bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sarcopenia, as defined by low muscle mass, strength and physical performance, predicts complications after surgery for colorectal cancer
Authors: Huang D.‐D. , Wang S.‐L. , Zhuang C.‐L. , Zheng B.‐S. , Lu J.‐X. , Chen F.‐F. , Zhou C.‐J. , Shen X. , Yu Z.
Published: July 2015

Aim

Recent studies have shown that sarcopenia is associated with negative postoperative outcomes. However, none of these studies analysed muscle strength or physical performance, which are also important components of sarcopenia. The present study aimed to investigate whether sarcopenia itself, as defined by low muscle mass, strength and physical performance, would predict complications after surgery for colorectal cancer.

Method

We conducted a prospective study of patients who underwent surgery for colorectal cancer at our department between August 2014 and February 2015. Sarcopenia was diagnosed by a combination of third lumbar vertebra muscle index (L3 MI), handgrip strength and 6‐m usual gait speed. Univariate and multivariate analyses evaluating the risk factors for postoperative complications were performed. Only complications classified as Grade II or above according to the Clavien–Dindo classification were analysed in this study.

Results

A total of 142 patients were included in the study, and 17 patients were diagnosed as having sarcopenia. Postoperative complications of Grade II or above occurred in 40 patients, including 10 with sarcopenia and 30 without sarcopenia. Multivariate analysis showed that sarcopenia and previous abdominal surgery were independent risk factors for postoperative complications. Patients with sarcopenia also had an obvious tendency to a higher incidence of infectious complications. By comparing two logistic regression models, sarcopenia showed a better predictive power for postoperative complications than did low muscle mass.

Conclusion

Sarcopenia and previous abdominal surgery are independent risk factors for complications after surgery for colorectal cancer. Including a functional aspect to the definition of sarcopenia may result in a better prediction of postoperative complications.
Assessing the Performance of EU Nature Legislation in Protecting Target Bird Species in an Era of Climate Change
Authors: Sanderson Fiona J. , Pople Robert G. , Ieronymidou Christina , Burfield Ian J. , Gregory Richard D. , Willis Stephen G. , Howard Christine , Stephens Philip A. , Beresford Alison E. , Donald Paul F.
Published: July 2015

International legislation forms a cornerstone of conservation, yet its efficacy is rarely quantified. We assess whether species listed on Annex I of the European Union (EU) Birds Directive, for which EU Member States are obliged to implement special conservation measures, differ systematically in their short‐term (2001‐2012) or long‐term (1980‐2012) population trends from those of non‐Annex I species. In both periods, Annex I species had more positive trends than non‐Annex I species, particularly in countries that joined the EU earlier. There were additional signatures of climate change and life history strategy in the trends of species in one or both periods. Within Annex I species, long‐distance migrants fared significantly worse than other species, suggesting that enhanced protection on the breeding grounds alone may be insufficient for these species. We conclude that the EU's conservation legislation has had a demonstrably positive impact on target species, even during a period in which climate change has significantly affected populations.
Echocardiographic Assessment of the Alterations in Pulmonary Blood Flow Associated with Ketamine and Etomidate Administration in Children with Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Jha Ajay K. , Gharde Parag , Chauhan Sandeep , Kiran Usha , Malhotra Kapoor Poonam
Published: July 2015

Background

Despite widespread uses of ketamine, the clinical studies determining its effect on pulmonary blood flow in children with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) are lacking. Furthermore, the quantification of pulmonary blood flow is not possible in these patients, because pulmonary artery catheter is contraindicated. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the changes in pulmonary blood flow by intra‐operative transesophageal echocardiography after ketamine or etomidate administration in children with TOF.

Methods

Eleven children each in the two clinical variants of TOF (group A—moderate to severe cyanosis; group B—mild to minimal cyanosis) undergoing intracardiac repair were prospectively studied after endotracheal intubation. A single bolus dose of ketamine (2 mg/kg) and etomidate (0.3 mg/kg) was administered in a random order after 15 minute interval. Hemodynamic, arterial blood gas, and echocardiographic measurements were obtained at 7 consecutive times (T) points (baseline, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 15 minutes after drug administration).

Results

Ketamine produced a significant reduction in VTI‐T (velocity time integrals total of left upper pulmonary vein), RVOT‐PG (right ventricular outflow tract peak gradient), and MG (mean gradient) in group A while those in group B had a significant increase in VTI‐T, RVOT‐PG, and RVOT‐MG at time (T1, T2, T4, and T6; P = 0.00). This divergent behavior, however, was not observed with etomidate.

Conclusion

Etomidate does not change pulmonary blood flow. However, ketamine produces divergent effects; it increases pulmonary blood flow in children with minimal cyanosis and decreases pulmonary blood flow in children with moderate to severe cyanosis.
Species colonisation, not competitive exclusion, drives community overdispersion over long‐term succession
Authors: Li Shao‐peng , Cadotte Marc W. , Meiners Scott J. , Hua Zheng‐shuang , Jiang Lin , Shu Wen‐sheng
Published: July 2015

Ecological communities often transition from phylogenetic and functional clustering to overdispersion over succession as judged by space‐for‐time substitution studies. Such a pattern has been generally attributed to the increase in competitive exclusion of closely related species with similar traits through time, although colonisation and extinction have rarely been examined. Using 44 years of uninterrupted old‐field succession in New Jersey, USA, we confirmed that phylogenetic and functional clustering decreased as succession unfolded, but the transition was largely driven by colonisation. Early colonists were closely related and functionally similar to residents, while later colonists became less similar to the species present. Extirpated species were generally more distantly related to residents than by chance, or exhibited random phylogenetic/functional patterns, and their relatedness to residents was not associated with time. These results provide direct evidence that the colonisation of distant relatives, rather than extinction of close relatives, drives phylogenetic and functional overdispersion over succession.
Effects of acute administration of melatonin on attentional, executive, and working memory processes in rats
Authors: Liet Christophe , Amenouche Fella , Freret Thomas , Boulouard Michel , Mauvieux Benoit , Lelong‐Boulouard Véronique , Bocca Marie‐Laure
Published: July 2015

Melatonin is a potential candidate for additive therapy in cancer, neurodegenerative, and mental disorders requiring administration during the activity phase. Nevertheless, because melatonin has mostly been used as a hypnotic, less is known about its cognitive effects. In this study, we investigated the effects of acute administration of melatonin on executive, attentional, and working memory processes in rats during the activity phase. Three doses of melatonin (6, 18, or 36 mg/kg) were tested and compared to a saline control group in two behavioral tests: the Attentional Set Shifting task (for attentional and executive processes assessment) and the Spontaneous Alternation test in a Y‐maze (for working memory assessment). Our results revealed that, up to 36 mg/kg, the acute administration dose of melatonin did not alter the attentional or executive processes, nor the working memory in rats. Consequently, this result may be encouraging for the use of melatonin in additive therapy during the activity phase.
Comparison of volume‐reductive therapies for massive polycystic liver disease in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Yang Jaeseok , Ryu Hyunjin , Han Miyeun , Kim Hyunsuk , Hwang Young‐Hwan , Chung Jin Wook , Yi Nam‐Joon , Lee Kwang‐Woong , Suh Kyung‐Suk , Ahn Curie
Published: July 2015

Aim

Polycystic liver disease (PLD) in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) patients can induce massive hepatomegaly‐related symptoms. Volume‐reductive therapies for symptomatic PLD include transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE), liver resection and liver transplantation; however, consensus has not been reached regarding treatment selection. We compared three volume‐reductive therapies for a better understanding of PLD treatment strategies.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 28 ADPKD patients who underwent TAE, liver resection or liver transplantation for PLD at a single center, and compared their outcomes.

Results

Of 18 TAE patients, five required repeat TAE, and five required rescue liver transplantation or liver resection because of refractory symptoms or hepatic failure. The treatment failure rate for TAE was high (69.6%). Nine underwent liver resection, and the degree of volume reduction in the liver resection group was greater than that in the TAE group (52.4% vs 7.6%, P < 0.001). One liver resection patient required rescue liver transplantation because of hepatic failure. Seven patients underwent liver transplantations. All liver transplant patients had successfully controlled symptoms or hepatic failure, and had good graft function. Three patients in the TAE group died of infections or hepatic failure, whereas no mortality occurred after surgical therapy.

Conclusion

Liver resection is a good first‐line therapy in patients that have severe symptoms, cyst involvement in several segments with some spared segments and preserved liver function. Liver transplantation is a preferred first‐line therapy in patients with poor liver function or whole‐liver involvement. Liver transplantation is also a good rescue therapy following TAE or liver resection.
The extrusion of root canal cement containing paraformaldehyde into the inferior alveolar nerve canal resulting in infection and numbness
Authors: Coskunses F. M. , Sinanoglu A. , Helvacioglu‐Yigit D. , Abbott P. V.
Published: July 2015

Aim

To describe the impact of extruded paraformaldehyde‐containing root canal cement into the inferior alveolar nerve canal following a delay in removal and the subsequent management of the case.

A 30‐year‐old man was referred for management of prolonged anaesthesia in the right mandibular region following root canal treatment. Panoramic and cone beam computed tomography findings revealed that overextruded root canal cement had penetrated into the inferior alveolar nerve canal beyond the distal root of the mandibular right second molar (tooth 47). The root canal cement contained paraformaldehyde. Initially, the patient refused surgical removal of the cement. However, after 3.5 months, the patient returned with an acute infection in the same region. After resolution of the acute abscess and root canal retreatment, surgical treatment was performed under general anaesthesia. Granulation tissue and necrotic bone were found associated with the cement.
Effect of thermal processing and digestive protease on the antioxidant capacity of fruit juice–milk beverage model systems under simulated gastrointestinal digestion
Authors: He Zhiyong , Yuan Bo , Zeng Maomao , Chen Jie
Published: July 2015

The effects of thermal processing and digestive protease on the antioxidant capacity of fruit juice–milk beverage (FJMB) models containing whey protein (WP) and chlorogenic acid or catechin (CAT) under in vitro digestion were investigated. After gastric digestion, the FJMB showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in ABTS, but little change in ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Intestinal digestion decreased the FRAP and increased ABTS except in the model containing 0.1% CAT. There were different effects (none, masking, synergistic effect) in the antioxidant activity of the WP and phenolics under digestion. Pasteurisation (63 °C/30 min) had no significant effect on the FJMB's antioxidant capacity, while sterilisation (121 °C/10 min) significantly (P < 0.05) increased, decreased or had no significant effect on ABTS and FRAP under digestion, depending on the model. Pepsin and pancreatin significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the fruit phenolics' ABTS. Ferric reducing antioxidant power was not significantly influenced by pepsin during gastric digestion, but was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased by pancreatin during intestinal digestion. These results would be helpful to improve the efficacy of fruit phenolics in FJMB subjected to thermal processing and to maintain the health benefits of this kind of functional products in the food industry.
Inflammation‐associated genes: risks and benefits to Foxp3+ regulatory T‐cell function
Authors: O'Connor Richard A. , Anderton Stephen M.
Published: July 2015

Foxp3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells prevent the development of autoimmunity and immunopathology, as well as maintaining homeostasis and tolerance to commensal microorganisms. The suppressive activity of Treg cells is their defining characteristic, generating great interest in their therapeutic potential. However, suppressive and effector functions are not entirely exclusive. Considerable evidence points to the ability of supposedly anti‐inflammatory Foxp3‐expressing Treg cells to also express transcription factors that have been characterized as cardinal drivers of T effector cell function. We will consider the mounting evidence that Treg cells can function in non‐suppressive capacities and review the impetus for this functional change, its relevance to developing immune and autoimmune responses and its significance to the development of Treg‐based therapies.
New Family With Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia Linked to the Triadin Gene
Authors: ROORYCK CAROLINE , KYNDT FLORENCE , BOZON DOMINIQUE , ROUX‐BUISSON NATHALIE , SACHER FREDERIC , PROBST VINCENT , THAMBO JEAN‐BENOIT
Published: July 2015

Sudden Death Linked to the Triadin Gene

We describe a new family with cathecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) linked to the Triadin gene. This is the second report of such a CPVT of autosomal recessive inheritance. Using an NGS panel including 42 genes involved in cardiac sudden death, 2 heterozygous pathogenic mutations (c.613C> T/p.Gln205* and c.22 + 29 A>G) were identified in the Triadin gene in 2 sibs who experienced early severe arrhythmias without evidence of CPVT diagnosis at first cardiac evaluation. However, significant arrhythmias occurred after catecholaminergic stimulation. Each of the TRDN mutations was inherited from a healthy parent. In this family, genetic studies permit confirmation of the CPVT diagnosis in the 2 affected sibs and permit the early diagnosis of the third asymptomatic child. It also helped guide the therapeutic strategy in this family.
Discernment Counseling for “Mixed‐Agenda” Couples
Authors: Doherty William J. , Harris Steven M. , Wilde Jason L.
Published: July 2015

This article describes discernment counseling, an approach to working with couples where one partner is leaning toward divorce and the other wants to preserve the relationship and work on it in couples therapy. These “mixed‐agenda” couples are common in clinical practice but have been neglected in the literature. The goal of discernment counseling is clarity and confidence regarding the next steps for the relationship, based on a deeper understanding of each partner's contributions. Sessions emphasize individual conversations with each partner. An analysis of 100 consecutive cases found that about half of the couples chose to start couples therapy in order to reconcile, with most of the rest choosing the divorce path. Longer term follow‐up information is also presented.
The Changing Association Among Marriage, Work, and Child Poverty in the United States, 1974–2010
Authors: Baker Regina S.
Published: July 2015

Marriage and work have long been central to debates regarding poverty and the family. Although ample research has demonstrated their negative association with child poverty, both marriage and work have undergone major transformations over recent decades. Consequently, it is plausible that their association with child poverty may have also changed. Using 10 waves of U.S. Census Current Population Survey data from the Luxembourg Income Study, this study examined the relationships among marriage, work, and relative measures of child poverty from 1974 to 2010. The results indicated that both marriage and work still decrease the odds of child poverty. However, time interactions showed marriage's negative association with child poverty has declined in magnitude, whereas work's negative association with child poverty has increased in magnitude. These findings underscore the historically varying influence of demographic characteristics for poverty. They also suggest the limitations of overemphasizing marriage and the growing importance of work for reducing child poverty in America.
Dynamic interplay of membrane‐proximal POTRA domain and conserved loop L6 in Omp85 transporter FhaC
Authors: Guérin Jeremy , Saint Nathalie , Baud Catherine , Meli Albano C. , Etienne Emilien , Locht Camille , Vezin Hervé , Jacob‐Dubuisson Françoise
Published: July 2015

Omp85 transporters mediate protein insertion into, or translocation across, membranes. They have a conserved architecture, with POTRA domains that interact with substrate proteins, a 16‐stranded transmembrane β barrel, and an extracellular loop, L6, folded back in the barrel pore. Here using electrophysiology, in vivo biochemical approaches and electron paramagnetic resonance, we show that the L6 loop of the Omp85 transporter FhaC changes conformation and modulates channel opening. Those conformational changes involve breaking the conserved interaction between the tip of L6 and the inner β‐barrel wall. The membrane‐proximal POTRA domain also exchanges between several conformations, and the binding of FHA displaces this equilibrium. We further demonstrate a dynamic, physical communication between the POTRA domains and L6, which must take place via the β barrel. Our findings thus link all three essential components of Omp85 transporters and indicate that they operate in a concerted fashion in the transport cycle.
Using community health workers:
Authors: MAES KENNETH , CLOSSER SVEA , VOREL ETHAN , TESFAYE YIHENEW
Published: July 2015

In this article, we use semistructured interviews and documents produced by Ethiopian government officials and international health donors to examine two key features of the nation's community health worker (CHW) program: (1) the process and criteria of selecting community health workers; and (2) policies, rhetoric, and experiences of payment and empowerment. We examine these from the varied perspectives of district health officials, Health Extension Workers, and leaders and members within Ethiopia's so‐called Women's Development Army, whom we interviewed during 2012–14. According to national policymakers and policy documents, the goals of the Women's Development Army are twofold: first, to reduce mortality and second, to produce “model” women, who discipline themselves and their neighbors to enact healthy behaviors. The Army is supposed to simultaneously “empower” these women to be more autonomous from husbands and more active in development‐oriented work. Yet one of the key criteria sought by district‐level health officials—willingness to “accept what we teach them and implement what we tell them”—highlights that Army leaders are to remain subordinate to government health officials. Many female members of the Women's Development Army expressed ambivalence about their selection, particularly as the position was unpaid. Some questioned why women were expected to volunteer when men had previously been paid to do similar work. These data emphasize the differences in goals, aims, and experiences among various actors involved in CHW programs, and the need for researchers to address whether or not respondents are comfortable to express perspectives that might question dominant goals and discourses.
Macroevolutionary patterns of glucosinolate defense and tests of defense‐escalation and resource availability hypotheses
Authors: Cacho N. Ivalú , Kliebenstein Daniel J. , Strauss Sharon Y.
Published: July 2015

We explored macroevolutionary patterns of plant chemical defense in Streptanthus (Brassicaceae), tested for evolutionary escalation of defense, as predicted by Ehrlich and Raven's plant–herbivore coevolutionary arms‐race hypothesis, and tested whether species inhabiting low‐resource or harsh environments invest more in defense, as predicted by the resource availability hypothesis (RAH).

We conducted phylogenetically explicit analyses using glucosinolate profiles, soil nutrient analyses, and microhabitat bareness estimates across 30 species of Streptanthus inhabiting varied environments and soils.

We found weak to moderate phylogenetic signal in glucosinolate classes and no signal in total glucosinolate production; a trend toward evolutionary de‐escalation in the numbers and diversity of glucosinolates, accompanied by an evolutionary increase in the proportion of aliphatic glucosinolates; some support for the RAH relative to soil macronutrients, but not relative to serpentine soil use; and that the number of glucosinolates increases with microhabitat bareness, which is associated with increased herbivory and drought.

Weak phylogenetic signal in chemical defense has been observed in other plant systems. A more holistic approach incorporating other forms of defense might be necessary to confidently reject escalation of defense. That defense increases with microhabitat bareness supports the hypothesis that habitat bareness is an underappreciated selective force on plants in harsh environments.
Combining enhanced biomass density with reduced lignin level for improved forage quality
Authors: Gallego‐Giraldo Lina , Shadle Gail , Shen Hui , Barros‐Rios Jaime , Fresquet Corrales Sandra , Wang Huanzhong , Dixon Richard A.
Published: July 2015

To generate a forage crop with increased biomass density that retains forage quality, we have genetically transformed lines of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) expressing antisense constructs targeting two different lignin pathway biosynthetic genes with a construct for down‐regulation of a WRKY family transcription factor that acts as a repressor of secondary cell wall formation in pith tissues. Plants with low‐level expression of the WRKY dominant repressor construct produced lignified cell walls in pith tissues and exhibited enhanced biomass and biomass density, with an increase in total sugars in the cell wall fraction; however, lines with high expression of the WRKY dominant repressor construct exhibited a very different phenotype, with loss of interfascicular fibres associated with repression of the NST1 transcription factor. This latter phenotype was not observed in transgenic lines in which the WRKY transcription factor was down‐regulated by RNA interference. Enhanced and/or ectopic deposition of secondary cell walls was also seen in corn and switchgrass expressing WRKY dominant repressor constructs, with enhanced biomass in corn but reduced biomass in switchgrass. Neutral detergent fibre digestibility was not impacted by WRKY expression in corn. Cell walls from WRKY‐DR‐expressing alfalfa plants with enhanced secondary cell wall formation exhibited increased sugar release efficiency, and WRKY dominant repressor expression further increased sugar release in alfalfa down‐regulated in the COMT, but not the HCT, genes of lignin biosynthesis. These results suggest that significant enhancements in forage biomass and quality can be achieved through engineering WRKY transcription factors in both monocots and dicots.
Topsoil translocation for Brazilian savanna restoration: propagation of herbs, shrubs, and trees
Authors: Ferreira Maxmiller C. , Walter Bruno M. T. , Vieira Daniel L. M.
Published: July 2015

Topsoil translocation has been used for vegetation restoration throughout the world, but it has been poorly tested within savannas. This study describes Brazilian savanna (cerrado) regeneration for the first 3 years following topsoil translocation. The topsoil was stripped from 2.5 ha of savanna and spread on 1 ha of an abandoned laterite quarry in the Federal District, Brazil. We assessed vegetation structure and species composition in 18 circular plots (3.14/m2) after 5 and 15 months and in 30 circular plots after 37 months. In the last floristic survey, the coverage of herbs was estimated using the step‐point method. To verify the source of regeneration, a total of 181 shrubs and trees were excavated over the first 2 surveys. After 3 years, 24, 40, and 21 species of herbs, shrubs, and trees, respectively, had been recorded by the surveys. Of the 33 families found, Fabaceae, Poaceae, and Asteraceae were the most representative. At 5 and 15 months, 91 and 83% of the individuals (shrubs and trees combined) were derived from resprouting, respectively. Shrub and tree stem density reached 3.2/m2 at 5 months, but declined to 0.5/m2 at 37 months. By the final survey, native and exotic grasses completely covered the ground. Topsoil translocation was effective for the propagation of native herbs, shrubs, and trees, despite the need to control invasive grasses. The large number of shrub and tree resprouts from roots suggests that the bud bank is an important component of the topsoil for savanna restoration.
Sexual Self‐Concept Ambiguity and the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide Risk
Authors: Talley Amelia E. , Brown Sarah L. , Cukrowicz Kelly , Bagge Courtney L.
Published: July 2015

Mechanisms (i.e., thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, hopelessness) derived from the interpersonal theory of suicide which are hypothesized to account for the relation between sexual orientation self‐concept ambiguity and active suicide ideation were examined. Participants included 349 women, among whom 42% currently self‐ascribed a non‐exclusively heterosexual sexual identity. Among women reporting higher levels of sexual self‐concept ambiguity, greater risk for active suicide ideation is found when perceptions of burden and feelings of thwarted belonging co‐occur with feelings of hopelessness. Results support relevant theory useful for understanding suicide risk among sexual minority women who acknowledge ambiguity with regard to their sexual orientation.
International and Domestic Students, Perceived Burdensomeness, Belongingness, and Suicidal Ideation
Authors: Servaty‐Seib Heather L. , Lockman Jennifer , Shemwell Dan , Reid Marks Laura
Published: July 2015

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for traditional‐age college students, and the interpersonal theory of suicide (ITS; Joiner, 2005) provides a cogent framework for predicting which students may be at highest risk. However, little is known about how constructs of ITS operate in cross‐cultural contexts. Findings, based on a sample of international and domestic undergraduate students (N = 254), indicated that the ITS construct of perceived burdensomeness was positively associated with suicidal ideation (SI) for both groups. However, campus belongingness emerged as connected with SI for international students, whereas family belongingness emerged as connected with SI for domestic students.
Cryptococcal meningitis presenting with headache and a pustular eruption in a heart transplant patient
Authors: Farber S.A. , Micheletti R.G.
Published: July 2015

Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection that typically occurs in severely immunocompromised patients. Here, we report the case of a heart transplant recipient who presented with cutaneous lesions and was diagnosed with disseminated cryptococcosis and then cryptococcal meningitis on the basis of positive Tzanck smear of the lesions, confirmed by culture, highlighting the importance of the skin as a window to systemic disease.
Anticoagulant effects of inhaled unfractionated heparin in the dog as determined by partial thromboplastin time and factor Xa activity
Authors: Manion Jill S. , Thomason John M. , Langston Vernon C. , Claude Andrew K. , Brooks Marjory B. , Mackin Andrew J. , Lunsford Kari V.
Published: July 2015

Objective

To evaluate the anticoagulant effects of inhaled heparin in dogs.

Design

This study was conducted in 3 phases. In phase 1, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALf) was collected to generate an in vitro calibration curve to relate heparin concentration to the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). In phase 2, heparin was administered via nebulization to determine the threshold dose needed to prolong systemic aPTT. In phase 3, the local anticoagulant activity of inhaled heparin was determined by measurement of BALf anti‐Xa activity and aPTT.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Six healthy intact female Walker Hounds were used in this study. Two dogs were used for each phase.

Interventions

Inhaled unfractionated sodium heparin was administered in doses ranging from 50,000 to 200,000 IU.

Results

In vitro addition of heparin to BALf caused a prolongation in aPTT. Inhaled heparin at doses as high as 200,000 IU failed to prolong systemic aPTT, and a threshold dose could not be determined. No significant local anticoagulant effects were detected.

Conclusions

Even at doses higher than those known to be effective in people, inhaled heparin appears to have no detectable local or systemic anticoagulant effects in dogs with the current delivery method.
COMBINATION OF COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHIC IMAGING CHARACTERISTICS OF MEDIAL RETROPHARYNGEAL LYMPH NODES AND NASAL PASSAGES AIDS DISCRIMINATION BETWEEN RHINITIS AND NEOPLASIA IN CATS
Authors: Nemanic Sarah , Hollars Katelyn , Nelson Nathan C. , Bobe Gerd
Published: July 2015

Feline nasal diseases are a diagnostic challenge. The objective of this retrospective, cross‐sectional study was to determine whether computed tomography (CT) imaging characteristics of the medial retropharyngeal lymph nodes (MRPLN), alone or in combination with CT imaging characteristics of the nasal passages, could aid in differentiation between rhinitis and nasal neoplasia. Cats were recruited from record archives at two veterinary facilities during the period of 2008–2012. Selection criteria were presentation for chronic nasal discharge, contrast‐enhanced CT of the head that included the MRPLN, and rhinoscopic nasal biopsy resulting in diagnosis of rhinitis or neoplasia. For each CT scan, two board‐certified veterinary radiologists recorded MRPLN size, attenuation, heterogeneity, contrast‐medium enhancement, margination, shape, presence of a lymph node hilus, perinodal fat, turbinate lysis, paranasal bone lysis, and nasal mass. Both readers were unaware of patient information at the time of CT interpretation. Thirty‐four cats with rhinitis and 22 cats with neoplasia were included. Computed tomographic characteristics significantly associated with neoplasia included abnormal MRPLN hilus (OR 5.1), paranasal bone lysis (OR 5.6), turbinate lysis (5.6), mass (OR 26.1), MRPLN height asymmetry (OR 4.5), and decreased MRPLN precontrast heterogeneity (OR 7.0). The combined features predictive of neoplasia were a nasal mass with abnormal hilus (OR 47.7); lysis of turbinates/paranasal bones with abnormal MRPLN hilus (OR 16.2). Findings supported the hypothesis that combining CT features of the nasal passages and MRPLN aided in differentiating rhinitis from neoplasia in cats.
Temporal evolution of ion energy distribution functions and ion charge states of Cr and Cr-Al pulsed arc plasmas
Authors: Tanaka Koichi , Anders André
Published: July 2015

To study the temporal evolution of ion energy distribution functions, charge-state-resolved ion energy distribution functions of pulsed arc plasmas from Cr and Cr-Al cathodes were recorded with high time resolution by using direct data acquisition from a combined energy and mass analyzer. The authors find increases in intensities of singly charged ions, which is evidence that charge exchange reactions took place in both Cr and Cr-Al systems. In Cr-Al plasmas, the distributions of high-charge-state ions exhibit high energy tails 50 μs after discharge ignition, but no such tails were observed at 500 μs. The energy ratios of ions of different charge states at the beginning of the pulse, when less neutral atoms were in the space in front of the cathode, suggest that ions are accelerated by an electric field. The situation is not so clear after 50 μs due to particle collisions. The initial mean ion charge state of Cr was about the same in Cr and in Cr-Al plasmas, but it decreased more rapidly in Cr-Al plasmas compared to the decay in Cr plasma. The faster decay of the mean ion charge state and ion energy caused by the addition of Al into a pure Cr cathode suggests that the mean ion charge state is determined not only by ionization processes at the cathode spot but also by inelastic collision between different elements.
Excitation of XPS spectra from nanoscaled particles by local generation of x-rays
Authors: Mallinson Christopher F. , Castle James E.
Published: July 2015

In preliminary work, the authors have shown that use of an aluminum substrate to support a distribution of copper particles enables their characteristic photoelectrons to be observed within the Auger electron spectrum generated by an incident electron beam. This observation raises the possibility of the use of chemical shifts and the corresponding Auger parameter to identify the chemical states present on the surface of individual submicrometer particles within a mixture. In this context, the technique has an advantage in that, unlike conventional Auger electron spectroscopy, the electron beam does not dwell on the particle but on the substrate adjacent to it. Given the importance, for both medical and toxicological reasons, of the surface composition of such particles, the authors have continued to explore the potential of this development. In this contribution, the authors show that proximal excitation of x-rays is equally successful with magnesium substrates. In some regions of the x-ray photoelectron spectrum, the much larger Auger peaks generated by the electron beam can cause inconvenient clustering of Auger and photoelectron peaks. As in conventional x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the ability to switch between Al and Mg sources is useful in such situations. In this context, the authors have extended the studies to iron particles where the authors show that use of Al or Mg substrates, as necessary, can make a contribution to clear identification of individual components in the Fe 2p peaks. For this development in electron spectroscopy to achieve its full potential, it is necessary to optimize the beam conditions used to generate the local x-ray to give good selectivity of a given particle. Measurements made in support of this will be given. Of greater concern is a possible problem of local heating associated with x-ray generation. The authors continue to explore this problem and report some progress in minimizing heating of the particle while maintaining the particle selectivity that is central to this exciting development.
Comparing the performance of aliphatic azido nitramines, nitrate esters, and nitro compounds: theoretical design and investigation
Authors: Yang Junqing , Wang Guixiang , Gong Xuedong , Wei Xiaoan
Published: July 2015

To improve the low density and oxygen balance of the pure azido compounds, experimental research has been devoted to developing the modified azido compounds, such as azido nitramines, azido nitrate esters, and azido nitro compounds. Using the experimental methods to obtain a compound with suitable performance needs more resources than using theoretical tests, which makes the theoretical investigations meaningful. In this work, three azido compounds (I, II, and III) and their 27 modified derivatives were designed and studied using the density functional theory method. Results show that –NNO2, –NO2, and –ONO2 all can improve the thermodynamic and energetic properties and the increment increases with the increasing number of substituent groups. The contribution to the thermodynamic properties is –ONO2 > –NO2 > –NNO2 and that to the energetic properties is –NNO2 > –ONO2 > –NO2. The azido nitramines possess the best energetic properties and azido nitrate esters have the best thermodynamic properties. These substituents slightly decrease the thermal stability and the azido nitrate esters possess the lowest thermal stability. Systematical inspection of the substituent effect can direct experimental researchers to synthesize modified azido compounds purposefully and selectively.
Therapeutic value of melatonin post-treatment on CCl4-induced fibrotic rat liver
Authors: Mortezaee Keywan , Sabbaghziarani Fatemeh , Omidi Ameneh , Dehpour Ahmad Reza , Omidi Negar , Ghasemi Soudabeh , Pasbakhsh Parichehr , Ragerdi Kashani Iraj
Published: July 2015

Melatonin is known for being beneficial in targeting liver diseases. This study aimed to investigate whether melatonin post-treatment is capable of rat carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver fibrosis reduction. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups: normal; fibrosis with CCl4 injection (1 mL/kg) twice weekly for 8 weeks; phosphate-buffered saline (PBS); and melatonin (20 mg/kg) for a further 4 weeks on cessation of CCl4. At the beginning of week 13, liver tissue samples were used for hematoxylin-eosin (H&E), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), Masson’s trichrome (MT), and Oil Red O staining, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis of the matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), MMP-13, transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), Bcl-2, and Bax genes as well as immunofluorescence (IF) of the first 3, and sera for measurement of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), albumin, and hydroxyproline. Chronic administration of CCl4 followed by considerable increase in tissue disruption, macro- and micro-vesicles, collagen, lipid droplets (LDs), AST, ALT, hydroxyproline, TGF-β1, and Bax, and decrease in glycogen depository, albumin, Bcl-2, MMP-9, and MMP-13; however, the pattern was reverse when it comes to melatonin treatment (for all p < 0.05). Our results reveal the beneficial aspects of melatonin in treatment of liver fibrosis probably via inhibition of TGF-β1expression.
Cytoprotective potential of tiron and methyl palmitate against acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury
Authors: Shoeib Amal M. , Said Eman , Ammar Elsayed M.
Published: July 2015

Acute liver injury is a debilitating disorder associated with loss of synthetic and detoxifying functions of the liver. This investigation was designed to assess cytoprotective efficacy of daily oral tiron (300 mg/kg) and daily oral methyl palmitate (300 mg/kg) against acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury. Rats were orally pretreated with either tiron or methyl palmitate at doses (300 mg/kg) for 7 days prior to oral acetaminophen (3 g/kg). Biochemical assay of markers of hepatotoxicity indices and oxidative stress was undertaken. Expression of inflammatory cytokine IL-6 was also evaluated. Histopathological examination of liver specimens was carried out as well. Both methyl palmitate and tiron significantly reversed the acetaminophen-induced elevation of biochemical markers (ALT, AST, and ALP) with restoration of SOD levels. Serum albumin levels and GSH liver contents increased, but in a nonsignificant manner. Moreover, methyl palmitate and tiron significantly decreased the level of serum LDH and serum IL-6 levels. Histopathology revealed that tiron markedly reduced the extent of acetaminophen-induced necrosis and methyl palmitate moderately decreased the necrosis in liver tissue. Methyl palmitate (300 mg/kg) and tiron (300 mg/kg) demonstrated promising hepatoprotective effects against acetaminophen-induced acute liver injury via modulation of inflammatory response and alleviation of the oxidative stress, allowing the preservation of hepatic functions.
SINGAPORE'S HOUSING POLICIES: RESPONDING TO THE CHALLENGES OF ECONOMIC TRANSITIONS
Authors: PHANG SOCK-YONG
Published: July 2015

Singapore has developed its own unique state-driven housing system, with more than three quarters of its housing stock built by the Housing and Development Board and homeownership financed through Central Provident Fund savings. As a result, it has one of the highest homeownership rates amongst market economies. This paper provides a historical perspective of the main housing problems faced by successive prime ministers and their respective policy responses. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew (1959–1990), the government established an integrated land-housing supply and housing finance framework to channel much needed resources into the housing sector to deal with a chronic housing shortage. Under Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong (1990–2004), asset enhancement schemes to renew aging estates as well as market deregulation measures were implemented. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong (2004–present) has been confronted with a different set of challenges — investment demand for housing, rising inequalities and rapidly aging population. These problems have brought about the introduction of carefully crafted macroprudential policies, targeted housing grants to assist low and middle income households, and schemes to help elderly households monetize their housing equity.
ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
Authors: CHANG YOUNGHO
Published: July 2015

Energy and environmental policies in Singapore have had two goals — to help the Singapore economy grow, and to keep Singapore clean and green. Energy policies such as development of an energy industry and an energy trading hub have contributed to economic growth and high per capita income, while enhancing energy security. There has been clear success toward achieving water self-sufficiency while providing water for all, and Singapore has become a global leader in the development and commercialization of water reclamation technologies. On the environmental front, indicators such as the share of green space, the ratio of wastes recycled, and decrease in some air pollutants show progress toward being clean and green. Per capita energy consumption has jumped to a high level by international standards, due to industrial structure, but energy efficiency and carbon emissions (per capita and per $ of GDP), have improved.
Stable Subspaces of Positive Maps of Matrix Algebras
Authors: Miller Marek , Olkiewicz Robert
Published: July 2015

We study stable subspaces of positive extremal maps of finite dimensional matrix algebras that preserve trace and matrix identity (so-called bistochastic maps). We have established the existence of the isometric-sweeping decomposition for such maps. As the main result of the paper, we have shown that all extremal bistochastic maps acting on the algebra of matrices of size 3×3 fall into one of the three possible categories, depending on the form of the stable subspace of the isometric-sweeping decomposition. Our example of an extremal atomic positive map seems to be the first one that handles the case of that subspace being non-trivial. Lastly, we compute the entanglement witness associated with the extremal map and specify a large family of entangled states detected by it.
Scheduling Survivability-Heterogeneous Sensor Networks for Critical Location Surveillance
Authors: Tian Jie , Yan Tan , Gao Xin , Wang Guiling
Published: July 2015

Sensor nodes deployed outdoors for field surveillance are subject to environmental detriments. In this article, we propose a heterogeneous sensor network composed of sensor nodes with different environmental survivability to make it robust to environmental damage and keep it at a reasonable cost. We, for the first time, study the scheduling problem in such heterogeneous sensor networks for critical location surveillance applications. Our goal is to monitor all the critical points for as long as possible under different environmental conditions. We identify the underlying problem, theoretically prove its NP-complete nature, and propose a novel adaptive greedy scheduling algorithm to solve the problem. The algorithm incorporates several heuristics to schedule the activity of both regular and robust sensors to monitor all the critical points, while at the same time minimizing and balancing the network energy consumption. Simulation results show that our algorithm efficiently solves the problem and outperforms other alternatives.
RP105 Protects Against Apoptosis in Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Myocardial Damage in Rats by Suppressing TLR4-Mediated Signaling Pathways
Authors: Yang Jun , Guo Xin , Yang Jian , Ding Jia-wang , Li Song , Yang Rui , Fan Zhi-xing , Yang Chao-jun
Published: July 2015

Background: Myocardial apoptosis is heavily implicated in the myocardial damage caused by ischemia-reperfusion (I/R). Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is a potent inducer of these apoptotic cascades. In contrast, the radioprotective 105 kDa protein (RP105) is a specific negative regulator of TLR4 signaling pathways. However, the precise mechanisms by which RP105 inhibits myocardium apoptosis via TLR4-associated pathways during I/R is not fully understood. Methods: We utilized a rat model of myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury (MIRI). Animals were pre-treated with Ad-EGFP adenovirus, Ad-EGFP-RP105 adenovirus, saline, or nothing (sham). After three days, rats underwent a 30min left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion and a 4h reperfusion. Mycardial tissue was assessed by immunohistochemistry, TUNEL-staining, Western blot, quantitative RT-PCR, and a morphometric assay. Results: RP105 overexpression resulted in a reduction in infarct size, fewer TUNEL-positive cardiomyocytes, and a reduction in mitochondrial-associated apoptosis cascade activity. Further, RP105 overexpression repressed I/R-induced myocardial injury by attenuating myocardial apoptosis. This was mediated by inhibiting TLR4 activation and the phosphorylation of P38MAPK and the downstream transcription factor AP-1. Conclusion: RP105 overexpression leads to the de-activation of TLR4, P38MAPK, and AP-1 signaling pathways, and subsequently represses apoptotic cascades and ensuing damage of myocardial ischemic reperfusion. These findings may become the basis of a novel therapeutic approach for reducing of cardiac damage caused by MIRI.