bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Women, Nationalism and the Philippine Revolution
Authors: Doran Christine
Published: April 2004

Abstract. Filipino women participated actively in the Philippine Revolution (1896–1902), performing a wide range of tasks essential to sustaining the revolutionary challenge against Spanish and American imperialism. Though largely omitted from mainstream histories of the nationalist revolution, women's involvement has been recorded in several marginalised texts. However, these texts have invariably used a limiting format based on presenting biographies of outstanding women. This article suggests an alternative approach, by situating the history of revolutionary Filipino women within a comparative framework. The article outlines key ideas of feminist writers who have analysed women's participation in nationalist struggles from an international perspective. Drawing on these ideas, some new approaches to women in the Philippine Revolution are suggested.
Good things and Small Packages: Lessons from Canada for the Northern Irish Constitutional Settlement
Authors: Lusztig Michael , Knox Colin
Published: April 2004

Abstract.On 22 May 1998 Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland held successful referenda on the so‐called Good Friday Agreement that provided a proto‐constitutional settlement to the violence that had plagued Ulster for almost thirty years. This article analyses the prospects for a lasting, stable settlement in Northern Ireland. Experience has shown that construction, like reform, of constitutions and constitutional frameworks in deeply divided societies is no mean task. This article draws lessons from Canada's failed Charlottetown Accord (1992) to suggest that two fatal flaws–expanding the agenda to include the demands of multiple groups, and opening the constitutional process to mass legitimisation through use of referenda–can undermine political stability and the prospect of settlement. Canada, a country that like Northern Ireland features a long string of failed constitutional settlements, provides an excellent illustration of the problems involved. As is the case in Northern Ireland, the Canadian constitutional quagmire has grown out of the imperative to reconcile the rights of an entrenched ethno‐national minority with majority rule. In both countries the traditional defining cleavage is ascriptive. In both, centuries of resentment, as well as expectations raised and dashed by constitutional failure, have led to political instability. In Canada, this has meant threats to the integrity of the country itself. In Northern Ireland the consequences have been even more serious.
Critical Nationalism: A Liberal Prescription?
Authors: Buttle Nicholas
Published: April 2004

Abstract. In this article I examine the coherence of ‘liberal nationalism’, namely, the attempt to combine liberal and nationalist ideas. Attempts have been made to marry these ideas because of the belief that nationalism has continuing influence and importance for the achievement of liberal objectives, such as respect for identity, democracy and justice. Two central ideas in liberalism are the idea of self‐respect as a primary good and the idea of critical reflectiveness. A central idea in nationalism is the idea of the importance of the nation as a community. If critically reflective individuals are to possess self‐respect then, I argue, the value of membership of particular national communities needs to be argued for against criticism. By rejecting an appeal to universal principles, however, nationalists are unable to provide a reasoned defence of the importance of particular national communities, and therefore unable to satisfy the liberal commitment to self‐respect resulting from critical reflection on membership of a national community. The particularism of nationalism, indeed, pulls against the universalism of liberalism so that ‘liberal nationalism’ constitutes an incoherent construct.
Ethnic Nationalism and Subaltern Political Process: Exploring Autonomous Democratic Action in Kashmir
Authors: Cockell John G.
Published: April 2004

Abstract. This article argues that the emergence and development of subaltern political process is a significant conflict dynamic found in the escalation of ethnic nationalist movements. These ethnie‐defined modes of political participation are in turn an expression of the autonomous nature of ethnic nationalism, but occur ‘underneath’ and often antecedent to the organised violence and militancy which distracts most analyses of these conflicts. The article discusses this process of insurgent political mobilisation as a response to the structural paralysis of the post‐colonial state, using the ethnic nationalist conflict in Indian Jammu and Kashmir as the central case study. In its discussion of this case, the article seeks to argue that the presence of such subaltern political process provides additional empirical evidence of the autonomous nature of ethnic nationalism, and its capacity to carve out alternative options for democratic action and popular participation.
Janus and Gender: Women and the Nation's Backward Look
Authors: Cusack Tricia
Published: April 2004

Abstract. This article considers how nations are imagined and characterised in relation to the national roles allocated to women, with particular reference to the early Irish state. It examines two related dichotomies, that between ‘civic’ and ‘ethnic’ nationalisms, and the concept of the nation itself as ‘Janus‐faced’, simultaneously looking ahead to the future and back to the past. It has been suggested that women bore the burden of the nation's ‘backward look’ towards a putative traditional rural past and an organic community, while men appropriated the nation's present and future. This thesis is examined with reference to Ireland and the representation of women in visual imagery and travel writing.
The Anti‐Essentialist Choice: Nationalism and Feminism in the Interaction between Two Women's Projects
Authors: Cockburn Cynthia
Published: April 2004

Abstract. Two cross‐national women's organisations, one in Northern Ireland the other in Bosnia‐Herzegovina, are observed here in interaction with each other. The article explores the connection between their ability to sustain such cross‐community alliances and their choice to be women's projects. In so doing, it addresses the question ‘are feminism and nationalism compatible?’ Not all the women are ‘anti‐nationalist’ in philosophy, but they draw distinctions between variants of nationalism, and may be described as ‘anti‐essentialist’. The article distinguishes between variants of ‘feminism’, recognising it, too, as a plurality of movements. An anti‐essentialist understanding of ethnicity and nation is partnered in both the Network and Medica by an anti‐essentialist feminism, in which a woman's family role is minimised and value placed instead on her autonomy and agency. Certain forms of feminism and nationalism are thus compatible – but the configuration may be progressive or retrograde.
Timing of high‐risk vascular surgery following coronary artery bypass surgery: A 10‐year experience from an academic medical centre*
Authors: Breen P. , Lee J.‐W. , Pomposelli F. , Park K. W.
Published: April 2004

Major non‐cardiac surgery within 40 days of coronary angioplasty with stenting has high cardiac complication rates. We have performed a case‐control study to determine whether the risk of vascular surgery might have increased in recent survivors of coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). Using our vascular database from 1990 to 1999, we matched the cases who had vascular surgery within a month of CABG with controls by pre‐operative comorbidities of diabetes mellitus, history of myocardial infarction (MI), history of congestive heart failure (CHF), and chronic renal insufficiency and compared the incidence of peri‐operative MI, CHF, death, and other complications. Compared to case‐matched controls, patients who underwent vascular surgery within a month of CABG suffered significantly greater mortality (20.6% vs. 3.9%, p < 0.005). The incidence of non‐fatal cardiac complications was not significantly different between the groups. We conclude that the risk of mortality may be significantly greater in patients undergoing major vascular surgery within a month of CABG.
The management of patients with ischaemic heart disease undergoing non‐cardiac elective surgery: A survey of Australian and New Zealand clinical practice
Authors: Price D. J. , Kluger M. T. , Fletcher T.
Published: April 2004

Improvements in patient risk stratification and peri‐operative beta‐blockade have been suggested as methods which can reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with known cardiac risk factors. A postal questionnaire was sent to all Australian and New Zealand teaching hospitals to identify patterns of pre‐operative cardiac risk evaluation and methods of peri‐operative beta‐blocker use. In all, 67 replies were evaluated (64% response rate). Specialist anaesthetists are present in the majority of pre‐admission clinics (78%), with a designated peri‐operative physician in 9%. Further cardiological referral was possible in almost all institutions (96%), and specific peri‐operative physician referral in 54%. Waiting times for specialist consultation were < 7 days in the majority of cases. Whilst 79% of institutions used peri‐operative beta‐blockade, specific protocols were available in only 10%. In 60% of institutions, beta‐blockers were administered to high‐risk patients, and in 25% they were given to intermediate risk group patients. There was a wide range in the duration of pre‐ and postoperative beta‐blocker administration. Whilst peri‐operative risk assessment appears to be consistent, the pattern of beta‐blockade, a known beneficial intervention, is variable. Reasons need to be identified, protocols developed and consistent administration targeted for further improvements to be made.
Initial experiences with medicinal extracts of cannabis for chronic pain: Results from 34 ‘N of 1’ studies
Authors: Notcutt William , Price Mario , Miller Roy , Newport Samantha , Phillips Cheryl , Simmons Susan , Sansom Cathy
Published: April 2004

Three Cannabis Based Medicinal Extracts (CBMEs) for sublingual use became available in 2000. A total of 34 ‘N of 1’ studies were undertaken using this novel therapy for patients with chronic, mainly neuropathic, pain and associated symptoms to explore efficacy, tolerability, safety and dosages. Three CBMEs (Δ9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), Cannabidiol (CBD) and a 1 : 1 mixture of them both) were given over a 12‐week period. After an initial open‐label period, the CBMEs were used in a randomised, double‐blind, placebo controlled, crossover trial. Extracts which contained THC proved most effective in symptom control. Regimens for the use of the sublingual spray emerged and a wide range of dosing requirements was observed. Side‐effects were common, reflecting a learning curve for both patient and study team. These were generally acceptable and little different to those seen when other psycho‐active agents are used for chronic pain. These initial experiences with CBME open the way to more detailed and extensive studies.
Tissue factor and tissue factor pathway inhibitor
Authors: Price G. C. , Thompson S. A. , Kam P. C. A.
Published: April 2004

The classical ‘cascade/waterfall’ hypothesis formulated to explain in vitro coagulation organised the amplification processes into the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Recent molecular biology and clinical data indicate that tissue factor/factor‐VII interaction is the primary cellular initiator of coagulation in vivo. The process of blood coagulation is divided into an initiation phase followed by a propagation phase. The discovery of tissue factor pathway inhibitor further supports the revised theory of coagulation. Tissue factor is also a signalling receptor. Recent evidence has shown that blood‐borne tissue factor has an important procoagulant function in sepsis, atherosclerosis and cancer, and other functions beyond haemostasis such as immune function and metastases.
The effect of mechanically‐induced cricoid force on lower oesophageal sphincter pressure in anaesthetised patients
Authors: Garrard A. , Campbell A. E. , Turley A. , Hall J. E.
Published: April 2004

In the United Kingdom, cricoid force is central to upper airway management in obstetric and emergency anaesthesia. A reduction in oesophageal barrier pressure (OBP) in these patients may increase regurgitation risk. This study investigated whether the application of cricoid force to anaesthetised patients reduced lower oesophageal sphincter pressure (LOSP) and consequently OBP. Anaesthesia was induced in 29 patients using a standard protocol. An oesophageal balloon catheter was inserted and gastric trace identified. The catheter was withdrawn incrementally and pressure readings recorded at each position before and during the application of 30 N cricoid force, with a sudden rise in pressure indicating lower oesophageal sphincter position. Oesophageal barrier pressure was calculated as the difference between LOSP and gastric pressure. Application of cricoid force significantly reduced OBP without influencing gastric pressure (p < 0.001). The use of cricoid force may increase the risk of gastroesophageal reflux in anaesthetised patients.
Varying anatomical injection points within the thoracic paravertebral space: effect on spread of solution and nerve blockade
Authors: Naja M. Z. , Ziade M. F. , Rajab M. El , Tayara K. El , Lönnqvist P. A.
Published: April 2004

The factors responsible for the spreading pattern of a single paravertebral injection are still uncertain. In this study, 28 patients were randomly assigned to receive a paravertebral injection of radio‐opaque dye (10 ml, with or without co‐administration of 20 ml of local anaesthetics) either dorsal or ventral to the endothoracic fascia. The point of injection was determined by use of a nerve‐stimulator and the radiographic distribution pattern was assessed blindly by a radiologist. Injections made in the more ventral part of the thoracic paravertebral space, supposedly anterior to the endothoracic fascia, resulted in a multisegmental longitudinal spreading pattern, whereas injections made dorsal to the endothoracic fascia resulted in a less predictable cloud‐like spreading pattern, with only limited distribution over adjacent segments. The use of a nerve stimulator‐guided technique appears to enhance the likelihood of achieving the more desirable longitudinal spreading pattern.
Assigning macroinvertebrate tolerance classifications using generalised additive models
Authors: Yuan Lester L.
Published: April 2004

1. Macroinvertebrates are frequently classified in terms of their tolerance to human disturbance and pollution. These tolerance values have been used effectively to assess the biological condition of running waters.

2. Generalised additive models were used to associate the presence and absence of different macroinvertebrate genera with different environmental gradients. The model results were then used to classify each genera as sensitive, intermediately tolerant or tolerant to different stressor gradients as quantified by total phosphorus concentration, sulphate ion concentration, qualitative habitat score and stream pH. The analytical approach provided a means of estimating stressor‐specific tolerance classifications while controlling for covarying, natural environmental gradients.

3. Computed tolerance classification generally conformed with expectations and provided some capacity for distinguishing between different stressors in test data.
δ15N of zooplankton species in subarctic lakes in northern Sweden: effects of diet and trophic fractionation
Authors: Karlsson J. , Jonsson A. , Meili M. , Jansson M.
Published: April 2004

1. To assess the use of stable nitrogen isotopes (δ15N) for reconstructing trophic relationships in planktonic food webs, crustacean zooplankton species and pelagic dissolved and particulate matter were analysed in 14 subarctic lakes in northern Sweden. The lakes are situated along an altitudinal gradient and show a substantial variation in nutrient content and energy mobilization by bacterioplankton and phytoplankton.

2. The δ15N of dissolved and particulate matter was comparatively low, suggesting efficient N recycling and low losses of depleted N from the pelagic zone of these unproductive lakes.

3. Copepods had a systematically higher δ15N than cladocerans, with an average difference of 3.1–4.9‰ within lakes, implying different trophic positions of the two groups. Comparisons of nitrogen pools and energy fluxes suggest that the low cladoceran δ15N was a result of feeding on bacteria.

4. The difference in δ15N between copepods and cladocerans declined with decreasing bacterioplankton production among lakes, due either to increasing trophic isotope fractionation or decreasing relative importance of bacteria in the diet of cladocerans.
Incorporation of marine‐derived nutrients from petrel breeding colonies into stream food webs
Authors: Harding Jon S. , Hawke David J. , Holdaway Richard N. , Winterbourn Michael J.
Published: April 2004

1. Stable isotope ratios of aquatic invertebrates, aquatic mosses and leaves of riparian plants were used to determine whether marine‐derived nutrients from breeding colonies of the Westland petrel (Procellaria westlandica) were incorporated into the food webs of small streams in New Zealand.

2. The δ15N signatures of all plants and animals examined were higher by 3.6–4.6‰ in small streams draining catchments with petrel colonies than in nearby streams where petrels were absent. δ13C values of leaves from terrestrial plants were also enriched by about 2‰ where petrels were present, but the carbon ratios of aquatic species were depleted in 13C, rather than enriched, suggesting that any marine signal was over‐ridden by isotopic shifts related to photosynthetic fractionation.

3. A high marine‐nitrogen signal was maintained along the 3 km length of Scotchman Creek with the δ15N values of leptophlebiid mayflies and predatory insects ranging from 7.4–9.5 and 9.2–11.9‰, respectively.

4. Most nutrients derived from petrels are likely to be translocated to streams via the soil, which they enter in the form of excreta, spilled food, feathers, dead chicks, and abandoned eggs. However, because changes in δ15N values are brought about by soil processes such as volatilisation of ammonia, nitrification and denitrification, it is difficult to predict the exact isotope signature of nitrogen entering a stream. Tentative estimates of the proportion of marine‐derived nitrogen in stream biota, calculated using a mass‐balance approach, ranged from 28–38%.

5. Our findings indicate that marine nutrients transported inland by seabirds can be incorporated into the food webs of streams. In pre‐human times when there were many more seabird colonies on mainland New Zealand than exist today, marine‐derived nutrients introduced by birds may have had significant effects on nitrogen cycling and the productivity of New Zealand streams.
Analysis of planktonic community structure and trophic interactions using refined isotopic signatures determined by combining fluorescence‐activated cell sorting and isotope‐ratio mass spectrometry
Authors: Pel Roel , Floris Virgilio , Hoogveld Hans
Published: April 2004

1. Thermally assisted hydrolysis and methylation of cellular lipids, by means of Curie‐point pyrolysis of intact whole cells in the presence of a quaternary ammonium hydroxide reagent, provided analytical access (pyrolysis‐gas chromatography; Py‐GC) to the very small amounts of algal carbon delivered by fluorescence‐activated cell sorting. Based on differences in pigment composition, population‐specific in situ fatty acid profiles could be obtained of the major taxa present in the phytoplankton of Lake Loosdrecht (The Netherlands).

2. By combining Py‐GC and compound‐specific isotope‐ratio mass spectrometry (Py‐GC‐IRMS) the in situ carbon isotopic signatures could be established of the fatty acid profiles retrieved by flow cytometry. Colonial phytoplankton not amenable to cell sorting and zooplankton specimens were also isotopically characterised with this technique by subjecting handpicked samples to pyrolytic methylation. In this way proxies could be obtained in great detail for isotopic end‐members delineating important carbon sources and sinks in the pelagic food web of Lake Loosdrecht.

3. These analyses suggested a significant isotopic heterogeneity among major representatives of the phytoplankton in Lake Loosdrecht. This heterogeneity was also reflected in the isotopic composition of the zooplankton, implying the occurrence of preferential grazing. A differential labelling of the phytoplankton using 13C‐CO2 in a laboratory confinement, and subsequent monitoring of label transfer to the zooplankton, corroborated selective feeding in some rotifer species. The large‐bodied rotifer Asplanchna, previously thought to be predaceous, apparently mainly fed on algae rather than small rotifers, whereas Euchlanis dilatata actively selected filamentous cyanobacteria. Flow cytometric cell sorting in concert with Py‐GC‐IRMS offers new possibilities in carbon isotope‐based food web studies.
Variation in responses to spawning Pacific salmon among three south‐eastern Alaska streams
Authors: Chaloner D. T. , Lamberti G. A. , Merritt R. W. , Mitchell N. L. , Ostrom P. H. , Wipfli M. S.
Published: April 2004

1. Pacific salmon are thought to stimulate the productivity of the fresh waters in which they spawn by fertilising them with marine‐derived nutrients (MDN). We compared the influence of salmon spawners on surface streamwater chemistry and benthic biota among three south‐eastern Alaska streams. Within each stream, reaches up‐ and downstream of barriers to salmon migration were sampled during or soon after spawners entered the streams.

2. Within streams, concentrations of dissolved ammonium and soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP), abundance of epilithon (chlorophyll a and ash‐free dry mass) and biomass of chironomids were significantly higher in reaches with salmon spawners. In contrast, biomass of the mayflies Epeorus spp. and Rhithrogena spp. was significantly higher in reaches lacking spawners.

3. Among streams, significant differences were found in concentrations of dissolved ammonium, dissolved organic carbon, nitrate and SRP, abundance of epilithon, and the biomass of chironomids and Rhithrogena. These differences did not appear to reflect differences among streams in spawner density, nor the changes in water chemistry resulting from salmon spawners.

4. Our results suggest that the ‘enrichment’ effect of salmon spawners (e.g. increased streamwater nutrient concentrations) was balanced by other concurrent effects of spawners on streams (e.g. sediment disturbance). Furthermore, the collective effect of spawners on lotic ecosystems is likely to be constrained by conditions unique to individual streams, such as temperature, background water chemistry and light attenuation.
Adoptive transfer of dendritic cells from allergic mice induces specific immunoglobulin E antibody in naïve recipients in absence of antigen challenge without altering the T helper 1/T helper 2 balance
Authors: Chambers Stephen J. , Bertelli Eugenio , Winterbone Mark S. , Regoli Mari , Man Angela L. , Nicoletti Claudio
Published: April 2004

Dendritic cells (DCs) are important in the regulation of immune responses and it has been proposed that these cells play an important role in asthma; however, their role in food allergy is still largely unknown. Our aim was to study specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) responses in naïve recipients following adoptive transfer of myeloid DCs from allergic and control mice. The phenotypic features and lymphokine production of DCs were also investigated. CD11c+/hi B220− DCs isolated from spleen and Peyer's patches (PP) of cow's milk (CM) allergic and control mice were transferred intravenously (i.v.) into naïve syngeneic recipients, and IgE‐ and IgG‐specific responses were evaluated. Experiments were also carried out to determine the levels of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) and interleukin (IL)‐4 produced by splenocytes from naïve recipients following the adoptive transfer, and CD40 ligand (CD40L)‐mediated IL‐10 production by DCs from allergic and control mice. DCs isolated from spleen and PP of allergic mice, but not control groups, induced CM‐specific IgG and IgE antibody production in naïve recipients in the absence of previous immunization, but did not modify the T helper 1 (Th1) and T helper 2 (Th2) balance. Furthermore, although no difference was observed in the expression of canonical DC surface markers, PP DCs from allergic mice produced less IL‐10 than DCs from controls. We interpret these data as showing that DCs play a pivotal role in allergen‐specific IgE responses and that a Th2‐skewed response may not be involved in the early phase of allergic responses. The identification of the mechanisms underlying these events may help to design novel strategies of therapeutic intervention in food allergy.
Inhibition of Fas‐mediated apoptotic cell death of murine T lymphocytes in a mouse model of immunosenescence in linkage to deterioration in cell membrane raft function
Authors: Yokoyama Toshihiro , Du Jun , Kawamoto Yoshiyuki , Suzuki Haruhiko , Nakashima Izumi
Published: April 2004

We previously developed a transgenic mouse line into which a rabbit protein kinase Cα (PKCα) gene fused to a human CD2 promoter/enhancer was introduced, and we found that immunosenescence was facilitated in these transgenic mice. In this study, we found that along with age‐dependent increase in the level of protein expression of PKCα and its translocation to the membrane, activated T cells became less sensitive to apoptosis‐inducing anti‐Fas antibody. The capacity of T cells to express Fas antigen on their surfaces in response to anti‐CD3 and interleukin‐2 was impaired in PKCα‐transgenic mice of relatively advanced age, although background Fas expression levels on T cells from those mice were high. We then found that out of proportion to a high level of cell surface Fas expression the density of cholera toxin B (CTx)‐binding raft elements decreased in PKCα‐transgenic mice of relatively advanced age and to a lesser extent in normal mice of advanced age. Correspondingly, the expression level of raft‐associating Lck was decreased in these mice. These findings suggest for the first time that immunosenescence of T cells involves a decrease in density of cell surface CTx‐binding raft elements, which might underlie a deterioration in T‐cell signal pathway for either cell death or cell activation.
Conventional protein kinase C and atypical protein kinase Cζ differentially regulate macrophage production of tumour necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐10
Authors: Foey Andrew D. , Brennan Fionula M.
Published: April 2004

In chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, joint macrophages/monocytes are the major source of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines. Little is understood regarding the signalling pathways which determine the production of the pro‐inflammatory cytokine, tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and the anti‐inflammatory cytokine, interleukin‐10 (IL‐10). Two pathways integral to macrophage function are the protein kinase C (PKC)‐ and the cAMP‐dependent pathways. In this report, we have investigated the involvement of PKC and cAMP in the production of TNF‐α and IL‐10 by peripheral blood monocyte‐derived macrophages. The utilization of the PKC inhibitors Go6983, Go6976 and RO‐32‐0432 demonstrated a role for conventional PKCs (α and β) in the production of TNF‐α in response to stimulation by lipopolysaccharide and phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA)/ionomycin. PKC stimulation resulted in the downstream activation of the p42/44 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway which differentially regulates TNF‐α and IL‐10. The addition of cAMP however, suppressed activation of this MAPK and TNF‐α production. Cyclic‐AMP augmented IL‐10 production and cAMP response element binding protein activation upon stimulation by PMA/ionomycin. In addition, cAMP activated PKCζ; inhibition of which, by a dominant negative adenovirus construct, selectively suppressed IL‐10 production. These observations suggest that pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokines are differentially regulated by PKC isoforms; TNF‐α being dependent on conventional PKCs (α and β) whereas IL‐10 is regulated by the cAMP‐regulated atypical PKCζ.
Pharmacokinetics of combined intraperitoneal and incisional lidocaine in the dog following ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Wilson D. V. , Barnes K. S. , Hauptman J. G.
Published: April 2004

Topical application of local anesthetics provides safe analgesia following abdominal surgery in people. Conservative doses have been utilized to avoid toxicity. Toxic effects are proportional to amount of drug administered and the plasma concentration of the drug, allowing predictions of safety following pharmacokinetic studies. The maximum plasma level, the pharmacokinetics and the safety of lidocaine hydrochloride when administered by the combined intraperitoneal (8 mg/kg i.p. with epinephrine 1:400 000) and incisional (2 mg/kg with epinephrine 1:200 000) routes were studied in six mixed breed dogs following ovariohysterectomy. Rapid uptake of lidocaine produced a peak concentration of 1.45 ± 0.36 μg/mL (mean ± SD, range 0.80–1.86 μg/mL) by 0.37 ± 0.26 h (range 0.11–0.81) after administration. The absorption half‐life was 0.13 ± 0.1 h. Plasma concentrations decreased rapidly and the elimination half‐life was 1.17 ± 0.11 h. No signs of toxicity were observed in these dogs in the 18 h following drug administration. The dose studied generated levels of lidocaine well below toxic.
Pharmacokinetics and disposition of clenbuterol in the horse
Authors: Soma L. R. , Uboh C. E. , Guan F. , Moate P. , Luo Y. , Teleis D. , Li R. , Birks E. K. , Rudy J. A. , Tsang D. S.
Published: April 2004

The pharmacokinetics of clenbuterol (CLB) following a single intravenous (i.v.) and oral (p.o.) administration twice daily for 7 days were investigated in thoroughbred horses. The plasma concentrations of CLB following i.v. administration declined mono‐exponentially with a median elimination half‐life (t1/2k) of 9.2 h, area under the time–concentration curve (AUC) of 12.4 ng·h/mL, and a zero‐time concentration of 1.04 ng/mL. Volume of distribution (Vd) was 1616.0 mL/kg and plasma clearance (Cl) was 120.0 mL/h/kg. The terminal portion of the plasma curve following multiple p.o. administrations also declined mono‐exponentially with a median elimination half‐life (t1/2k) of 12.9 h, a Cl of 94.0 mL/h/kg and Vd of 1574.7 mL/kg. Following the last p.o. administration the baseline plasma concentration was 537.5 ± 268.4 and increased to 1302.6 ± 925.0 pg/mL at 0.25 h, and declined to 18.9 ± 7.4 pg/mL at 96 h. CLB was still quantifiable in urine at 288 h following the last administration (210.0 ± 110 pg/mL). The difference between plasma and urinary concentrations of CLB was 100‐fold irrespective of the route of administration. This 100‐fold urine/plasma difference should be considered when the presence of CLB in urine is reported by equine forensic laboratories.
The effects of fenbendazole, flubendazole and mebendazole on activities of hepatic cytochromes P450 in pig
Authors: Baliharová V. , Velík J. , Šavlík M. , Szotáková B. , Lamka J. , Tahotná L. , Skálová L.
Published: April 2004

Fenbendazole (FBZ), flubendazole (FLBZ) and mebendazole (MBZ) are benzimidazole anthelmintics widely used in veterinary medicine. The effects of these drugs on cytochromes P450 (CYP) were investigated in primary cultures of swine (Sus scrofa f. domestica) hepatocytes. After 48‐h incubation of hepatocytes with benzimidazoles (0.1–2.5 μm), ethoxyresorufin O‐deethylation (EROD), benzoxyresorufin O‐dearylation (BROD), testosterone hydroxylase (6β‐TOH) and testosterone oxidase (17‐TO) activities were measured and the CYP1A and 3A protein levels were determined by Western blotting. FBZ produced a significant, concentration‐dependent increase of CYP1A activity (EROD) and protein level. No enhancement of CYP1A was observed after exposure to FLBZ and MBZ. All benzimidazoles tested did not cause any induction of CYP3A (BROD, 6β‐TOH, 17‐TO activities and protein content). On the other hand, MBZ produced a significant, concentration‐dependent decrease of CYP3A (BROD, 6β‐TOH and 17‐TO) activities. Pharmacological and toxicological consequences of CYP1A induction and CYP3A inhibition should be taken into account in treatment of pigs with FBZ and MBZ.
Neurons in the corpus callosum of the cat during postnatal development
Authors: Riederer Beat M. , Berbel Pere , Innocenti Giorgio M.
Published: April 2004

The corpus callosum (CC) is a major telencephalic commissure containing mainly cortico‐cortical axons and glial cells. We have identified neurons in the CC of the cat and quantified their number at different postnatal ages. An antibody against microtubule‐associated protein 2 was used as a marker of neurons. Immunocytochemical double‐labelling with neuron‐specific enolase or γ‐aminobutyric acid antibodies in the absence of glial fibrillary acidic protein positivity confirmed the neuronal phenotype of these cells. CC neurons were also stained with anti‐calbindin and anti‐calretinin antibodies, typical for interneurons, and with an anti‐neurofilament antibody, which in neocortex detects pyramidal neurons. Together, these findings suggest that the CC contains a mixed population of neuronal types. The quantification was corrected for double counting of adjacent sections and volume changes during CC development. Our data show that CC neurons are numerous early postnatally, and their number decreases with age. At birth, about 570 neurons are found within the CC boundaries and their number drops to about 200 in the adult. The distribution of the neurons within the CC also changes in development. Initially, many neurons are found throughout the CC, while at later ages they become restricted to the boundaries of the CC, and in the adult to the rostrum of the CC close to the septum pellucidum or to the indusium griseum. Although origin and function of transient CC neurons in development and in adulthood remain unknown, they are likely to be interstitial neurons. Some of them have well‐developed and differentiated processes and resemble pyramidal cells or interneurons. An axon‐guiding function during the early postnatal period can not be excluded.
Expectation of caffeine induces dopaminergic responses in humans
Authors: Kaasinen Valtteri , Aalto Sargo , Någren Kjell , Rinne Juha O.
Published: April 2004

Recent neuroimaging studies indicate that placebo treatments can induce clinically relevant neurobiological responses in patients with Parkinson's disease, depression and pain. The present study aimed to investigate neurotransmitter function in psychostimulant expectation, with the focus on dopaminergic effects of placebo caffeine in healthy human subjects. Eight habitual coffee drinkers were examined twice with [11C]raclopride positron emission tomography after no treatment and after oral placebo tablets in a counter‐balanced setting. During the placebo condition the subjects were instructed that they had a 50% chance of receiving caffeine, but all received placebo. As compared with no treatment, placebo induced a significant bilateral dopamine release in the thalamus, as reflected by a 15% reduction in thalamic [11C]raclopride binding (P < 0.001). The level of arousal after placebo correlated positively with the tracer binding in the putamen (r = −0.91, P = 0.004). The results indicate that caffeine expectation induces dopaminergic placebo effects, and that these effects are similar to previous findings with oral caffeine. The results therefore suggest that caffeine and placebo caffeine may share some dopaminergic mechanisms of action.
Optic nerve head morphology of the Eastern gray squirrel, Sciurus carolinensis
Authors: Kuester Lindsay A. , Komáromy András M. , Brooks Dennis E. , Lewis Patricia A. , Bennett Fred , Chisholm Mae
Published: April 2004

The objective of this study was to characterize the morphology of the Eastern gray squirrel optic nerve head, using histochemical techniques and scanning electron microscopy, in order to make comparisons with other mammalian species. Eyes of three Eastern gray squirrels were enucleated, fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin, and embedded in paraffin. Sections through the optic nerve head were made in the three different planes, and staining was accomplished with hematoxylin and eosin and Gomori's trichrome stain. Stained sections were examined using light microscopy. The surface of the optic nerve head and the peripapillary retina were evaluated using field emission scanning electron microscopy. The anterior optic nerve head of the Eastern gray squirrel was found to be horizontally elongated and tapers to a more conventional round shape after it exits the eye. Retinal nerve fiber axons converge on the optic nerve head from all directions. Anterior to the lamina cribrosa, the mean (± SD) optic nerve axon bundle diameter was 27 ± 11 µm. The lamina cribrosa measured 363 µm dorsal to ventral and 3.60 mm nasal to temporal. The thickness of the lamina was 125 µm anterior to posterior with a mean (± SD) laminar pore size of 45 ± 12 µm. The optic nerve head measured 3.65 mm nasal to temporal and 330 µm dorsal to ventral. Trichrome staining indicated the presence of collagen in the lamina cribrosa. This is the first detailed description of the squirrel optic nerve head. It has an unusual shape among mammals with a dramatic horizontal elongation. The purpose of this shape is not apparent. The presence of collagen in the scleral lamina cribrosa indicates a similar extracellular matrix composition as in other species.
Early retinopathy in the Bernese Mountain Dog in France: preliminary observations
Authors: Chaudieu G. , Molon‐Noblot S.
Published: April 2004

The objective of the study was to describe a form of early retinopathy in the Bernese Mountain Dog in France. Sixty‐two Bernese Mountain Dogs (38 males and 24 females), whose ages ranged from 2 months to 9 years, were examined over a period of 3 years. Visual behavior, pupillary light reflexes, menace responses and ocular fundi were evaluated in all animals. Electroretinography (ERG) was performed on six of the affected dogs after dark adaptation. Fluorescein angiography (FA) was performed on one affected dog. Whenever possible, the pedigrees of the affected dogs were evaluated. A histological examination of the retina was performed on one of the affected dogs. Eight dogs (seven males and one female) were diagnosed with retinopathy with an early onset of clinical signs. (Four dogs were aged between 3 months and 1 year, two dogs were aged 2 and 3.5 years, and one dog was 7 years old.) Night vision was impaired in most of the dogs. Retinopathy was characterized ophthalmoscopically by a bilateral, symmetrical horizontal zone of tapetal hyper‐reflectivity adjacent to and above the optic disc, and sometimes by peri‐papillary hyper‐reflectivity. ERG changes included a reduction in b‐wave amplitude varying from one case to another. Fluoroscein angiography demonstrated an ischemic‐type alteration with epitheliopathy opposite the hyper‐reflective zone. Pedigree examinations suggested a familial predisposition. The histological examination indicated photoreceptor degeneration that was more pronounced in the central tapetal zone. In France, retinopathy in the Bernese Mountain Dog involves an early retinal degeneration that produces specific manifestations of the ocular fundus, night visual impairment or blindness, and has familial transmission.
Comparing the photopic ERG i‐wave in different species
Authors: Rosolen Serge G. , Rigaudière Florence , LeGargasson Jean‐François , Chalier Catherine , Rufiange Marianne , Racine Julie , Joly Sandrine , Lachapelle Pierre
Published: April 2004

The i‐wave, a post b‐wave component of the human photopic electroretinogram (ERG), is claimed to originate at the level of the retinal ganglion cells (RGC) or more distally. We investigated whether this wave is a feature common to all species. Photopic ERGs were obtained from the following species: Beagle dog, European cat, New Zealand white rabbit, Göttingen minipig, Cynomolgus monkey, Sprague–Dawley and brown Norway rats, Hartley guinea pig, and CD1 and C57BL6 mice. Results were compared with those obtained from normal human subjects. Except for rats and mice, all species yielded a well‐demarcated i‐wave, easily identifiable and separated from the a–b‐wave complex by ≈ 20 ms. Our sample suggests that the i‐wave is a feature common to the photopic ERG of most species including humans. In view of its suggested origin, the i‐wave would offer a unique opportunity to test, with the flash ERG, the functional integrity of the retinal ganglion cells in animals where use of a pattern stimulus is not always easily obtained.
Uveodermatologic syndrome in a Brazilian Fila dog
Authors: Laus José L. , Sousa Marlos G. , Cabral Vânia P. , Mamede Fabrício V. , Tinucci‐Costa Mirela
Published: April 2004

A 5‐year‐old Brazilian Fila dog was presented with a history of vision loss, alopecia, and generalized depigmentation of the skin and hair. Clinical examination confirmed generalized depigmentation and pyodermitis. On ophthalmic examination there was depigmentation at the eyelid mucocutaneous junction, associated with anterior uveitis, and bilateral posterior synechia at 360°. Both the complete blood count and skin scraping were normal. Skin biopsy showed histiocytary lichenoid interface dermatitis with an absence of pigment within the queratinocytes, and a moderate lymphomononuclear infiltrate and predominance of histiocytes in the papilar derma suggestive of uveodermatologic syndrome. Clinical management consisted of oral and topical administration of prednisone, associated with 1% indometacine eye drops. Methylprednisone was also used twice via the subconjunctival route, at an interval of 15 days. To prevent the development of secondary glaucoma due to posterior synechiae, dorzolamide and timolol eye drops were indicated. Both dermatologic and ophthalmic signs showed good improvement, vision was preserved, and some repigmentation of the skin and hair occurred.
Morphometric analysis of the corneal endothelium of Yacare caiman (Caiman yacare) using scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Pigatto João A. T. , Andrade Marcos C. , Laus José Luiz , Santos Jaime M. , Brooks Dennis E. , Guedes Pedro M. , Barros Paulo S. M.
Published: April 2004

The objective of this study was to examine the endothelial surface morphology and to perform morphometric analysis of the corneal endothelial cells of Yacare caiman (Caiman yacare) using scanning electron microscopy. Morphometric analysis with regard to polygonality, mean cell area, cell density and coefficient of variation of mean cell area was performed. Cell areas were measured using image analysis software. The normal corneal endothelium of Yacare caiman consisted of polygonal cells of uniform size and shape with interdigitations of the cell borders. Microvilli appeared as protrusions on the cellular surface. The average cell area was 270 ± 24 µm2 and the endothelial cell density was 3704 ± 324 cells/mm2. The coefficient of variation of cell area was 0.22. This study demonstrates that the Yacare caiman corneal endothelium is similar to those described in other vertebrates.
Smoking is associated with reduced serum levels of the antioxidant enzyme, paraoxonase, in Type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Boemi M. , Sirolla C. , Testa R. , Cenerelli S. , Fumelli P. , James R. W.
Published: April 2004

Aims  To analyse the association of smoking with paraoxonase (PON1) in Type 2 diabetic patients.

Methods  Type 2 diabetic patients were recruited independently in two centres (Ancona, Italy and Geneva, Switzerland) and serum PON1 mass and activities were assayed. Current smoking status was established and its association with serum PON1 analysed.

Results  Type 2 diabetic patients who smoked had significantly lower serum PON1 mass and activity. This was evident in both groups of patients, even though Swiss patients were composed of coronary patients. Multivariate analyses established that smoking was an independent determinant of serum PON1 status.

Conclusions  Smoking is associated with reduced serum levels of the antioxidant enzyme, PON1, even against an already unfavourable background of diabetes and coronary disease. It suggests that a combination of smoking and diabetes may be particularly deleterious for PON1 and consequently for the anti‐oxidant capacity of high‐density lipoproteins.
A double‐blind study comparing 0.5% and 1% tropicamide for annual retinal screening in diabetic adolescents
Authors: Hassler‐Hurst J. , Wadham C. , Rayman G.
Published: April 2004

Aims  To determine whether there is any difference between 0.5% and 1% tropicamide in ocular discomfort and mydriatic efficacy in adolescents with Type 1 diabetes.

Methods  In a double‐blind study, one drop of 0.5% tropicamide was instilled in one eye and one drop of 1% instilled in the other eye of 30 subjects aged 12–18 years. Drop strengths were randomized. Pupil size was measured before instillation, at 10, 20 and 30 min. Discomfort was measured using a recognized pain scale.

Results  Irrespective of the concentration of tropicamide used, all pupils dilated to at least 6 mm at 30 min, sufficient for successful ophthalmoscopy. Pain was significantly less when the lower concentration of tropicamide was used; pain score for the 0.5% group [median (interquartile range)] 1.0 (0–2) and 2.0 (1–3) for the 1.0% group, P = 0.009 (Wilcoxon rank test).

Conclusions  This minor change in practice significantly reduces the distress associated with drop instillation without compromising the clinical examination, and may thus be important in encouraging compliance at the yearly diabetic review.

Diabet. Med. (2004)
Alanine infusion during hypoglycaemia partly supports cognitive performance in healthy human subjects
Authors: Evans M. L. , Hopkins D. , Macdonald I. A. , Amiel S. A.
Published: April 2004

Aim To investigate the potential for the non‐glucose metabolic substrate alanine to support brain function during glucose deprivation in man.

Methods Seven healthy men were studied on two occasions using a hyperinsulinaemic glucose clamp to lower arterialized plasma glucose to 2.5 mmol/l, in the presence of either 2 mmol/kg/h alanine infusion or saline, measuring counter‐regulatory hormonal responses, symptoms generated and cognitive function with a mini‐battery of tests sensitive to hypoglycaemia.

Results Alanine infusion elevated plasma alanine (peak value 1481 ± 1260 vs. 138 ± 32 µmol/l,P = 0.02 alanine vs. saline) and lactate (peak value 3.09 ± 0.14 vs. 2.05 ± 0.12 mmol/l,P = 0.02). Cognitive function assessed by the Stroop word and colour subtests deteriorated less with alanine than saline (P < 0.01 for both). Other cognitive function tests deteriorated equally and counter‐regulatory hormones rose equally during hypoglycaemia in both studies (P > 0.34) except for increased glucagon with alanine (peak 260 ± 53 vs. 91 + 8 ng/l,P = 0.03). There was no significant effect of alanine on either autonomic or neuroglycopenic symptom scores.

Conclusions Some, but not all, aspects of cognitive performance may be supported by an alanine infusion during hypoglycaemia. It is not clear whether alanine supports brain function directly or via increased availability of lactate. These data contribute to the growing evidence that regional metabolic differences exist in the brain's ability to use non‐glucose fuels during hypoglycaemia.

Diabet. Med. (2004)