bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship between Some Plasma Clearance Methods for Estimation of Glomerular Filtration Rate in Dogs with Pyometra
Authors: Heiene Reidun , Moe Lars
Published: March 2010

The purpose of the present study was to compare different pharmacokinetic models for estimation of glomerular nitration rate (GFR) in 50 dogs with pyometra. GFR was estimated by plasma clearance (CLphsml) of iohexol by four 1‐compartment methods (CLlc), a 2‐compartment method (CL2c), and the trapezoidal method (CLtr). Regression analysis was performed to establish correction formulas for prediction of CLtr. from the CLlcvalues and to find optimal times of sampling. Standardization of clearance values to body weight (kg), body surface area (m2) and extracellular fluid volume (ECFV) was compared by ranking of values. CLtrand CL2cvalues were similar, whereas CLlcoverestimated CLtrCLtrcould be predicted from 2 samples at 2 and 3 hours after injection, using the formula CLtr= 4.52 + 0.84CLlc‐ 0.00080(CLlc)2(R,2= .97). Similar relationships were found when sampling at 2 and 4 hours or at 2, 3, and 4 hours after injection, whereas predictions from the 3‐ and 4‐hour estimates were not optimal (R2= .79). The 2‐sample methods for calculating GFR/ECFV generally produced unreliable predictions of the complete curve GFR/ ECFV values. For some dogs, the choice of standardization procedure substantially changed the apparent level of renal function relative to other dogs in the study. We conclude that by applying an appropriate correction formula, GFR may be estimated using 2 blood samples at 2 and 3, or 2 and 4 hours after injection of iohexol when renal function is normal or moderately reduced. The method of standardizing the analysis with respect to body size may influence interpretation of the results substantially.
Mutation Causing von Willebrand's Disease in Scottish Terriers
Authors: Venta Patrick J. , Li Jianping , Yuzbasiyan‐Gurkan Vilma , Brewer George J. , Schall William D.
Published: March 2010

Von Willebrand's Disease (vWD) in the Scottish Terrier breed is a serious, often fatal, hereditary bleeding disorder. Elimination of the mutated gene by selective breeding is an important goal for the health of this breed. Although the standard protein‐based tests are accurate for identification of affected Scottish Terriers, they are not reliable for the identification of carriers of the mutant gene unless multiple replicate assays are performed. A simple, highly accurate test for carriers of the disease is needed so that veterinarians can counsel clients on which animals to use in their breeding programs. The complete coding region of von Willebrand factor (vWF) complementary DNA (cDNA) was sequenced from an affected animal, and a single base deletion in the codon for amino acid 85 of the prepro‐vWF cDNA that leads to Scottish Terrier vWD was identified. A highly accurate polymerase chain reaction assay was developed that can distinguish homozygous normal animals from those that are homozygous affected or heterozygous. In a voluntary survey of 87 animals provided by Scottish Terrier owners, 15 were carriers and 4 were affected with vWD, 2 of which had previously been shown to have undetectable vWF. The determination of the complete canine vWF cDNA sequence should facilitate the identification of additional vWD alleles in other breeds and other species.
Treatment of Chronic Idiopathic Large‐Bowel Diarrhea in Dogs with a Highly Digestible Diet and Soluble Fiber: A Retrospective Review of 37 Cases
Authors: Leib Michael S.
Published: March 2010

The medical records of 37 dogs diagnosed with chronic idiopathic large‐bowel diarrhea were reviewed. The median age of affected dogs was 6 years. The median body weight was 13.9 kg. The median duration of clinical signs before diagnosis was 32 weeks. Diarrhea usually was intermittent and characterized by increasing frequency, fecal mucus, hematochezia, and tenesmus. Vomiting was common but usually much less frequent and severe than the diarrhea. A variety of stressful factors and abnormal personality traits were identified. CBC and serum biochemistry usually were normal. Fecal examination rarely identified parasites. Rectal cytology specimens were most often normal, but some dogs had increased numbers of neutrophils. The colonic mucosa often was normal during colonoscopy, but decreased numbers of lymphoid follicles were found in some dogs. Histopathologic evaluation found that colonic mucosa was within normal limits. Treatment with soluble fiber (Metamucil) added to a highly digestible diet (Hills i/d) resulted in a very good to excellent response in most dogs. The median initial dosage of Metamucil was 2 tablespoons (2 T) per day. In some dogs, the fiber dosage was reduced or eliminated, or a grocery store brand of dog food was substituted, without causing diarrhea to return.
Granulomatous Disease Associated withBartonellaInfection in 2 Dogs
Authors: Pappalardo Brandee L. , Brown Talmage , Gookin Jody L. , Morrill Carolyn L. , Breitschwerdt Edward B.
Published: March 2010

Shortly after removal of an engorged tick from the left ear, a 4‐year‐old Greyhound was referred for evaluation of fever and a rapidly enlarging mass in the region of the left submandibular lymph node. Histopathologic evaluation of the lymph node resulted in a diagnosis of severe granulomatous lymphadenitis. An 11‐year‐old mixed‐breed dog was referred for evaluation of a 6‐week history of serous nasal discharge. Histologic examination of a surgical biopsy from a nasal mass indicated multifocal granulomatous inflammation with fibrosis. Serum samples obtained from both dogs were reactive by immunofluorescent assay toBartonella vinsoniisubsp.berkhoffiiantigens (reciprocal titers of 128). AlthoughBartonellaorganisms were not isolated by lysis centrifugation blood culture,BartonellaDNA was amplified from tissue samples obtained from each dog (lymph node biopsy from dog 1 and nasal biopsy from dog 2) using primers that amplify a portion of the 16S rRNA gene followed by Southern blot hybridization using a genus‐specific probe. Additionally, restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of aBartonella‐specific citrate synthase gene product obtained from dog 2 resulted in a restriction pattern identical toB. vinsoniisubsp.berkhoffii.This is the 1st report of granulomatous disease in dogs associated withBartonellainfection.
Functional Urethral Obstruction in 3 Dogs: Clinical and Urethral Pressure Profile Findings
Authors: Lane India F. , Fischer Julie R. , Miller Ellen , Grauer Gregory F. , Lappin Michael R.
Published: March 2010

Three dogs with dysuria and urine retention caused by excessive functional urethral resistance are described. All dogs had clinical histories and urologic signs that previously would have been classified as detrusor‐urethral dyssynergia. Diagnosis of functional urinary obstruction was established by exclusion of anatomic urinary obstruction and confirmed by urethral pressure profilometry. In 2 cases, multiple pressure deflections recorded in the urethral pressure profile suggested spasm of urethral musculature, whereas in a 3rd dog, abnormally high pressures were recorded along a portion of the proximal urethra. Functional urinary obstruction was associated with prostatitis in 1 dog and with a history of urethral calculi in 1 dog, and no underlying disorder could be identified in the remaining dog. All 3 dogs improved with medical treatments that included alpha adrenergic antagonists. The etiology, diagnosis, and pharmacologic management of functional urinary obstruction are discussed.
Seroprevalence ofEhrlichia canis, Ehrlichia equi, andEhrlichia risticiiin Sick Dogs from North Carolina and Virginia
Authors: Suksawat Jiraporn , Hegarty Barbara C. , Breitschwerdt Edward B.
Published: March 2010

Ehrlichia canis, E equi, andE risticiiseroprevalence was determined by microimmunofluorescent antibody testing (IFA) in a sequential population of 1,845 sick dogs admitted during a 1‐year period to the North Carolina State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. A seroreactor was defined by a reciprocal IFA titer of ≥80 toE canis, E equi, orE risticiiantigens. Of the 48 IFA seroreactors, 44 dogs were seroreactive toE canis, 21 toE equi, and 0 toE risticii.Seventeen dogs reacted to bothE canisandE equiantigens. There was concordance ofE canisIFA and western immunoblot (WI) test results for 36/44 dogs. Because of cross‐reactivity ofE canissera withE equiantigens, WI was of less utility to confirmE equiexposure. After elimination ofE canisseroreactors, there was concordance of 2/4E equiIFA and WI test results. Based upon a retrospective review of medical records, ehrlichiosis was diagnosed in 10/48 (21%) IFA seroreactive dogs, 9 of which were confirmed positive by WI. Of the remaining 38 IFA seroreactors, 29 also were confirmed byE canisorE equiWI. These results indicate that (1) ehrlichiosis was not diagnosed in the majority of serologically confirmed cases, (2) based uponE canisandE equiWI analysis, IFA testing was not specific (21% false positive), (3)E canissera cross‐react withE equiantigens, and (4) serologic evidence ofE risticiiinfection was lacking in the dog population studied.
Hemodynamic and Electrocardiographic Effects of Graded Doses of Amiodarone in Healthy Dogs Anesthetized with Morphine/Alpha Chloralose
Authors: Bicer S. , Schwartz D.S. , Nakayama T. , Hamlin R.L.
Published: March 2010

This research was designed to study acute hemodynamic and electrocardiographic effects of amiodarone and to determine an IV dose of amiodarone that minimally affects left ventricular function and does not increase the tendency for ventricular arrhythmia.
Hepatopathy in 4 Dogs Treated with Amiodarone
Authors: Jacobs Gilbert , Calvert Clay , Kraus Marc
Published: March 2010

Amiodarone is a class III antiarrhythmic drug used in dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy and ventricular tachyarrhythmias. Hepatopathy is one of the more commonly reported adverse effects of amiodarone use in people. We describe 4 dogs that developed hepatopathy associated with amiodarone administration; 2 dogs also developed neutropenia. Three dogs had clinical signs of anorexia and lethargy; 1 did not show signs until impaired liver function had developed. Clinical signs or biochemical abnormalities developed 1.5–8 months after amiodarone treatment was started. Clinical signs resolved within 2 weeks of discontinuing amiodarone, but biochemical abnormalities did not resolve for 6–8 weeks. The delay between onset of liver disease and overt clinical signs suggests that serial evaluation of liver enzyme activities following amiodarone use in dogs is important.
Necrosis of Hippocampus and Piriform Lobe in 38 Domestic Cats with Seizures: A Retrospective Study on Clinical and Pathologic Findings
Authors: Fatzer R. , Gandini G. , Jaggy A. , Doherr M. , Vandevelde M.
Published: March 2010

The clinical records of 38 cats (1985–1995) with a neuropathologically confirmed diagnosis of necrosis of the hippocampus and occasionally the lobus piriformis were evaluated retrospectively. There was no sex or breed predisposition. Most cats were between 1 and 6 years of age (mean age = 35 months) and had either generalized or complex‐partial seizures of acute onset and rapid progression. The seizures had a tendency to become recurrent and to present as clusters or even status epilepticus later in the course of the disease. Fourteen cats died spontaneously, and 24 were euthanized. Histopatologic examination revealed bilateral lesions restricted to the hippocampus and occasionally the lobus piriformis. The lesions seemed to reflect different stages of the disease and consisted of acute neuronal degeneration to complete malacia, affecting mainly the layer of the large pyramidal cells but sometimes also the neurons of the dentate gyrus and the piriform lobe. The clinical, neuropathologic, and epidemiologic findings suggest that the seizures in these cats were triggered by primary structural brain damage, perhaps resulting from exitotoxicity. The cause remains unknown, but epidemiologic analysis suggests an environmental factor, probably a toxin.
The algebra of cell-zeta values
Authors: Brown Francis , Carr Sarah , Schneps Leila
Published: March 2010

In this paper, we introduce cell-forms on 𝔐0,n, which are top-dimensional differential forms diverging along the boundary of exactly one cell (connected component) of the real moduli space 𝔐0,n(ℝ). We show that the cell-forms generate the top-dimensional cohomology group of 𝔐0,n, so that there is a natural duality between cells and cell-forms. In the heart of the paper, we determine an explicit basis for the subspace of differential forms which converge along a given cellX. The elements of this basis are called insertion forms; their integrals overXare real numbers, called cell-zeta values, which generate a ℚ-algebra called the cell-zeta algebra. By a result of F. Brown, the cell-zeta algebra is equal to the algebra of multizeta values. The cell-zeta values satisfy a family of simple quadratic relations coming from the geometry of moduli spaces, which leads to a natural definition of a formal version of the cell-zeta algebra, conjecturally isomorphic to the formal multizeta algebra defined by the much-studied double shuffle relations.
Statistical Tolerance Allocation for Tab-Slot Assemblies Utilizing Tolerance-Maps
Authors: Ameta Gaurav , Davidson Joseph K. , Shah Jami J.
Published: March 2010

A new mathematical model for representing the geometric variations of tabs/slots is extended to include probabilistic representations of 1D clearance. The 1D clearance can be determined from multidimensional variations of the medial-plane for a slot or a tab, and from variations of both medial-planes in a tab-slot assembly. The model is compatible with the ASME/ANSI/ISO Standards for geometric tolerances. Central to the new model is a Tolerance-Map (Patent No. 6963824) (T-Map), a hypothetical volume of points that models the range of 3D variations in location and orientation for a segment of a plane (the medial-plane), which can arise from tolerances on size, position, orientation, and form. Here it is extended to model the increases in yield that occur when the optional maximum material condition (MMC) is specified and when tolerances are assigned statistically rather than on a worst-case basis. The frequency distribution of 1D clearance is decomposed into manufacturing bias, i.e., toward certain regions of a Tolerance-Map, and into a geometric bias that can be computed from the geometry of multidimensional T-Maps. Although the probabilistic representation in this paper is built from geometric bias, and it is presumed that manufacturing bias is uniform, the method is robust enough to include manufacturing bias in the future. Geometric bias alone shows a greater likelihood of small clearances than large clearances between an assembled tab and slot. A comparison is made between the effects of specifying the optional MMC and not specifying it with the tolerance that determines the allowable variations in position of a tab, a slot, or of both in a tab-slot assembly. Statistical tolerance assignment for the tab-slot assembly is computed based on initial worst-case tolerances and for (a) constant size of tab and slot at maximum material condition, and (b) constant virtual-condition size.
Validity Maintenance for Freeform Feature Modeling
Authors: van den Berg Eelco , Bronsvoort Willem F.
Published: March 2010

Feature modeling is nowadays the predominant way of product modeling. Functional and geometric information are stored in a single product model, consisting of features such as holes, slots, and ribs. An emerging technology is the application of concepts of feature modeling to freeform shapes. Of particular importance here is that there are often many validity conditions, or constraints, that the resulting freeform feature models should satisfy. An example of this is a maximum curvature constraint on the faces of a particular feature. This paper presents an approach to specify and maintain such validity conditions for freeform feature models.
Lagrangian Relaxation Approach for Decentralized Decision Making in Engineering Design
Authors: Li Simon
Published: March 2010

To minimize the coordination efforts among design teams and expedite the design process via parallel workflows, a cooperative and decentralized environment is often considered for team-based design. The cooperative environment implies that teams are motivated to achieve the common objective of the design, while the decentralized environment encourages teams to work independently. Due to the nature of the decentralized environment, achieving an optimal solution is not trivial, even though all teams are motivated and willing to do so. In this context, this paper introduces the Lagrangian relaxation approach for solving decentralized design problems. Also, an objective adjustment factor is proposed to improve the convergence of the solution process. Two examples, welded beam design and heat exchanger design, have been used to illustrate and validate the Lagrangian relaxation approach and the objective adjustment factor.
Fairness in Agent Based Simulation Frameworks
Authors: Welch L. , Ekwaro-Osire S.
Published: March 2010

An agent based simulation engine should be able to provide a fair playing field for its agents. This paper analyzes fairness in the sequencing of agent thread execution within a Java framework that implements a multithreaded, time stepping, agent based simulation engine. The results illustrate why a multithreaded agent based simulation framework using the Java Virtual Machine for concurrency must supplement standard Java thread scheduling with techniques that enable fairness in agent execution order. The “uniform specific notification” pattern is introduced as one technique for producing fairer, uniformly distributed order for initial execution of Java agent threads at each simulation step.
A New Multivalued Neural Network for Isomorphism Identification of Kinematic Chains
Authors: Galán-Marín Gloria , López-Rodríguez Domingo , Mérida-Casermeiro Enrique
Published: March 2010

A lot of methods have been proposed for the kinematic chain isomorphism problem. However, the tool is still needed in building intelligent systems for product design and manufacturing. In this paper, we design a novel multivalued neural network that enables a simplified formulation of the graph isomorphism problem. In order to improve the performance of the model, an additional constraint on the degree of paired vertices is imposed. The resulting discrete neural algorithm converges rapidly under any set of initial conditions and does not need parameter tuning. Simulation results show that the proposed multivalued neural network performs better than other recently presented approaches.
The Effects of Inner-Liquid Motion on LNG Vessel Responses
Authors: Lee S. J. , Kim M. H.
Published: March 2010

The coupling and interactions between ship motion and inner-tank sloshing are investigated by a potential-viscous hybrid method in the time domain. For the time-domain simulation of vessel motion, the hydrodynamic coefficients and wave forces are obtained by a potential-theory-based 3D diffraction/radiation panel program in the frequency domain. Then, the corresponding simulations of motions in the time domain are carried out using the convolution-integral method. The liquid sloshing in a tank is simulated in the time domain by a Navier–Stokes solver. A finite difference method with SURF scheme assuming the single-valued free-surface profile is applied for the direct simulation of liquid sloshing. The computed sloshing forces and moments are then applied as external excitations to the ship motion. The calculated ship motion is in turn inputted as the excitation for liquid sloshing, which is repeated for the ensuing time steps. For comparison, we independently developed a 3D panel program for linear inner-fluid motions, and it is coupled with the vessel-motion program in the frequency domain. The developed computer programs are applied to a barge-type floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) hull equipped with two partially filled tanks. The time-domain simulation results show reasonably good agreement when compared with Maritime Research Institute Netherlands (MARIN’s) experimental results. The frequency-domain results qualitatively reproduce the trend of coupling effects, but the peaks are in general overpredicted. It is seen that the coupling effects on roll motions appreciably change with filling level. The most pronounced coupling effects on roll motions are the shift or split of peak frequencies. The pitch motions are much less influenced by the inner-fluid motion compared with roll motions.
Characterization of the Compressive Behavior of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polyurethane Foam at Different Strain Rates
Authors: Luo Huiyang , Zhang Yanli , Wang Bo , Lu Hongbing
Published: March 2010

A glass fiber reinforced polyurethane foam (R-PUF), used for thermal insulation of liquefied natural gas tanks, was characterized to determine its compressive strength, modulus, and relaxation behavior. Compressive tests were conducted at different strain rates, ranging from 10−3 s−1 to 10 s−1 using a servohydraulic material testing system, and from 40 s−1 to 103 s−1 using a long split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) designed for materials with low mechanical impedance such as R-PUF. Results indicate that in general both Young’s modulus and collapse strength increase with the strain rate at both room and cryogenic (−170°C) temperatures. The R-PUF shows a linearly viscoelastic behavior prior to collapse. Based on time-temperature superposition principle, relaxation curves at several temperatures were shifted horizontally to determine Young’s relaxation master curve. The results show that Young’s relaxation modulus decreases with time. The relaxation master curve obtained can be used to convert to Young’s modulus at strain rates up to 103 s−1 following linearly viscoelastic analysis after the specimen size effect has been considered.
The Hermite Moment Model for Highly Skewed Response With Application to Tension Leg Platforms
Authors: Choi Myoungkeun , Sweetman Bert
Published: March 2010

A new addition to the statistical Hermite moment model of extremes is introduced for use on processes with high skewness and near-Gaussian kurtosis. The monotone limits of the existing model are expressed as ellipses in response moment space and a new methodology is introduced that combines hardening and softening models to overcome these limits. The result is that any fractile of a distribution described by its first four statistical moments can be transformed to or from the Gaussian. An example application to a tension leg platform is presented.
Static and Dynamic Behavior of Highly Deformed Risers and Pipelines
Authors: Santillan Sophia T. , Virgin Lawrence N. , Plaut Raymond H.
Published: March 2010

This paper models flexible risers and pipelines as slender elastica structures. The theoretical formulation leads to a type of nonlinear boundary value problem that can be solved numerically given appropriate boundary conditions. The offsetting effects of gravity and buoyancy are included in the analysis. These forces can provide considerable axial loading (as can thermal changes), and hence, stability (buckling) is a major concern. Initial studies are based on the planar problem. A free-vibration analysis is also conducted for small-amplitude oscillations about various deflected equilibrium configurations in terms of natural frequencies and corresponding mode shapes. Energy dissipation and fluid forces are key issues in the forced problem, especially when large deformations are involved. Free vibration information is a vital prerequisite in understanding the response of these types of structures in practice.
Bladder Cancer: Optimal Application of Preclinical Models to Suitable Translational Questions
Authors: Raghavan Derek
Published: March 2010

New diagnostic and therapeutic reagents can be tested in bladder cancer
xenografts, allowing better economy and focus in clinical cancer trials.
DETECTION OF AN EMERGING NEW CLASS USING STATISTICAL HYPOTHESIS TESTING AND DENSITY ESTIMATION
Authors: PARK CHEONG HEE , SHIM HONGSUK
Published: March 2010

Most traditional classifiers implicitly assume that data samples belong to at least one class among predefined several classes. However, all data patterns may not be known at the time of data collection or a new pattern can be emerging over time. In this paper, a new method is presented for monitoring the change in class distribution and detecting an emerging class. First a statistical significance test is designed which can signal for a change in class distribution. When an alarm for new class generation is set on, retrieval of new class members is performed using density estimation and entropy-based thresholding. Our experimental results demonstrate competent performances of the proposed method.
WATERSHED SEGMENTATION WITH AUTOMATIC ALTITUDE SELECTION AND REGION MERGING BASED ON THE MARKOV RANDOM FIELD MODEL
Authors: KUO WEN-FENG , SUN YUNG-NIEN
Published: March 2010

Watershed transformation has proven to be an important tool in image analysis. However, the resulting image of watershed transformation is inevitably over-segmented due to the presence of noise or local irregularities in the input image. In this paper, the use of contour altitude at the immersion stage is proposed. Block gradient information computed from the input gradient image is defined and used to obtain a critical altitude of watershed flooding. This altitude is then refined based on entropy estimated from the intermediate segmentation result. Thereafter, an optimal altitude and its corresponding segmentation result can be obtained. Although this process can favorably reduce the number of regions, the quality of segmentation still requires further improvement. Hence, a Markov Random Field (MRF) model defined on a region adjacency graph (RAG) is adopted. Because the MRF model can merge neighboring regions that are similar in local statistic properties, it thus alleviates the over-segmentation problem and improves the quality of image segmentation. In the experimental studies, the proposed method has been tested using several benchmark images. It achieves improved appearance and energy indices in comparison with the results obtained by conventional methods.
LEARNING DECISION TREES WITH LOG CONDITIONAL LIKELIHOOD
Authors: LIANG HAN , YAN YUHONG , ZHANG HARRY
Published: March 2010

In machine learning and data mining, traditional learning models aim for high classification accuracy. However, accurate class probability prediction is more desirable than classification accuracy in many practical applications, such as medical diagnosis. Although it is known that decision trees can be adapted to be class probability estimators in a variety of approaches, and the resulting models are uniformly called Probability Estimation Trees (PETs), the performances of these PETs in class probability estimation, have not yet been investigated. We begin our research by empirically studying PETs in terms of class probability estimation, measured by Log Conditional Likelihood (LCL). We also compare a PET called C4.4 with other representative models, including Naïve Bayes, Naïve Bayes Tree, Bayesian Network, KNN and SVM, in LCL. From our experiments, we draw several valuable conclusions. First, among various tree-based models, C4.4 is the best in yielding precise class probability prediction measured by LCL. We provide an explanation for this and reveal the nature of LCL. Second, compared with non tree-based models, C4.4 also performs best. Finally, LCL does not dominate another well-established relevant metric — AUC, which suggests that different decision-tree learning models should be used for different objectives. Our experiments are conducted on the basis of 36 UCI sample sets. We run all the models within a machine learning platform — Weka.

We also explore an approach to improve the class probability estimation of Naïve Bayes Tree. We propose a greedy and recursive learning algorithm, where at each step, LCL is used as the scoring function to expand the decision tree. The algorithm uses Naïve Bayes created at leaves to estimate class probabilities of test samples. The whole tree encodes the posterior class probability in its structure. One benefit of improving class probability estimation is that both classification accuracy and AUC can be possibly scaled up. We call the new model LCL Tree (LCLT). Our experiments on 33 UCI sample sets show that LCLT outperforms all state-of-the-art learning models, such as Naïve Bayes Tree, significantly in accurate class probability prediction measured by LCL, as well as in classification accuracy and AUC.
Functional Roles of High-Affinity Glutamate Transporters in Cochlear Afferent Synaptic Transmission in the Mouse
Authors: Chen Zhiqiang , Kujawa Sharon G. , Sewell William F.
Published: March 2010

In the cochlea, afferent transmission between inner hair cells and auditory neurons is mediated by glutamate receptors. Glutamate transporters located near the synapse and in spiral ganglion neurons are thought to maintain low synaptic levels of glutamate. We analyzed three glutamate transporter blockers for their ability to alter the effects of glutamate, exogenously applied to the synapse via perfusion of the scala tympani of the mouse, and compared that action to their ability to alter the effects of intense acoustic stimulation. Threo-beta-benzyloxyaspartate (TBOA) is a broad-spectrum glutamate transporter antagonist, affecting all three transporters [glutamate/aspartate transporter (GLAST), glutamate transporter-1 (GLT1), and excitatory amino acid carrier 1 (EAAC1)]. l-serine- O-sulfate (SOS) blocks both GLAST and EAAC1 without effect on GLT1. Dihydrokainate (DHK) is selective for GLT1. Infusion of glutamate (10 μM for 220 min), TBOA (200 μM for 220 min), or SOS (100 μM for 180 min) alone did not alter auditory neural thresholds. When infused together with glutamate, TBOA and SOS produced significant neural threshold shifts, leaving otoacoustic emissions intact. In addition, both TBOA and SOS exacerbated noise-induced hearing loss by producing larger neural threshold shifts and delaying recovery. DHK did not alter glutamate- or noise-induced hearing loss. The evidence points to a major role for GLAST, both in protecting the synapse from exposure to excess extracellular glutamate and in attenuating hearing loss due to acoustic overstimulation.
Dendritic HCN Channels Shape Excitatory Postsynaptic Potentials at the Inner Hair Cell Afferent Synapse in the Mammalian Cochlea
Authors: Yi Eunyoung , Roux Isabelle , Glowatzki Elisabeth
Published: March 2010

Synaptic transmission at the inner hair cell (IHC) afferent synapse, the first synapse in the auditory pathway, is specialized for rapid and reliable signaling. Here we investigated the properties of a hyperpolarization-activated current ( Ih), expressed in the afferent dendrite of auditory nerve fibers, and its role in shaping postsynaptic activity. We used whole cell patch-clamp recordings from afferent dendrites directly where they contact the IHC in excised postnatal rat cochlear turns. Excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) of variable amplitude (1–35 mV) were found with 10–90% rise times of about 1 ms and time constants of decay of about 5 ms at room temperature. Current–voltage relations recorded in afferent dendrites revealed Ih. The pharmacological profile and reversal potential (−45 mV) indicated that Ih is mediated by hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated cation (HCN) channels. The HCN channel subunits HCN1, HCN2, and HCN4 were found to be expressed in afferent dendrites using immunolabeling. Raising intracellular cAMP levels sped up the activation kinetics, increased the magnitude of Ih and shifted the half activation voltage ( Vhalf) to more positive values (−104 ± 3 to −91 ± 2 mV). Blocking Ih with 50 μM ZD7288 resulted in hyperpolarization of the resting membrane potential (∼4 mV) and slowing the decay of the EPSP by 47%, suggesting that Ih is active at rest and shortens EPSPs, thereby potentially improving rapid and reliable signaling at this first synapse in the auditory pathway.
Retinohypothalamic Tract Synapses in the Rat Suprachiasmatic Nucleus Demonstrate Short-Term Synaptic Plasticity
Authors: Moldavan Mykhaylo G. , Allen Charles N.
Published: March 2010

The master circadian pacemaker located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) is entrained by light intensity–dependent signals transmitted via the retinohypothalamic tract (RHT). Short-term plasticity at glutamatergic RHT–SCN synapses was studied using stimulus frequencies that simulated the firing of light sensitive retinal ganglion cells. The evoked excitatory postsynaptic current (eEPSC) was recorded from SCN neurons located in hypothalamic brain slices. The eEPSC amplitude was stable during 0.08 Hz stimulation and exhibited frequency-dependent short-term synaptic depression (SD) during 0.5 to 100 Hz stimulus trains in 95 of 99 (96%) recorded neurons. During SD the steady-state eEPSC amplitude decreased, whereas the cumulative charge transfer increased in a frequency-dependent manner and saturated at 20 Hz. SD was similar during subjective day and night and decreased with increasing temperature. Paired-pulse stimulation (PPS) and voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel (VDCC) blockers were used to characterize a presynaptic release mechanism. Facilitation was present in 30% and depression in 70% of studied neurons during PPS. Synaptic transmission was reduced by blocking both N- and P/Q-type presynaptic VDCCs, but only the N-type channel blocker significantly relieved SD. Aniracetam inhibited AMPA receptor desensitization but did not alter SD. Thus we concluded that SD is the principal form of short-term plasticity at RHT synapses, which presynaptically and frequency-dependently attenuates light-induced glutamatergic RHT synaptic transmission protecting SCN neurons against excessive excitation.
Pegaptanib Sodium versus Pegaptanib Sodium Combined with Macular Laser Photocoagulation or Laser Alone for Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Querques G. , Bux A. V. , Fusco A. R. , Iaculli C. , Delle Noci N.
Published: March 2010

Purpose. To report the outcomes after primary intravitreal pegaptanib sodium in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME).Methods. We conduced a retrospective analysis of eyes with DME treated with primary intravitreal pegaptanib sodium (Macugen) (intravitreal pegaptanib group). The results were compared with the ones of eyes treated with intravitreal pegaptanib sodium associated with macular laser photocoagulation (combined treatment group), and the ones of eyes treated with primary macular laser photocoagulation (macular laser photocoagulation group).Results. For the intravitreal pegaptanib group (13 eyes), we found significant changes in mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and reductions in mean central macular thickness (CMT) at the last follow-up visit ( and ). For the macular laser photocoagulation group (15 eyes), we found no statistically significant changes in mean BCVA and CMT at the last follow-up visit (). For the combined treatment group (12 eyes), we found no significant changes in mean BCVA at the last follow-up visit () despite significant reductions in mean CMT ().Conclusion. Intravitreal pegaptanib treatment alone may be superior to macular laser photocoagulation alone and to combined intravitreal pegaptanib treatment associated with macular laser photocoagulation in patients with DME.
Preparation, Mechanical, and Thermal Properties of Biodegradable Polyesters/Poly(Lactic Acid) Blends
Authors: Zhao Peng , Liu Wanqiang , Wu Qingsheng , Ren Jie
Published: March 2010

Series of biodegradable polyesters poly(butylene adipate) (PBA), poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), and poly(butylene adipate‐co‐butylene terephthalate) (PBAT) were synthesized successfully by melt polycondensation. The polyesters were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), , differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC), respectively. The blends of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and biodegradable polyester were prepared using a twin screw extruder. PBAT, PBS, or PBA can be homogenously dispersed in PLA matrix at a low content (5–20 wt%), yielding the blends with much higher elongation at break than homo‐PLA. DSC analysis shows that the isothermal and nonisothermal crystallizabilities of PLA component are promoted in the presence of a small amount of PBAT.
Cryptanalysis of a Chaotic Communication Scheme Using Parameter Observer
Authors: Peng Haipeng , Shao Yan , Li Lixiang , Yang Yixian
Published: March 2010

This paper addresses the cryptanalysis of a secure communication scheme proposed by Wu (2006), where the information signal is modulated into a system parameter of a unified chaotic system. It is demonstrated that a parameter observer can be designed to identify the parameter determined by the transmitted information and then the transmitted information can be obtained. Compared with the existing analysis using adaptive observer, the cryptanalysis based on parameter observer is much simpler and needs less structure information of the transmitter system. With numerical simulations, it is shown that the parameter observer has stronger practicality and robustness. Furthermore, it is still possible to obtain the transmitted information, even if the derivative of the transmitted signal is unknown.
Structural Health Monitoring Using High-Frequency Electromechanical Impedance Signatures
Authors: Yan Wei , Chen W. Q.
Published: March 2010

An overview of recent advances in electromechanical impedance- (EMI-) based structural health monitoring is presented in this paper. The basic principle of the EMI method is to use high-frequency excitation to sense the local area of a structure. Changes in impedance indicate changes in the structure, which in turn indicate that damages appear. An accurate EMI model based on the method of reverberation-ray matrix is introduced to correlate changes in the signatures to physical parameters of structures for damage detection. Comparison with other numerical results and experimental data validates the present model. A brief remark of the feasibility of implementing the EMI method is considered and the effects of some physical parameters on EMI technique are also discussed.
Electron-Phonon Interaction in the High- Cuprates in the Framework of the Van Hove Scenario
Authors: Bouvier Jacqueline , Bok Julien
Published: March 2010

Electron-lattice interaction was the original idea of Müller and Berdnorz who chose copper oxides, because of the strong Jahn-Teller effect of the Cu ion leading to the formation of bipolarons. Later several experimental features led to theoretical models based on strong electronic correlations. The high- superconductors cuprates are quasi-bidimensional (2D) and thus lead to the existence of Van Hove singularities (VHs) in the band structure, that is, a peak in the electronic density of states. The presence of VHs near the Fermi-level in the cuprates is now well established. In this context we show that many physical properties of these materials can be explained using electron-phonon interaction, in particular the high critical temperature , the anomalous isotope effect, the superconducting gap and its anisotropy, and the marginal Fermi-liquid properties. These compounds present a topological transition for a critical hole doping hole per plane.
Ovariohysterectomy in the Bitch
Authors: Bencharif Djemil , Amirat Lamia , Garand Annabelle , Tainturier Daniel
Published: March 2010

Ovariohysterectomy is a surgical procedure widely employed in practice by vets. It is indicated in cases of pyometra, uterine tumours, or other pathologies. This procedure should only be undertaken if the bitch is in a fit state to withstand general anaesthesia. However, the procedure is contradicated if the bitch presents a generalised condition with hypothermia, dehydration, and mydriasis. Ovariohysterectomy is generally performed via the linea alba. Per‐vaginal hysterectomy can also be performed in the event of uterine prolapse, if the latter cannot be reduced or if has been traumatised to such an extent that it cannot be replaced safely. Specific and nonspecific complictions can occur as hemorrhage, adherences, urinary incontinence, return to oestrus including repeat surgery. After an ovariectomy, bitches tend to put on weight, it is therefore important to inform the owner and to reduce the daily ration by 10%.
Brandt Extensions and Primitive Topological Inverse Semigroups
Authors: Berezovski Tetyana , Gutik Oleg , Pavlyk Kateryna
Published: March 2010

We study (countably) compact and (absolutely) H‐closed primitive
topological inverse semigroups. We describe the structure of compact and countably compact
primitive topological inverse semigroups and show that any countably compact primitive
topological inverse semigroup embeds into a compact primitive topological inverse semigroup.
Heavy Metal-Induced Oxidative DNA Damage in Earthworms: A Review
Authors: Hirano Takeshi , Tamae Kazuyoshi
Published: March 2010

Earthworms can be used as a bio-indicator of metal contamination in soil, Earlier reports claimed the bioaccumulation of heavy metals in earthworm tissues, while the metal-induced mutagenicity reared in contaminated soils for long duration. But we examined the metal-induced mutagenicity in earthworms reared in metal containing culture beddings. In this experiment we observed the generation of 8-oxoguanine (8-oxo-Gua) in earthworms exposed to cadmium and nickel in soil. 8-oxo-Gua is a major premutagenic form of oxidative DNA damage that induces GC-to-TA point mutations, leading to carcinogenesis.
Charles Darwin's Observations on the Behaviour of Earthworms and the Evolutionary History of a Giant Endemic Species from Germany,Lumbricus badensis(Oligochaeta: Lumbricidae)
Authors: Kutschera U. , Elliott J. M.
Published: March 2010

The British naturalist Charles Darwin (1809–1882) began and ended his almost 45-year-long career with observations, experiments, and theories related to earthworms. About six months before his death, Darwin published his book onThe Formation of Vegetable Mould,through the Actions of Worms,With Observations on their Habits(1881). Here we describe the origin, content, and impact of Darwin's last publication on earthworms (subclass Oligochaeta, family Lumbricidae) and the role of these annelids as global “ecosystem reworkers” (concept of bioturbation). In addition, we summarize our current knowledge on the reproductive behaviour of the common European speciesLumbricus terrestris. In the second part of our account we describe the biology and evolution of the giant endemic speciesL. badensisfrom south western Germany with reference to the principle of niche construction. Biogeographic studies have shown that the last common ancestor ofL. badensis, and the much smaller sister-taxon, the Atlantic-MediterraneanL. friendi, lived less than 10 000 years ago. Allopatric speciation occurred via geographically isolated founder populations that were separated by the river Rhine so that today two earthworm species exist in different areas.
Molecular Mechanisms of Resistance to Tumour Anti-Angiogenic Strategies
Authors: Grépin Renaud , Pagès Gilles
Published: March 2010

Tumour angiogenesis, described by Folkman in the early seventies, is an essential, complex, and dynamic process necessary for the growth of all solid tumours. Among the angiogenic factors secreted by the tumour cells, the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is one of the most important. Most types of human cancer cells express elevated levels of this proangiogenic factor and its receptors. New molecules, called anti-angiogenic, are developed to impair VEGF pathway and tumour vasculature. Despite important results, the clinical benefits of anti-VEGF therapy are relatively modest and usually measured in weeks or months. Why following anti-angiogenic therapy do some patients respond transiently and then why does tumour grow again and disease progress and which compensatory mechanisms could explain the anti-angiogenic treatment failure?
The Possibility of Digital Imaging in the Diagnosis of Occlusal Caries
Authors: Umemori Sachi , Tonami Ken-ichi , Nitta Hiroshi , Mataki Shiro , Araki Kouji
Published: March 2010

The aim of this study was to assess the possibility of digital image analysis of pit-and-fissure discoloration in order to diagnose caries. Digital images showing pit-and-fissure discoloration in 100 teeth of 19 patients were analyzed to obtain the fractal dimension (FD) and the proportion of the area of pit-and-fissure discoloration to the area of occlusal surface (PA). DIAGNOdent values were measured (DD), and dentists' diagnoses were also obtained. The sensitivity and specificity of FD, PA, DD, and the combination of FD and PA compared to the dentists' diagnoses were calculated. The sensitivities of FD, PA, DD, and the combination of FD and PA were 0.89, 0.47, 0.69, and 0.86, respectively, and the specificities were 0.84, 0.95, 0.91, and 0.86, respectively. Although further research is needed for the practical use, it is possible to use the analysis of digital images of pit-and-fissure molar discoloration as a diagnostic tool.
Signal Processing and Sampling Method for Obtaining Time Series Corresponding to Higher Order Derivatives
Authors: Sterian Andreea , Toma Alexandru
Published: March 2010

For modeling and controlling dynamic phenomena it is important to establish with higher
accuracy some significant quantities corresponding to the dynamic system. For fast phenomena, such significant quantities are represented by the derivatives of the received signals. In case of advanced computer modeling, the received signal should be filtered and converted into a time series corresponding to the estimated values for the dynamic system through a sampling procedure. This paper will show that present‐day methods for computing in a robust manner the first derivative of a received signal (using an oscillating system working on a limited time interval and a supplementary differentiation method) can be extended to the robust computation of higher order derivatives of the received signal by using a specific set of second‐order oscillating systems (working also on limited time intervals) so as estimative values for higher‐order derivatives are to be directly generated (avoiding the necessity of additional differentiation or amplifying procedures, which represent a source of supplementary errors in present‐day methods).
Septic Bleeding of the Common Carotid Artery Following Total Thyroidectomy: An Atypical Complication
Authors: Jamaan T. , Raedecke J. , Kayser C. , Rueckauer K. D. , Thomusch O.
Published: March 2010

Septic rupture of the common carotid artery following total thyroidectomy may rapidly lead to exsanguination. We present a case report of a 16-year-old girl, diagnosed with a questionable thyroglossal duct cyst. Following the initial operative intervention with local excision of the cyst including resection of the medial part of the hyoid bone, pathology revealed papillary carcinoma. Thus secondary total thyroidectomy with locoregional lymphadenectomy was performed. One week later, a wound infection developed, necessitating lavage and drainage. On the 8th postoperative day, a dramatic bleeding of the right common carotid artery occurred. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case in the literature with a septic bleeding of the common carotid artery following total thyroidectomy after one week.