bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate Governance, Valuation, and Performance: Evidence from a Voluntary Market Reform in Brazil
Authors: Braga‐Alves Marcus V. , Shastri Kuldeep
Published: March 2011

In December 2000, the São Paulo Stock Exchange launched a new premium market segment for companies that voluntarily commit to “good practices of corporate governance.” We construct a composite index (NM6) that combines six proxies for the main governance practices targeted by Bovespa's reform. We find that higher scores for our index are related to greater market value but not to better operating performance. An investment strategy that purchased stocks of firms with high NM6 and sold stocks of firms with low NM6 would have earned abnormal returns of 10.68% per year from 2001 to 2005.
Does Corporate Governance Predict Future Performance? Evidence from Hong Kong
Authors: Cheung Yan‐Leung , Connelly J. Thomas , Jiang Ping , Limpaphayom Piman
Published: March 2011

This study uses time‐series data to examine the relation between changes in the quality of corporate governance practices and subsequent market valuation among large listed companies in Hong Kong. The results indicate that firms that exhibit improvements in the quality of corporate governance display a subsequent increase in market valuation, whereas firms that exhibit deterioration in the quality of corporate governance practices tend to encounter a decline in market valuation. Additionally, the impact is greater for firms that are included in the MSCI index or with a China affiliation. The results provide evidence in support of the notion that good corporate governance can predict future market valuation.
Co‐managers, Information, and the Secondary Market Liquidity of Initial Public Offerings
Authors: Popescu Marius , Xu Zhaojin
Published: March 2011

We provide evidence that co‐managers improve initial public offering (IPO) liquidity through the “information” services they provide. Based on a sample of IPOs completed from January 1993 to December 2005, we find that a high number of co‐managers in the syndicate are associated with a lower spread, lower adverse selection costs, and a lower probability of informed trading. Moreover, increases in the offer price revision, in co‐managers’ underwriting rank, and in the number of analyst recommendations are all associated with the improvement in liquidity. This evidence is consistent with the hypotheses that co‐managers’ premarket and postmarket services mitigate information risk in the aftermarket.
Underwriter Quality and Long‐Run IPO Performance
Authors: Dong Ming , Michel Jean‐Sébastien , Pandes J. Ari
Published: March 2011

We analyze the relationship between the quality of underwriters and the long‐run performance of initial public offerings (IPOs) in light of underwriter marketing, certification and screening, and information production. We find that higher underwriter quality (measured by the number of managing underwriters, underwriter reputation, and absolute price adjustment) predicts better long‐run performance, even when returns are value weighted. We compare underwriter quality measures and find that the effects of the number of managing underwriters and underwriter reputation are mutually complementary and are especially strong among IPOs with high uncertainty, while absolute price adjustment, which is more likely to be associated with information production than marketing or certification/screening, loses significance. Our findings are consistent with the marketing and certification and screening roles of investment banks but lend little support for the information production role of underwriters.
Malignancy without immortality? Cellular immortalization as a possible late event in melanoma progression
Authors: Soo Julia K. , MacKenzie Ross Alastair D. , Kallenberg David M. , Milagre Carla , Heung Chong W. , Chow Jade , Hill Lucy , Hoare Stacey , Collinson Rebecca S. , Hossain Mehnaz , Keith W. Nicol , Marais Richard , Bennett Dorothy C.
Published: March 2011

Cell senescence is a permanent growth arrest following extended proliferation. Cultured cancer cells including metastatic melanoma cells often appear immortal (proliferate indefinitely), while uncultured benign nevi (moles) show senescence markers. Here, with new explantation methods, we investigated which classes of primary pigmented lesions are typically immortal. Nevi yielded a few proliferating cells, consistent with most nevus cells being senescent. No nevus culture (0/28) appeared immortal. Some thin and thick melanoma cultures proved immortal under these conditions, but surprisingly few (4/37). All arrested cultures displayed three senescence markers in some cells: β‐galactosidase, nuclear p16, and heterochromatic foci/aggregates. However, melanoma cultures also showed features of telomeric crisis (arrest because of ultrashort telomeres). Moreover, crisis markers including anaphase bridges were frequent in uncultured vertical growth‐phase (VGP) melanomas. Conversely, all immortal melanoma cultures expressed telomerase reverse transcriptase and telomerase, showing aneuploidy. The findings suggest that primary melanomas are typically precrisis, with immortalization/telomere maintenance as a late event.
Modeling the Dementia Epidemic
Authors: Treves T. A. , Korczyn A. D.
Published: March 2011

The incidence of dementia increases steeply with age in older people, although from the tenth decade the slope may be smoother, perhaps reflecting different pathological processes in the oldest old. The prevalence depends upon interaction of age with other factors (e.g., comorbidities, genetic or environmental factors) that in turn are subject to change. If onset of dementia could be postponed by modulating its risk factors, this could significantly affect its incidence. Analysis of risk and protection factors should take into account the critical period during which these factors play a role. For example, the impact of education and diabetes mellitus occurs in early‐ and midlife, respectively, while maintaining optimal physical and mental activity and controlling vascular factors later in life may slow the rate of cognitive decline. Modifying factors need to be evaluated for different clinical groups, taking into account genetic background, age, and duration at exposure. The aim of the present article is to try to take stock of epidemiological data concerning factors affecting the prevalence of dementia and predict future developments, as well as to look for possible interventions that could affect outcome.
Does medically induced weight loss improve obstructive sleep apnoea in the obese: review of randomized trials
Authors: Hemmingsson E.
Published: March 2011

Obstructive sleep apnoea is characterized by repeated periods of breathing cessation during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnoea is both common and underdiagnosed in the obese. A recent study found that as many as 86% of older obese type 2 diabetics had obstructive sleep apnoea. Obesity is independently associated with developing obstructive sleep apnoea, and the reverse may also occur. The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea is therefore expected to rise in the wake of the obesity epidemic. The number of partial (hypopnoea) or complete (apnoea) airway obstructions per hour (apnoea‐hypopnoea index) is used to classify obstructive sleep apnoea as mild (5–14 events per hour), moderate (15–30) or severe (>30). Severe obstructive sleep apnoea is associated with a two to sixfold increase in all‐cause mortality; the impact of mild and moderate obstructive sleep apnoea is less clear. Until recently, the evidence supporting a beneficial effect of weight loss on obstructive sleep apnoea has been limited by a lack of randomized trials. In 2009, at least three randomized controlled trials evaluated whether medically induced weight loss improves obstructive sleep apnoea. The treatment effect ranged from 42% to 62% improvement, although the highest estimate was seen in a very short duration study (9 weeks). Patients who either lost 10–15 kg or more, or had severe obstructive sleep apnoea at baseline, benefited most from treatment.
Osteoarthritis – a role for weight management in rheumatology practice: an update
Authors: Bliddal H. , Christensen P. , Riecke B. F. , Aaboe J. , Frederiksen R. , Bartels E. , Christensen R.
Published: March 2011

Osteoarthritis (OA) and obesity are related diseases, which occur in a large proportion of the population. Epidemiological evidence show that weight is of great importance for the development of OA in the knee, and to some extent also in hip and finger joints. Once acquired, the OA contributes to further weight problems by decreasing the daily activity level. Weight loss will be beneficial for the knee and experimental data point at a highly significant effect on knee function and recent results even point at a positive effect on the cartilage of the knee joint. Recommending patients with a combination of knee OA and obesity to lose at least 5% body weight, and aim for 10% is predicted to correspond to 26% improvement in physical function. A programme for this weight loss has been tested with good results applying an initial formula diet with maintenance therapy in groups during follow‐up.
Comparison of a low‐energy diet and a very low‐energy diet in sedentary obese individuals: a pragmatic randomized controlled trial
Authors: Christensen P. , Bliddal H. , Riecke B. F. , Leeds A. R. , Astrup A. , Christensen R.
Published: March 2011

There is no consensus on whether ‘very low‐energy diets’ (VLED; <800 kcal d−1) cause greater weight loss in obese individuals than ‘low‐energy diets’ (LED; 800–1200 kcal d−1). The objective was to determine whether a very low‐energy formula diet would cause greater weight loss than a formula 810 kcal d−1 LED in older sedentary individuals. This is a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. Inclusion criteria: obesity (body mass index [BMI] > 30); age >50 years, with knee osteoarthritis. Participants were randomized to VLED (420–554 kcal d−1) or LED (810 kcal d−1) for 8 weeks, followed by a fixed‐energy (1200 kcal d−1) diet with food and two diet products daily for 8 weeks. In all, 192 participants were randomized. Mean age was 63 years (standard deviation: 6), mean weight 103.2 kg (15.0) and BMI of 37.3 kg m−2 (4.8) at baseline. Mean weight losses in VLED and LED groups were 11.4 kg (standard error: 0.5) and 10.7 kg (0.5) at week 8 and 13.3 kg (0.7) and 12.2 kg (0.6) at week 16. Mean differences between groups were 0.76 kg (95% confidence interval: −0.59 to 2.10; P = 0.27) and 1.08 kg (−0.66 to 2.81; P = 0.22) at 8 and 16 weeks, respectively. Loss of lean body mass was 2.1 kg (0.2) and 1.2 kg (0.4) (17% and 11% of the weight lost, respectively) at week 16 in the VLED and LED group with a mean difference of 0.85 kg (0.01 to 1.69; P = 0.047). Significant adverse effects comparing VLED and LED, were bad breath: 34 (35%) vs. 21 (22%), intolerance to cold: 39 (41%) vs. 17 (18%) and flatulence: 43 (45%) vs. 28 (29%) for VLED and LED at 8 weeks (P < 0.05 in all cases). The VLED and LED regimens were equally successful in inducing weight loss. The significantly lower loss of lean tissue in the LED group together with more frequently reported side effects in the VLED group, favours the choice of low‐energy diet (LED) for the treatment of obesity.
Testing four barcoding markers for species identification of Potamogetonaceae
Authors: DU Zhi‐Yuan , QIMIKE Alitong , YANG Chun‐Feng , CHEN Jin‐Ming , WANG Qing‐Feng
Published: March 2011

Abstract  The pondweeds (Potamogetonaceae) are among the most important plant groups in the aquatic environment. Owing to their high morphological and ecological diversity, species identification of this aquatic family remains problematic. DNA barcoding involves sequencing a standard DNA region and has been shown to be a powerful tool for species identification. In the present study, we tested four barcoding markers (rbcL, matK, internal transcribed spacer (ITS), and trnH–psbA) in 15 Potamogeton species and two Stuckenia species, representing most species of the Potamogetonaceae in China. The results show that all four regions can distinguish and support the newly proposed genera of Stuckenia from Potamogeton. Using ITS and trnH–psbA, significant interspecific genetic variability was shown. However, intraspecific genetic variability of trnH–psbA is high and so it is not suitable for barcoding in Potamogetonaceae. The ITS and matK regions showed good discrimination. However, matK was not easy to sequence using universal primers. The best performing single locus was ITS, making it a potentially useful DNA barcode in Potamogetonaceae.
Are nuclear loci ideal for barcoding plants? A case study of genetic delimitation of two sister species using multiple loci and multiple intraspecific individuals
Authors: WANG Qian , YU Qiu‐Shi , LIU Jian‐Quan
Published: March 2011

Abstract Considerable debate remains as to which DNA region should be used to barcode plants. Several different chloroplast (cp) DNA regions (rbcL,matK, andtrnH–psbA) and nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed regions (ITS) have been suggested as suitable barcodes in plants. Recently, low‐copy nuclear loci were also suggested to be potentially ideal barcode regions. The aim of the present study was to test the effectiveness of these proposed DNA fragments and five additional low‐copy loci (CHS,DET1,COP1,PGIC1, andRPS2; comprising both coding and non‐coding regions) in barcoding closely related species. We examined the divergences within and between two species ofPugionium(Brassicaceae). We failed to find any interspecific variation from three cpDNA fragments with which to discriminate the two species. However, a single base mutation in the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) could discriminate between the two species consistently. We found more variations among all individuals of the two species using each of the other five low‐copy nuclear loci. However, only alleles from one locus (DET1) of the five low‐copy loci related to flowering regulations was able to distinguish the sampled individuals into two species. We failed to amplify the corresponding fragments out of Brassicaceae using the designedDET1primers. We further discussed the discrimination power of different loci due to incomplete lineage sorting, gene flow, and species‐specific evolution. Our results highlight the possibility of using the nuclear ITS as a core or complementary fragment to barcode recent diverged species.
Splenectomy reduces fibrosis and preneoplastic lesions with increased triglycerides and essential fatty acids in rat liver cirrhosis induced by a choline‐deficient L‐amino acid‐defined diet
Authors: Oishi Toshiyuki , Terai Shuji , Iwamoto Takuya , Takami Taro , Yamamoto Naoki , Sakaida Isao
Published: March 2011

Aim:  This study investigated whether splenectomy is of significance in non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Methods:  Five‐week‐old Wistar rats were fed a choline‐deficient diet for 8 weeks to create a NASH model. A sham‐operation or splenectomy was then performed, and rats were killed 4 weeks later.

Results:  Liver fibrosis and liver preneoplastic lesions were significantly reduced in the splenectomy group compared to the sham‐operation group, and α‐smooth muscle actin (SMA) expression was significantly inhibited (liver fibrosis area: sham 8.63 ± 4.09%, splenectomy 5.45 ± 3.69%, P < 0.01; preneoplastic lesion size: sham 6.56 ± 3.68 ×106 µm2/cm2, splenectomy 4.63 ± 3.27 ×106 µm2/cm2, P < 0.05; the number of preneoplastic lesions: sham 8.33 ± 3.96/cm2, splenectomy 5.17 ± 1.80/cm2, P < 0.01; α‐smooth muscle actin‐positive area: sham 4.41 ± 2.48%, splenectomy 2.75 ± 1.66%, P < 0.01) On the other hand, liver triglycerides and essential fatty acids were significantly increased in the splenectomy group (liver triglycerides: sham 182 ± 35.0 mg/g, splenectomy 230 ± 35.0 mg/g, P < 0.05; liver linoleic acid: sham 17.2 ± 4.9 mg/g, splenectomy 23.3 ± 6.9 mg/g, P < 0.05; liver α‐linolenic acid: sham 118 ± 36.6 µg/g, splenectomy 162 ± 51.4 µg/g, P < 0.05). In addition, expressions of hepatic fatty acid metabolism‐related genes (e.g. acyl‐CoA oxidase, liver carnitine palmitoyl‐CoA transferase I, cytochrome P450 4A, long‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase and medium‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase) were significantly inhibited in the splenectomy group.

Conclusion:  These findings suggest that spleen plays an important regulatory role in the fibrosis, preneoplastic lesion and lipid metabolism of liver in a rat choline‐deficient L‐amino acid model.
HCV core protein promotes heparin binding EGF‐like growth factor expression and activates Akt
Authors: Nakamura Hitomi , Aoki Hiroshi , Hino Okio , Moriyama Mitsuhiko
Published: March 2011

Aims:  Persistent hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major cause of chronic liver dysfunction and is closely associated with the development of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Among HCV components, core protein is implicated in cell growth regulation, and we previously demonstrated that HCV core protein interacted with 14‐3‐3 protein and activated the kinase Raf‐1 and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) pathway. In the present study, we investigated the expression levels and function of downstream molecules in the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway in cells expressing HCV core protein.

Method:  Heparin‐binding EGF‐like growth factor (HB‐EGF) mRNA, in HepG2 cells stably expressing HCV core protein, was detected by RT‐PCR. The soluble HB‐EGF in culture media was measured by heparin agarose chromatography/Western blot analysis. Immunodetection of Akt and IKK and IB, in HeLa cells and HepG2 cells expressing HCV core protein, were performed with neutralizing antibody for HB‐EGF, phospatidylinositol‐3‐kinase [PI(3)K] inhibitor and dominant‐negative mutant of Ras (DN‐Ras).

Results:  HB‐EGF expression was significantly elevated in cells expressing HCV core protein. HCV core protein activated Akt through the Ras/PI(3)K pathway by autocrine secretion of HB‐EGF. Also, HCV core protein activated IKK through Ras/PI(3)K/Akt pathway by autocrine secretion of HB‐EGF. As the Ras/PI(3)K/Akt pathway is critical in anti‐apoptotic HB‐EGF signaling, we examined the possible role of this pathway in cells expressing HCV core protein. In addition, we investigated the relationship between IB kinases (IKK) and Akt in cells expressing HCV core protein, since IKKs are known to be activated by HCV core protein and by Akt in the presence of potent mitogen. We showed that HCV core protein promoted autocrine secretion of HB‐EGF and activated Akt through the Ras/PI(3)K pathway. This model indicates a new approach to mechanism of proliferation and anti‐apoptosis in HCC.

Conclusion:  HCV core protein is a potent activator of mitogenic and anti‐apoptotic signaling involved in hepatocarcinogenesis.
Case of severe liver damage after the induction of tocilizumab therapy for rheumatoid vasculitis
Authors: Hiura Masaaki , Abe Shintaro , Tabaru Akinari , Shimajiri Shohei , Hanami Kentaro , Saito Kazuyoshi , Tanaka Yoshiya , Harada Masaru
Published: March 2011

A 71‐year‐old male patient was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in 2000. Various disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and an anti‐tumor necrosis factor biologic etanercept were administrated, but were unable to control the disease activity of RA. He was then diagnosed with rheumatoid vasculitis and received a total of 3 courses of an anti‐interleukin‐6 receptor antibody, tocilizumab. After the 3 courses of tocilizumab therapy, ascites and renal dysfunction gradually appeared and he was admitted to our hospital. Biochemical data suggested that he had developed decompensated liver cirrhosis. His renal function deteriorated rapidly, and he died 9 days after the admission. Serum aminotransferase levels had been relatively low during the treatment with tocilizumab, however, autopsy showed marked atrophy of the liver. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the hepatocytes had fallen into apoptosis and that hepatic regeneration had been extremely suppressed. Although molecular target drugs such as tocilizumab are being widely used and are important emerging treatment options in adult patients with moderate to severe RA, these drugs could induce liver failure by inhibiting liver regeneration as in this case. Physicians need to stay alert to the impact of these drugs on liver regeneration and should follow up with ultrasonography or computed tomography.
Effect of Experimental Endotoxemia on Thrombelastography Parameters, Secondary and Tertiary Hemostasis in Dogs
Authors: Eralp O. , Yilmaz Z. , Failing K. , Moritz A. , Bauer N.
Published: March 2011

Background: Thrombelastography (TEG) and indicators of secondary and tertiary hemostasis might be altered in dogs with endotoxemia.

Hypothesis: Endotoxemia influences measures of coagulation in dogs.

Animals: Ten healthy cross‐bred dogs.

Material and Methods: Prospective laboratory study between controls (n = 5) receiving 0.9% saline IV and the study group (n = 5) treated with low‐dose lipopolysaccharide (0.02 mg/kg IV). Physical examination and sampling for measurement of leukocytes, platelets, and coagulation variables were performed at time points 0, 1, 4, and 24 hours. Coagulation variables included kaolin‐activated TEG, 1‐stage prothrombin time (OSPT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), fibrinogen, factor VIII, antithrombin, protein C, protein S, activated protein C (APC)‐ratio calculated from aPTT with and without presence of APC), and D‐Dimers.

Results: Endotoxemia‐induced clinical signs included lethargy (n = 5/5), diarrhea (n = 4/5), emesis (n = 4/5), and abdominal pain (2/5). After 1 hour there was severe leukopenia (2.5 ± 0.7 × 109/L; mean ± SD, P < .0001) and a 2.2‐fold increase in D‐Dimers (0.81 ± 0.64 mg/L, P < .0001). After 4 hours there was hyperthermia (40.3 ± 0.4°C, P < .0001) and increases in OSPT (10.5 ± 2.7 seconds, P < .0001), aPTT (16.7±5.2 seconds, P= 0.002). A significant decrease in fibrinogen (1.5±1.0 g/L, P= 0.001), protein C (31 ± 33%, P <.0001), protein S (63 ± 47%, P < .0001), TEG α (58 ± 19, P= .007), and TEG maximal amplitude (50 ± 19 mm, P= .003) was seen compared with the controls. APC‐ratio rose significantly (2.5 ± 0.2, P < .0001) without exceeding the reference interval (n = 4/5).

Conclusion and Clinical Importance: D‐Dimers are the earliest indicator for endotoxemia‐associated coagulation abnormalities followed by decreased protein C concentration. APC‐ratio and TEG were not good screening variables.
A Pilot Study to Assess Tolerability of Early Enteral Nutrition via Esophagostomy Tube Feeding in Dogs with Severe Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Mansfield C.S. , James F.E. , Steiner J.M. , Suchodolski J.S. , Robertson I.D. , Hosgood G.
Published: March 2011

Background: The putative role of the gut in amplification of systemic inflammation in acute pancreatitis is gaining credence, and intraluminal nutrition has been shown to decrease inflammation in experimental models of pancreatitis. Prepyloric feeding often is used in people with acute pancreatitis, but has not been evaluated in dogs.

Hypothesis: Early intervention with enteral nutrition (EN) delivered proximal to the pylorus will be well tolerated in dogs with acute pancreatitis and provide justification for further larger trials.

Animals: Ten dogs with severe acute pancreatitis in an open‐label, prospective pilot study.

Methods: Dogs were treated with plasma transfusion and standard care, and then consecutively assigned to receive either EN via esophagostomy tube feeding or parenteral nutrition (PN). Outcome was used to determine optimal study size for future studies, and complications were compared between the 2 groups.

Results: A significantly greater number of vomiting or regurgitating episodes occurred in dogs receiving PN. The dogs receiving EN did not demonstrate any noticeable postprandial pain. There were more catheter‐related complications in the PN group. There was no difference in outcome between the 2 treatments, and 43 dogs for each treatment would be required in future studies to determine a difference in outcome.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Early EN delivered proximal to the pylorus is well tolerated in dogs with severe pancreatitis and resulted in fewer complications than PN. Prospective trials in a larger cohort are justified to fully establish the potential benefit of early EN, preferably compared with minimal enteral nutrition.
Variability in Results of the Microscopic Agglutination Test in Dogs with Clinical Leptospirosis and Dogs Vaccinated against Leptospirosis
Authors: Miller M.D. , Annis K.M. , Lappin M.R. , Lunn K.F.
Published: March 2011

Background:The microscopic agglutination test (MAT) is commonly used for the diagnosis of canine leptospirosis. In dogs it is sometimes suggested that the serogroup with the highest MAT titer is the infecting serogroup; however, this is not true in humans with confirmed leptospirosis. We sought to investigate the value of MAT results in predicting the infecting serogroup by comparing results across several laboratories and within individual dogs over time.

Objectives:To examine the variability in MAT results across different laboratories in dogs recently vaccinated against leptospirosis, and in dogs with clinical leptospirosis, and to investigate variability over time in MAT results in individual dogs with leptospirosis.

Animals:Eighteen dogs from a research colony, 9 of which had been vaccinated against leptospirosis, and 17 dogs clinically diagnosed with leptospirosis.

Methods:Serum samples were submitted to up to 5 veterinary diagnostic laboratories for MAT titers from each dog on at least 1 occasion. MAT results also were followed over time in 6 dogs diagnosed with leptospirosis.

Results:MAT results were discordant across different laboratories in dogs recently vaccinated against leptospirosis and in dogs with clinical leptospirosis. MAT results varied over time in individual dogs with the disease.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:The MAT is a valuable test for the diagnosis of leptospirosis in dogs, but it is unlikely that test results can be used to predict the infecting serogroup. Laboratories offering the MAT should consider participation in a proficiency scheme.
Role of Oxidative Tissue Injury in the Pathophysiology of Experimentally Induced Equine Laminitis: A Comparison of 2 Models
Authors: Burns T.A. , Westerman T. , Nuovo G.J. , Watts M.R. , Pettigrew A. , Yin C. , Belknap J.K.
Published: March 2011

Background:Oxidative stress reportedly plays a role in sepsis‐induced organ dysfunction and failure in many species. In septic horses, laminae are targeted; evidence of laminar oxidative stress has been reported experimentally in the black walnut extract (BWE) model. Carbohydrate (CHO)‐induced laminitis may be more similar to clinical sepsis‐related laminitis than the BWE model in that animals with CHO‐induced disease commonly develop laminar failure. The role of oxidative stress in the CHO model remains unknown.

Hypothesis/Objectives:Markers of oxidative stress will be increased in laminae from horses with BWE‐ and CHO‐induced laminitis.

Animals:Banked laminar tissue from various time points from animals subjected to BWE (n = 15) and CHO (n = 20) protocols.

Methods:Laminar 4‐hydroxynonenal (4‐HNE) and protein carbonyl content were evaluated by slot blot analysis. Laminar 3‐nitrotyrosine (3‐NT) immunohistochemistry was performed.

Results:The number of laminar 3‐NT (+) cells was increased at developmental and Obel grade 1 (OG1) time points in the BWE model (versus control [CON];P= .013) and lower in OG1 tissues than CON in the CHO model (P= .04). No change in 4‐HNE content was observed in the CHO model, and no increase in laminar protein carbonyl content was present in either model (P> .05).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:These results do not support a prominent role for oxidative stress at examined time points in CHO‐overload laminitis and support transient oxidative stress in the BWE model. Tissue oxidation does not appear to be a central early pathophysiologic event in CHO‐associated laminitis.
Retrospective Evaluation of Parenteral Nutrition in Alpacas: 22 Cases (2002–2008)
Authors: Clore E.R.S. , Freeman L.M. , Bedenice D. , Tony Buffington C.A. , Anderson D.E.
Published: March 2011

Background:Parenteral nutrition is an important method of nutritional support in hospitalized animals, but minimal information has been published on its use in camelids.

Hypothesis/Objectives:The purpose of this study was to characterize the use of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) in alpacas, evaluate the formulations used, and determine potential complications.

Animals:Twenty‐two alpacas hospitalized at the Tufts Cummings School for Veterinary Medicine (site 1: n = 8) and the Ohio State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (site 2: n = 14).

Methods:A retrospective analysis of all alpacas that received TPN between 2002 and 2008 was performed to assess clinical indications, clinical and clinicopathologic data, and outcome.

Results:The most common underlying diseases in animals receiving TPN were gastrointestinal dysfunction (n = 16), hepatic disease (n = 2), and neoplasia (n = 2). Several metabolic abnormalities were identified in animals (n = 20/22) before TPN was initiated, including lipemia (n = 12/22), hyperglycemia (11/22), and hypokalemia (n = 11/22). Median age was significantly lower for site 1 cases (0.1 years; range, 0.01–11.0) compared with those from site 2 (4.9 years; range, 0.1–13.7;P= .03). Animals at site 2 also had a longer duration of hospitalization (P= .01) and TPN administration (P= .004), as well as higher survival rate (P< .02). Twenty‐one of 22 alpacas developed at least 1 complication during TPN administration. Metabolic complications were most prevalent (n = 21/22) and included hyperglycemia (n = 8/21), lipemia (n = 7/21), hypokalemia (n = 3/21), and refeeding syndrome (n = 3/21).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:TPN is a feasible method of nutritional support for alpacas when enteral feeding is not possible. Prospective studies are warranted to determine optimal TPN formulations for alpacas.
Concentration of Lipocalin Region of Collagen XXVII Alpha 1 in the Serum of Dogs with Hemangiosarcoma
Authors: Kirby G.M. , Mackay A. , Grant A. , Woods P. , McEwen B. , Khanna C. , Macri J. , Hayes M.A. , Stalker M.
Published: March 2011

Background: Hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is a common malignancy of dogs with characteristic early, aggressive metastasis. Diagnosis of HSA is challenging because of lack of sensitive and specific diagnostic tests.

Hypothesis: Specific proteins that are increased in serum of dogs with HSA might represent useful biomarkers of the disease.

Animals: Thirty‐four dogs with HSA and 42 healthy dogs from the Ontario Veterinary College Teaching Hospital.

Methods: This case‐control study compared serum proteins in dogs with HSA and healthy dogs. Proteins were separated by 2‐dimensional difference gel electrophoresis and identified by liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry.

Results: Western blot analysis showed that serum collagen XXVII peptide concentration in serum of dogs with large metastatic HSA burdens (1,488, 231–3,754 DU; median, minimum‐maximum); was, on average, 9.5‐fold higher than in healthy dogs (156; 46–2,101 DU). While concentrations for dogs with osteosarcomas (678; 124–3,251 DU), lymphomas (423; 92–2,777 DU), carcinomas (1,022; 177–3,448 DU), and inflammatory disease were also increased, values were consistently lower than those for HSA. Receiver operating characteristic curves revealed an estimated area under the curve of 83% for HSA cases whereas areas for other neoplastic and nonneoplastic diseases were nondiscriminatory. Serum collagen XXVII peptide concentration before splenectomy (1,350; 1,156–1,929 DU) was reduced after tumor removal (529; 452–562 DU) and chemotherapy but increased in 2 dogs with tumor recurrence (511–945 DU; 493–650 DU).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Collagen XXVII peptide might be useful for diagnosis and monitoring of advanced HSA.
Retrospective Review of Congenital Heart Disease in 976 Dogs
Authors: Oliveira P. , Domenech O. , Silva J. , Vannini S. , Bussadori R. , Bussadori C.
Published: March 2011

Background: Knowledge of epidemiology is important for recognition of cardiovascular malformations.

Objective: Review the incidence of congenital heart defects in dogs in Italy and assess breed and sex predispositions.

Animals: Nine hundred and seventy‐six dogs diagnosed with congenital heart disease (CHD) of 4,480 dogs presented to Clinica Veterinaria Gran Sasso for cardiovascular examination from 1997 to 2010.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of medical records regarding signalment, history, clinical examination, radiography, electrocardiography, echocardiography, angiography, and postmortem examination was performed. Breed and sex predisposition were assessed with the odds ratio test.

Results: CHD was observed in 21.7% of cases. A total of 1,132 defects were observed with single defects in 832 cases (85%), 2 concurrent defects in 132 cases (14%), and 3 concurrent defects in 12 cases (1%). The most common defects were pulmonic stenosis (PS; 32.1%), subaortic stenosis (SAS; 21.3%), and patent ductus arteriosus (20.9%), followed by ventricular septal defect (VSD; 7.5%), valvular aortic stenosis (AS; 5.7%), and tricuspid dysplasia (3.1%). SAS, PS, and VSD frequently were associated with other defects. Several breed and sex predispositions were identified.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: The results of this study are in accordance with previous studies, with slight differences. The breed and sex predilections identified may be of value for the diagnosis and screening of CHD in dogs. Additionally, the relatively high percentage of concurrent heart defects emphasizes the importance of accurate and complete examinations for identification. Because these data are from a cardiology referral center, a bias may exist.
Fe‐Mn systematics of type IIA chondrules in unequilibrated CO, CR, and ordinary chondrites
Authors: BERLIN Jana , JONES Rhian H. , BREARLEY Adrian J.
Published: March 2011

Abstract– We have examined Fe/Mn systematics of 34 type IIA chondrules in eight highly unequilibrated CO, CR, and ordinary chondrites using new data from this study and prior studies from our laboratory. Olivine grains from type IIA chondrules in CO chondrites and unequilibrated ordinary chondrites (UOC) have significantly different Fe/Mn ratios, with mean molar Fe/Mn = 99 and 44, respectively. Olivine analyses from both these chondrite groups show well‐defined trends in Mn versus Fe (afu) and molar Fe/Mn versus Fe/Mg diagrams. In general, type IIA chondrules in CR chondrites have properties intermediate between those in UOC and CO chondrites. In most UOC and CR type IIA chondrules, the Fe/Mn ratio of olivine decreases during crystallization, whereas in CO chondrites the Fe/Mn ratio does not appear to change. It is difficult to interpret the observed Fe/Mn trends in terms of differing moderately volatile element depletions inherited from precursor materials. Instead, we suggest that significant differences in the abundances of silicates and sulfides ± metals in the precursor material, as well as open‐system behavior during chondrule formation, were responsible for establishing the different Fe/Mn trends. Using Fe‐Mn‐Mg systematics, we are able to identify relict grains in type IIA chondrules, which could be derived from previous generations of chondrules, including chondrules from other chondrite groups, and possibly chondritic reservoirs that have not been sampled previously.
Bovine milk fermented with Lactobacillus rhamnosus L8020 decreases the oral carriage of mutans streptococci and the burden of periodontal pathogens
Authors: Nikawa Hiroki , Tomiyama Yu , Hiramatsu Minako , Yushita Kaori , Takamoto Yuko , Ishi Hitomi , Mimura Sumiyo , Hiyama Aya , Sasahara Hisako , Kawahara Kazuko , Makihira Seicho , Satoda Takahiro , Takemoto Toshinobu , Murata Hiroshi , Mine Yuichi , Taji Tsuyoshi
Published: March 2011

Abstract Aim:  The aim of this study was to find the oral isolate of lactobacilli, which has the potential to inhibit either periodontal, cariogenic, or fungal pathogens in vitro, and to examine the effects of bovine milk fermented with the isolate on the oral carriage of cariogenic and periodontal pathogens.

Methods:  The inhibitory effects of the supernatant of Man–Rogosa–Sharpe broth, in which each of 42 oral isolates of lactobacilli grown, was examined. One isolate, Lactobacillus rhamnosus L8020, that showed the potential to inhibit either periodontal, cariogenic, or fungal pathogens in vitro, was used to examine the effects of fermented milk on the oral carriage of cariogenic and periodontal pathogens, which was examined by a placebo‐controlled and cohort trial using 50 participants.

Results:  Edible yogurt containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus L8020 significantly reduced the oral carriage of mutans streptococci (P < 0.01) and four periodontal pathogens examined: Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Tannerella forsythia, and Fusobacterium spp. (P < 0.01), but the phenomenon were not observed with the placebo yogurt (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:  These results suggest that yogurt with Lactobacillus rhamnosus L8020 could reduce the risk of dental caries and periodontal disease.
A simple polytomy resolver for dated phylogenies
Authors: Kuhn Tyler S. , Mooers Arne Ø. , Thomas Gavin H.
Published: March 2011

1. Unresolved nodes in phylogenetic trees (polytomies) have long been recognized for their influences on specific phylogenetic metrics such as topological imbalance measures, diversification rate analysis and measures of phylogenetic diversity. However, no rigorously tested, biologically appropriate method has been proposed for overcoming the effects of this phylogenetic uncertainty.

2. Here, we present a simple approach to polytomy resolution, using biologically relevant models of diversification. Using the powerful and highly customizable phylogenetic inference and analysis software beast and r, we present a semi‐automated ‘polytomy resolver’ capable of providing a distribution of tree topologies and branch lengths under specified biological models.

3. Utilizing both simulated and empirical data sets, we explore the effects and characteristics of this approach on two widely used phylogenetic tree statistics, Pybus’ gamma (γ) and Colless’ normalized tree imbalance (Ic). Using simulated pure birth trees, we find no evidence of bias in either estimate using our resolver. Applying our approach to a recently published Cetacean phylogeny, we observed the expected small positive bias in γ and decrease in Ic.

4. We further test the effect of polytomy resolution on diversification rate analysis using the Cetacean phylogeny. We demonstrate that using a birth–death model to resolve the Cetacean tree with 20%, 40% and 60% of random nodes collapsed to polytomies gave qualitatively similar patterns regarding the tempo and mode of diversification as the same analyses on the original, fully resolved phylogeny.

5. Finally, we applied the birth–death polytomy resolution approach to a large (>5000 tips), but unresolved, supertree of extant mammals. We report a distribution of fully resolved model‐based trees, which should be useful for many future analysis of the mammalian supertree.
Gender-related differences on P-glycoprotein-mediated drug intestinal transport in rats
Authors: Mariana Ballent , Adrián Lifschitz , Guillermo Virkel , Juan Sallovitz , Laura Maté , Carlos Lanusse
Published: March 2011

Objectives

Evidence of sex-related differences on drug pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are markedly increasing. The aim of this study was to characterize the influence of gender on P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-mediated drug intestinal transport using two ex-vivo methodological approaches.

Methods

To study the comparative tissue uptake of ivermectin, intestinal sacs (distal jejunum/ileum) of male and female Wistar rats were incubated with ivermectin (0.5 µm) (a P-gp substrate) in the presence or absence of PSC833 (10 µm) (a P-gp inhibitor). Additionally, sex-based differences in the bidirectional transport of Rhodamine 123 (Rho 123; 5 µm) incubated either alone or with PSC833 (10 µm) were examined in diffusion chambers.

Key findings

The ivermectin accumulation in the everted gut sacs was higher in female compared with male intestine. The presence of PSC833 increased ivermectin accumulation profiles both in male and female rats. However, a greater response to transport modulation was observed in male compared with female animals. Similar results were obtained for Rho 123, where a higher absorption was measured in the intestine of females. PSC833 decreased Rho 123 intestinal secretion in animals of both sexes with a greater inhibition in male.

Conclusions

Substantial sex-related differences were observed on the ivermectin and Rho 123 active intestinal transport. Likewise, the PSC833-mediated modulation had a differential impact between male and female animals. Further work is needed to clarify the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon, which may have considerable pharmacological and clinical relevance.
Responsible self-medication: perceived risks and benefits of over-the-counter analgesic use
Authors: Stosic Rodney , Dunagan Fiona , Palmer Hazel , Fowler Trafford , Adams Ian
Published: March 2011

Objectives

This study examines awareness of the potential risks associated with over-the-counter (OTC) use of paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) among Australian consumers to better understand patterns of usage of these products.

Methods

We employed two self-reported cross-sectional surveys (conducted in 2001 and 2009) using computer-aided telephone interviewing. Both survey samples were weighted to match national population proportions; data were collected for 3702 respondents (study 1, 2001, n = 1901; study 2, 2009, n = 1801). The inclusion criteria were age over 18 years and willingness to participate in the survey.

Key findings

Self-reported regular use (once or more per month) of OTC analgesics declined between 2001 (67.5%) and 2009 (55.0%; P < 0.05). In 2009 42.0% of regular OTC analgesic users were purchasing NSAIDs outside the pharmacy setting (compared with none in 2001). Stated awareness of potential risks has increased slightly among regular paracetamol users (from 49.0% in 2001 to 52.0% in 2009) and regular NSAID users (from 25.0% in 2001 to 41.0% in 2009). Regular OTC analgesic users were considered to be using the product appropriately if there were no contraindications, warnings, precautions or potential drug interactions to the analgesic that they had used. In 2001, significantly more people were using paracetamol appropriately than were using NSAIDs appropriately (98.3 compared with 79.3%; P < 0.05). Corresponding figures for 2009 were 96.4 and 69.1% (P < 0.5).

Conclusions

Increasing consumer awareness of the need to consider potential risks prior to taking OTC analgesics is a positive sign. However, this has not translated to an increase in appropriate use of OTC NSAIDs; since ibuprofen has become available outside the pharmacy setting in Australia fewer people are using NSAIDs appropriately according to the label. The quality use of medicines, in particular OTC NSAIDs, is becoming increasingly reliant on product labelling and the ability of consumers to understand and self-assess risk.
Risk Analysis of Gas Turbines for Natural Gas Liquefaction
Authors: Khan Raja S. R. , Lagana Maria C. , Ogaji Stephen O. T. , Pilidis Pericles , Bennett Ian
Published: March 2011

Procurement of process plant equipment involves decisions based not only on an economic agenda but also on long term plant capability, which in turn depends on equipment reliability. As the greater global community raises environmental concerns and pushes for economic reform, a tool is evermore required for a specific and critical selection of plant equipment. Risk assessments based on NASA’s Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale have been employed in many previous risk models to map technology in terms of risk and reliability. The authors envisage a scale for quantifying the technical risk. The focus of this paper is the technical risk assessment of gas turbines as mechanical drivers for producing liquefied natural gas (LNG). This risk assessment is a cornerstone of the technoeconomic environmental and risk analysis (TERA) philosophy developed by Cranfield University’s Department of Power and Propulsion in U.K. Monte Carlo simulations are used in order to compare the risks of introducing new plant equipment against existing and established plant equipment. Three scenarios are investigated using an 87MW single spool, typical industrial machine, a baseline engine followed by an engine with increased firing temperature, and finally an engine with a zero staged compressor. The results suggest that if the baseline engine was to be upgraded, then the zero staging option would be a better solution than increasing the firing temperature since zero staging gives the lower rise in total time to repair (TTTR) or downtime. The authors suggest a scaling system based on NASA’s TRL but with modified definition criteria for the separate technology readiness levels in order to better relate the scale to gas turbine technology. The intention is to link the modified TRL to downtime, since downtime has been identified as a quantitative measure of technical risk. Latest developments of the modeling are looking at integrating risk analysis and a maintenance cost and scheduling model to provide a platform for total risk assessment. This, coupled with emissions modeling, is set to provide the overall TERA tool for LNG technology selection.
Analysis and Comparison of Reactivity and CO2 Capture Capacity of Fresh Calcium-Based Sorbents and Samples From a Lab-Scale Dual Fluidized Bed Calcium Looping Facility
Authors: Sivalingam Senthoorselvan , Gleis Stephan , Spliethoff Hartmut , Hawthorne Craig , Charitos Alexander , Scheffknecht Guenter
Published: March 2011

Naturally occurring limestone and samples from a lab-scale dual fluidized bed (DFB) calcium looping test facility were analyzed in a thermogravimetric analyzer. The reactivity of the samples evaluated at typical carbonation conditions prevailed in the carbonator was compared with raw samples. The rate of carbonation and carbonation capacity of the samples were compared with respect to the following three categories: number of calcination-carbonation cycles, carbonation temperature, and CO2 concentration. It is suspected that the much lower activity of the DFB sample is attributed to the differences in experimental conditions, i.e., partial carbonation of the DFB particles, fast heating rate in the calciner and thus a rapid calcination reaction, and particle attrition in the circulating fluidized bed calciner riser. These harsh conditions lead to sintering and thus a loss of surface area and reactivity. Sintered DFB samples showed low (nearly one-third of the raw samples) but stable conversions with increasing number of cycles. Hydration was used as an attempt to regenerate the lost capture capacity of partially carbonated and sintered DFB sample. Hydration of the DFB sample was successful in increasing the maximum capture capacity in the fast reaction regime to values almost as high as that of a fresh sample in its first carbonation cycle. Although more investigation is required to investigate the effect of hydration on the CaO particle morphology, a process modification to enhance the CO2 capture efficiency of the carbonator via particle hydration was proposed.