bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of antibodies against feline coronavirus 7b protein for diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis in cats
Authors: Kennedy Melissa A. , Abd-Eldaim Mohamed , Zika Sarah E. , Mankin Joseph M. , Kania Stephen A.
Published: September 2008

Objective—To determine whether expression of feline coronavirus (FCoV) 7b protein, as indicated by the presence of specific serum antibodies, consistently correlated with occurrence of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) in cats.

Sample Population—95 serum samples submitted for various diagnostic assays and 20 samples from specific-pathogen–free cats tested as negative control samples.

Procedures—The 7b gene from a virulent strain of FCoV was cloned into a protein expression vector. The resultant recombinant protein was produced and used in antibody detection assays via western blot analysis of serum samples. Results were compared with those of an immunofluorescence assay (IFA) for FCoV-specific antibody and correlated with health status.

Results—Healthy IFA-seronegative cats were seronegative for antibodies against the 7b protein. Some healthy cats with detectable FCoV-specific antibodies as determined via IFA were seronegative for antibodies against the 7b protein. Serum from cats with FIP had antibodies against the 7b protein, including cats with negative results via conventional IFA. However, some healthy cats, as well as cats with conditions other than FIP that were seropositive to FCoV via IFA, were also seropositive for the 7b protein.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Expression of the 7b protein, as indicated by detection of antibodies against the protein, was found in most FCoV-infected cats. Seropositivity for this protein was not specific for the FCoV virulent biotype or a diagnosis of FIP.
Evaluation of the potential of animal streptococcal isolates belonging to serogroups C and G to elicit acute rheumatic fever
Authors: Barroso Vanessa , Rohde Manfred , Dinkla Katrin , Chhatwal Gursharan S.
Published: September 2008

Objective—To determine whether groups C and G streptococci (GCS-GGS) isolated from animals have rheumatogenic traits associated with human GCS-GGS isolates, particularly the potential of the bacteria to interact with human collagen type IV (collagen-IV), known to be targeted during acute rheumatic fever (ARF).

Sample Population—64 GCS and GGS bacterial strains isolated from infected animals.

Procedures—Bacteria were analyzed for their ability to bind and aggregate collagen-IV and for the presence of collagen binding factors, such as the hyaluronic acid capsule, cne gene, and emm gene.

Results—Collagen-IV binding ability was detected in 19% (n = 12) of the isolates studied. Of the collagen-IV binding strains, 5 expressed hyaluronic acid capsule. Furthermore, emm was detected in the genome of 1 isolate, whereas all remaining collagen-IV binding isolates possessed the cne gene. Of the collagen binding factors investigated, the hyaluronic capsule was the only factor for which collagen-IV interaction could be detected. Investigation of the potential of these strains to aggregate collagen-IV revealed that animal isolates had a nonaggregating phenotype.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Despite efficiently binding collagen-IV via hyaluronic acid, animal isolates lacked the ability to initiate aggregation of this protein. Because collagen-IV aggregation is associated with all collagen-IV–binding rheumatogenic strains, this suggested a lack of rheumatogenic potential among animal-derived GCS and GGS and, therefore, a low chance of acquiring ARF through animal contact.
Noninvasive determination of body segment parameters of the hind limb in Labrador Retrievers with and without cranial cruciate ligament disease
Authors: Ragetly Chantal A. , Griffon Dominique J. , Thomas Jason E. , Mostafa Ayman A. , Schaeffer David J. , Pijanowski Gerald J. , Hsiao-Wecksler Elizabeth T.
Published: September 2008

Objective—To determine mass, center of mass (COM), and moment of inertia (ie, body segment parameters [BSPs]) of hind limb segments by use of a noninvasive method based on computerized tomography (CT) in Labrador Retrievers with and without cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) disease and to provide regression equations to estimate BSPs of normal, CCL-deficient, and contralateral hind limbs.

Animals—14 clinically normal and 10 CCL-deficient Labrador Retrievers.

Procedures—Bone, muscle, and fat areas were identified via CT. Mass, COM, and moment of inertia were determined on the basis of tissue densities in the thigh, crus, and foot segments. Regression models were developed to determine predictive equations to estimate BSP on the basis of simple morphometric measurements.

Results—The thigh and crus of CCL-deficient limbs weighed less than in contralateral segments. Thighs weighed less in CCL-deficient than in normal limbs. The thigh moment of inertia was less in CCL-deficient than in contralateral limbs. The crural COM was located more distally in normal limbs, compared with other limbs. Predictive equations to estimate BSP varied by parameter, body segment, and limb status.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—BSPs of the thigh and crus varied with segment and status of the hind limb in Labrador Retrievers with or without CCL disease. Equations to estimate BSP on the basis of simple morphometric measurements were proposed, providing a basis for nonterminal studies of inverse dynamics of the hind limbs in Labrador Retrievers. This approach may offer new strategies to investigate the pathogenesis of nontraumatic joint diseases.
Intrinsic radiosensitivity and repair of sublethal radiation-induced damage in canine osteosarcoma cell lines
Authors: Fitzpatrick Courtney L. , Farese James P. , Milner Rowan J. , Salute Marc E. , Rajon Didier A. , Morris Christopher G. , Bova Francis J. , Lurie David M. , Siemann Dietmar W.
Published: September 2008

Objective—To characterize the radiosensitivity and capacity for sublethal damage repair (SLDR) of radiation-induced injury in 4 canine osteosarcoma cell lines.

Sample Population—4 canine osteosarcoma cell lines (HMPOS, POS, COS 31, and D17).

Procedures—A clonogenic colony-forming assay was used to evaluate the cell lines' intrinsic radiosensitivities and SLDR capacities. Dose-response curves for the cell lines were generated by fitting the surviving fractions after radiation doses of 0 (control cells), 1, 2, 3, 6, and 9 Gy to a linear quadratic model. To evaluate SLDR, cell lines were exposed to 2 doses of 3 Gy (split-dose experiments) at an interval of 0 (single 6-Gy dose), 2, 4, 6, or 24 hours, after which the surviving fractions were assessed.

Results—Mean surviving fraction did not differ significantly among the 4 cell lines at the radiation doses tested. Mean surviving fraction at 2 Gy was high (0.62), and the α/β ratios (predictor of tissue sensitivity to radiation therapy) for the cell lines were low (mean ratio, 3.47). The split-dose experiments revealed a 2.8- to 3.9-fold increase in cell survival when the radiation doses were applied at an interval of 24 hours, compared with cell survival after radiation doses were applied consecutively (0-hour interval).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that these canine osteosarcoma cell lines are fairly radioresistant; α/β ratios were similar to those of nonneoplastic, lateresponding tissues. Future clinical investigations should involve increasing the fraction size in a manner that maximizes tumor killing without adverse effects on the nonneoplastic surrounding tissues.
Effects of firocoxib, meloxicam, and tepoxalin on prostanoid and leukotriene production by duodenal mucosa and other tissues of osteoarthritic dogs
Authors: Punke John P. , Speas Abbie L. , Reynolds Lisa R. , Budsberg Steven C.
Published: September 2008

Objective—To evaluate the in vivo effects of firocoxib, meloxicam, and tepoxalin on prostaglandin (PG) and leukotriene production in duodenal mucosa and other target tissues in dogs with chronic osteoarthritis (OA).

Animals—8 dogs with chronic, unilateral OA of the stifle joint.

Procedures—In a crossover design, each dog received placebo (no treatment), firocoxib, meloxicam, or tepoxalin for 7 days, followed by a 21-day washout period. On the first day of treatment (day 0; baseline) and days 2, 4, and 7, samples of whole blood, synovial fluid, and gastric and duodenal mucosae were collected. Prostaglandin E2 concentrations were measured in synovial fluid of the stifle joint and after ex vivo stimulation of whole blood samples. Synthesis of PGE1 and PGE2 was measured in samples of gastric and duodenal mucosae. Concentrations of thromboxane B2 (TxB2) were measured in whole blood samples. Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) concentrations were measured in samples of whole blood (ex vivo stimulation) and gastric and duodenal mucosae.

Results—Firocoxib, meloxicam, and tepoxalin significantly suppressed whole blood concentrations of PGE2, compared with baseline and placebo concentrations, at days 2, 4, and 7. Tepoxalin significantly suppressed serum TxB2 concentrations, compared with baseline, firocoxib, meloxicam, and placebo, at all 3 time points. Production of PGE1 and PGE2 was significantly lower in duodenal versus gastric mucosa. Tepoxalin significantly decreased rates of PGE1 and PGE2 in duodenal and gastric mucosae, compared with baseline rates.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—PG production was lower in the duodenum than in the stomach. Firocoxib had a COX-1–sparing effect in vivo.
Evaluation of the renal effects of experimental feeding of melamine and cyanuric acid to fish and pigs
Authors: Reimschuessel Renate , Gieseker Charles M. , Miller Ron A. , Ward Jeffrey , Boehmer Jamie , Rummel Nathan , Heller David N. , Nochetto Cristina , de Alwis G. K. Hemakanthi , Bataller Neal , Andersen Wendy C. , Turnipseed Sherri B. , Karbiwnyk Christine M. , Satzger R. Duane , Crowe John B. , Wilber Nancy R. , Reinhard Mary K. , Roberts John F. , Witkowski Mark R.
Published: September 2008

Objective—To determine whether renal crystals can be experimentally induced in animals fed melamine or the related triazine compound cyanuric acid, separately or in combination, and to compare experimentally induced crystals with those from a cat with triazine-related renal failure.

Animals—75 fish (21 tilapia, 24 rainbow trout, 15 channel catfish, and 15 Atlantic salmon), 4 pigs, and 1 cat that was euthanatized because of renal failure.

Procedures—Fish and pigs were fed a target dosage of melamine (400 mg/kg), cyanuric acid (400 mg/kg), or melamine and cyanuric acid (400 mg of each compound/kg) daily for 3 days and were euthanatized 1, 3, 6, 10, or 14 days after administration ceased. Fresh, frozen, and formalin-fixed kidneys were examined for crystals. Edible tissues were collected for residue analysis. Crystals were examined for composition via Raman spectroscopy and hydrophilic-interaction liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry.

Results—All animals fed the combination of melamine and cyanuric acid developed goldbrown renal crystals arranged in radial spheres (spherulites), similar to those detected in the cat. Spectral analyses of crystals from the cat, pigs, and fish were consistent with melamine-cyanurate complex crystals. Melamine and cyanuric acid residues were identified in edible tissues of fish.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Although melamine and cyanuric acid appeared to have low toxicity when administered separately, they induced extensive renal crystal formation when administered together. The subsequent renal failure may be similar to acute uric acid nephropathy in humans, in which crystal spherulites obstruct renal tubules.
Effects of a commercially available vaccine against Salmonella enterica serotype Newport on milk production, somatic cell count, and shedding of Salmonella organisms in female dairy cattle with no clinical signs of salmonellosis
Authors: Hermesch Dennis R. , Thomson Daniel U. , Loneragan Guy H. , Renter David R. , White Brad J.
Published: September 2008

Objective—To determine effects of vaccination with siderophore receptor and porin (SRP) proteins derived from Salmonella enterica serotype Newport on milk production, somatic cell count, and shedding of Salmonella organisms in female dairy cattle.

Animals—180 female Holsteins.

Procedures—Cattle were randomly assigned to receive Salmonella Newport SRP vaccine or control solution. Vaccine or control solution was injected 45 to 60 days before parturition, and cattle received a second dose 14 to 21 days before parturition. Milk production was monitored for the first 90 days of lactation. Feces for isolation of Salmonella and blood samples for detection of antibodies against Salmonella Newport were collected at day of first injection and at days 7 to 14 and 28 to 35 of lactation.

Results—Cattle inoculated with Salmonella Newport vaccine produced significantly more milk (1.14 kg/d), compared with cattle injected with the control solution. Cattle administered the vaccine had significantly higher concentrations of circulating antibody against Salmonella Newport SRP proteins at 7 to 14 days and 28 to 35 days of lactation. Salmonella Newport was not recovered; however, Salmonella enterica serotype Agona was recovered from 31 (20.3%) cattle, but likelihood of recovery did not differ significantly between vaccinates and control cattle.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Administration of a vaccine against Salmonella Newport SRP proteins to healthy dairy cattle prior to parturition increased milk production, even in cattle without detectable shedding of Salmonella Newport or clinical signs of salmonellosis. Additional research is needed to clarify the mechanisms by which productivity was improved.
Clinicopathologic, histologic, and toxicologic findings in 70 cats inadvertently exposed to pet food contaminated with melamine and cyanuric acid
Authors: Cianciolo Rachel E. , Bischoff Karyn , Ebel Joseph G. , Van Winkle Thomas J. , Goldstein Richard E. , Serfilippi Laurie M.
Published: September 2008

Objective—To document clinicopathologic, histologic, and toxicologic findings in cats inadvertently exposed to pet food contaminated with melamine and cyanuric acid.

Design—Case series.

Animals—70 cats from a single cattery inadvertently fed contaminated food that was the subject of a March 2007 recall.

Procedures—Clinical signs, clinicopathologic and histopathologic findings, and results of toxicologic analyses were recorded

Results—Clinical signs were identified in 43 cats and included inappetence, vomiting, polyuria, polydipsia, and lethargy. Azotemia was documented in 38 of the 68 cats for which serum biochemical analyses were performed 7 to 11 days after consumption of the contaminated food. One cat died, and 13 were euthanized. Histologic examination of kidney specimens from 13 cats revealed intratubular crystalluria, tubular necrosis with regeneration, and subcapsular perivascular inflammation characterized by perivascular fibroplasia or fibrosis and inflammation with intravascular fibrin thrombi. Toxicologic analyses revealed melamine and cyanuric acid in samples of cat food, vomitus, urine, and kidneys.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In cats unintentionally fed pet food contaminated with melamine and cyanuric acid, the most consistent clinical and pathologic abnormalities were associated with the urinary tract, specifically tubular necrosis and crystalluria.
Outcome of laryngeal web resection with mucosal apposition for treatment of airway obstruction in dogs: 15 cases (1992–2006)
Authors: Mehl Margo L. , Kyles Andrew E. , Pypendop Bruno H. , Filipowicz Dean E. , Gregory Clare R.
Published: September 2008

Objective—To evaluate long-term clinical outcome in dogs with upper airway obstruction treated with laryngeal web resection and mucosal apposition.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—15 client-owned dogs with laryngeal web formation.

Procedures—Medical records of dogs with laryngeal webs treated with a single procedure of web resection with mucosal apposition by use of a ventral laryngotomy were reviewed. Signalment, history, clinical signs, intraoperative complications, postoperative complications, and hospitalization time were recorded. Owners were interviewed 6 months to 6 years after surgery.

Results—Most dogs had a history of oral ventriculocordectomy. Duration of clinical signs ranged from 3 months to 3 years. The most common clinical sign reported was exercise intolerance. Postoperative complications were observed in 4 dogs. Follow-up information was available in 10 dogs, and clinical outcome was classified as excellent in 7 and good in 3.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—A single surgical procedure of web resection with mucosal apposition for the treatment of laryngeal web formation in dogs resulted in low morbidity and was associated with a good to excellent outcome.
Multiple myeloma with central nervous system involvement in a cat
Authors: Appel Sherry L. , Moens Noël M. M. , Abrams-Ogg Anthony C. G. , Woods J. Paul , Nykamp Stephanie , Bienzle Dorothee
Published: September 2008

Case Description—A 1.5-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat was admitted for hind limb locomotor difficulties and signs of pain along the lumbar portion of the vertebral column. At the time of referral, the cat was paraparetic with deficits in the spinal reflexes of the hind limbs. Neuroanatomic localization was at the L6-S2 spinal cord segments, corresponding approximately to the region of the L4-L6 vertebral bodies.

Clinical Findings—Radiography revealed a mixed osteolytic-proliferative lesion within the body of L5 involving the cranial end plate, as well as punctate radiolucencies in the distal portion of the femur. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an intramedullary spinal cord lesion along with extensive meningeal and nerve root lesions in the area of the L4-L6 vertebral bodies. Cytologic analysis of a bone marrow aspirate from the right trochanteric fossa revealed a substantial plasma cell infiltrate. Analysis of CSF revealed a high protein concentration and morphologically abnormal plasma cells. Urine, but not serum, protein electrophoresis revealed a sharp γ-globulin peak consistent with a monoclonal band of Bence-Jones proteins. The diagnosis was multiple myeloma.

Treatment and Outcome—The cat was treated with melphalan and prednisolone. A rapid clinical response was reported, and by week 3 after diagnosis, the cat's locomotion and behavior had normalized. However, by month 4, multifocal neurologic deficits were evident. The cat was euthanized at 9 months because of tetraparesis and substantial weight loss.

Clinical Relevance—To our knowledge, this is the first report of myeloma in a cat that had electrophoretically detectable light chain proteinuria but lacked a detectable serum monoclonal gammopathy.
Massive midline occipitotemporal resection of the skull for treatment of multilobular osteochondrosarcoma in two dogs
Authors: Gallegos Javier , Schwarz Tobias , McAnulty Jonathan F.
Published: September 2008

Case Description—Two 6-year-old male dogs were evaluated for removal of midline occipito-temporal multilobular osteochondrosarcomas.

Clinical Findings—Physical examination revealed mild ataxia in 1 dog and large masses of the central occipitotemporal portion of the skull in both dogs. Computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or both revealed large bone-origin occipitotemporal masses with impingement of the brain and the sagittal and transverse venous sinuses. Three-dimensional contrast magnetic resonance image reconstruction delineated collateral venous circulation around the tumor and venous sinus occlusion in 1 dog.

Treatment and Outcome—Tumors in both dogs were surgically removed and the skull defects repaired with polymethyl methacrylate prostheses. Twenty-four hours after surgery, 1 dog had normal mentation, cranial nerve function, and conscious proprioceptive responses, whereas the other dog had depressed mentation but no neurologic deficits. Both dogs were discharged 4 days after surgery with normal mentation and no neurologic deficits.

Clinical Relevance—Findings suggested that MRI and computed tomography can play a key role in assessment of essential cortical collateral circulation when surgical removal of tumors is likely to result in bilateral disruption of transverse venous sinuses. Without robust collateral circulation and proper preoperative planning, removal of massive skull tumors in the midline occipitotemporal region will likely result in substantial morbidity or death. However, results in the 2 dogs reported here indicate the feasibility of removing such tumors with good outcomes in the presence of well-developed collateral venous drainage.
Characteristics of biosecurity and infection control programs at veterinary teaching hospitals
Authors: Benedict Katharine M. , Morley Paul S. , Metre David C. Van
Published: September 2008

Objective—To characterize biosecurity and infection control practices at veterinary teaching hospitals located at institutions accredited by the AVMA.

Design—Cross-sectional survey.

Population—50 biosecurity experts at 38 veterinary teaching hospitals.

Procedures—Telephone interviews were conducted between July 2006 and July 2007, and questions were asked regarding policies for hygiene, surveillance, patient contact, education, and awareness. Respondents were also asked their opinion regarding the rigor of their programs.

Results—31 of 38 (82%) hospitals reported outbreaks of nosocomial infection during the 5 years prior to the interview, 17 (45%) reported > 1 outbreak, 22 (58%) had restricted patient admissions to aid mitigation, and 12 (32%) had completely closed sections of the facility to control disease spread. Nineteen (50%) hospitals reported that zoonotic infections had occurred during the 2 years prior to the interview. Only 16 (42%) hospitals required personnel to complete a biosecurity training program, but 20 of the 50 (40%) respondents indicated that they believed their hospitals ranked among the top 10% in regard to rigor of infection control efforts.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that differences existed among infection control programs at these institutions. Perceptions of experts regarding program rigor appeared to be skewed, possibly because of a lack of published data characterizing programs at other institutions. Results may provide a stimulus for hospital administrators to better optimize biosecurity and infection control programs at their hospitals and thereby optimize patient care.
Taxol Production by Fusarium Arthrosporioides Isolated from Yew, Taxus Cuspidata
Authors: Li Chang-Tian , Li Yu , Wang Qi-Jun , Sung Chang-Keun
Published: September 2008

Taxol Production by Fusarium Arthrosporioides Isolated from Yew, Taxus Cuspidata

A taxol-producing endophyte wasFusarium arthrosporioides.As a novel taxol resource, a taxol-producing endophyte was successfully isolated from the yew tree,Taxus cuspidataSieb. et Zucc. According to the morphological characterization and the ITS4-ITS5 sequences, the isolated endophytic fungus was identified asFusarium arthrosporioides.Fermentation conditions for taxol production were optimized with the isolated strain (F-40) ofF. arthrosporioides.The fungal taxol was analytically confirmed by TLC, RP-HPLC, LC-MS and NMR.F. arthrosporioidesisolated from yew was found to produce taxol with a maximum yield of 131 μg/L. Precise methods were established for detecting the fungal taxol and its derivatives.
Oxidative Stress - Clinical Diagnostic Significance
Authors: Đukić Mirjana , Ninković Milica , Jovanović Marina
Published: September 2008

Oxidative Stress - Clinical Diagnostic Significance

Elevated free radical production and/or insufficient antioxidative defense results in cellular oxidant stress responses. Sustained and/or intense oxidative insults can overcome cell defenses resulting in accumulated damage to macromolecules, leading to loss of cell function, membrane damage, and ultimately to cell death. Oxidative stress (OS) can result from conditions including excessive physical stress, exposure to environmental pollution and xenobiotics, and smoking. Oxidative stress, as a pathophysiological mechanism, has been linked to numerous pathologies, poisonings, and the ageing process. Reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species, endogenously or exogenously produced, can readily attack all classes of macromolecules (proteins, DNA, unsaturated fatty acid). The disrupted oxidative-reductive milieu proceeds via lipid peroxidation, altered antioxidative enzyme activities and depletion of non-enzymatic endogenous antioxidants, several of which can de detected in the pre-symptomatic phase of many diseases. Therefore, they could represent markers of altered metabolic and physiological homeostasis. Accordingly, from the point of view of routine clinical-diagnostic practice, it would be valuable to routinely analyze OS status parameters to earlier recognize potential disease states and provide the basis for preventative advance treatment with appropriate medicines.
The business of teaching and learning: an accounting perspective
Authors: Ciancanelli Penny
Published: September 2008

A feature of globalisation is encouragement of universities to become more businesslike, including adoption of the type of accounting routines and regulations used by businesses. The question debated in higher education policy research is whether this focus on being businesslike is compatible with the statutory public benefit obligations of universities. This question is addressed from a financial-management perspective, drawing on Max Weber's discussion of the effects of accounting in business, governmental and not-for-profit organisations. 1 His approach is applied to three ideal-typical universities, focussing on differences in legal terms of reference and sources of funding. The article argues that the proposed reforms of public-sector accounting will make it difficult (if not impossible) to ascertain whether the publicbenefit aims of not-for-profit universities have been achieved. In addition, once installed, the business systems of accounting will encourage pecuniary rationality at the expense of the traditional value rationalities that ought to govern resource allocation in public-benefit organisations. The interaction between these effects introduces new risks, including the possibility that the controllers of universities may fail in their fiduciary obligations by wasting scarce resources on projects that, according to financial measures, appear profitable while neglecting those that have important public benefit and educational merit.
From 'crisis' to 'transformation'? Shifting orthodoxies of African higher education policy and research
Authors: Lebeau Yann , Mills David
Published: September 2008

After years of neglect, there is renewed international interest in higher education in sub-Saharan Africa. Comparative projects have been launched on a continental scale, looking at the socio-economic relevance of higher education, often with the aim of reviving failing institutions. A new 'transformation' policy paradigm has replaced a previously dominant rhetoric of 'crisis'. Promoted by the major funders, this discourse has been adopted by many within African governments and university administrations. We argue that such interventions are possible because of the particular post-colonial historical ties among African, European and American academies. They represent the latest stage of donor involvement in African universities, and are made possible by the outward-looking perspectives of many African scholars. Yet is this latest paradigm shift leading to real changes in research capacity and teaching quality within African institutions? Is it informed by specific institutional needs? We compare research and development projects led by donors with those led by academics themselves. Attempts by international donors to invigorate locally relevant research capacity are limiting the re-emergence of academic autonomy. Academic research 'collaborations', especially those led by European and American scholars, fare little better.'
Book Reviews
Authors: Krause-Jensen Jakob , Scandrett Eurig , Welch Penny , Mills David
Published: September 2008

K. Holbrook, A. Kim, B. Palmer, and A. Portnoy (eds) Global Values 101: A Short Course with Howard Zinn,

Amy Goodman, Naomi Klein, Robert Reich, Juliet Schor, Katha Pollitt, Paul Farmer, Lani Guinier and others

Review by Jakob Krause-Jensen

Janet MacDonald Blended Learning and Online Tutoring

Review by Eurig Scandrett

Amie MacDonald and Susan Sa´nchez-Casal (eds) Twenty-First Century Feminist Classrooms: Pedagogies of Identity and Difference

Review by Penny Welch

Monica McLean Pedagogy and the University: Critical Theory and Practice

Review by David Mills
Autonomy and control: Danish university reform in the context of modern governance
Authors: Wright Susan , Williams Ørberg Jakob
Published: September 2008

In 2003 the Danish government reformed universities to 'set them free' from the state. Yet ministers are actively trying to shape universities and even set research agendas. How does the government's notion of 'freedom' reconcile independence with control? We identify three discourses of freedom: freedom to use academic judgement over what to research, teach, publish and say publicly; a free trade discourse where universities are free to pursue profit; and a modernising state discourse where government steers universities to contribute to the knowledge economy. Danish universities were reformed as part of the modernisation of the welfare state. We explore the assemblage of administrative and funding mechanisms through which the government now steers independent organisations: a chain of contracts for outsourced services, newly appointed managers, output payments and accrual accounting. While responsibility for achieving government policy is passed downwards through the independent organisation, formal lines of accountability run back up to the government. University leaders and academics are set free to manoeuvre within the system, but their economic survival is firmly dependent on responsiveness to centralised steering mechanisms
From the Editors
Authors: Welch Penny , Wright Susan
Published: September 2008

We are delighted to introduce the first volume of Learning and Teaching: The International Journal of Higher Education in the Social Sciences. As founding and now-former editors of Learning and Teaching in the Social Sciences (LATISS), our new journal reflects a strong continuity in the editorial aims that inspired our

first journal. We remain committed to using social science perspectives to analyse learning and teaching in higher education. In particular we invite contributors and readers to reflect critically on how students’ and academics’ practices are shaped by, or themselves influence, wider changes in university strategies and national and international policies for higher education. Viewing changes in course design and curriculum, in students’ writing, in group work, seminars or tutorials as taking place within a network (or lattice) of institutional, political and policy contexts is the focus

of this journal.
Preface
Authors: Elfimov Alexei , Kockel Ullrich
Published: September 2008

As the new century unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear that contexts in which anthropology is practised as an established discipline, scholarly enterprise, applied endeavour, profession and intellectual pursuit keep changing, altering and transforming. The general aim in putting together this collection of essays was to test the state and condition of the relationship between anthropology and society in a number of countries where anthropological discourses and ethnographic activity have had a tangible presence in academia and beyond. Adopting a comparative approach – anthropology’s long-term companion – that we hoped would once again allow us to highlight where things have developed differently and where they seemed the same (or indeed were only equally illusorily), we asked leading practitioners from Austria, Brazil, France, Great Britain, the Netherlands, Russia, South Africa and the United States to ponder the same, rather broadly posed, set of questions.
Ethnologists and Indians in a Brazilian Scenario
Authors: Ramos Alcida Rita
Published: September 2008

What follows is the personal view of someone who has been conducting indigenous studies since the 1960s, and has, therefore, her own understanding of the field. My reading of ethnological production in Brazil will probably differ from that of my Brazilian colleagues, and will certainly be different from that of foreign ethnologists. However, being totally immersed in the ethnological community of the country, I could never pretend to pose as an impartial observer.
On Anthropology in France
Authors: Abélès Marc
Published: September 2008

What is anthropology in France about, what is its image, its impact? Where do we come from? Where are we going? Finding answers to these questions would require a whole book. However, in a more modest way, I would like to make a number of observations related to the recent history of the discipline – history that, as we shall see, is inseparable from the general socio-political context and the place that the discipline occupies today in the French intellectual landscape.
The Bologna Process: a voluntary method of coordination and marketisation?
Authors: Henckel Ole , Wright Susan
Published: September 2008

Ole Henckel is writing his PhD thesis on the relationship between national and European higher education policy as well as the history of the Bologna process. The aim of this interview was to learn about the historical background to the Bologna process, which interests were involved and which were excluded, what their motivations were, why they thought it was a good idea, and what they were trying to achieve? As the interview progressed, it focused on three themes. First, at what points did it become clear to participants that they were engaged in a new European 'great game' of creating not just a standardised Higher Education Area, but a global market? Second, how does the Bologna process work as an exemplar of the European Union's new form of governance through freedom, often referred to as the operation of 'soft power' or the Open Method of Coordination? Third, what are the most recent developments, and what kind of future is emerging?
Are British higher educational concerns different from European higher educational concerns?
Authors: Mangset Marte
Published: September 2008

British universities are known among the other Bologna countries not to have adjusted fully to the new common three-tier degree structure. Is it the case that British higher educational concerns are different from Continental concerns? A study of recent developments in two British graduate schools of history shows that a three-tier study structure was generalised in British universities 15 years ahead of Bologna as the one-year taught master's degree gained ground. This article argues that there were similar concerns related to massification and to an increasing demand for efficiency and employability in British, French and Norwegian higher education policy. These common concerns have been met by common reform measures in the three countries: a transition from individual and unstructured postgraduate degrees to structured and skill-oriented taught degrees. In contrast to the situation in other European countries, the Bologna Process has not represented a legitimate framework for higher education policy in Britain. However, British universities have proved susceptible both to national policy measures and to foreign university models. If the Bologna Process gradually appears as a strong and unified model, the British universities might not be immune to change.
Qualifications frameworks for the European Higher Education Area: a new instrumentalism or 'Much Ado about Nothing'?
Authors: Karseth Berit
Published: September 2008

The purpose of this article is to explore the development of qualifications frameworks as a key element in the Bologna Process, which aims to develop a European Higher Education Area by 2010. By setting up descriptors of learning outcomes, a European qualifications framework is intended as an instrument that enables Europe to coordinate and exchange qualifications. Furthermore, the article analyses the proposal of a national qualifications framework in Norway and institutional responses to it. Despite general support for the idea of a framework, the analysis shows that the institutions question the possibility of a qualifications framework that fits all types of educational programmes.

With reference to curriculum theory the article concludes that the idea of a qualifications framework based on measurable learning outcomes represents a turn towards an instrumental curriculum approach in higher education, in contrast to a traditional curriculum approach which foregrounds disciplinary content and its mastery. Drawing on institutional theory the article also questions the possible impact of qualifications frameworks in higher education.
Klimaschutz, das Kyoto-Protokoll und der Schweizer Wald | Climate protection, the Kyoto Protocol and Swiss forests
Authors: Fischlin Andreas
Published: September 2008

To globally protect the climate effectively it is necessary to include forests as a key element of the global carbon cycle for two reasons: Firstly, deforestation has contributed roughly one third of anthropogenic CO2 emissions since the onset of industrialisation and continues to significantly exacerbate climate change, in particular in the South. Secondly, land ecosystems together with oceans have sequestered about 60% of those emissions during that same period. Thus forests contribute substantially to slow down climate change.

The Kyoto Protocol is a system of market-based incentives. It was introduced as a first contribution towards solving the climate change problem. It needs a national interpretation and implementation. In this article I explain the key elements of this system of incentives for the forestry and wood sector and discuss its potentials, opportunities, implementational barriers, and risks for Switzerland. It is concluded that the challenge of forests serving as sinks is to be welcomed and that a new “CO2-Agency of the Forest and Wood Sector” – in analogy to the Energy Agency of the Industry – is to be instituted. Its main role is to help in bundling the various interests for the internationally responsible Federation.
Die Kohlenstoff-Senkenkapazität des Schweizer Waldes | Carbon sink capacity of Swiss forests
Authors: Wolf Annett
Published: September 2008

To assess the carbon sink capacity of Swiss forests, we summarize what is known about the carbon content of Swiss forests today, considering carbon stored in the trees as well as in soils. We explain briefly how climate influences carbon uptake and carbon emissions from forest ecosystems. Finally, we analyze simulation studies, which investigate the future development of carbon pools and fluxes in Swiss forests.

We found that carbon stocks in Swiss forests are already high today, hence the growth potential that would lead to further carbon uptake is comparatively small. Still, within the next decades Swiss forests are likely to act as carbon sinks as long as management does not change dramatically. The afforestation of abandoned land and the change in treeline will be mainly responsible for the additional uptake of carbon. In the next decades, management decisions will influence the sink strength of Swiss forests more than climatic changes. In the long term, the sink capacity of forests is likely to decrease and in case of drastic climatic or management changes, the forests can even become large-scale carbon sources.
Waldbewirtschaftung zur Senkenerhöhung? Mögliche Konfliktfelder und Synergien | Increasing carbon sinks by forest management? Conflicts and synergies
Authors: Thürig Esther , Kaufmann Edgar
Published: September 2008

A new function of forests was brought into focus by the Kyoto Protocol: forests as carbon sinks. Switzerland decided to have forest management taken into account under the Kyoto Protocol (Art. 3.4). This new forest function brings about new conflicts. The Swiss Forestry statistics and the Swiss National Forest Inventory show harvesting amounts are increasing and the trend seems set to continue. In a study by the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL) different forest management scenarios were analyzed as was their influence both on the amount harvested in the long term and the forest sink effect. The study focussed on the following question: How can increased forest management be combined with forest carbon sinks and where are the limits? The scenarios range from reduced forest management and corresponding forest carbon sinks to a reduction of growing stock with corresponding carbon sources. Results show that for a limited time span both aspects can be considered on a national scale. Further studies should focus on interactions with other forest functions such as preservation of biodiversity, damage to forests and the effect of climate change.
Nutzung des geernteten Holzes – Substitution und Senkenwirkung | The use of harvested wood – substitution and sink effects
Authors: Hofer Peter , Taverna Ruedi , Werner Frank
Published: September 2008

The greenhouse gas effect can be mitigated by using wood in wood products and as an energy source. The effects of different wood use scenarios over more than 100 years can be demonstrated simulating associated wood flows and changes in wood stocks. The following recommendations have been developed on the basis of such models in order to optimize the contribution of the forestry and timber sector to mitigate climate change: 1) the maximum possible sustainable increment should be generated in the forest; 2) this increment should be harvested continuously; 3) the harvested wood should be processed in accordance with the principle of cascade use; 4) waste wood that is not suitable for further use should be used to generate energy.
Bifurcations on Potential Energy Surfaces of Organic Reactions
Authors: Ess Daniel H. , Wheeler Steven E. , Iafe Robert G. , Xu Lai , Çelebi‐Ölçüm Nihan , Houk Kendall N.
Published: September 2008

A single transition state may lead to multiple intermediates or products if there is a post‐transition‐state reaction pathway bifurcation. These bifurcations arise when there are sequential transition states with no intervening energy minimum. For such systems, the shape of the potential energy surface and dynamic effects, rather than transition‐state energetics, control selectivity. This Minireview covers recent investigations of organic reactions exhibiting reaction pathway bifurcations. Such phenomena are surprisingly general and affect experimental observables such as kinetic isotope effects and product distributions.
Effects of palm ash loading and maleated natural rubber as a coupling agent on the properties of palm‐ash‐filled natural rubber composites
Authors: Ismail H. , Haw F. S.
Published: September 2008

Natural rubber composites were prepared by the incorporation of palm ash at different loadings into a natural rubber matrix with a laboratory‐size two‐roll mill (160 × 320 mm2) maintained at 70 ± 5°C in accordance with the method described by ASTM D 3184–89. A coupling agent, maleated natural rubber (MANR), was used to improve the mechanical properties of the natural rubber composites. The results indicated that the scorch time and cure time decreased with increasing filler loading, whereas the maximum torque exhibited an increasing trend. Increasing the palm ash loading increased the tensile modulus, but the tensile strength, fatigue life, and elongation at break decreased. The rubber–filler interactions of the composites decreased with increasing filler loading. Scanning electron microscopy of the tensile fracture surfaces of the composites and rubber–filler interaction studies showed that the presence of MANR enhanced the interfacial interaction of the palm ash filler and natural rubber matrix. The presence of MANR also enhanced the tensile properties and fatigue life of palm‐ash‐filled natural rubber composites. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Phase behaviors of solid polymer electrolytes/salt system in lithium secondary battery by group‐contribution method: Applicability of the extended Debye‐Hückel theory
Authors: Joo Jae Ho , Bae Young Chan
Published: September 2008

A new group‐contribution model based on both the modified double‐lattice theory and the Debye‐Hückel theory extended by Guggenheim theory is developed to interpret the phase behaviors of solid polymer electrolyte/salt systems at various temperatures and compositions. The model includes a combinatorial energy contribution that is responsible for the revised Flory‐Huggins entropy of mixing, the van der Waals energy contribution from dispersion, and the polar force and specific energy contribution from hydrogen bonding. Quantitative description according to the proposed model is in good agreement with the experimentally observed transition temperatures of the given systems. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Polysiloxanes derived from chrysotile asbestos via acid‐leaching and silylation processes
Authors: Habaue Shigeki , Sato Kimiyasu , Yamashita Kiyotsugu , Shimamura Tetsuya , Kaito Masahiro , Masuda Tsuyoshi , Kajiwara Meisetsu
Published: September 2008

Chrysotile asbestos was transformed into polysiloxanes through processes involving selective acid leaching and the reaction with various silylation reagents. The silylation with trialkoxy(vinyl)silanes followed by adding chlorotrialkylsilane effectively proceeded to afford a polymer with a low‐silanol residue. The obtained polymers were radically crosslinked producing a polymer with a good thermal stability. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Endothelial/lymphocyte activation leads to prominent CD4+ T cell infiltration in the gastric mucosa of patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Manetti Mirko , Neumann Elena , Müller Adelheid , Schmeiser Tim , Saar Petra , Milia Anna Franca , Endlicher Esther , Roeb Elke , Messerini Luca , Matucci‐Cerinic Marco , Ibba‐Manneschi Lidia , Müller‐Ladner Ulf
Published: August 2008

Objective

Although gastrointestinal tract dysfunction is a common feature in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma), few studies have addressed the pathogenetic mechanisms of gastrointestinal tract involvement in SSc. We previously showed that severe fibrosis and increased expression of profibrotic cytokines are important hallmarks in the gastric wall of patients with SSc. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether immune and/or microvascular abnormalities may account for tissue damage in gastric wall specimens obtained from patients with SSc.

Methods

Gastric biopsy samples from 27 patients with SSc and 15 healthy control subjects were analyzed by immunohistochemistry for CD45/leukocyte common antigen, CD3/T cells, CD4/T helper cells, CD8/cytotoxic T cells, CD20/B cells, CD14/monocytes, CD68/macrophages, cell adhesion molecules CD11a/lymphocyte function−associated antigen 1 (LFA‐1), CD49d/very late activation antigen 4 (VLA‐4), CD54/intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM‐1), CD106/vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM‐1), CD31/platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

Results

T cell infiltration was a prominent finding in gastric specimens from patients with SSc. The CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio was significantly increased in SSc specimens compared with controls. T cells were found in both lymphocyte aggregates and diffuse infiltrates and strongly expressed the activation markers VLA‐4, LFA‐1, and ICAM‐1. Endothelial cells showed corresponding surface activation with strong expression of VCAM‐1 and ICAM‐1. Mature B cells were frequently observed arranged in aggregates and rarely were seen in a diffuse pattern. Most lymphocyte aggregates lacked monocyte/macrophages. No difference in microvascular density was observed between SSc specimens and controls. Both SSc and control specimens showed weak or no expression of VEGF.

Conclusion

Our findings provide the first evidence that endothelial/lymphocyte activation leading to prominent CD4+ T cell infiltration may play a key pathogenetic role within the gastric wall of patients with SSc and may represent an important therapeutic target.