0.05). However, only in normal subjects, GG MEP latency and CMCT showed significant decrease from the end of expiration to the end of inspiration. GG CMCT of OSAS patients at the end of expiration was closely correlated with AHI (r = −0.797, P = 0.002), the nadir oxygen saturation (r = 0.76, P = 0.003) and the longest apnoea time (r = −0.68, P = 0.02).

Conclusions:  OSAS patients have an increased central motor conductivity of GG than normal subjects. Furthermore, this increased central motor conductivity of GG is related to the severity of OSAS.
Hydatidiform Mole Coexistent With a Well Developed Foetus
Authors: Dhall Kamla , Dhall G. I. , Mapa M.K. , Aikat M.
Published: September 2010

A study has been presented of a 21 year old female Para 1 +1+0+1, who had delivered prematurely a viable baby along with extensive molar degeneration of placenta. The authors emphasized that the practising clinicians should always bear in mind a possibility of hydatidiform mole degeneration of the placenta coexisting with pregnancy which may have an innocuous clinical presentation but the complications afterwards may be the same as in a pre‐diagnosed case.
The Treatment of iron Deficiency Anaemia with Intravenous Iron‐Dextran
Authors: Lyneham R. C. , Korda A. R.
Published: September 2010

The use of total dose iron infusion in anaemic patients its an effective means of correcting iron deficiency anaemia and a rapid method of replenishing depleted iron stores. Two hundred ante‐natal patients including 35 with associated β‐thalassaemia received intravenous iron dextran after careful preliminary investigations. There were no serious side effects and a significant rise in haemoglobin concentration was achieved in both groups of patients.
Hysterosalpingographic Studies in Infertility Using Lipiodol F (Ultrafluid) as Contrast Medium
Authors: Jhaveri C. L. , Dave Deepak , Jhaveri Jayshree C. , Limbachiya Manilal M.
Published: September 2010

This paper is a study of 150 cases of Infertility (studied) over a period of 3 years from June 1968 to June 1971; in whom a hysterosalpingographic study was carried out to study the uterine and the tubal status.
Do Firms Decouple Corporate Governance Policy and Practice?
Authors: Ananchotikul Nasha , Kouwenberg Roy , Phunnarungsi Visit
Published: September 2010

We test whether Thai listed firms with higher levels of good governance policy adoption are less likely to violate listing rules and laws designed to protect shareholders. Our results suggest that firms on average implement, substantively as opposed to symbolically, recommended governance policies, as violations occur less frequently among firms with higher governance policy adoption scores. However, we also find evidence of symbolic governance among a small group of ‘talk‐only’ firms that issue statements about governance while lagging in the adoption of policies related to shareholder rights and the board of directors.
Observations on Osteomalacia in the Zoological Collections of Manchester and Cleveland.
Authors: Todd T. Wingate
Published: September 2010

1. Osteomalacia, or so‐called spontaneous generalised bone‐softening, is not a simple decalcification of bone, but a reorganisation of bone as an organ, in which the loss of osseous tissue is not brought about by osteoclasts.

2. From this it is evident that the cell‐masses known by the name of “osteoclasts” are not indispensable in the transformation of bone to less specialised tissue.

3. The disease may be infectious in origin. If so, the evidence at our disposal points to the nervous system as the site of infection. The bone‐changes appear to be the symptoms consequent on the nervous lesion.
The Recurrence of Eating in Rats after apparent Satiation.
Authors: Drew G. C.
Published: September 2010

Summary

An attempt has been made to discover whether eating can be made to recur after the animal is satiated with food. This has been found to be the case under certain rather complicated conditions, the essential feature apparently being that the conditions arouse a certain state of excitement in the animals. It, was discovered, further, that those conditions which will start eating after satiation will prevent it when the animals are hungry.

It is suggested that. this is similar to the Pavlovian “external inhibition” and “dismhibition” respectively. From this it is concluded that satiation must involve some mechanism similar to Pavlov's “internal inhibition.”
PHLPP1 splice variants differentially regulate AKT and PKCα signaling in hippocampal neurons: characterization of PHLPP proteins in the adult hippocampus
Authors: Jackson Travis C. , Verrier Jonathan D. , Semple‐Rowland Susan , Kumar Ashok , Foster Thomas C.
Published: September 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 115, 941–955.

Pleckstrin homology and leucine rich repeat protein phosphatases (PHLPPs) are a novel class of potent protein kinase B (AKT) inhibitors that have been intensely investigated in relation to AKT activity in cancer. Currently, our understanding of the role of PHLPP1α in the central nervous system is limited. In this study, we characterized PHLPP protein expression and target kinases in the adult hippocampus. We directly verify PHLPP1α inhibits AKT in hippocampal neurons and demonstrate a novel role for PHLPP1β/SCOP, to promote AKT activation. PHLPP1α expression changes dramatically in the hippocampus during development, constituting the most abundant PHLPP protein in adult neurons. Further, while all PHLPP proteins could be observed in the cytosolic fraction, only PHLPP1α could be localized to the nucleus. The results provide unique evidence for a divergence in the function of PHLPP1α and PHLPP1β/SCOP, and suggest that PHLPP1α plays a major role in regulating AKT signaling in neurons.
Cilostazol prevents amyloid β peptide25‐35‐induced memory impairment and oxidative stress in mice
Authors: Hiramatsu Masayuki , Takiguchi Osanao , Nishiyama Aki , Mori Hiromasa
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Cilostazol may be effective in dementia associated with a cerebral ischaemia. In this study, we examined whether it exerts beneficial effects on learning and/or memory impairment induced by Aβ25‐35 in mice, and compared its effects with those of aspirin.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Aβ25‐35 (9 nmol) was administered to mice i.c.v. Learning and memory behaviour were evaluated by measuring spontaneous alternation in a Y‐maze and a step‐down type passive avoidance test, on the 5th and 8th days after injection respectively. Levels of lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde) and cytokines in the frontal cortex and hippocampus were measured 2, 3, 5 and 7 days after the Aβ25‐35 injection. The effects of repeated administration of cilostazol and aspirin (both at 30 and 100 mg·kg−1, p.o.) on any changes induced by Aβ25‐35 were evaluated.

KEY RESULTS Repeated administration of cilostazol significantly attenuated the impairment of spontaneous alternation and the shortened step‐down latency induced by Aβ25‐35. Aspirin did not show any beneficial effect. A significant increase in the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and IL‐1β (only measured in hippocampus) was observed 2, 3 and 5 days after the Aβ25‐35 injection in the frontal cortex and hippocampus. Repeated administration of cilostazol (100 mg·kg−1) completely prevented the increase in MDA levels but failed to antagonize the increase in the expression of IL‐1β induced by Aβ25‐35.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

These results suggest that the protective effect of cilostazol on Aβ25‐35‐induced memory impairment may be related to oxidative stress in the frontal cortex and the hippocampus.
Maternal haemoglobin level at booking visit and its effect on adverse pregnancy outcome
Authors: ABEYSENA Chrishantha , JAYAWARDANA Pushpa , De A. SENEVIRATNE Rohini
Published: September 2010

Aims:  To determine the effect of maternal haemoglobin levels at booking visit on pregnancy outcome.

Methods:  A prospective study was carried out at two Medical Officer of Health areas in a district in Sri Lanka, including 817 pregnant mothers who were followed up until delivery. Maternal haemoglobin level was measured according to specified standard protocols. The reliability and the accuracy of haemoglobin measurements were assessed and were found to be satisfactory. Pregnancy outcome was defined in terms of miscarriage, maternal morbidities, preterm birth (PTB), low birth weight (LBW) and small for gestational age (SGA) infants. Potential confounding factors for each pregnancy outcome were also assessed. Multiple logistic regression was applied and the results were expressed as odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results:  The prevalence of anaemia (Hb <11 g/dL) was 7.1% (95% CI 5.4–8.9%). Anaemia during pregnancy was not significantly associated with any of the pregnancy outcomes studied. Reference range for haemoglobin measurements among mothers with normal pregnancy outcome was 10.4–13.9 g/dL. Haemoglobin level of >13.9 g/dL had a significant adverse association with maternal morbidities (OR 3.0; 95% CI 1.03–8.90) and LBW (OR 3.95; 95% CI 1.30–12.0) compared with the reference range.

Conclusions:  Although anaemia during pregnancy was not adversely associated with any of the pregnancy outcomes, Hb level of >13.9 g/dL was adversely associated with maternal morbidities and LBW.
Use of a Business Excellence Model to Improve Conservation Programs
Authors: BLACK SIMON , GROOMBRIDGE JIM
Published: September 2010

Abstract: The current shortfall in effectiveness within conservation biology is illustrated by increasing interest in “evidence‐based conservation,” whose proponents have identified the need to benchmark conservation initiatives against actions that lead to proven positive effects. The effectiveness of conservation policies, approaches, and evaluation is under increasing scrutiny, and in these areas models of excellence used in business could prove valuable. Typically, conservation programs require years of effort and involve rigorous long‐term implementation processes. Successful balance of long‐term efforts alongside the achievement of short‐term goals is often compromised by management or budgetary constraints, a situation also common in commercial businesses. “Business excellence” is an approach many companies have used over the past 20 years to ensure continued success. Various business excellence evaluations have been promoted that include concepts that could be adapted and applied in conservation programs. We describe a conservation excellence model that shows how scientific processes and results can be aligned with financial and organizational measures of success. We applied the model to two well‐documented species conservation programs. In the first, the Po’ouli program, several aspects of improvement were identified, such as more authority for decision making in the field and better integration of habitat management and population recovery processes. The second example, the black‐footed ferret program, could have benefited from leadership effort to reduce bureaucracy and to encourage use of best‐practice species recovery approaches. The conservation excellence model enables greater clarity in goal setting, more‐effective identification of job roles within programs, better links between technical approaches and measures of biological success, and more‐effective use of resources. The model could improve evaluation of a conservation program's effectiveness and may be used to compare different programs, for example during reviews of project performance by sponsoring organizations.
Leadership in the Small Group
Authors: Deutsch Morton , Pepitone Albert
Published: September 2010

Alvin Zander
Follicular thyroid neoplasm: clinicopathologic features suggesting malignancy
Authors: HEIKKILÄ ANNUKKA , SIIRONEN PÄIVI , HAGSTRÖM JAANA , HEISKANEN ILKKA , SANKILA RISTO , LOUHIMO JOHANNA , HAGLUND CAJ , AROLA JOHANNA
Published: September 2010

Heikkilä A, Siironen P, Hagström J, Heiskanen I, Sankila R, Louhimo J, Haglund C, Arola J. Follicular thyroid neoplasm: clinicopathologic features suggesting malignancy. APMIS 2010; 118: 846–54.

Thyroid follicular neoplasms are the most common tumors of the thyroid. The criterion for their malignancy is evidence of capsular or vascular invasion, which makes preoperative diagnosis difficult. The poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma entity was introduced by World Health Organization in its 2004 classification with an incidence still poorly known. We found 356 follicular neoplasms treated between 1990 and 2006. Among these tumor patients, adenomas were more common in women than in men (3.6:1), but carcinomas differed little with respect to gender (1.2:1). All follicular carcinomas (n = 39), atypical adenomas (n = 6), and oxyphilic adenomas (n = 15) were included in the study, as well as 30 consecutive conventional follicular adenomas. Five tumors were reclassified as poorly differentiated follicular thyroid carcinomas, representing 13% of carcinomas in this unselected material. Predictors of malignancy were high proliferation index (PI) by MIB‐1 (p < 0.001), large tumor size (p < 0.001), and old age (p = 0.006). High PI was also a marker of worse prognosis in malignant tumors. Oxyphilic tumor cells were more frequent in carcinomas than in adenomas; however, among carcinomas, they were non‐prognostic. Probability for malignancy is thus greater in a male patient with a large oxyphilic follicular neoplasm. The PI requires evaluation in all follicular thyroid carcinomas to identify poorly differentiated tumors with worse prognosis.
Allelic exclusion of immunoglobulin genes: models and mechanisms
Authors: Vettermann Christian , Schlissel Mark S.
Published: September 2010

Summary:  The allelic exclusion of immunoglobulin (Ig) genes is one of the most evolutionarily conserved features of the adaptive immune system and underlies the monospecificity of B cells. While much has been learned about how Ig allelic exclusion is established during B‐cell development, the relevance of monospecificity to B‐cell function remains enigmatic. Here, we review the theoretical models that have been proposed to explain the establishment of Ig allelic exclusion and focus on the molecular mechanisms utilized by developing B cells to ensure the monoallelic expression of Igκ and Igλ light chain genes. We also discuss the physiological consequences of Ig allelic exclusion and speculate on the importance of monospecificity of B cells for immune recognition.
Visualizing a role for the actin cytoskeleton in the regulation of B‐cell activation
Authors: Batista Facundo D. , Treanor Bebhinn , Harwood Naomi E.
Published: September 2010

Summary:  Appropriate activation of B cells is required for mounting protective humoral immune responses. B‐cell activation is initiated following specific recognition of antigen by the B‐cell receptor (BCR) and results in the generation of antibody‐secreting plasma cells and long‐lived memory cells. Initial imaging approaches revealed that B cells undergo dramatic molecular and morphological reorganizations following recognition of antigen. A number of these studies pointed to a role for the underlying cytoskeleton in regulating early events of B‐cell activation. More recently, groundbreaking advances in imaging technologies have enabled direct visualization of the role for the cytoskeleton in regulating events at the B‐cell membrane. Indeed, we have demonstrated that an ezrin‐defined actin network shapes BCR diffusion and signaling both in the resting state and following antigen‐induced activation. Importantly, alongside these in vitro imaging approaches, it has been demonstrated that mutations in cytoskeleton regulators such as CD19, dedicator of cytokinesis 8 (DOCK8), and Wiskott‐Aldrich syndrome protein (WASp) are often associated with antibody deficiency syndromes in humans, establishing the importance of cytoskeleton reorganizations in conferring effective adaptive immunity.
B‐cell stage and context‐dependent requirements for survival signals from BAFF and the B‐cell receptor
Authors: Mackay Fabienne , Figgett William A. , Saulep Damien , Lepage Melanie , Hibbs Margaret L.
Published: September 2010

Summary:  One remarkable feature of the immune system is its capacity to maintain constant numbers of resting immune cells despite the complex nature of signals needed throughout development and maturation. For many years, B‐cell survival was thought to rely solely on B‐cell receptor (BCR) tonic signals that would trigger necessary basal survival pathways. The discovery of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐like ligand BAFF(B‐cell activating factor belonging to the TNF family)/BLyS (B‐lymphocyte stimulator) changed these views entirely, as BAFF‐deficient mice lack most mature B cells, and treatment with BAFF inhibitors leads to their loss, establishing BAFF as an unappreciated key B‐cell survival factor. BAFF‐mediated survival signals have been mapped and signaling crosstalk with the BCR has been identified, explaining the need for both BCR‐ and BAFF‐mediated signals for B‐cell survival. However, this crosstalk only explains how BCR and BAFF signals cooperate to produce survival proteins and yet, inactivating pro‐apoptotic factors such as FOXO proteins, which may be managed separately by BAFF and the BCR, has emerged as an equally important step for survival. In this review, we present new views on B‐cell survival, at all stages of B‐cell life, and suggest that, in most cases, survival results from the production of appropriate survival factors balanced with the adequate and timely degradation of pro‐apoptotic proteins.
Oral lichen planus and dental hygiene: a case report
Authors: Scattarella A , Petruzzi M , Ballini A , Grassi FR , Nardi GM
Published: September 2010

To cite this article:
 
Int J Dent Hygiene
9, 2011; 163–166 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2010.00454.x Scattarella A, Petruzzi M, Ballini A, Grassi FR, Nardi GM. Oral lichen planus and dental hygiene: a case report.

Abstract:  Background:  The presence of atrophic‐erosive lesions among gingival tissues makes oral hygiene procedures difficult for several reasons. Plaque control and rigorous oral hygiene are a fundamental requisite for the treatment of any oromucosal disease.

Case report:  A patient suffering from a mixed atrophic‐erosive form of oral lichen planus (OLP), with serious gingival involvement, was also treated with the topical application of clobetasol propionate 0.05% using gingival trays. The highest hygiene standards of both patient and trays were of fundamental importance.

Discussion:  The management of the patient suffering from gingival atrophic‐erosive OLP requires the synergic treatment of both dentist and dental hygienist, whose contribution supports the corticosteroid and/or immunosuppressive treatment.
10 years quality assurance of the dermatologist's procedure. ABD review board part II: 2003–2009
Authors: Voß Heike , Elsner Peter , Fartasch Manigé , Köllner Arno , Richter Gerhard , Rothe Axel , Schindera Ingo , Schwanitz Hans Joachim , Skudlik Christoph , Stary Alois , Wehrmann Wolfgang , Worm Margitta , John Swen Malte
Published: September 2010

Background: The dermatologist's procedure (“procedure for early detection of occupational skin diseases”) enables dermatologists to conduct the relevant diagnostics at the expenses of the statutory employers’ liability insurance funds (UVT) if there is a possibility of a work‐related skin disorder in an employee. Acceptance of this most relevant tool for secondary prevention in occupational dermatology in Germany is high and most dermatologists make careful use of this unparalleled privilege. However, there have been occasional complaints by the UVT, concerning overly extensive diagnostics. Consequently, the Task Force on Occupational and Environmental Dermatology (ABD) of the German Society of Dermatology set up a review board in May 1999.

Results: Dermatologists’ reports in question were submitted by the UVT to the review board and reviewed separately by two experienced occupational dermatologists both in the 1st period (1999–2003) and now in the second period (June 2003 – November 2009). The criticism of the reviewers was mostly directed towards the number of tests and an insufficient documentation in the dermatologist's report. There were 69 dermatologists’ reports submitted to the review board (as compared to 155 in the 1st period).

Conclusions: The decreased number of dermatologists’ reports submitted could be a result of the review process itself. Other factors may include the optimization of the dermatologist's report with a better reimbursement as well as the recent publication of guidelines and continuous education in occupational dermatology with certification of more than 700 dermatologists. These measures of quality assurance are aimed to further optimize the dermatologist's procedure and to allow for improved and more rapid care for patients with occupational dermatoses by dermatologists.
CONTRAST‐ENHANCED ULTRASOUND OF THE NORMAL CANINE PROSTATE GLAND
Authors: BIGLIARDI ENRICO , FERRARI LAYLA
Published: September 2010

Canine prostate gland abnormalities affect a large number of adult male dogs. In veterinary medicine, the commonly used methods to diagnose canine prostate gland disease are digital rectal examination and abdominal ultrasound. We evaluated the ability of ultrasound contrast agent to provide additional information about the vascularity of the canine prostate gland; such information could be useful in detecting early prostate gland disease and in staging disease known to be present. We characterized the ultrasonographic appearance of prostate gland vascularity in 10 healthy dogs before and after the injection of an ultrasound contrast agent (Levovist™). Before injecting Levovist™, the prostate gland blood flow was classified as poor in all dogs, whereas after contrast agent injection blood flow was classified as moderate or good, in 3 and 7 dogs respectively. Knowledge of the status of prostate gland vascularity could be useful for the characterization, diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring of canine prostate gland lesions.
NO synthase isoforms specifically modify peroxynitrite reactivity
Authors: Maréchal Amandine , Mattioli Tony A. , Stuehr Dennis J. , Santolini Jérôme
Published: September 2010

Nitric oxide synthases (NOSs) are multi‐domain hemothiolate proteins that are the sole source of nitric oxide (NO) in mammals. NOSs can also be a source or a sink for peroxynitrite (PN), an oxidant that is suspected to be involved in numerous physiopathological processes. In a previous study, we showed that the oxygenase domain of the inducible NOS (iNOSoxy) reacts with PN and changes its oxidative reactivity [Maréchal A, Mattioli TA, Stuehr DJ & Santolini J (2007) J Biol Chem282, 14101–14112]. Here we report a similar analysis on two other NOS isoforms, neuronal NOS (nNOS) and a bacterial NOS‐like protein (bsNOS). All NOSs accelerated PN decomposition, with accumulation of a similar heme intermediate. The kinetics of PN decomposition and heme transitions were comparable among NOSs. However, their effects on PN reactivity differ greatly. All isoforms suppressed PN two‐electron oxidative activity, but iNOSoxy enhanced PN one‐electron oxidation and nitration potencies, the oxygenase domain of nNOS (nNOSoxy) affected them minimally, and bsNOS abolished all PN reactivities. This led to the loss of both NOS and PN decomposition activities for nNOSoxy and iNOSoxy, which may be linked to the reported alterations in their electronic absorption spectra. Bacterial bsNOS was affected to a lesser extent by reaction with PN. We propose that these differences in PN reactivity among NOSs might arise from subtle differences in their heme pockets, and could reflect the physiological specificity of each NOS isoform, ranging from oxidative stress amplification (iNOS) to detoxification (bsNOS).
Acute 1,2,3‐Trichloropane Poisoning: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Han Hui
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  1,2,3‐Trichloropropane is widely used in industrial and agricultural production. However 1,2,3‐trichloropropane poisoning has been rarely encountered in clinical practices. Here, a 45‐year‐old farmer who suffered fulminant hepatic failure due to ingestion of 1,2,3‐trichloropropane has been reported and literature about 1,2,3‐trichloropane poisoning has been reviewed. For this case, reduced glutathione, vitamin K, pantoprazole were infused intravenously, and transfusion of blood plasma, platelets and red blood cells were carried out. Unfortunately, the patient’s family gave up treatment and they left the hospital with the patient because of the low chance of recovery 20 hr after admission. Based on blood toxicology screening, patient history and rapid deterioration of the patient, the cause of fulminant hepatic failure was determined to be acute intoxication of 1,2,3‐trichloropropane by unintentional toxicity. 1,2,3‐trichloropropane has histopathological toxic effects on many organs and this toxic effect occurs within a short period after ingestion, with liver as the major affected organ.
Predicting Delay in Presentation in Men with Peyronie’s Disease
Authors: Mulhall John P. , Alex Byron , Choi Judy M.
Published: September 2010

Introduction

Many men with Peyronie’s disease (PD) delay presentation to a urologist. The reasons for this are unclear.

Aim

To define the differences in men who present early compared to those presenting in a delayed fashion and to determine predictors of delayed presentation.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of all patients presenting for the first medical evaluation of PD. All patients underwent a standard history and physical examination and had a standardized deformity assessment. Demographic and PD parameters were recorded.

Main Outcome Measures

Statistical comparison was used to define factors that were different between early and delayed presenters and multivariable analysis was used to define predictors of presentation >12 months.

Results

482 patients were analyzed, 61% presenting ≤12 months, 39% >12 months. Mean patient age was 52 ± 13 years and mean duration of PD was 17 ± 30 months. Mean measured curvature was 42° ± 19°. Multivariable analysis revealed that delayed presentation patients were significantly more likely to be older (odds ratio [OR]=4.0), to be in long-term relationships (OR=3.6), to have dorsal curvature (OR=2.5), to have curvature <45° (OR=3.3), to be heterosexual (OR=2.0), and to have simple deformity (OR=1.5).

Conclusions

One-third of men with PD presented in a delayed fashion and they tended to be older, to be in long-term relationships, to have dorsal curvature, or to have simple deformity.
Ischemic Priapism and Implant Surgery with Sharp Corporal Fibrosis Excision (CME)
Authors: Stember Doron S. , Mulhall John P.
Published: September 2010

Introduction

Prolonged ischemic priapism is commonly associated with severe erectile dysfunction. Subsequent implant surgery is complicated by fibrosis of corporal tissue.

Aim

In this article we review clinical practice methods for safe and effective use of intracavernosal injection therapy as well as management of erectile dysfunction that may result from inappropriate priapism treatment.

Methods

A case report is presented followed by a review of literature addressing surgical techniques for penile prosthesis implantation in the setting of corporal fibrosis.

Main Outcome Measures

Review of literature and discussion of best-practice management.

Results

Erectile dysfunction should be clearly distinguished from premature ejaculation. Careful training and monitoring of patients using penile self-injection therapy is essential for preventing episodes of priapism. Local injection clinics that are primarily motivated by financial considerations threaten the safe management of men with sexual dysfunction. Development of corporal fibrosis occurs during prolonged ischemic priapism and is duration-dependent. Implant surgeons should be familiar with maneuvers to address fibrotic corporal tissue.
Wetting and Reaction Characteristics of Al2O3/SiC Composite Refractories by Molten Aluminum and Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Xu Jing , Liu Xingbo , Barbero Ever , Hemrick James G , Peters Mark
Published: September 2010

The reactive wetting behavior in molten aluminum and Al alloy was investigated by the sessile drop method for three alumina‐silicon carbide composites, namely TC, TQ, and MC. The initial contact angle for all the three refractory substrates was obtuse in spite of a gradual decrease with time in the first hour of the experiment. TC showed a higher contact angle than TQ and MC. The difference in wetting properties among these refractories is attributed to their compositional and microstructural variations. The effects of magnesium in the molten Al alloy on the wetting kinetics and the reaction with the refractory substrates are also discussed.
On the mass—radius relation of hot stellar systems
Authors: Gieles Mark , Baumgardt Holger , Heggie Douglas C. , Lamers Henny J. G. L. M.
Published: September 2010

Most globular clusters have half-mass radii of a few pc with no apparent correlation with their masses. This is different from elliptical galaxies, for which the Faber–Jackson relation suggests a strong positive correlation between mass and radius. Objects that are somewhat in between globular clusters and low-mass galaxies, such as ultracompact dwarf galaxies, have a mass–radius relation consistent with the extension of the relation for bright ellipticals. Here we show that at an age of 10 Gyr a break in the mass–radius relation at ∼106 M⊙ is established because objects below this mass, i.e. globular clusters, have undergone expansion driven by stellar evolution and hard binaries. From numerical simulations we find that the combined energy production of these two effects in the core comes into balance with the flux of energy that is conducted across the half-mass radius by relaxation. An important property of this ‘balanced’ evolution is that the cluster half-mass radius is independent of its initial value and is a function of the number of bound stars and the age only. It is therefore not possible to infer the initial mass–radius relation of globular clusters, and we can only conclude that the present day properties are consistent with the hypothesis that all hot stellar systems formed with the same mass–radius relation and that globular clusters have moved away from this relation because of a Hubble time of stellar and dynamical evolution.
Cyclic fatigue resistance of new and used Mtwo rotary nickel‐titanium instruments in two different radii of curvature
Authors: Inan Ugur , Aydin Cumhur , Demirkaya Kadriye
Published: September 2010

The fracture of nickel‐titanium rotary instruments is a serious problem that can jeopardise the outcome of root canal treatment. The aim of this study was to compare the cyclic fatigue resistance of new and used Mtwo rotary nickel‐titanium instruments in artificial canals with two different radii of curvature. Four hundred and twenty Mtwo instruments were used in the present study. Thirty new and 30 used instruments of each size were tested for cyclic fatigue in artificial canals with radii of curvature of 5 or 10 mm. Each instrument was rotated until fracture occurred and the number of cycles to fracture was calculated by multiplying time to fracture and rotational speed. Data were analysed using a t‐test. According to the results of the study, radius of curvature was an important factor on cyclic fatigue resistance and clinical use significantly reduced the instrument lifespan.
Evaluating the potential key factors in assessing the morphology of mesiobuccal canal in maxillary first and second molars
Authors: Karaman Gokalp Turan , Onay Emel Olga , Ungor Mete , Colak Meric
Published: September 2010

The purpose of this study was to provide further information on the morphology of the root canals and pulp chambers of 100 maxillary first and 100 maxillary second molars, with particular reference to the anatomical relationship of the root canal patterns and the distance between mesiobuccal (MB) and mesiolingual (ML) orifices. Each transverse section was digitally imaged to measure the interorificial distance using a stereomicroscope. The angles of primary curvatures were determined in both buccolingual (clinic view, CV) and mesiodistal (proximal view, PV) directions and the canal configuration of the MB root was classified according to the Weine classification. The rhomboidal pulp chamber floor morphology predominated in each tooth type. The mean interorificial distance in both maxillary first and second molars was significantly shorter in type II compared with type III (P < 0.05). The interorificial distance was correlated with the primary curvature of MB canal in PV in maxillary first molars (P < 0.05), whereas the primary curvature of ML canal in CV was correlated with the primary curvature of ML canal in PV in maxillary second molars (P < 0.01). The evaluation of interorificial distance in both types of maxillary molars and the curvature of ML canal in CV in maxillary second molar can give valuable information to the clinician.
Root canal configurations of third molar teeth. A comparison with first and second molars in the Turkish population
Authors: Sert Semih , Şahinkesen Güneş , Topçu Fulya T. , Eroğlu Şeyda E. , Oktay Elif A.
Published: September 2010

The purpose of the current study was to determine the similarities of maxillary and mandibular third molars with the other molar teeth. A total of 2016 extracted maxillary and mandibular permanent teeth were evaluated. The teeth were divided into six groups. The teeth were stored in 5% nitric acid solution for 7 days, then placed in increasing concentrations of ethyl alcohol. The teeth were rendered transparent by immersion in xylene solution for 4 days until complete transparency was achieved. Three roots were present in 93.0% of the maxillary molars, and 91.3% of the second molars. Among the maxillary third molars, 35.5% were single‐rooted and 24.9% of the mandibular third molars had single roots. Double roots were present in 69.2% of the mandibular third molars, and 5.4% had three roots. Four new root canal configurations were encountered in this study. The root canal configurations of the mandibular and maxillary teeth showed similarities with the results of other studies performed in different populations.
Afferent control of locomotor CPG: insights from a simple neuromechanical model
Authors: Markin Sergey N. , Klishko Alexander N. , Shevtsova Natalia A. , Lemay Michel A. , Prilutsky Boris I. , Rybak Ilya A.
Published: September 2010

A simple neuromechanical model has been developed that describes a spinal central pattern generator (CPG) controlling the locomotor movement of a single‐joint limb via activation of two antagonist (flexor and extensor) muscles. The limb performs rhythmic movements under control of the muscular, gravitational and ground reaction forces. Muscle afferents provide length‐dependent (types Ia and II) and force‐dependent (type Ib from the extensor) feedback to the CPG. We show that afferent feedback adjusts CPG operation to the kinematics and dynamics of the limb providing stable “locomotion.” Increasing the supraspinal drive to the CPG increases locomotion speed by reducing the duration of stance phase. We show that such asymmetric, extensor‐dominated control of locomotor speed (with relatively constant swing duration) is provided by afferent feedback independent of the asymmetric rhythmic pattern generated by the CPG alone (in “fictive locomotion” conditions). Finally, we demonstrate the possibility of reestablishing stable locomotion after removal of the supraspinal drive (associated with spinal cord injury) by increasing the weights of afferent inputs to the CPG, which is thought to occur following locomotor training.
Role of NKCC1 and KCC2 in the development of chronic neuropathic pain following spinal cord injury
Authors: Hasbargen Tera , Ahmed Mostafa M. , Miranpuri Gurwattan , Li Lin , Kahle Kristopher T. , Resnick Daniel , Sun Dandan
Published: September 2010

Neuropathic pain is a common problem following spinal cord injury (SCI). Effective analgesic therapy has been hampered by the lack of knowledge about the mechanisms underlying post‐SCI neuropathic pain. Current evidence suggests GABAergic spinal nociceptive processing is a critical functional node in this complex phenotype, representing a potential target for therapeutic intervention. Normal GABA neurotransmission is dependent on precise regulation of the level of intracellular chloride, which is determined by the coordinated activities of two cation/chloride cotransporters (CCCs) in the SLC12 family: the inwardly directed Na+‐K+‐Cl− cotransporter isoform 1 (NKCC1) and outwardly directed K+‐Cl− cotransporter isoform 2 (KCC2). Inhibition of NKCC1 with its potent antagonist bumetanide reduces pain behavior in rats following SCI. Moreover, the injured spinal cord tissues exhibit a significant transient upregulation of NKCC1 protein and a concurrent downregulation of KCC2 protein. Thus, imbalanced function of NKCC1 and KCC2 may contribute to the induction and maintenance of the chronic neuropathic pain following SCI.
Afferent inputs to mid‐ and lower‐lumbar spinal segments are necessary for stepping in spinal cats
Authors: Norton Jonathan A. , Mushahwar Vivian K.
Published: September 2010

Afferent inputs are known to modulate the activity of locomotor central pattern generators, but their role in thegenerationof locomotor patterns remains uncertain. This study sought to investigate the importance of afferent input for producing bilateral, coordinated hindlimb stepping in adult cats. Following complete spinal transection, animals were trained to step on the moving belt of a treadmill until proficient, weight‐bearing stepping of the hindlimbs was established. Selective dorsal rhizotomies of roots reaching various segments of the lumbosacral enlargement were then conducted, and hindlimb stepping capacity was reassessed. Depending on the deafferented lumbosacral segments, stepping was either abolished or unaffected. Deafferentation of mid‐lumbar (L3/L4) or lower‐lumbar (L5‐S1) segments abolished locomotion. Locomotor capacity in these animals could not be restored with the administration of serotonergic or adrenergic agonists. Deafferentation of L3, L6, or S1 had mild effects on locomotion. This suggested that critical afferent inputs pertaining to hip position (mid‐lumbar) and limb loading (lower‐lumbar) play an important role in thegenerationof locomotor patterns after spinal cord injury.
Whole‐Leaf Wash Improves Chlorine Efficacy for Microbial Reduction and Prevents Pathogen Cross‐Contamination during Fresh‐Cut Lettuce Processing
Authors: Nou Xiangwu , Luo Yaguang
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Currently, most fresh‐cut processing facilities in the United States use chlorinated water or other sanitizer solutions for microbial reduction after lettuce is cut. Freshly cut lettuce releases significant amounts of organic matter that negatively impacts the effectiveness of chlorine or other sanitizers for microbial reduction. The objective of this study is to evaluate whether a sanitizer wash before cutting improves microbial reduction efficacy compared to a traditional postcutting sanitizer wash. Romaine lettuce leaves were quantitatively inoculated with E. coli O157:H7 strains and washed in chlorinated water before or after cutting, and E. coli O157:H7 cells that survived the washing process were enumerated to determine the effectiveness of microbial reduction for the 2 cutting and washing sequences. Whole‐leaf washing in chlorinated water improved pathogen reduction by approximately 1 log unit over traditional cut‐leaf sanitization. Similar improvement in the reduction of background microflora was also observed. Inoculated “Lollo Rossa” red lettuce leaves were mixed with noninoculated Green‐Leaf lettuce leaves to evaluate pathogen cross‐contamination during processing. High level (96.7% subsamples, average MPN 0.6 log CFU/g) of cross‐contamination of noninoculated green leaves by inoculated red leaves was observed when mixed lettuce leaves were cut prior to washing in chlorinated water. In contrast, cross‐contamination of noninoculated green leaves was significantly reduced (3.3% of subsamples, average MPN ≤−0.3 log CFU/g) when the mixed leaves were washed in chlorinated water before cutting. This result suggests that whole‐leaf sanitizing washes could be a practical strategy for enhancing the efficacy of chlorine washes for pathogen reduction and cross‐contamination prevention.

Practical Application:  Freshly cut leafy greens release large amount of organic matter that negatively impact the chlorine washing efficacy. Implementing the primary antimicrobial intervention step of chlorine washing prior to cutting can significantly improve the efficacy of microbial reduction and minimize pathogen cross‐contamination.
Development of a Method to Produce Freeze‐Dried Cubes from 3 Pacific Salmon Species
Authors: Crapo Charles , Oliveira Alexandra C.M. , Nguyen Duy , Bechtel Peter J. , Fong Quentin
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Freeze‐dried boneless skinless cubes of pink (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha), sockeye (Oncorhynchus nerka), and chum (Oncorhynchus keta) salmon were prepared and physical properties evaluated. To minimize freeze‐drying time, the kinetics of dehydration and processing yields were investigated. The physical characteristics of the final product including bulk density, shrinkage, hardness, color, and rehydration kinetics were determined. Results showed that freeze‐dried salmon cubes from each of the 3 Pacific salmon species can be produced with a moisture content of less that 10% and aw less 0.4 and freeze‐drying time of 9 h. Processing yields ranged from 26% to 28.4%, depending on fish species. Shrinkage was less than 12% and rehydration of freeze‐dried cubes was rapid. The value‐added products developed have the potential to be utilized as ingredients for ready‐to‐eat soups, as snack food, salad topping, and baby finger‐food.

Practical Application:  Freeze‐drying removes water from food products without heating them; therefore, this type of drying process yields very high‐quality dried foods. In this study, a freeze‐dry process was established to produce small cubes of Alaska pink, sockeye, and chum salmon. The goals were to shorten typical freeze‐drying time while producing acceptable product characteristics. The freeze‐drying process developed took only 9 h to remove about 97% of the moisture of diced Pacific salmon fillets. The freeze‐dried salmon cubes produced can be used as ingredients for dehydrated ready‐to‐eat soups, as baby finger‐foods, or as salad toppings.