bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of Potentially Reversible Diabetic Albuminuria: A Three-drop Agglutination Test for Urinary Albumin at Low Concentration
Authors: Viberti G C , Vergani D
Published: September 2013

Subclinical elevation of urinary albumin excretion early in the course of insulin-dependent diabetes has been shown to predict later clinical proteinuria. An agglutination test (Three-drop Albutest) to detect these lesser degrees of albuminuria has been developed. Rabbit anti-human albumin antiserum is immobilized on latex beads. In the presence of human albumin and additional antiserum in solution, a visible precipitate appears. Concentrations of solid and liquid phase antiserum have been adjusted to detect urinary albumin concentrations ranging between 2.5 and 17 mg/dl, undetectable by a standard clinical method (Albustix, Ames Company, Miles Laboratories Ltd, Stoke Poges, Slough, Bucks, England). The test is specific for albumin, failing to cross-react with other plasma proteins present in urine or with bovine serum albumin. It is simple to perform and is read within 5 min.

This test should find a place in the early detection of diabetics with subclinical albuminuria and in monitoring the success of attempts to reverse this risk factorfor clinical diabetic nephropathy.
Plasma Prostaglandin Levels in Rats with Diabetes Mellitus and Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Authors: Axelrod Lloyd , Levine Lawrence
Published: September 2013

We studied by radioimmunoassay the plasma levels of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin (PG)E2 (the stable metabolite of PGE2), 6-keto-PGFUt[the stable breakdown product of prostacyclin (PGI2)], and thromboxane (TX) B2 (the stable breakdown product of TXA2) in normal rats and rats with nonketotic diabetes mellitus (DM) or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

The plasma levels of the PGE2, PGI2, and TXA2 derivatives were markedly elevated in rats with DKA. The level of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGE2 (0.298 ± 0.056 ng/ml, N = 34) was sixfold higher, the level of 6-keto-PGF1α (0.378 ± 0.049 ng/ml, n = 33) was twofold higher, and that of TXB2 (0.346 ± 0.046 ng/ml, n = 34) was 50% higher in rats with DKA than in normal rats.

The plasma level of the PGI2 derivative was also elevated in rats with DM. The level of 6-keto-PGF1α (0.310 ± 0.050 ng/ml) was nearly as high in animals with DM as in those with DKA. The level of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGE2 was not elevated and that of TXB2 was reduced in animals with DM.

In response to insulin and to 5-methylpyrazole-3-carboxylic acid, two potent antilipolytic agents, the levels of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGE2 and 6-keto-PGF1α, decreased significantly in rats with DKA.

Adipocytes produce large quantities of PGE2 and PGI2 during norepinephrine-induced lipolysis. DKA is a situation par excellence of high catecholamine and low insulin levels, just the circumstances required for accelerated lipolysis and maximal production of PGE2 and PGI2 by the adipocyte. The adipocyte may be an important source of the high plasma levels of the PGE2 and PGI2 derivatives present in rats with DKA and of the elevated levels of the PGI2 derivative present in animals with DM. The ability of both insulin and 5-methylpyrazole-3-carboxylic acid to decrease the levels of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGE2 and 6-keto-PGF1α supports this view.

The high plasma levels of the PGE2, PGI2, and TXA2 derivatives in DKA and of the PGI2 derivative in DM raise the possibility that high levels of all three parent compounds may circulate in DKA and high levels of PGI2 may circulate in DM. The suppression of the elevated levels of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGE2 and 6-keto-PGF1α in DKA by two structurally unrelated antilipolytic agents suggests that the adipocyte may be a major source of the high plasma levels of both derivatives in this disorder.
Phagocytic and Bactericidal Activity of Granulocytes in Diabetic Children
Authors: Dziatkowiak H , Kowalska M , Denys A
Published: September 2013

Phagocytic and bactericidal activity of granulocytes were estimated in granulocytes of normal and diabetic children. The influence of candidai, tuberculin antigens, and staphylococcal antitoxin on these parameters was also tested. Thirty diabetic and forty healthy children made up the study group. Their ages were 6–18 yr. The disease duration was from 1 to 12 yr. Granulocytes from diabetic children demonstrated a normal ability to absorb staphylococcus. On the other hand, the capacity for intercellular killing of bacteria by granulocytes of diabetic children was decreased.
A Rapid Means of Separating A14-125I-Insulin from Heterogeneously Labeled Insulin Molecules for Biologic Studies
Authors: Stentz Frankie B , Wright Reba K , Kitabchi Abbas E
Published: September 2013

We have used two methods for the preparation of a highly homogeneous insulin with high specific activity. After iodination with chloramine T, the labeled peptides were retained on a disposable Sep Pak cartridge and subsequently eluted. The eluted labeled insulins were further purified by either DEAE cellulose or high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to separate A14-125I- from A19-125I-insulin. Both methods of chromatography were effective, but HPLC offered the advantage of better resolution in less time and higher yields of A14-125I-insulin, which is suitable for biologic studies in various target tissues.
Insulin-Mimetic Effects of Vanadate: Possible Implications for Future Treatment of Diabetes
Authors: Shechter Yoram
Published: September 2013

Vanadate ions, low-molecular-weight phosphate analogues, mimic most of the rapid actions of insulin in various cell types. When administered orally to diabetic hyperglycemic rats, vanadate reaches the circulation, mimics insulin stimulation of glucose uptake and metabolism, and leads to normoglycemic and partial anabolic states. In addition, vanadate restores tissue responsiveness to insulin and hepatic glycogen levels and activates new synthesis of key enzymes for carbohydrate metabolism. This suggests that correcting hyperglycemia is sufficient to correct the typical metabolic alterations found in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats. Several weeks of oral administration of vanadate to diabetic rats has not produced detectable liver or kidney toxicity. The mechanism by which vanadate mimics the actions of insulin is still obscure. Unlike insulin, vanadate does not seem to stimulate the autophosphorylation and endogenous tyrosine phosphorylation of insulin-receptor kinase or other intracellular proteins either directly or by virtue of its known inhibitory effect on protein phosphotyrosine phosphatase. Results from many studies support a model in which vanadate activates glucose metabolism by either utilizing an alternative (insulin-independent) cascade or bypassing the early events of the insulin-dependent cascade. Either of these possibilities is of clinical importance, because early insulin events may become defective, as a result of severe hyperinsulinemia, and may contribute to insulin resistance. Alternative pathways by which vanadate may stimulate glucose metabolism, e.g., by increasing intracellular Ca2+ levels and/or regulating intracellular and intravesicular pH, are discussed. From a clinical perspective, studies should be continued in evaluating the level of vanadate toxicity after prolonged treatment and searching for agents that potentiate its insulin mimetic actions in vitro and in vivo.
Structure of Cat Islet Amyloid Polypeptide and Identification of Amino Acid Residues of Potential Significance for Islet Amyloid Formation
Authors: Betsholtz Christer , Christmanson Lars , Engström Ulla , Rorsman Fredrik , Jordan Kathy , O'Brien Timothy D , Murtaugh Michael , Johnson Kenneth H , Westermark Per
Published: September 2013

Cats and humans, unlike most rodent species, develop amyloid in the islets of Langerhans in conjunction with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. The amyloid consists of a 37–amino acid polypeptide referred to as islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP). The primary structures of IAPP from human and three rodent species have previously been determined. Sequence divergence was seen in the region corresponding to amino acid residues 20–29, which in human IAPP has been suggested to confer the amyloidogenic properties to the molecule. Using polymerase chain-reaction methodology, we determined the primary sequence of cat IAPP. Amino acid region 20–29 shows specific similarities and differences compared with human and rodent IAPP, respectively. A synthetic cat IAPP20–29 decapeptide formed amyloid fibrils spontaneously in vitro. Comparison between the structure and amyloid fibril-forming activity of various synthetic peptides suggests that the amino acid residues at positions 25–26 in mature IAPP are important for the amyloidogenic properties of the molecule.
Human Insulin-Receptor Gene: Partial Sequence and Amplification of Exons by Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Seino Susumu , Seino Mitsuko , Bell Graeme I
Published: September 2013

The partial sequence of the human insulin-receptor (hINSR) gene is presented. Using the gene sequence as a guide, we selected pairs of oligonucleotide primers from sites in the introns that flank each exon. These primers allowed each of the 22 exons of the hINSR gene to be amplified in vitro by the polymerase chain reaction. The sequences of the gene and oligonucleotide primers will facilitate studies of genetic variation in the hINSR gene and thereby increase our understanding of the role of this gene in the development of insulin-resistant states and glucose intolerance.
Effect of Hyperinsulinemia and Hyperglycemia on Intracellular Glucose and Fat Metabolism in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Thorburn Anne W , Gumbiner Barry , Brechtel Ginger , Henry Robert R
Published: September 2013

Hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia per se both stimulate glucose uptake and the disposal of glucose by oxidative (Gox) and nonoxidative (Nox) metabolism. However, the intracellular metabolic fate of glucose may not be the same when glucose uptake is stimulated predominantly by either of these mechanisms due to different effects on fat oxidation (Fox). To address this issue, 11 healthy subjects each had four glucose-clamp studies performed in combination with indirect calorimetry to compare Gox, Nox, and Fox at two different rates of glucose uptake (∼7 and 10 mg · kg−1 fat-free mass [FFM] · min−1) matched at each level by either hyperglycemia or hyperinsulinemia. When glucose uptake was matched at the lower rate (7 mg · kg−1 FFM · min−1), there was less suppression of both FFA (33 vs. 43%, P < 0.05) and Fox (73 vs. 90%, P < 0.05) and less stimulation of incremental (above basal) Gox (1.95 vs. 2.49 mg · kg−1 FFM · min−1 P < 0.025) at low insulin (72 pM) and hyperglycemia (21.8 mM) compared with high insulin (280 pM) and euglycemia (5.1 mM). Matching glucose uptake at the higher rates (10 mg · kg−1 FFM · min−1) required >300 pM of insulin (309 and 632 pM) in both studies and resulted in maximal suppression of FFA (49 vs. 46%, NS) and Fox (both >90%, NS) and similar incremental Gox (2.89 vs. 2.73 mg · kg−1 FFM · min−1, NS) whether at hyperglycemia (15.7 mM) or euglycemia (5.2 mM). Therefore, both hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia stimulate glucose uptake and increase intracellular glucose availability, but insulin also regulates Gox by suppression of FFA and Fox. However, when FFA and Fox are maximally suppressed, the rate of glucose uptake, rather than the prevailing insulin level, determines the distribution of intracellular glucose metabolism.
Polymorphisms of HepG2/Erythrocyte Glucose-Transporter Gene: Linkage Relationships and Implications for Genetic Analysis of NIDDM
Authors: Kaku Kohei , Matsutani Akira , Mueckler Mike , Alan Permutt M
Published: September 2013

To assess the contribution of the HepG2/erythrocyte glucose-transporter (HepG2 GT) gene to the inherited susceptibility to non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), cDNA and genomic probes were used to search for restriction-endonuclease polymorphisms at this locus. Analysis of DNA from 16 unrelated Black American individuals with 19 enzymes and as many as six different probes, defined four polymorphisms over a 45-kilobase region. Nucleotide diversity (π = 0.006) was low relative to that at other loci, with an average of 1 in 1700 base pairs different between two chromosomes at this locus. The observed combined heterozygosity for these four sites was 0.69, which indicates that the markers at this locus could be useful for linkage analysis in families. Linkage-disequilibrium values between the four polymorphisms were evaluated by pairwise analysis and extended haplotypes. Calculating pairwise associations by the disequilibrium statistic Δ or by another measure of disequilibrium, D′ (the maximum likelihood of disequilibrium, which is less dependent on frequency), significant linkage disequilibrium could not be demonstrated. However, the frequencies of the observed extended haplotypes were shown to differ (χ2 = 9.1, df = 2, P < 0.025) from predicted frequencies if the sites were in linkage equilibrium in Blacks. The frequencies of these four polymorphisms were determined in Black nondiabetic (n = 44) and NIDDM (n = 63) subjects. Neither the allelic nor genotypic frequencies of the polymorphisms differed between the two groups. Extended haplotypes were evaluated at Bgl II, Taq I, and Pst I restriction-fragment–length polymorphisms (RFLPs) on 176 alleles, and for the combined analysis of all four RFLPs, extended haplotypes could be assigned for 94 alleles. The frequencies of these haplotypes did not differ between nondiabetic NIDDM subjects (P > 0.05). The importance of this analysis is the finding of significant linkage disequilibrium between four polymorphic sites at the HepG2 GT locus and the lack of association with NIDDM in Blacks. Thus, these results suggested that this locus contributes little to the inherited susceptibility to NIDDM in Blacks.
Involvement of β7 Integrin and Mucosal Addressin Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (MAdCAM-1) in the Development of Diabetes in Nonobese Diabetic Mice
Authors: Yang Xiao-dong , Sytwu Huey-Kang , McDevitt Hugh O , Michie Sara A
Published: September 2013

Nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice develop autoimmune-mediated lymphocytic inflammation of pancreatic islets (insulitis) that leads to β-cell destruction and development of diabetes. Inflamed islets show expression of lymphocyte α4β7 integrin and endothelial mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule-1 (MAdCAM-1), adhesion molecules involved in tissue-selective migration of lymphocytes to mucosal lymphoid tissues. To elucidate the roles of the mucosal lymphocyte/endothelial adhesion system in the development of diabetes, we treated NOD mice with monoclonal antibody against β7 integrin or MAdCAM-1. Treatment of mice from age 7 to 28 days or 8 to 12 weeks with either antibody led to significant and long-standing protection against the spontaneous development of diabetes and insulitis. In contrast, neither treatment prevented the development of salivary gland inflammation (sialadenitis), indicating that the effect was tissue-selective. Monoclonal antibody treatment had no demonstrable effect on numbers or phenotypes of peripheral lymphocytes or on the immune response to pancreatic islet or exogenous antigens. These data indicate that lymphocyte and endothelial adhesion molecules involved in the migration of lymphocytes into mucosal lymphoid tissues play a role in the development of diabetes in NOD mice. Moreover, the results suggest that treatment of humans with antibodies against tissue-selective lymphocyte or endothelial adhesion molecules may selectively inhibit the development of autoimmune diseases such as diabetes.
Phenotype, inheritance characteristics, and risk factors for idiopathic epilepsy in Finnish Spitz dogs
Authors: Viitmaa Ranno , Cizinauskas Sigitas , Orro Toomas , Niilo-Rämä Meri , Gordin Emilia , Lohi Hannes , Seppälä Eija H. , Bragge Hanna , Snellman Marjatta
Published: September 2013

Objective—To determine the phenotype, inheritance characteristics, and risk factors for idiopathic epilepsy (IE) in Finnish Spitz dogs (FSDs).

Design—Prospective epidemiological study.

Animals—2,141 FSDs.

Procedures—From 2003 to 2004, questionnaires (n = 5,960) were sent to all owners of 1-to 10-year-old FSDs in Finland. Phone interviews were performed 1 to 2 years later.

Results—Estimated prevalence of IE was 5.36% (111/2,069 of FSDs that were still alive). Males were predisposed to IE. The median age of onset was 3 years (range, 0.6 to 10 years). The median seizure frequency was 2 seizures/y (range, 0.5 to 48 seizures/y), and the median duration of the seizure episode was 11.75 minutes (range, 1.5 to 90 minutes). The majority (85%) of the seizures had a focal onset, and 54% were characterized as generalized secondary. A generalized seizure phase was determined to be a risk factor for development of progressive disease. Factors associated with the occurrence of a generalized phase were the age of onset, duration of the seizure, number of feeding times per day, and whether the dog was used for hunting. The seizures were not progressing in 678% of the dogs and were easily controlled by antiepileptic treatment in 78.9% of the dogs. The heritability estimate of IE in FSDs was 0.22; IE was best explained as a polygenic trait.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In the present study conducted in Finland, complex focal seizures were the most common seizure type for FSDs with IE, and a generalized seizure phase was a risk factor for progression of the disease. Results suggested a benign course of epilepsy in FSDs.
Internet-based survey of the nature and perceived causes of injury to dogs participating in agility training and competition events
Authors: Cullen Kimberley L. , Dickey James P. , Bent Leah R. , Thomason Jeffrey J. , Moëns Noel M. M.
Published: September 2013

Objective—To characterize injuries (on the basis of type and severity of injury and affected region of the body) among dogs participating in agility training and competition events and examine associations between injury characteristics and perceived causes of injury.

Design—Internet-based, retrospective, cross-sectional survey.

Animals—3,801 privately owned dogs participating in agility training or trials.

Procedures—A retrospective electronic survey was developed to investigate demographic factors for dogs and handlers, frequency of participation in agility training and competition, and perceived causes and characteristics of injuries acquired by dogs during agility-related activities. Respondents were handlers recruited through member lists of large canine agility associations in Canada and the United Kingdom and through promotion on an agility blog site. Associations between cause and anatomic site or type of injury and between injury severity (mild vs severe) and setting (competition vs practice) were investigated.

Results—Surveys were received from 1,669 handlers of 3,801 agility dogs internationally. Handler-reported data indicated 1,209 of 3,801 (32%) dogs had ≥ 1 injury; of 1,523 analyzed injuries, the shoulder (349 injuries), back (282), and neck (189) regions and phalanges (202) were predominantly affected. Soft tissue injuries (eg, strain [muscle or tendon injury; 807], sprain [ligament injury; 312], and contusion [200]) were common. Injuries were most commonly incurred during interactions with bar jumps, A-frames, and dog walk obstacles (260, 235, and 177 of 1,602 injuries, respectively). Anatomic site and type of injury were significantly associated with perceived cause of injury.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—These findings provided a basis for further experimental studies to identify specific mechanisms of various types of injury in dogs that participate in agility activities.
Survey-based analysis of risk factors for injury among dogs participating in agility training and competition events
Authors: Cullen Kimberley L. , Dickey James P. , Bent Leah R. , Thomason Jeffrey J. , Moëns Noel M. M.
Published: September 2013

Objective—To identify potential risk factors for agility-related injuries among dogs.

Design—Internet-based, retrospective, cross-sectional survey.

Animals—3,801 privately owned dogs participating in agility training or trials.

Procedures—A retrospective electronic survey was used to investigate potential risk factors for injury among dogs participating in agility-related activities. Respondents were handlers recruited through member lists of large canine agility associations in Canada and the United Kingdom and through promotion on an agility blog site. Variables evaluated included demographic information for handlers and dogs, exposure variables (eg, frequency of agility practice and competition in the past year), and use of preventive measures intended to keep dogs fit for agility (warmup, cooldown, or conditioning exercises; alternative therapeutic treatments [eg, acupuncture, massage, or chiropractic care]; or dietary supplement products).

Results—Data were collected from 1,669 handlers of 3,801 agility dogs internationally; 1,209 (32%) dogs incurred ≥ 1 injury. Previous injury (OR, 100.5), ≤ 4 years of agility experience for dogs (OR, 1.5), use of alternative therapeutic treatments (OR, 1.5), and Border Collie breed (OR, 1.7) were associated with increased odds of injury. Handlers having 5 to 10 or > 10 years of experience (OR, 0.8 and 0.6, respectively) and dogs having > 4 years of experience in the sport (OR, 0.6) were associated with decreased odds of injury.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Specific factors were associated with agility-related injuries in dogs. Educational prevention strategies should target at-risk populations in an effort to reduce potential injuries. Future research should focus on the biomechanical factors associated with agility-related injuries.
Association of hematologic variables and castration status at the time of arrival at a research facility with the risk of bovine respiratory disease in beef calves
Authors: Richeson John T. , Pinedo Pablo J. , Kegley Elizabeth B. , Powell Jeremy G. , Gadberry M. Shane , Beck Paul A. , Falkenberg Shollie M.
Published: September 2013

Objective—To determine the association of CBC variables and castration status at the time of arrival at a research facility with the risk of development of bovine respiratory disease (BRD).

Design—Retrospective cohort study.

Animals—1,179 crossbred beef bull (n = 588) and steer (591) calves included in 4 experiments at 2 University of Arkansas research facilities.

Procedures—Calves underwent processing and treatments in accordance with the experiment in which they were enrolled. Castration status and values of CBC variables were determined at the time of arrival at the facilities. Calves were monitored to detect signs of BRD during a 42-day period.

Results—The areas under the receiving operator characteristic curves for CBC variables with significant contrast test results ranged from 0.51 (neutrophil count) to 0.67 (eosinophil count), indicating they were limited predictors of BRD in calves. The only CBC variables that had significant associations with BRD in calves as determined via multivariable logistic regression analysis were eosinophil and RBC counts. The odds of BRD for bulls were 3.32 times the odds of BRD for steers.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of this study indicated that low eosinophil and high RBC counts in blood samples may be useful for identification of calves with a high risk for development of BRD. Further research may be warranted to validate these variables for prediction of BRD in calves. Calves that were bulls at the time of arrival had a higher risk of BRD, versus calves that were steers at that time.
The Effectiveness of Catching Cutworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae: Noctuinae) (= Agrotinae) in Pheromone Traps and Light Traps, for Short-Term Forecasting
Authors: Jakubowska Magdalena , Bocianowski Jan
Published: September 2013

In recent years, a local, growing population of cutworm in agricultural fields with various plants such as vegetables, horticultural, and ornamental plants has been observed. The scope of our research covered the observation of two species of cutworms: Agrotis segetum (Schiff.) and A. exclamationis (L.), which are the most dominant species in Poland. Cutworms were monitored in the 2005-2009 season with the use of Delta type pheromone traps with synthetic sexual pheromone and self-catch traps with a light source. The purpose of the research was to determine the dependence between the dynamics of the catches and the location of the traps, in fields with sugar beet, winter barley, and winter wheat in two municipalities: Winna Góra and Więcławice for the two studied cutworm species. Moreover, we used light traps in our analysis of the two studied cutworm species’, flight dynamics in Poznań, Winna Góra, and Więcławice in the 2003-2006 time period. The overall results can be used for adjusting the currently used monitoring methods for short-term and long-term forecasting of cutworm flights, and for optimizing chemical control of the cutworm
Social control over men’s and women’s sexual relationships among early medieval Germanic peoples
Authors: Tyszka Przemysław
Published: September 2013

This study is an analysis of the early medieval sources which contain information on sexual relations between men and women. The research subject is the authority executed by a community (e.g. a kin, or a tribe) over sexual life of the women and men, and especially the legal rules and customs regulating this sphere of life. Female and male sexual behaviors in the early Middle Ages are investigated from the point of view of the social expectations towards persons of both sexes. The basis of the studies on such a topic are two kinds of source materials - the laws of Germanic peoples (so called leges barbarorum), and narrative texts. Two main problems covered in the laws concerning sexual interactions are premarital and extramarital (i.e. fornication and adultery) relations initiated by women and men. A lawgivers’ belief that women’s sexual initiative should be controlled by men is clearly seen in the Germanic leges. Breaking the law in this domain by a woman often resulted in far more serious consequences than in the case of a man. A similar tendency could be seen in Historiae by Gregory from Tours. The lack of woman’s independent position, which contrasts with the decisive role that men took, both her partner and her relatives, is striking in his stories on sexual relations.
The Effects of Student Coaching
Authors: Bettinger Eric P. , Baker Rachel B.
Published: September 2013

College graduation rates often lag behind college attendance rates. One theory as to why students do not complete college is that they lack key information about how to be successful or fail to act on the information that they have. We present evidence from a randomized experiment which tests the effectiveness of individualized student coaching. Over the course of two separate school years, InsideTrack, a student coaching service, provided coaching to students attending public, private, and proprietary universities. Most of the participating students were nontraditional college students enrolled in degree programs. The participating universities and InsideTrack randomly assigned students to be coached. The coach contacted students regularly to develop a clear vision of their goals, to guide them in connecting their daily activities to their long-term goals, and to support them in building skills, including time management, self-advocacy, and study skills. Students who were randomly assigned to a coach were more likely to persist during the treatment period and were more likely to be attending the university 1 year after the coaching had ended. Coaching also proved a more cost-effective method of achieving retention and completion gains when compared with previously studied interventions such as increased financial aid.
Reliability of Anti-Mycobacterial Drug Susceptibility Testing and Importance of Accreditation of Laboratory Performing the Test
Authors: Sharma Krishna K , Jain NK , Jindal S , Jain N
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the major causes of disease and death in the developing world. World Health Organization recommends that drug resistance surveillance should be carried out regularly in high-burden countries, not only to determine the level of drug resistant TB, but also to strengthen the laboratory capacity. The objective of the study was to evaluate drug susceptibility test (DST) and to observe on DST reports with high variability between the results of two laboratories. Methodology: The study was conducted at Hospital for Chest Diseases and Tuberculosis, SMS Medical College, Jaipur. This was an observational prospective study to analyze DST results, obtained from two different laboratories (Lab A and Lab B), of newly diagnosed sputum positive pulmonary tuberculosis patients registered on DOTS category I. Treatment outcome of patients was obtained from records at the referred clinics and hospitals. Results: Higher proportion of resistance was observed from Lab A (29%) than Lab B (16%), Proportion of MDR strains were higher from Lab A (12.5%) than Lab B (6.0%). Out of the patients whose treatment outcome were available, proportion of patients with treatment success were almost similar in both cohorts (84.6% vs. 85.2%), despite the difference in DST results. Success rate after treatment from Lab A was 60% even in patients with MDR strain, compared to 22% from Lab B. Conclusions: Disparity in DST results was observed from the two laboratories (non accredited and accredited) which does not correlate with the treatment outcome. This study points towards the need of proper quality assurance of the drug sensitivity testing in Mycobacterial testing laboratories. SAARC Journal of Tuberculosis, Lung Diseases & HIV/AIDS; 2013; X(1); 1-6 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/saarctb.v10i1.8643
A Rare Extra-Pulmonary Presentation Of Tuberculosis As Gum Tuberculosis
Authors: Srivastava GN , Meena M , Yadav P , Hussain M , Amrita - , Kumar V
Published: September 2013

Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic granulamatous disorder presenting mostly (80%) as a pulmonary disease, the extra-pulmonary presentation being relatively uncommon. The oral cavity can sometimes be a site for extra-pulmonary tuberculosis with a highly variable clinical presentation including ulceration, diffuse infl ammatory lesions, granulomas and fi ssures. Oral lesions usually appear secondary to a primary tubercular infection elsewhere, although primary infection of the oral mucosa by Mycobacterium tuberculosis has been described. We report here a rare case of primary tuberculosis of the hard palate extending to gingiva, manifesting as gingival enlargement with ulceration. Diagnosis was established by histopathological examination of tissue biopsy and by chest radiography. The patient was put on anti-tubercular therapy for nine months to which a prompt response was obtained. This emphasizes the need to consider tuberculosis in the differential diagnosis of non-healing mucosal lesions of oral cavity for early diagnosis and prompt treatment. SAARC Journal of Tuberculosis, Lung Diseases & HIV/AIDS; 2013; X(1); 37-39 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/saarctb.v10i1.8675
Editorial Vol.1(1)
Authors: Lamsal Madhab
Published: September 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/stcj.v1i1.8680 Sunsari Technical College Journal Vol.1(1) 2012
Performance of Pore-Lining Impregnants in Concrete Protection by Unidirectional Salt-Ponding Test
Authors: Rahman M. M. , Chamberlain D. A. , Balakhrishna M. N. , Kipling Judith
Published: September 2013

Until recently, solvent-based forms of monomeric alkyl (isobutyl) trialkoxy silane, produced under various trade names, were exclusively used in the United Kingdom for concrete protection of transportation structures and other structures subject to surface salt contamination. Reflecting the move toward more sustainable construction and with increasing demand for less-hazardous materials, alternative protective treatments that are based on various aqueous formulations have emerged. These treatments include dual-purpose materials for protection and concrete coloration. At the same time, developments in nanomaterials have resulted in the availability of a low-hazard pure silane that is neither water nor solvent based. This investigation evaluated the performance of this material and three water-based materials with respect to their resistance to water and salt solution absorption and chloride ion penetration. A comparative investigation assessed the possibility of using convenient concrete cubes rather than larger-scale slabs for chloride contamination testing by the salt-ponding method. The results of the study are particularly relevant to older reinforced concrete structures, which frequently suffer low concrete cover to their steel-reinforcing bars.
Ruggedness Study on the AASHTO T 336 Coefficient of Thermal Expansion of Concrete Test Method
Authors: Tanesi Jussara , Gudimettla Jagan M. , Crawford Gary L. , Ardani Ahmad A.
Published: September 2013

A ruggedness study on the AASHTO T 336 coefficient of thermal expansion of concrete test method was performed to evaluate the factors most likely to affect the test results. Seven factors were evaluated: time at temperature extremes, water level, position of the linear variable differential transformer, number of segments, saturation criterion, specimen length, and temperature of the first segment. Two concrete mixtures were used in this study, four laboratories participated, and five commercially made coefficient of thermal expansion devices from two manufacturers were used. On the basis of the results obtained, saturation criterion was found to be the most significant factor. The other factors were found not to have a significant impact on the test results, have already been addressed in the most current version of the test method, or, in the authors’ opinion, do not warrant being addressed.
Observed Variability in Tests of Fresh Concrete Properties from the FHWA Highway Materials Engineering Course
Authors: Hover Kenneth C.
Published: September 2013

From 1990 to 2008 an integral component of the portland cement concrete module of the annual National Highway Institute Highway Materials Short Course was a series of independent and parallel evaluations of fresh and hardened properties for a single load of concrete. Up to six testing teams independently sampled concrete from the truck and tested the fresh concrete for temperature, slump, and air content by pressure and by volume meter. The experiment was repeated annually to demonstrate test procedures and the variability in test results for concrete from a single load. Results indicate the time dependency in both slump and apparent air content, the relationship between slump and apparent air content, and the difference between air content as indicated by the AASHTO T 152/ASTM C231 pressure air meter and the AASHTO T 196/ASTM C173 volumetric air meter.
Free-Flow Speed Model Based on Portuguese Roadway Design Features for Two-Lane Highways
Authors: Lobo António , Rodrigues Carlos , Couto António
Published: September 2013

Speed is a key performance measure in economic and environmental analyses of two-lane highways. Speed, combined with the percentage of time spent following, is also used in the assessment of level of service. Under free-flow conditions, the circulation of a given vehicle is not constrained by the presence of other vehicles, and the driver's speed choice reflects the driver's response to the geometric features of the road and roadside interference, as well as the driver's perception of risk. Many studies concerned with the effects of road characteristics, design features in particular, on vehicle speed have been conducted in several countries in recent decades. These studies have provided useful tools for modeling speed and evaluating alignment consistency. This paper presents an exponential free-flow speed model, applicable to both curves and tangents, developed for two-lane highways in Portugal. The variables included in the model are representative not only of the road element under consideration (curve or tangent) but also of the preceding road section and of the visual field downstream from the element. The results from this model are compared with other authors’ results and with the guidelines in the Highway Capacity Manual 2010. In addition to the primary influence of the horizontal curvature on speed, the results show that other factors, such as the cross-sectional width, the density of access points, and the downstream visibility, are important.
Evaluation of Continuous Green T-Intersections on Isolated Undersaturated Four-Lane Highways
Authors: Litsas Stephen , Rakha Hesham
Published: September 2013

The research presented in this paper analyzes the merging version of the continuous green T-intersection (CGT), an alternative intersection design–control that allows certain lanes along the main street to bypass three-way intersections, with side street traffic merging onto the main road. A comprehensive model encompassing 2,445 unique combinations of intersection conditions was run to compare the merging CGT with the standard three-way signalized intersection. The study demonstrated significant intersection improvements over conventional traffic signal timing. Specifically, significant benefits were observed for the merging CGT in total delay, fuel usage, and emissions of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. In addition, an economic analysis showed significant user savings associated with CGT control. Because of higher traffic volumes on the main road than the side street, savings for vehicles on the main street outweighed any costs associated with side street traffic merging into the main street flow. These findings strongly support the decision to implement the merging CGT over standard three-way signalized intersection control. Before this work, no comprehensive model that considered the environmental and economic implications of any form of the CGT had been published, and no comprehensive model specifically focused on the merging version of the CGT.
Evaluation of Safety Performance of Passing Relief Lanes
Authors: Persaud Bhagwant , Lyon Craig , Bagdade Jeffrey , Ceifetz Andrew H.
Published: September 2013

This paper documents the evaluation of the safety performance of passing relief lanes. A passing relief lane is an intermittently spaced additional lane on a two-lane road that provides drivers the opportunity to pass without having to cross into opposing traffic. The operational benefits are well known, but there is limited substantive evidence on the safety of these lanes. The study was based on data from Michigan, specifically traffic volume and crash history data for seven sites at which passing lanes were implemented within the study period, and for 100 reference sites (without passing lanes) and 231 passing lanes sites that existed throughout the study period. The analysis involved an empirical Bayes before–after evaluation and a comparative, cross-sectional evaluation of safety performance of locations with and without passing lanes. The methodologies were also applied to adjacent nontreated sites 1 mi upstream and downstream of the passing relief lane segment to examine possible spillover effects. From the results, crash modification factors (CMFs) were established for passing lanes in Michigan. These CMFs, which indicated significant safety benefits from passing relief lanes, may be considered for use in locations in other jurisdictions. The results from the cross-sectional and before–after evaluations were generally consistent.
Lessons from the Third Wave: A reflection on the rediscovery of Corporate Social Responsibility by the mainstream accounting research community
Authors: Patten Dennis M.
Published: September 2013

In this paper, I reflect on what I, as a long-time member of the social and environmentalaccounting community, see as both the positive and negative aspects ofwhat I refer to as the ‘third wave' of corporate social responsibility (CSR) researchby more mainstream accounting researchers. I note that CSR-themed articles havebeen published in the primary mainstream journals, in waves (and a ripple), sincethe 1960s, and I review those contributions. More importantly, I attempt to assesswhat the newest wave of research adds to the body of knowledge, and how thatmight have implications for the social and environmental accounting community.
Socio-environmental reporting trends in the Italian local government: Thrive or wither?
Authors: Bracci Enrico , Tallaki Mouhcine
Published: September 2013

Social and environmental reporting (SER) in the public sector has been widelydiscussed in the last years (Gray et al., 1996; Mathews, 1997; Parker 2005; Guthrieand Abeysekera, 2006; Guarini, 2002; Hinna 2004; Marcuccio and Steccolini,2005). However, despite the interest in this area of research, there are still a numberof calls to deepen the study of SER in the public sector (Lewis, 2008; Grubnikand Ball, 2007). In Italy, the literature shows the risk of adopting SER as a managementfashion, more than a conscious process of organizational change (Marcuccioand Steccolini, 2005). This paper investigates about the reasons for theadoption and eventual abandonment of SER by local government in Italy.
Comment on: Akasofu, S.-I. On the Present Halting of Global Warming. Climate 2013, 1, 4–11
Authors: Nuccitelli Dana , Abraham John , Benestad Rasmus , Mandia Scott
Published: September 2013

A recent article which has set forth new interpretations of Earth’s recent climate history has included some questions of authentic scientific inquiry, particularly related to the impact of ocean oscillations on atmospheric temperatures. In fact, this very issue is currently being investigated by multiple research groups. On the other hand, the claim that a two-century linear temperature increase is a recovery from a recent cool period is not supported by the data. Furthermore, this thermal recovery hypothesis is not connected to any physical phenomenon; rather it is a result of a simplistic and incorrect curve-fitting operation. Other errors in the article are: the claim that the heating of the Earth has halted, misunderstanding of the relationship between carbon dioxide concentration and the resultant radiative forcing, and a failure to account for forcings other than carbon dioxide (such as other greenhouse gases, atmospheric aerosols, land use changes, etc.). Each of these errors brings serious question to the conclusions drawn in the referenced article. The simultaneous occurrence of all of these errors in a single study guarantees that its conclusions cannot be supported and, in fact, are demonstrably incorrect.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection Disrupts Monolayer Integrity and Function in Cystic Fibrosis Airway Cells
Authors: Kong Michele , Maeng Patrick , Hong Jeong , Szczesniak Rhonda , Sorscher Eric , Sullender Wayne , Clancy John
Published: September 2013

Background: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection is a common contributor to pulmonary symptoms in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). Here we examined RSV infection in immortalized bronchial epithelial cells (CFBE41o-) expressing wild-type (wt) or F508del cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), for monolayer integrity and RSV replication. Methods: CFBE41o- monolayers expressing wt or F508del CFTR were grown on permeable supports and inoculated with RSV A2 strain. Control experiments utilized UV-inactivated RSV and heat-killed RSV. Monolayer resistance and RSV production was monitored for up to six days post-infection. Results: Within 24 h, a progressive decrease in monolayer resistance was observed in RSV infected F508del CFBE41o- cells, while the monolayer integrity of RSV infected wt CFTR CFBE41o- cells remained stable. RSV replication was necessary to disrupt F508del CFBE41o- monolayers as UV-irradiated and heat killed RSV had no effect on monolayer integrity, with an earlier and much more pronounced peak in RSV titer noted in F508del relative to wt CFTR-expressing cells. RSV infection of wt CFBE41o- monolayers also resulted in blunting of CFTR response. Conclusions: These findings identify an enhanced sensitivity of CFBE41o- cells expressing F508del CFTR to RSV infection, replication and monolayer disruption independent of the cellular immune response, and provide a novel mechanism by which cystic fibrosis airway epithelia are susceptible to RSV-dependent injury.
Chronic Bee Paralysis Virus and Nosema ceranae Experimental Co-Infection of Winter Honey Bee Workers (Apis mellifera L.)
Authors: Toplak Ivan , Jamnikar Ciglenečki Urška , Aronstein Katherine , Gregorc Aleš
Published: September 2013

Chronic bee paralysis virus (CBPV) is an important viral disease of adult bees which induces significant losses in honey bee colonies. Despite comprehensive research, only limited data is available from experimental infection for this virus. In the present study winter worker bees were experimentally infected in three different experiments. Bees were first inoculated per os (p/o) or per cuticle (p/c) with CBPV field strain M92/2010 in order to evaluate the virus replication in individual bees. In addition, potential synergistic effects of co-infection with CBPV and Nosema ceranae (N. ceranae) on bees were investigated. In total 558 individual bees were inoculated in small cages and data were analyzed using quantitative real time RT-PCR (RT-qPCR). Our results revealed successful replication of CBPV after p/o inoculation, while it was less effective when bees were inoculated p/c. Dead bees harbored about 1,000 times higher copy numbers of the virus than live bees. Co-infection of workers with CBPV and N. ceranae using either method of virus inoculation (p/c or p/o) showed increased replication ability for CBPV. In the third experiment the effect of inoculation on bee mortality was evaluated. The highest level of bee mortality was observed in a group of bees inoculated with CBPV p/o, followed by a group of workers simultaneously inoculated with CBPV and N. ceranae p/o, followed by the group inoculated with CBPV p/c and the group with only N. ceranae p/o. The experimental infection with CBPV showed important differences after p/o or p/c inoculation in winter bees, while simultaneous infection with CBPV and N. ceranae suggesting a synergistic effect after inoculation.
« Du prince au berger, tout homme a son content de fromage... » Odyssée, 4, 87-88
Authors: Auberger Janick
Published: September 2013

Le fromage, base, avec les autres produits laitiers, de l'alimentation grecque, ne fait pas l'objet d'étude systématique comme le vin et la viande, l'huile et les céréales. Il est vrai qu'il n'a guère laissé de traces dans l'archéologie. Il est vrai aussi que les textes anciens, même s'ils insistent sur l'importance de ce produit qui permet de se passer de viande, en font le plus souvent un aliment digne des barbares, un déclencheur de rire dans les comédies, une humble offrande aux dieux rustiques. La médecine aussi se méfie de ce produit, jugé lourd et échauffant, même lorsqu'il est utilisé comme simple assaisonnement. Raison de plus pour étudier de plus près ce décalage entre vie quotidienne et imaginaire.
Libanios, ses « témoins oculaires », Eusèbe et Praxagoras : le travail préparatoire du sophiste et la question des sources dans L'éloge de Constance et de Constant
Authors: Malosse Pierre-Louis
Published: September 2013

Libanius's Praise of Constantius and Constans (Oration LIX) includes some pieces of information about the author's preparatory work, so that one can guess which were some of his sources : Libanius used two accounts, either oral or written, the one about Constantius's deeds in the East, the other about geography and history of north-west Gaul. He relied, too, on official propaganda. But it does not appear that he took his information from Eusebius : more likely, he used pagan sophist Praxagoras's Life of Constantine the Great.