bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severity of Concurrent Visual and Hearing Impairment and Mortality
Authors: Lee David J. , Gómez-Marín Orlando , Lam Byron L. , Zheng D. Diane , Arheart Kristopher L. , Christ Sharon L. , Caban Alberto J.
Published: May 2007

Purpose: Visual impairment and, to a lesser extent, hearing impairment are independent predictors of reduced survival in selected studies of community-residing adults. To date, the association of severity of concurrent impairment and mortality has not been examined. Method: The National Health Interview Survey is a continuous, multistage, area probability survey of the U.S. civilian noninstitutionalized population. Mortality linkage with the National Death Index of 116,796 adult participants from 1986 to 1994 with complete impairment data was performed through 1997. Results: Findings indicate that moderate to severe concurrent hearing and visual impairment in women is associated with significantly increased risk of mortality. More modest mortality associations are evident for men and for adults with less severe impairments, irrespective of gender. Discussion: Prevention of severe visual and hearing impairment should be a national public health priority, especially given the aging of the U.S. population.
Firms and Innovation System Supporting Organisations: A Brief Empirical Scrutiny of their Knowledge-centred Links in a Developing Area in Brazil
Authors: Figueiredo Paulo N. , Vedovello Conceição , Martelotte Marcela C.
Published: May 2007

Despite the profusion of studies on innovation systems, there still is a scarcity of empirical treatment of this issue in the context of developing countries. This article examines the interactions between firm-level technological capabilities and supporting organisations of the innovation system drawing on a sample of forty-six firms and twenty-nine innovation system supporting organisations in northern Brazil. The study has found different types and levels of production-based and innovative capabilities in association with a large variety of knowledge-centred links established by firms with supporting organisations of the local innovation system. On the one hand such findings contribute to adding some new empirical evidence to the study of innovation systems in developing locations. On the other hand they contradict common perspectives that hold that such systems hardly exist in developing contexts. Indeed, such evidence provides a realistic view of the current nature of the interactions of different components of a local innovation system in a developing area such as this examined here. Such realistic view is crucial to design, redesign, and implement innovation policies.
Experimental Evaluation of the Smart Spring Impedance Control Approach for Adaptive Vibration Suppression
Authors: Wickramasinghe Viresh , Yong Chen  , Zimcik David
Published: May 2007

Most active vibration suppression approaches have attempted to suppress structural vibration by incorporating active material actuators, such as piezoceramic, within the structure to act directly against vibratory loads. These approaches require the piezoceramic actuators to generate significant force to effectively counteract the vibratory forces. Unfortunately, successful implementation of these approaches has been hindered by the limited displacement capabilities of piezoceramic actuators. The Smart Spring concept is a unique approach to actively control combinations of dynamic impedance characteristics of a structure, such as the stiffness and damping, to suppress vibration in an indirect manner. The piezoceramic actuators employed in the Smart Spring concept are not used to directly counteract excitation loads but rather adaptively vary the effective impedance properties of the structure. This study demonstrates the ability of the Smart Spring concept to control dynamic impedance characteristics of a structure through experimental investigations. Mechanical shaker tests using the proof-of-concept hardware verify the controllability of the impedance properties using the Smart Spring device and its ability to suppress vibration. More importantly, the tests conducted in a wind tunnel demonstrate the performance of the Smart Spring under highly varying unsteady excitation conditions. These experimental investigations confirm the capability of the concept that can easily be implemented as an adaptive mount system to suppress undesired vibration generated by mechanical systems.
Topology Optimization of a Piezoelectric Actuator on an Elastic Beam
Authors: Drenckhan Joachim , Lumsdaine Arnold , Parsons Matthew
Published: May 2007

The purpose of this study is to investigate the optimal topology of a piezoelectric actuator in reducing the tip deflection of a static cantilever beam under a concentrated tip load. Optimized topologies are obtained for both statically loaded and harmonically excited cases. The beam is modeled using the commercial finite element code ABAQUS, and a proportional control law is implemented through modification of the stiffness matrices. Parameter studies varying the gain and volume of the piezoelectric material are conducted. Optimal topologies show substantial improvement over equivalent uniform piezoelectric layers. This study also demonstrates the possibility of using a commercial FE code for studying structural control with piezoelectric materials.
Graded Finite Element Modeling of Constrained Layer Damping Treatments with Functionally Graded Viscoelastic Material
Authors: Al-Ajmi Mohammed A. , Alhazza Khaled A. , Majeed Majed A.
Published: May 2007

Passive constrained layer damping (PCLD) is a simple, powerful, and successful technique to solve structural vibration problems. The design of PCLD treatments is mainly subject to the physical and geometrical properties of the viscoelastic material. The use of functionally graded viscoelastic (FGV) material as a core layer in beams with PCLD treatments has been introduced by the authors in an earlier work. The main objective of the present work is to develop and formulate a finite element model for beams treated with FGV constrained layer damping. Natural frequencies and modal loss factors obtained by the finite element model are compared to those obtained by the assumed modes method from a previous work and results from both approaches are compared.
Inclusive Design in Apparel Product Development for Working Women With Physical Disabilities
Authors: Carroll Kate E. , Kincade Doris H.
Published: May 2007

Consumers with physical limitations want apparel products and retail environments that work for them. Inclusive design is a framework for developing products to satisfy multiple consumers, regardless of their physical ability. This qualitative study reports on physical limitations and apparel preferences of working women (n = 9) with a variety of limitations. A prototype for a garment was developed, wear‐tested, and evaluated using inclusive design criteria. Subsequently, manufacturers (n = 6) were interviewed regarding production and distribution within the existing system. Results indicate that (a) the effect of disability on the body supercedes clinical definition for apparel product development, (b) working women with various disabilities have similar apparel needs, (c) inclusive design can be a successful strategy for product development, and (d) current industry perceptions about disability present the greatest barrier to successful implementation. The researchers conclude that further studies should focus on industry “buy‐in” of inclusive design as a framework for product development.
Hospitality Students' Perceptions of Facilitators and Constraints Affecting Women's Career Advancement in the Hospitality Industry
Authors: Zhong Yan (Grace) , Couch Sue
Published: May 2007

The increased number of women in the hospitality industry and their underrepresentation in top management positions makes women's status in the industry a great concern. The purposes of the study were to examine hospitality students' perceptions of factors that contribute to and constrain women's career advancement and determine whether there were significant differences in the perceptions of men and women. Data were collected from a sample of 128 hospitality students in a large state university. The findings revealed that male and female students agreed on the most important facilitators, such as communication skills and hard work. Female students viewed equity‐related factors as the biggest constraints to women's advancement, whereas male students rated family issues highest. The results showed significant effects for gender and ethnicity. Suggestions are provided for ways in which hospitality education programs could address gender issues and contribute to the creation of a more supportive industry environment for women.
Landscape politics and colonial identities
Authors: Brück Joanna
Published: May 2007

In 1807, the well-known English antiquarian, Sir Richard Colt Hoare, published an account of his travels in Ireland the previous year. This included detailed descriptions of the Irish landscape and its antiquities, agricultural practices and the Irish peasantry. This article explores how Colt Hoare's evaluation of the Irish landscape and its constituent elements was informed by contemporary social and political concerns. Landscape acted as a metaphor through which colonial and national identities were constructed. It was constituted both as an economic resource and an object of aesthetic contemplation — in either case, underpinning the political hierarchy of the day. Within this context, antiquarianism — like travel writing — emerges as one of a suite of related elite practices which facilitated the appropriation of landscape both in Britain and abroad.
The Labor Market Effects of High School Athletic Participation
Authors: Ewing Bradley T.
Published: May 2007

This article provides new empirical evidence on the labor market effects of participating in high school athletics. The study uses the 1990 wave of the National Longitudinal Surveys of Youth data set, which allows for the examination of a broad set of fringe benefits and provides a rich set of control variables. The major finding of this study is that former high school athletes fare better in terms of both components of the compensation structure (i.e., wages and fringe benefits) than their nonathlete counterparts.
Player Salaries, Organizational Efficiency, and Competitiveness in Major League Baseball
Authors: Lewis Herbert F. , Sexton Thomas R. , Lock Kathleen A.
Published: May 2007

The dramatic growth of free agency in Major League Baseball has caused great concern about the competitiveness of some teams, particularly those in smaller markets. The authors use a two-stage data envelopment analysis model as part of a larger analysis to determine the minimum total player salary required to be competitive in each nonstrike year since 1985. They then examine trends in this salary and determine how many teams were noncompetitive each year because of low total player salary. Finally, they examine the relationship between competitiveness and market size. The authors find evidence that the number of times that a team has been noncompetitive because of low total player salary between 1985 and 2002 is negatively related to the size of the market in which it plays. The authors also find that large market teams are more likely to overspend on player salaries than are small market teams.
“La Grande Boucle”
Authors: Torgler Benno
Published: May 2007

Cycling has not been analyzed intensively in the literature on the economics of sports. This article reports empirical evidence of individuals' performance in the 2004 Tour de France, searching for factors that shape riders' total ranking performance. A main aim is to investigate to what extent riders' performance is influenced by their teammates and their positions on their teams. The results show that teammates' attributes and riders' positions matter. The author also observes that riders who were successful in previous tours perform better than other participants. Furthermore, a lower body mass index leads to better performance. Finally, the author also observes differences between participating countries.
Dasatinib induces rapid hematologic and cytogenetic responses in adult patients with Philadelphia chromosome–positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia with resistance or intolerance to imatinib: interim results of a phase 2 study
Authors: Ottmann Oliver , Dombret Hervé , Martinelli Giovanni , Simonsson Bengt , Guilhot Francois , Larson Richard A. , Rege-Cambrin Giovanna , Radich Jerald , Hochhaus Andreas , Apanovitch Anne Marie , Gollerkeri Ashwin , Coutre Steven
Published: May 2007

Patients with Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome–positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have a rapid disease course and a poor prognosis. Dasatinib, a novel, oral, multitargeted kinase inhibitor of BCR-ABL and SRC family kinases, has previously induced responses in patients with imatinib-resistant or -intolerant Ph-positive ALL. We present the interim results of a phase 2 study designed to further assess the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of dasatinib 140 mg in this patient population (n = 36). With a minimum follow-up of 8 months, treatment with dasatinib resulted in substantial hematologic and cytogenetic response rates. Major hematologic responses were achieved in 42% (15/36) of patients, 67% of whom remained progression-free. Complete cytogenetic responses were attained by 58% (21/36) of patients. The presence of BCR-ABL mutations conferring imatinib resistance did not preclude a response to dasatinib. Dasatinib was also tolerable, with 6% (2/36) of patients discontinuing therapy as a result of study-drug toxicity. Most adverse events (AEs) were grade 1 or 2; febrile neutropenia was the most frequent severe AE, but this and other cytopenias were manageable with dose reduction. Dasatinib represents a safe and effective treatment option and an important therapeutic advance for patients with Ph-positive ALL. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #CA180015.
Revealing signaling pathway deregulation by using gene expression signatures and regulatory motif analysis
Authors: Liu Yingchun , Ringnér Markus
Published: May 2007

Gene expression signatures consisting of tens to hundreds of genes have been found to be informative for different biological states. Recently, many computational methods have been proposed for biological interpretation of such signatures. However, there is a lack of methods for identifying cell signaling pathways whose deregulation results in an observed expression signature. We present a strategy for identifying such signaling pathways and evaluate the strategy using six human and mouse gene expression signatures.
Adaptive control for a multi-axis hydraulic test rig
Authors: Gizatullin A. O. , Edge K. A.
Published: May 2007

Multi-axis hydraulic rigs are widely used in industrial testing applications but still represent a challenging area for control system design. The current paper considers the control of a six-degrees-of-freedom multi-axis shaking table driven by six hydraulic actuators. The strategy adopted employs adaptive decentralized position control, i.e. each axis has its own adaptive controller. The scheme developed is based on a cascade minimal control synthesis (MCS) approach, which is a class of model reference adaptive control (MRAC). The theoretical background to the controller is presented, together with the results of an experimental study. Performance is compared with three other fixed-gain control schemes. The new adaptive scheme has superior disturbance rejection and command tracking capabilities.
Digoxin-Like Immunoreactive Factors Induce Apoptosis in Human Acute T-Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Ihenetu Kenneth , Qazzaz Hassan M , Crespo Fabian , Fernandez-Botran Rafael , Valdes Roland
Published: May 2007

Background: Plant-derived cardenolides reportedly possess anticancer properties in human leukemic cells via selective induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and differentiation. Selective induction of apoptosis with mammalian-derived digoxin-like immunoreactive factor (DLIF) could provide new strategies for anticancer drug development or the identification of biomarkers for cancer. We investigated whether DLIFs selectively induce apoptosis in human lymphoblastic leukemic cells.

Methods: We compared the relative potencies of digoxin, ouabain, and DLIF on induction of programmed cell death in Jurkat cells (an acute T-leukemic cell line), K-562 (a myelogenous leukemia cell line), and nonpathologic human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry with the annexin V/propidium iodide method.

Results: Digoxin and ouabain induced apoptosis in Jurkat cells [digoxin 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50), 24 nmol/L; ouabain IC50, 26 nmol/L]. Neither digoxin nor ouabain induced apoptosis in K-562 cells or PBMCs. DLIF was more potent (IC50, 1.9 nmol/L) and >2-fold more effective than digoxin or ouabain at inducing maximum apoptosis in Jurkat cells. The IC50 values in the apoptosis assays were >100-fold lower (DLIF) and 20-fold lower (digoxin and ouabain) than the IC50 required for Na+- and K+-dependent ATPase (DLIF, 200 nmol/L; digoxin, 910 nmol/L; ouabain, 600 nmol/L).

Conclusion: DLIF selectively induces apoptosis in a human acute T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia cell line but not in K-562 cells or PBMCs. These data suggest a new physiological role for these endogenous hormone-like factors.
The Significant Cardiomyogenic Potential of Human Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells In Vitro
Authors: Nishiyama Nobuhiro , Miyoshi Shunichiro , Hida Naoko , Uyama Taro , Okamoto Kazuma , Ikegami Yukinori , Miyado Kenji , Segawa Kaoru , Terai Masanori , Sakamoto Michiie , Ogawa Satoshi , Umezawa Akihiro
Published: May 2007

We tested the cardiomyogenic potential of the human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCBMSCs). Both the number and function of stem cells may be depressed in senile patients with severe coronary risk factors. Therefore, stem cells obtained from such patients may not function well. For this reason, UCBMSCs are potentially a new cell source for stem cell-based therapy, since such cells can be obtained from younger populations and are being routinely utilized for clinical patients. The human UCBMSCs (5 × 103 per cm2) were cocultured with fetal murine cardiomyocytes ([CM] 1 × 105 per cm2). On day 5 of cocultivation, approximately half of the green fluorescent protein (GFP)-labeled UCBMSCs contracted rhythmically and synchronously, suggesting the presence of electrical communication between the UCBMSCs. The fractional shortening of the contracted UCBMSCs was 6.5% ± 0.7% (n = 20). The UCBMSC-derived cardiomyocytes stained positive for cardiac troponin-I (clear striation +) and connexin 43 (diffuse dot-like staining at the margin of the cell) by the immunocytochemical method. Cardiac troponin-I positive cardiomyocytes accounted for 45% ± 3% of GFP-labeled UCBMSCs. The cardiomyocyte-specific long action potential duration (186 ± 12 milliseconds) was recorded with a glass microelectrode from the GFP-labeled UCBMSCs. CM were observed in UCBMSCs, which were cocultivated in the same dish with mouse cardiomyocytes separated by a collagen membrane. Cell fusion, therefore, was not a major cause of CM in the UCBMSCs. Approximately half of the human UCBMSCs were successfully transdifferentiated into cardiomyocytes in vitro. UCBMSCs can be a promising cellular source for cardiac stem cell-based therapy.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Extensive Studies on Perfusion Method Plus Intra-Bone Marrow-Bone Marrow Transplantation Using Cynomolgus Monkeys
Authors: Inaba Muneo , Adachi Yasushi , Hisha Hiroko , Hosaka Naoki , Maki Masahiko , Ueda Yusuke , Koike Yasushi , Miyake Takeshi , Fukui Junichi , Cui Yunze , Mukaide Hiromi , Koike Naoko , Omae Mariko , Mizokami Tomomi , Shigematsu Akio , Sakaguchi Yutaku , Tsuda Masanobu , Okazaki Satoshi , Wang Xiaoli , Li Qing , Nishida Akihisa , Ando Yugo , Guo Kequan , Song Changye , Cui Wenhao , Feng Wei , Katou Junko , Sado Katuyuki , Nakamura Shuji , Ikehara Susumu
Published: May 2007

The collection of bone marrow cells (BMCs) using a perfusion method has been advantageous not only because of the low contamination of BMCs with T cells from the peripheral blood but also the enrichment of stromal cells, which support hemopoiesis. Before the application of this new method to humans, its safety needed to be confirmed using cynomolgus monkeys. We therefore performed the perfusion method on more than 100 cynomolgus monkeys using the long bones (such as the humerus and femur) and also the iliac bones (for human application); in the more than 150 trials to date, there have been no accidental deaths. Furthermore, the technical safety of a new method for the intra-bone marrow (IBM) injection of BMCs (termed IBM-bone marrow transplantation) has also been confirmed using 30 monkeys.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Identification of a mouse ghrelin gene transcript that contains intron 2 and is regulated in the pituitary and hypothalamus in response to metabolic stress
Authors: Kineman Rhonda D , Gahete Manuel D , Luque Raul M
Published: May 2007

The mouse ghrelin gene contains 5 exons (Ex), with Ex2–Ex5 encoding a 117 amino acid preproprotein that is processed to yield a 28 amino acid mature peptide. The current study examined if pituitary (PIT) and hypothalamus (HPT) ghrelin expression is up-regulated in response to fasting and down-regulated in obesity, as previously reported in the stomach. In the process of establishing a quantitative real-time RT-PCR system to accurately assess the changes in PIT and HPT ghrelin mRNA levels, we observed that primer sets located in Ex2 and Ex3 amplified a ghrelin transcript that contained the entire intron 2 (In2). Size and sequence analysis of RT-PCR products using multiple primer sets located throughout the ghrelin gene suggested that the In2-ghrelin variant contains Ex2 and Ex3, but lacks Ex1, Ex4, and Ex5. In2-ghrelin variant mRNA was not detected in stomach extracts, while expression levels were 10- and 50-fold greater than that of the native ghrelin transcript in the PIT and HPT respectively. In2-ghrelin variant mRNA levels increased in the PIT after 24 h fasting and decreased in the HPT and PIT of diet-induced obese mice. These changes may be due to the changes in circulating insulin or IGF-I, since both decreased In2-ghrelin variant expression in a mouse HPT cell line (N6) and in primary mouse PIT cell cultures. The fact that In2-ghrelin variant mRNA levels are dependent on energy intake in the PIT and HPT suggests that this transcript may encode a peptide important in coordinating the neuroendocrine response to metabolic stress.
Sp1-mediated transcription is involved in the induction of leptin by insulin-stimulated glucose metabolism
Authors: Moreno-Aliaga M J , Swarbrick M M , Lorente-Cebrián S , Stanhope K L , Havel P J , Martínez J A
Published: May 2007

We have previously demonstrated that insulin-stimulated glucose metabolism, and not insulin per se, mediates the effects of insulin to increase the transcriptional activity of the leptin promoter in adipocytes. Here, we sought to identify the specific cis-acting DNA elements required for the upregulation of leptin gene transcription in response to insulin-mediated glucose metabolism. To accomplish this, 3T3-L1 cells and primary rat adipocytes were transfected with a series of luciferase reporter genes containing portions of the mouse leptin promoter. Using this method, we identified an element between −135 and −95 bp (relative to the transcriptional start site) that mediated transcription in response to insulin-stimulated glucose metabolism in adipocytes. This effect was abolished by incubation with 2-deoxy-d-glucose, a competitive inhibitor of glucose metabolism. Gel shift electrophoretic mobility shift assays confirmed that the stimulatory effect of insulin-mediated glucose metabolism on leptin transcription was mediated by a previously identified Sp1 site. Consistent with these findings, incubation of primary rat adipocytes with WP631, a specific inhibitor of specificity protein (Sp)1-dependent transcription, inhibited glucose- and insulin-stimulated, but not basal, leptin secretion. Together, these findings support a key role for Sp1 in the transcriptional activation of the leptin gene promoter by insulin-mediated glucose metabolism.
Effect of Cholecystokinin-Octapeptide and Cerulein on Phasic and Tonic Components in Ovine Duodenum with Special Reference to the 'Minute Rhythm'
Authors: Romański K. W.
Published: May 2007

Cholecystokinin (CCK) can affect phasic contractions and the minute rhythm (MR) in ovine duodenum but its effect on the tonic component remains unclear. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess whether the hormone exerts significant changes on phasic and tonic components of the duodenal motor activity and on phasic and tonic components of the duodenal MR. Mechanical and electrical activities of the duodenum were recorded in four sheep before and after slow intravenous cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-OP, doses 20, 200 and 2000 ng/kg b.w.) and cerulein (doses 1, 10 and 100 ng/kg b.w.) administration in the course of phase 2b of the migrating motor complex. During 5-20-minute periods the area under contraction curve for phasic, tonic and total motor activity was measured for the whole curve and separately for the MR- related activity. It was found that both CCK peptides stimulate phasic and tonic components of the duodenal motor activity as well as both these components of the duodenal MR. The effect of CCK peptides on the tonic component was stronger than on the phasic component. These effects were similar in non-fasted and fasted animals. CCK-OP evoked slightly greater effect than cerulein. The effects of these CCK peptides on phasic and tonic components of the MR were similar. It is concluded that CCK-OP and cerulein stimulate both phasic and tonic components of the duodenal motor activity and phasic and tonic components related to the MR in sheep.
Antitussive Activity of the Ethanolic Extract of Paederia foetida (Rubiaceae family) in Non-Anaesthetized Cats
Authors: Nosáľová G. , Mokrý J. , Ather A. , Khan M. T. H.
Published: May 2007

The aim of the present study was to examine the antitussive activity of the ethanolic extract of Paederia foetida (P. foetida) in conscious cats by mechanical stimulation of laryngopharyngeal (LP) and tracheobronchial (TB) mucous areas of airways. The results showed that the ethanolic extract of P. foetida at the oral dose of 200 mg kg-1 b.w. had a cough-suppressive effect. It caused a significant (p < 0.05) decrease of the number of cough efforts (NE) and frequency of cough (NE.min-1) from both LP and TB areas. The intensity of a cough attack was significantly decreased only during inspirium (IA-). Also a significant (p < 0.05) decrease was observed of the intensity of maximal effort in expirium (IME+) from TB area and inspirium (IME-) from both LP and TB areas. The antitussive activity of the ethanolic extract of P. foetida was lower than that of the classical narcotic antitussive drug - codeine, but similar to that of the non-narcotic antitussive agent dropropizine. The antitussive activity of the ethanolic extract of P. foetida may be connected with its previously demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity.
Association of GH Gene Polymorphism with Semen Parameters of Boars
Authors: Kmieć M. , Terman A. , Wierzbicki H. , Zych S.
Published: May 2007

Relations between polymorphism of the Growth Hormone gene and semen characters were analyzed. The DNA for the purpose of examination was isolated from the peripheral blood of 173 boars. In the boar herd under study the frequency of allele occurrence for the GH/MspI was as follows: allele GHA - 0.79 and allele GHB - 0.21. As far as the GH/HaeII polymorphism is concerned, the relevant frequency was as follows: allele GHA - 0.53 and allele GHB - 0.47, respectively. The relationship between the GH genotypes and semen characteristic traits were analyzed. The study showed that boars with GHBGHB genotype of both polymorphous loci of the GH gene produced ejaculates of larger volume, higher percentage, number of normozosperms in the ejaculate and number of insemination as compared to GHA GHA and GHAGHB boars. Our current findings suggested that polymorphism of the GH/MspI and GH/HaeII might have potential effect for reproductive performance traits of boars.
Diagnostic Value of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in Synovial Fluid for Identifying Osteoarthritis in the Distal Interphalangeal Joint in Horses
Authors: Zrimšek P. , Kos V. Kadunc , Mrkun J. , Kosec M.
Published: May 2007

Our aim was to examine the diagnostic potential of matrix metalloproteinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 for identifying osteoarthritis in the horse. Horses were divided into two groups - a positive group consisting of 28 horses with cartilage damage in the distal interphalangeal joint and a negative group of 17 control horses. Clinical examination of the horses included evaluation of lameness, flexion test, diagnostic nerve blocks, X-ray and arthroscopy. MMP-2 and MMP-9 were detected in synovial fluid using gelatin zymography. Monomers of MMP-2 and MMP-9 appeared not to be specific for osteoarthritis since they also occurred in control samples. In contrast, detection of active forms of MMPs was found to be more effective than radiological examination in identifying horses with osteoarthritis, on the grounds of higher sensitivity. Active forms of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were observed with 88.24% and 82.35% specificity respectively, indicating the high accuracy in correctly identifying horses without osteoarthritis. Thus, as an addition to clinical examination, detection of MMPs could improve the diagnosis of osteoarthritis. Detection of active forms of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was evaluated as an additional diagnostic tool in diagnosing osteoarthritis, especially in the case of a negative X-ray result. The proportions of animals with confirmed osteoarthritis, which tested positive, were found to be 81.82% and 76.92%, respectively. The results of this study confirm that active forms of MMP occur in synovial fluid of osteoarthritic joints more frequently than in synovial fluid from normal joints of the horse. Detection of active forms of MMP-2 and MMP-9 is shown to have an important diagnostic potential.
Personnel Exposure to Scattered Radiation During Radiography of the Distal Interphalangeal Joint in the Horse Using a Portable X-Ray Machine
Authors: Šterc J. , Lepková R.
Published: May 2007

Radiography of the distal interphalangeal joints of two limbs of a cadaver of a horse weighing 550 kg was conducted in the present study. The examination was performed on lateromedial, palmaroproximal-palmarodistal views and on dorsoproximal-palmarodistal, dorsolateral-palmaromedial, dorsomedial-palmarolateral views of a raised limb placed on a navicular block, and of weight-bearing limbs. During the examination, doses of scattered radiation were measured at the sites of radiographer, assistant holding a film cassette and assistant positioning the examined limb or the opposite one. The lowest radiation dose was received by the assistant holding the cassette behind the examined region; a total equivalent dose of 183.6 - 201.7 nSv was received by his hands and genitals, and 110.8 - 113.3 nSv by his eye lens and neck during the examination of the distal interphalangeal joint. The radiographer was exposed to higher radiation; an equivalent dose of 846.6 - 854.1 nSv was received by his hands and genitals, and 271.8 - 328.2 nSv by the eye lens and the neck. The highest scattered radiation dose was received by the assistant positioning the examined limbs; equivalent doses were 7751 - 9354 nSv (hands), 1117.3 - 1119.5 nSv (genitals), and 880.6 - 1096.2 nSv (eye lens and neck). The equivalent dose values measured, received by the radiographer and the assistants during the examination of the distal interphalangeal joint seem to be very low relative to radiation exposure limits. However, it must be taken into account that the personnel involved in radiography is also exposed to scattered radiation during other examinations where radiation doses are often much higher. These results indicate the necessity to use protective lead aprons, gloves and collars during radiography of the distal interphalangeal joint.
Egg Yolk Colour Depending upon the Composition of the Feeding Mixture for Laying Hens
Authors: Dvořák P. , Straková E. , Kunová J. , Kunová V.
Published: May 2007

The aim of this study was to verify the possibility of replacement of fish meal by specially treated meal made of yellow lupin seed in relation to the yolk colour. The experiment was performed with 72 laying hens divided into two groups. The experimental group including 36 laying hens received a feeding mixture containing meal made of yellow lupin seed (the JUNO variety) which replaced fish meal used as an animal protein component in feeding mixtures in the control group. Samples of eggs were collected monthly in the course of seven months to determine the colour of egg yolk. Yolk colour was determined by the spectrophotometric method using the CIELAB system. Measurement with the exclusion of gloss was carried out using a portable spectrophotometer. The average values of parameter L* decreased significantly (α = 0.05), which confirmed the darkening of eggs. Parameters a* showed a significant increase (ANOVA α = 0.01), whereas the differences in the individual months ranged from 1.1 to 3.9. Yolk had distinct red-orange colour. Parameters b* did not show significant differences, however, the yolk tended to have an intensive yellow colour. The presence of yellow lupin seed meal in the feeding mixture resulted in a more distinct yellow-red colour of egg yolk.
Evaluation of Listeria monocytogenes Populations During the Manufacture and Vacuum-Packaged Storage of Kashar Cheese
Authors: Cetinkaya F. , Soyutemiz G. E.
Published: May 2007

Behaviour of Listeria monocytogenes was investigated during the manufacture and storage of Kashar cheese. For this purpose, pasteurized milk was inoculated at four different levels varying between 3 to 6 log cfu ml-1 with the pathogen and its survival was determined in milk, coagulum, curd and cheese received from the production steps and at the 1st and 7th days of the storage. The heat treatment process applied after curd acidification step at 75 °C for 5 min was the most efficient barrier and greatly influenced the viability of the bacteria. Nevertheless this step was not enough to destroy all the bacteria especially when inoculated > 3 log cfu ml-1 levels. For all the groups, this stage resulted in approximately 3 log decrease. Storage at 6 ± 1 °C had no influence on the viability and the count of pathogen remained nearly constant throughout storage. Results of this study indicate that neither production steps nor storage at 6 ± °C for 7 days in vacuum packages was enough to eliminate L. monocytogenes in Kashar cheese particularly if the initial level was high. Thus, in addition to the pasteurization process, hygienic measures should be taken into account to avoid possible secondary contaminations.
Heavy Metal Contamination of the Loučka River Water Ecosystem
Authors: Vítek T. , Spurný P. , Mareš J. , Ziková A.
Published: May 2007

Heavy metal contamination of the Loučka River water ecosystem was assessed in July 2005. We analyzed concentrations of T-Hg (total mercury), Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu, Zn, and Ni in water, sediments, zoobenthos, and in the brown trout (Salmo trutta m. fario) muscle and liver tissues (a total of 28 individuals) at four sampling sites. The highest Pb and Ni concentrations (4.634-12.050 and 0.689-24.980 mg kg-1) were found in sediments. The zoobenthos was most contaminated by Zn and Cu (0.556-1.505 and 2.925-74.300 mg kg-1). The heavy metal contamination of river water was highest in Ni and Cr (0.1-6.8 and 0.5-10.0 mg l-1). Concentrations of heavy metals in the brown trout muscle were following (in mg kg-1): Pb 0.108 ± 0.073 - 1.010 ± 0.506, Cd 0.003 ± 0.002 - 0.026 ± 0.022, Zn 3.956 ± 0.371 - 5.801 ± 1.718, Ni 0.058 ± 0.018 - 0.102 ± 0.046, Cr 0.028 ± 0.005 - 0.073 ± 0.039, Cu 0.329 ± 0.079 - 0.437 ± 0.064 and Hg 0.065 ± 0.008 - 0.106 ± 0.047. Statistical differences (P < 0.05) in the brown trout muscle were in Pb and Zn. Cd, Cu and Zn were markedly accumulated in the brown trout liver (concentrations 0.107 ± 0.066 - 0.223 ± 0.078, 59.973 ± 38.951 - 145.800 ± 48.286 and 30.671 ± 3.574 - 34.274 ± 7.226 mg kg-1). Humans of 60 kg body mass may consume 1.5 kg of brown trout muscle from the Loučka River weekly without any risk. Adverse influence of the Uniglas distillery on the Loučka River environment contamination by heavy metals was not confirmed.
Intercultural Dimensions of Communicating Masculinities
Authors: Jandt Fred , Hundley Heather
Published: May 2007

The concept and study of masculinities has been a complex and rigorous one. Numerous disciplines attempt to conceptualize men and masculinity and seemingly compound the elusive topic. However, it is evident that each academic discipline and culture imposes its philosophical, theoretical, and methodological assumptions on the construct of masculinity that impedes understanding altogether. This paper attempts to capture and synthesize research pertaining to intercultural approaches of how masculinities are communicated, expressed, theorized, and studied. As a result, it is evident that scholars are exploring masculinities outside of their specific disciplines and are welcoming more complex postmodern views of masculinities. Indeed, research suggests that masculinities are quite diverse and are affected by several elements including history, geography, time, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and culture.
Corneal Plug Keratoplasty for the Treatment of Small Corneal Perforation
Authors: Qi Xiaolin , Gao Hua
Published: March 2024

This case report describes the performance of corneal plug keratoplasty in a male patient aged 30 years who presented with corneal perforation secondary to metal foreign body.
Laser in Situ Keratomileusis Flap Free-Floating on Interface Edema in Acute Corneal Hydrops
Authors: Warner Evan J.
Published: March 2024

This case report describes a patient with a history of laser in situ keratomileusis who presented with pain, photophobia, and blurred vision secondary to a corneal flap free-floating on interface edema in the setting of acute hydrops.
Hearing Loss and Associated 7-Year Cognitive Outcomes Among Hispanic and Latino Adults
Authors: Stickel Ariana M. , Mendoza Alonzo , Tarraf Wassim , Kuwayama Sayaka , Kaur Sonya , Morlett Paredes Alejandra , Daviglus Martha L. , Testai Fernando D. , Zeng Donglin , Isasi Carmen R. , Baiduc Rachael R. , Dinces Elizabeth , Lee David J. , González Hector M.
Published: March 2024

Importance

Hearing loss appears to have adverse effects on cognition and increases risk for cognitive impairment. These associations have not been thoroughly investigated in the Hispanic and Latino population, which faces hearing health disparities.

Objective

To examine associations between hearing loss with 7-year cognitive change and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) prevalence among a diverse cohort of Hispanic/Latino adults.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used data from a large community health survey of Hispanic Latino adults in 4 major US cities. Eligible participants were aged 50 years or older at their second visit to study field centers. Cognitive data were collected at visit 1 and visit 2, an average of 7 years later. Data were last analyzed between September 2023 and January 2024.

Exposure

Hearing loss at visit 1 was defined as a pure-tone average (500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz) greater than 25 dB hearing loss in the better ear.

Main outcomes and measures

Cognitive data were collected at visit 1 and visit 2, an average of 7 years later and included measures of episodic learning and memory (the Brief-Spanish English Verbal Learning Test Sum of Trials and Delayed Recall), verbal fluency (word fluency—phonemic fluency), executive functioning (Trails Making Test–Trail B), and processing speed (Digit-Symbol Substitution, Trails Making Test–Trail A). MCI at visit 2 was defined using the National Institute on Aging-Alzheimer Association criteria.

Results

A total of 6113 Hispanic Latino adults were included (mean [SD] age, 56.4 [8.1] years; 3919 women [64.1%]). Hearing loss at visit 1 was associated with worse cognitive performance at 7-year follow-up (global cognition: β = −0.11 [95% CI, −0.18 to −0.05]), equivalent to 4.6 years of aging and greater adverse change (slowing) in processing speed (β = −0.12 [95% CI, −0.23 to −0.003]) equivalent to 5.4 years of cognitive change due to aging. There were no associations with MCI.

Conclusions and relevance

The findings of this cohort study suggest that hearing loss decreases cognitive performance and increases rate of adverse change in processing speed. These findings underscore the need to prevent, assess, and treat hearing loss in the Hispanic and Latino community.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy is sufficient to promote microenvironmental normalization via the type I interferon pathway in PD‐L1‐expressing head and neck cancer
Authors: Jang Jeon Yeob , Lee Bok‐Soon , Huang Mei , Seo Chorong , Choi Ji‐Hye , Shin Yoo Seob , Woo Hyun Goo , Kim Chul‐Ho
Published: March 2024

Immune checkpoint blockers (ICBs) targeting programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) have been proven to be an effective first‐line therapy against programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD‐L1; also known as CD274 molecule)‐expressing head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in recent KEYNOTE‐048 trial. However, associated changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Oral tumors in C57/BL6 mice were induced by administering 7,12‐dimethylbenzanthracene into the buccal mucosa. Single‐cell suspension was isolated from tumor tissue; proliferating cells were injected subcutaneously into the left flank of mice to establish Ajou oral cancer (AOC) cell lines. Subsequently, a syngeneic PD‐L1‐expressing HNSCC model was developed by injecting AOC cells into the buccal or tongue area. The model recapitulated human HNSCC molecular features and showed reliable in vivo tumorigenicity with significant PD‐L1 expression. ICB monotherapy induced global changes in the TME, including vascular normalization. Furthermore, the antitumor effect of ICB monotherapy was superior to those of other therapeutic agents, including cisplatin and inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2). The ICB‐induced antitumorigenicity and TME normalization were alleviated by blocking the type I interferon pathway. In summary, ICB monotherapy is sufficient to induce TME normalization in the syngeneic model; the type I interferon pathway is indispensable in realizing the effects of ICBs. Furthermore, these results explain the underlying mechanism of the efficacy of ICB monotherapy against PD‐L1‐expressing HNSCC in the KEYNOTE‐048 trial.
Highly Stretchable Piezoelectric Elastomer for Accelerated Repairing of Skeletal Muscles Loss
Authors: Fang Qian , Wang Dong , Lin Wei , Ge Zilu , Deng Xiangtian , Zhao Renliang , Tang Yunfeng , Liu Wenzheng , Xiong Zhencheng , Duan Ao , Zhang Zhen , Xiang Yong , Hu Xiaoran , Wang Guanglin
Published: March 2024

Skeletal muscle loss is a common clinical disease, whose long treatment period and expensive treatment costs bring a heavy burden to patients. Currently, the use of piezoelectric materials to generate in situ and efficient electrical stimulation has been proven to significantly promote wound healing and other defects. However, skeletal muscle requires repaired materials with high elastic deformation to accompany its reciprocating movement during the healing process. Therefore, developing biocompatible materials that combine high piezoelectricity and stretchability is a great challenge. In the present work, a piezoelectric elastomer PPBE is prepared by copolymerization of bio‐based diacid and diol. PPBE has matching elastic modulus with the skeletal muscle to accompanied proceed stretching and recovery movements. Piezoelectrical charge from PPBE scaffold under ultrasound and mechanical stimuli could promote myogenic differentiation via Ca2+ signaling pathway and modulate cell functions, resulting in improved muscle morphology and functional performance of skeletal muscle. Thus, development of the degradable PPBE scaffold would provide new therapy strategy for volumetric muscle loss (VML) and present great potential in repairing of other tissues.
Oxygen Vacancy‐Rich Defects Porous Cu2MgO3/Mg0.78Cu0.22O Composite with Sinter‐Resistant and Highly Reactive for Long‐Duration High‐Temperature Thermochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Deng Jiali , Gu Changdong , Xu Haoran , Zhu Peiwang , Xiao Gang
Published: March 2024

High‐temperature thermochemical energy storage based on metal oxides is the key technology to reducing the levelized costs of electricity of the next‐generation concentrated solar power plants. CuO/Cu2O has wide availability and high energy density, but severe sintering leads to low reactivity. In this study, an innovative approach to modulate the oxygen vacancy content to change the surface properties and crystal structure to enhance the sintering resistance and redox reversibility is proposed. The re‐oxidation degree is increased from 46% to 99%, and the energy release rate is increased by 3.5 times. It remains 99.9% reduction and 97.1% oxidation activity after 3000 cycles, which is very valuable for engineering applications. Cu2MgO3 and Mg0.78Cu0.22O are prone to form oxygen vacancies, which promotes the formation of porous structures. Mg0.78Cu0.22O helps Cu2MgO3/CuO/Cu2O deliver more O through the surface. Mg0.78Cu0.22O is firmly and uniformly dispersed on the CuO/Cu2O surface after long cycling. They have a large binding energy, more charge transfer and enhanced bond energy at the interface. The mechanism of composite in increasing the sintering temperature and long‐term reaction stability is revealed from experimental and theoretical calculations, which provides a new idea for the rational design of thermochemical energy storage materials.
BV2 Membrane‐Coated PEGylated‐Liposomes Delivered hFGF21 to Cortical and Hippocampal Microglia for Alzheimer's Disease Therapy
Authors: Wang Heng‐Cai , Yang Wei , Xu Ling , Han Yong‐Hui , Lin Yi , Lu Cui‐Tao , Kim Kwonseop , Zhao Ying‐Zheng , Yu Xi‐Chong
Published: March 2024

Microglia‐mediated inflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), whereas human fibroblast growth factor 21 (hFGF21) has demonstrated the ability to regulate microglia activation in Parkinson's disease, indicating a potential therapeutic role in AD. However, challenges such as aggregation, rapid inactivation, and the blood–brain barrier hinder its effectiveness in treating AD. This study develops targeted delivery of hFGF21 to activated microglia using BV2 cell membrane‐coated PEGylated liposomes (hFGF21@BCM‐LIP), preserving the bioactivity of hFGF21. In vitro, hFGF21@BCM‐LIP specifically targets Aβ1‐42‐induced BV2 cells, with uptake hindered by anti‐VCAM‐1 antibody, indicating the importance of VCAM‐1 and integrin α4/β1 interaction in targeted delivery to BV2 cells. In vivo, following subcutaneous injection near the lymph nodes of the neck, hFGF21@BCM‐LIP diffuses into lymph nodes and distributes along the meningeal lymphatic vasculature and brain parenchyma in amyloid‐beta (Aβ1‐42)‐induced mice. Furthermore, the administration of hFGF21@BCM‐LIP to activated microglia improves cognitive deficits caused by Aβ1‐42 and reduces levels of tau, p‐Tau, and BACE1. It also decreases interleukin‐6  (IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) release while increasing interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) release both in vivo and in vitro. These results indicate that hFGF21@BCM‐LIP can be a promising treatment for AD, by effectively crossing the blood–brain barrier and targeting delivery to brain microglia via the neck‐meningeal lymphatic vasculature‐brain parenchyma pathways.