bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intima‐Media Thickness of Common Carotid and Brachial Arteries and Prothrombin Fragment 1 + 2 Are Associated with Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction in Patients with Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Henareh Loghman , Camilla Jedefors , Jogestrand Tomas , Brodin Lars‐Åke , Agewall Stefan
Published: April 2010

Aims: To investigate the association between intima‐media thickness of brachial and common carotid arteries and factors of the coagulation‐ and fibrinolysis‐system with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with a previous myocardial infarction. Patients and methods: One hundred and twenty three patients, men (76%) and women (24%) aged between 32and 81 years with a history of previous acute myocardial infarction were included. B‐mode ultrasound of common carotid and brachial arteries and echocardiography with tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) were evaluated. Factors of the coagulation‐ and fibrinolysis‐system were also measured. Results: In patients with previous myocardial infarction, late diastolic filling time was significantly and positively associated with log Prothrombin fragment 1 + 2 (P < 0.001) and with calculated intima‐media area (cIMa) of the both common carotid and brachial arteries (P < 0.05). Mitral early‐to‐late flow velocity ratio (E/A) was significantly and negatively associated with log Prothrombin fragment 1 + 2 (P < 0.001), total cholesterol and cIMa of the both common carotid and brachial arteries (P < 0.05). Moreover both late diastolic filling time and mitral E/A correlated significantly with age and systolic blood pressure. In stepwise multiple regression analysis, log Prothrombin fragment 1 + 2 remained the only variable with independent significant correlation to late diastolic filling time and mitral E/A. Conclusions: In a population sample of patients with myocardial infarction, late diastolic filling time and mitral E/A were associated with cIMa of common carotid and brachial arteries, systolic blood pressure, and prothrombin fragment 1 + 2, suggesting a relationship between diastolic dysfunction, thrombin generation and atherosclerosis. (Echocardiography 2010;27:651‐658)
Aortic Valve Sclerosis in Patients with Peripheral and/or Coronary Arterial Disease
Authors: Losi Maria‐Angela , Brevetti Gregorio , Schiano Vittorio , Barbati Giovanni , Parisi Valentina , Contaldi Carla , Chiacchio Elena , Cavallaro Massimo , Carpinella Gerardo , Fundaliotis Angelica , Parrella Lucia‐Serena , Betocchi Sandro , Brevetti Linda , Chiariello Massimo
Published: April 2010

Background: Aortic valve sclerosis (AVS) is a marker of cardiovascular risk; its prevalence increases in elderly and in patients with hypertension and/or coronary arterial disease (CAD). There are no data available in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and with both CAD and PAD. Methods: To investigate the presence of AVS, 57 patients with stable CAD, 38 with PAD, and 62 with CAD + PAD where studied by echocardiography. Results: The prevalence of AVS progressively increased within groups (P = 0.005). The prevalence of AVS in PAD doubled that in CAD group (42.1% vs. 22.8%, P < 0.05). PAD patients had a 4.634 (95% CI: 1.02–17.88; P = 0.026) fold increased risk of AVS compared to CAD. Also CAD + PAD group had a higher prevalence of aortic sclerosis when compared to CAD group (50.8% vs. 22.8%, P = 0.001). CAD + PAD showed a 3.799 (95% CI: 1.26–11.45; P < 0 .01) fold greater risk of aortic sclerosis than CAD group. There were no differences in AVS prevalence between CAD + PAD and PAD group (50.8% vs. 42.1%; P = 0.36). Age was related to AVS in both analysis (PAD vs. CAD and CAD + PAD vs. CAD: OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.02–1.16, P = 0.011 and OR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.07–1.21; P < 0.001) but no classical cardiovascular risk factors. Conclusions: PAD patients have an elevated prevalence of AVS greater than CAD patients. In patients with both disease, the prevalence of AVS is similar to that of patients with PAD alone. (Echocardiography 2010;27:608‐612)
“Supranormal” Cardiac Function in Athletes Related to Better Arterial and Endothelial Function
Authors: Florescu Maria , Stoicescu Claudiu , Magda Stefania , Petcu Ileana , Radu Mihai , Palombo Carlo , Cinteza Mircea , Lichiardopol Radu , Vinereanu Dragos
Published: April 2010

Objective: Athlete's heart is associated with left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy (LVH), and “supranormal” cardiac function, suggesting that this is a physiological process. Hypertrophy alone cannot explain increase in cardiac function, therefore, other mechanisms, such as better ventriculo‐arterial coupling might be involved. Methods: We studied 60 male (21 ± 3 years) subjects: 27 endurance athletes, and a control group of 33 age‐matched sedentary subjects. We assessed global systolic and diastolic LV function, short‐ and long‐axis myocardial velocities, arterial structure and function and ventriculo‐arterial coupling, endothelial function by flow‐mediated dilatation, and amino‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) and biological markers of myocardial fibrosis and of oxidative stress. Results: Athletes had “supranormal” LV longitudinal function (12.4 ± 1.0 vs 10.1 ± 1.4 cm/s for longitudinal systolic velocity, and 17.4 ± 2.6 vs 15.1 ± 2.4 cm/s for longitudinal early diastolic velocity, both P < 0.01), whereas ejection fraction and short‐axis function were similar to controls. Meanwhile, they had better endothelial function (16.7 ± 7.0 vs 13.3 ± 5.3%, P < 0.05) and lower arterial stiffness (pulse wave velocity 7.1 ± 0.6 vs 8.8 ± 1.1 m/s, P = 0.0001), related to lower oxidative stress (0.259 ± 0.71 vs 0.428 ± 0.88 nmol/mL, P = 0.0001), with improved ventriculo‐arterial coupling (37.1 ± 21.5 vs 15.5 ± 13.4 mmHg.m/s3× 103, P = 0.0001). NT‐proBNP and markers of myocardial fibrosis were not different from controls. LV longitudinal function was directly related to ventriculo‐arterial coupling, and inversely related to arterial stiffness and to oxidative stress. Conclusions: “Supranormal” cardiac function in athletes is due to better endothelial and arterial function, related to lower oxidative stress, with optimized ventriculo‐arterial coupling; athlete's heart is purely a physiological phenomenon, associated with “supranormal” cardiac function, and there are no markers of myocardial fibrosis. (Echocardiography 2010;27:659‐667)
Does the E/e′ Index Predict the Maintenance of Sinus Rhythm after Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation?
Authors: Li Chen , Ding Xunshi , Zhang Juqian , Zhou Can , Chen Yu , Rao Li
Published: April 2010

Introduction: The role of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction in recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF) after catheter ablation remains unknown. We investigated LV diastolic function using the ratio of early transmitral flow velocity (E) to early diastolic mitral annular velocity (e′) and evaluated its predictive value for AF recurrence. Methods: One hundred three AF patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography before ablation and during 3 months of follow‐up. Clinical and echocardiographic parameters of patients with maintained sinus rhythm were compared with those with recurrent AF. Results: Of 103 patients, 26 had recurrent AF during follow‐up. The E/e′ index was the best independent predictor of AF recurrence in a multivariate logistic regression model. A cutoff value of 11.2 for the E/e′ measured before ablation was associated with a sensitivity of 80.8% and specificity of 81.8% (area under ROC curve, 0.840; 95% CI, 0.754–0.926) for AF recurrence. E/e′ measured in sinus rhythm after ablation had an even better predictive power (area under ROC curve, 0.917; 95% CI, 0.850–0.983). Conclusion: LV diastolic function was closely associated with AF recurrence after catheter ablation. The E/e′ index can be used as an incremental predictor for AF recurrence after catheter ablation. (Echocardiography 2010;27:630‐636)
The Effect of Hemodialysis on Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Gradient
Authors: Dimitrow Pawel Petkow , Michałowska Joanna , Sorysz Danuta
Published: April 2010

Background: The aim of the study was to assess the effect of hemodialysis (HD) on left ventricular outflow tract gradient (LVOTG) measured both in supine and upright position (provocative maneuver to unload LV cavity by rapid preload reduction). Supine/standing echocardiography was performed immediately before and immediately after HD. For additional verification of the hypothesis about preload‐dependence of LVOTG, the echocardiograms after long (2‐day delay HD due to weekend) versus short (usual 1‐day) pause between HDs were compared. Methods: Forty‐one patients on chronic HD (mean age 44 ± 11 years) were examined using a portable hand‐carried echocardiograph. In accordance with the prestudy assumption the ultrafiltration volume was significantly greater during HD after a long pause in comparison to HD after a short pause (3707 ± 2826 mL vs. 2665 ± 1152 mL P < 0.05). Results: After a long pause, the mean value of LVOTG at the pre‐HD was mildly increased in the supine position and remained at a similar level in the upright position (13.1 ± 6.1 vs. 13.6 ± 9.1 mmHg). Mean LVOTG at the post‐HD in the supine position was similar to pre‐HD, however the orthostatic stress test induced a significant increase of LVOTG (13.9 ± 15.2 vs. 18.2 ± 19.9 mmHg P < 0.05). After a short pause at the pre‐HD the LVOTG in the supine position and after the orthostatic provocation was very similar to measurements after long pause (13.3 ± 9.1 vs. 13.3 ± 10.8 mmHg). At the post‐HD the mean value of LVOTG increased during upright posture but the differences were of borderline significance (13.2 ± 6.6 vs. 17.9 ± 18.6 mmHg P = 0.052). Conclusions: HD predisposed to standing‐provoked LVOTG especially when a long pause (2 days) between HDs induced a greater weight gain and subsequently a larger volume of ultrafiltration was needed to reduce hypervolemia. (Echocardiography 2010;27:603‐607)
Resource settings have a major influence on the outcome of maintenance hemodialysis patients in South India
Authors: Georgi ABRAHAM , Jayaseelan T. , Milly MATTHEW , Padma P. , Saravanan A. K. , Nancy LESLEY , Yuvaram N. V. REDDY , Saravanan S. , Yogesh N. V. REDDY
Published: April 2010

Chronic kidney disease is reaching epidemic proportions and the number of patients on renal replacement therapy (RRT) is increasing worldwide and also in developing countries. To meet the challenge of providing RRT, a few charity organizations provide hemodialysis units for underprivileged patients, as the private hospitals are unaffordable for the majority. There is a paucity of information on the outcome of dialysis in these patients. Here, we describe the outcome of hemodialysis patients comparing the middle‐ and upper‐class income group with the lower class income group. A retrospective analysis was carried out in 558 CKD patients initiated on maintenance hemodialysis in two different dialysis facilities. Group A (n=247) included those who belonged to the lowermost socioeconomic status and were undergoing dialysis in two nonprofit, charity (TANKER)‐run dialysis units, and Group B (n=311) was undergoing dialysis in a nonprofit hospital setting where no subsidy was given. Those patients of a low socioeconomic status, especially those who are diabetics, have a higher death rate (Group A‐38.1%, Group B‐4.2%) and loss to follow‐up (Group A‐25.9%, Group B‐0.3%) compared with those who are in the middle‐ and high‐income group. Higher EPO use and hence higher hemoglobin levels (Group A‐6.4±1.2, Group B‐8.9±1.5 P<0.001) were observed in those who were in the middle and the higher income group. Lower serum phosphorus level was observed in the low‐socioeconomic group (Group A‐4.7±1.5, Group B‐5.5±1.9, P<0.001). Patients belonging to the middle and higher socioeconomic group undergo more transplantations compared with the lower socioeconomic group (Group A‐2.4%, Group B‐65.6%).
Cathode–Electrolyte Interfaces with CGO Barrier Layers in SOFC
Authors: Knibbe Ruth , Hjelm Johan , Menon Mohan , Pryds Nini , Søgaard Martin , Wang Hsiang Jen , Neufeld Kai
Published: April 2010

Electron microscopy characterization across the cathode–electrolyte interface of two different types of intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT‐SOFC) is performed to understand the origin of the cell performance disparity. One IT‐SOFC cell had a sprayed‐cosintered Ce0.90Gd0.01O1.95 (CGO10) barrier layer, the other had a barrier layer deposited by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) CGO10. Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) investigations conclude that the major source of the cell performance difference is attributed to CGO–YSZ interdiffusion in the sprayed‐cosintered barrier layer. From TEM and EBSD work, a dense CGO10 PLD layer is found to be deposited epitaxially on the 8YSZ electrolyte substrate—permitting a small amount of SrZrO3 formation and minimizing CGO–YSZ interdiffusion.
Necrophagous Caterpillars Provide Human mtDNA Evidence*
Authors: Bucheli Sibyl R. , Bytheway Joan A. , Gangitano David A.
Published: April 2010

Abstract:  Decomposition of large mammalian carcasses is greatly accelerated through the action of insects. Specialized feeders capable of digesting keratin and collagen found in skin, hair, and tendons and ligaments are attracted to corpses in late stages of dry decomposition and include Tinea pellionella, the casemaking clothes moth, and Tineola bisselliella, the webbing clothes moth (Lepidoptera; Tineidae). Until now, details of the caterpillar behavior as necrophagous insects were vague. Here, we detail the behavior of each species and document the incorporation of human hair into the portable larval shelters constructed by the caterpillars of T. pellionella. Hair of the decedent used as building material for caterpillar shelters provided enough starting template to amplify and sequence the HVI and HVII sections of the control region (mtDNA) of the decedent.
Validation of Half‐Reaction Amplification Using Promega PowerPlex® 16*
Authors: Hoffman Nicole H. , Fenger Terry
Published: April 2010

Abstract:  DNA amplification is a fundamental yet costly process used in DNA analysis. This study evaluated half‐reaction amplification (12.5, 12, and 13 uL) using the Promega Powerplex® 16 Kit with the hope of reducing sample analysis costs by half. A sensitivity study was completed, along with the testing of various blood stain samples including those with low (<0.40 ng) and high DNA concentrations (>3.0 ng), peak height imbalances, and allelic drop‐out. Also, 467 samples submitted to the MUFSC laboratory for testing were analyzed. Results indicate that half‐reaction amplification produced higher quality profiles than full‐reactions. Average peak heights increased by 85%, peak height imbalances improved, and drop‐out was eliminated in 75.8% of samples. Only eight of 467 case samples required re‐amplification, a success rate of 94% was observed, and the repeat rate decreased significantly. Finally, a DNA input of 0.25–1.0 ng is ideal for half‐reaction amplification.
Stable isotope analysis indicates trophic differences among forest floor carabids in Japan
Authors: Okuzaki Yutaka , Tayasu Ichiro , Okuda Noboru , Sota Teiji
Published: April 2010

Differences in trophic niches among carabid beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) co‐occurring on the forest floors of warm temperate forests in central Japan were studied using carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) stable isotope analyses. Different carabid species showed similar δ15N values, which were higher than those of their possible invertebrate prey (herbivores and detritivores) collected from the litter layer, indicating that these species were consumers in the same trophic level. In contrast, δ13C values differed among carabid species, indicating interspecific differences in prey animals. The variation in the δ13C value was larger in summer than in autumn. In summer, δ13C values indicated that some carabids depended highly on either grazing (low δ13C values) or detrital sources (high δ13C values) within the food chain [Chlaenius posticalis Motschulsky and Haplochlaenius costiger (Chaudoir), respectively], although other species with intermediate δ13C values likely depended on both. The latter group of species comprised mostly two dominant genera (Carabus and Synuchus). Although congeners might have similar feeding habits, the stable isotope ratios indicated trophic niche differences between adults of different species and between adults and larvae of the same genus.
Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) genotypes among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐related B‐cell Lymphomas and B‐cell post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (B‐PTLD) – late‐onset lymphomas, especially in the HIV setting, are associated with type‐B‐EBV
Authors: Ibrahim Hazem A. H. , Menasce Lia P. , Pomplun Sabine , Burke Margaret , Bower Mark , Naresh Kikkeri N.
Published: April 2010

We investigated 26 B‐cell post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (B‐PTLD) and 15 human immunodeficiency virus‐related aggressive B‐cell lymphomas (HIV‐BCL) from England that were associated with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) for the polymorphic sequences of the EBV‐encoded nuclear antigen 3C (EBNA3C) gene to distinguish the two different EBV strains. Type‐A‐EBV was identified in 92% of B‐PTLDS and in 53% of HIV‐BCL (P = 0.003). Among HIV‐BCL, patients associated with type‐B‐EBV had been HIV positive for significantly longer when compared to those associated with type‐A (P = 0.037) although there were no correlations with ethnicity, CD4 cell counts or plasma HIV viral load.
Modeling above‐ground litterfall in eastern Mediterranean conifer forests using fractional tree cover, and remotely sensed and ground data
Authors: Taskinsu‐Meydan Sibel , Evrendilek Fatih , Berberoglu Suha , Donmez Cenk
Published: April 2010

Question: How can we model above‐ground litterfall in Mediterranean conifer forests using remotely sensed and ground data, and geographic information systems (GIS)?

Location: Eastern Mediterranean conifer forest of Turkey.

Methods: Above‐ground litterfall from Mediterranean forest stands of Pinus nigra, Cedrus libani, Pinus brutia and Juniperus excelsa and mixed Abies cilicica, C. libani and P. nigra was modeled as a function of fractional tree cover using a regression tree algorithm, based on IKONOS and Landsat TM/ETM+data. Landsat TM/ETM+images for the study area were used to map actual stand patterns, based on a land‐cover map of species stands using a supervised classification.

Results: Total amount of annual above‐ground litterfall for the entire study area (12 260 km2) was estimated at 417.2 Mg ha−1 for P. brutia, 291.1 Mg ha−1 for the mixed stand, 115.5 Mg ha−1 for P. nigra, 54.6 Mg ha−1 for J. excelsa and 45.9 Mg ha−1 for C. libani. The maps generated indicate the distribution of the seasonal amount of total above‐ground litterfall for different species and the distribution of species stands in the study area. There was an increase in the amount of above‐ground litterfall for P. brutia stand in summer, for J. excelsa in autumn and for C. libani, P. nigra and the mixed stand of A. cilicica, P. nigra and C. libani in winter.

Conclusion: Application of this model helps to improve the accuracy of estimated litterfall input to soil organic carbon pools in the Mediterranean conifer forests.
The influence of dog ownership in childhood on the sociality of elderly Japanese men
Authors: NAGASAWA Miho , OHTA Mitsuaki
Published: April 2010

In Japan, care for the elderly has been a serious social issue. The relationship between dog ownership and health of the elderly has attracted considerable attention, but it is still unclear whether dog ownership affects the health of owners. In this study, we focused on the experiences of dog ownership in the past. The questionnaire survey was conducted targeting elderly Japanese men and asking them to clarify whether the experience of dog ownership in the past influences their current mental and physical health. To examine the characteristics of the experience of dog ownership, we divided past dog owners by a hierarchical cluster analysis using the variables related to the experiences of dog ownership. We added the ‘never owned a dog’ group to the three groups that were provided by the cluster analysis, and conducted analysis of variance and multiple linear regression analysis using the variables of physical and mental health. The results showed that the group that owned their first dog at an early age and owned more dogs later scored higher in the companionship and social support scales. These results suggested that the experiences of dog ownership in childhood were related to the sociality of older men, such as the enhancement of their companionship with others.
The possible role of bovine herpesvirus type‐4 infection in cow infertility
Authors: GÜR Sibel , DOĞAN Nurhan
Published: April 2010

Experimental and field studies have proven that the bovine herpesvirus type‐4 (BHV‐4) infection leads to various reproductive system problems. In this study, the role of BHV‐4 infection in repeat breeding was investigated serologically. Eighty‐four samples were obtained from repeat‐breeding diagnosed cows in two organized dairy herds; an equal number of healthy cows were sampled from the same farms. The rest of the samples (105) were obtained from reproductively normal cows that were breeding in 18 small enterprises as a control group. The seropositivity proportion in repeat‐breeding diagnosed cows was found to be significantly higher (69% (58/84)) than other cows (44% (37/84)) on the same farms. The lowest antibody positivity value for BHV‐4 was detected as 24.7% (26/105) in the samples from family‐type small farms. The odds ratio (OR) value was calculated as 2.834 in repeat‐breeding diagnosed and healthy cows on the same farms, while 6.778 was determined in cows with and without reproductive problems on organized farms compared to small farms. As a result, the BHV‐4 infection can be considered one of the reasons for repeat breeding besides other reproductive disorders.
Effects of dietary protein level in the early fattening period on free amino acids and dipeptides in the blood and Longissimus thoracis muscle in Japanese Black steers
Authors: IWAMOTO Eiji , IWAKI Fumiyuki , OKA Akio
Published: April 2010

The effects of crude protein (CP) concentration in feed using soybean meal as its source in the early fattening period on the levels of free amino acids (FAAs) and dipeptides in the blood, and the levels in the M. longissimus thoracis after slaughter were studied in Japanese Black steers. Sixteen steers were divided into four groups and given feed with a CP content of 12, 14, 16, or 18% of dry matter (DM) from 10 to 20 months old, and they were fed with the same level of CP (13.5–13.9% of DM) until slaughter at 30 months of age. There was no significant difference in the weight gain, carcass weight or marbling score between the groups. Concerning the serum FAA and dipeptide contents at 20 months of age, the alanine, tyrosine and tryptophan levels decreased, while the carnosine (Car) level increased, with increases in the CP level in the feed. Although there were no significant differences in the FAA contents of the Longissimus thoracis muscle between the groups, the Car content decreased with increases in the feed protein level.
A possible role of central serotonin in L‐tryptophan‐induced GH secretion in cattle
Authors: KASUYA Etsuko , YAYOU Ken‐ichi , HASHIZUME Tsutomu , KITAGAWA Sayuki , SUTOH Madoka
Published: April 2010

To clarify the role of serotonin (5‐HT) in the regulatory mechanism of L‐tryptophan (TRP)‐induced growth hormone (GH) secretion in cattle, changes in 5‐HT concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the third ventricle (3V) and GH in plasma before and after the peripheral infusion of TRP were determined simultaneously. The direct effect of TRP on GH release from the dispersed anterior pituitary cells was also assessed. A chronic cannula was placed in 3V by stereotaxic surgery, then CSF and blood were withdrawn under physiological conditions. TRP (38.5 mg/kg BW) was infused through an intravenous catheter from 12.00 to 14.00 hours and CSF and blood sampling were performed from 11.00 to 18.00 hours at 1‐h intervals. The concentration of 5‐HT in CSF was determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. GH, melatonin (MEL), and cortisol (CORT) concentrations were measured by radio‐immunoassay and enzyme‐immunoassay. Concentrations of 5‐HT were increased by TRP infusion. The TRP infusion significantly increased GH release. On the other hand, TRP did not stimulate GH release from the bovine pituitary cells. MEL and CORT concentrations were not altered by TRP infusion. These results suggest that TRP induced GH release via the activation of serotonergic neurons in cattle.
Differences in grazing behavior of horses and cattle at the feeding station scale on woodland pasture
Authors: SHINGU Yuko , KONDO Seiji , HATA Hiroshi
Published: April 2010

In this study, grazing behavior of mares and cows was compared on woodland pastures, in the context of foraging hierarchy. A horse‐group (12 native Hokkaido horses) and a cattle‐group (5 Hereford cows) were grazed on the woodland pastures of 13.3 ha and 5.8 ha, respectively. They grazed mainly on Sasa nipponica. Grazing behavior at a feeding station (FS) scale was recorded for three focal animals in each group. Mares took one bite per FS at a high percentage of FSs (24.3%) and cows took one, two and three bites per FS at high percentage (20.3%, 19.2% and 15.4%, respectively). Although feeding patch (FP) scale for both animals could be defined as a group of FSs, the length of FP and grazing behavior at FP scale were similar for both animals. The number of steps taken between two adjacent FSs or FPs for mares was larger than that for cows. The results suggested that both horses and cattle had similar foraging hierarchy from bite to FP scale but grazing behavior of horses at the FS scale was different from that of cattle, suggesting that grazing behavior of large herbivores has greater similarity in larger foraging hierarchies.
The kinetic power of jets magnetically accelerated from advection-dominated accretion flows in radio galaxies
Authors: Li Shuang-Liang , Cao Xinwu
Published: April 2010

There is a significant non-linear correlation between the Eddington ratio (Lbol/LEdd) and the Eddington-scaled kinetic power (Lkin/LEdd) of jets in low luminosity active galactic nuclei (AGNs). It is believed that these low luminosity AGNs contain advection-dominated accretion flows (ADAFs). We adopt the ADAF model developed by Li & Cao, in which the global dynamics of ADAFs with magnetically driven outflows is derived numerically, to explore the relation between the bolometric luminosity and the kinetic power of jets. We find that the observed relation, , can be well reproduced by the model calculations with reasonable parameters for ADAFs with magnetically driven outflows. Our model calculations are always consistent with the slope of the correlation independent of the values of the parameters adopted. Compared with the observations, our results show that over 60 per cent of the accreted gas at the outer radius escapes from the accretion disc in a wind before the gas falls into the black holes. The observed correlation between the Eddington-scaled kinetic power and Bondi power can also be qualitatively reproduced by our model calculations. Our results show that the mechanical efficiency varies from 10−2 to10−3, which is roughly consistent with that required in AGN feedback simulations.
A New Capture Fraction Method to Map How Pumpage Affects Surface Water Flow
Authors: Leake Stanley A. , Reeves Howard W. , Dickinson Jesse E.
Published: April 2010

All groundwater pumped is balanced by removal of water somewhere, initially from storage in the aquifer and later from capture in the form of increase in recharge and decrease in discharge. Capture that results in a loss of water in streams, rivers, and wetlands now is a concern in many parts of the United States. Hydrologists commonly use analytical and numerical approaches to study temporal variations in sources of water to wells for select points of interest. Much can be learned about coupled surface/groundwater systems, however, by looking at the spatial distribution of theoretical capture for select times of interest. Development of maps of capture requires (1) a reasonably well‐constructed transient or steady state model of an aquifer with head‐dependent flow boundaries representing surface water features or evapotranspiration and (2) an automated procedure to run the model repeatedly and extract results, each time with a well in a different location. This paper presents new methods for simulating and mapping capture using three‐dimensional groundwater flow models and presents examples from Arizona, Oregon, and Michigan.
Incorporating Groundwater‐Surface Water Interaction into River Management Models
Authors: Valerio Allison , Rajaram Harihar , Zagona Edith
Published: April 2010

Accurate representation of groundwater‐surface water interactions is critical to modeling low river flows in the semi‐arid southwestern United States. Although a number of groundwater‐surface water models exist, they are seldom integrated with river operation/management models. A link between the object‐oriented river and reservoir operations model, RiverWare, and the groundwater model, MODFLOW, was developed to incorporate groundwater‐surface water interaction processes, such as river seepage/gains, riparian evapotranspiration, and irrigation return flows, into a rule‐based water allocations model. An explicit approach is used in which the two models run in tandem, exchanging data once in each computational time step. Because the MODFLOW grid is typically at a finer resolution than RiverWare objects, the linked model employs spatial interpolation and summation for compatible communication of exchanged variables. The performance of the linked model is illustrated through two applications in the Middle Rio Grande Basin in New Mexico where overappropriation impacts endangered species habitats. In one application, the linked model results are compared with historical data; the other illustrates use of the linked model for determining management strategies needed to attain an in‐stream flow target. The flows predicted by the linked model at gauge locations are reasonably accurate except during a few very low flow periods when discrepancies may be attributable to stream gaging uncertainties or inaccurate documentation of diversions. The linked model accounted for complex diversions, releases, groundwater pumpage, irrigation return flows, and seepage between the groundwater system and canals/drains to achieve a schedule of releases that satisfied the in‐stream target flow.
Assessing Hydrofracing Success from Earth Tide and Barometric Response
Authors: Burbey Thomas J. , Zhang Meijing
Published: April 2010

Identifying fracture pathways and connectivity between adjacent wells is vital for understanding flow characteristics, transport properties, and fracture characteristics. In this investigation, a simple, straightforward methodology is presented for assessing hydrofracing success and identifying possible fracture connectivity between neighboring boreholes, using water‐level barometric response and tide signatures of individual fractures in a crystalline‐rock setting. Water levels and barometric pressure heads were collected at two wells 27 m apart both prior to, and after, hydrofracing one of the wells at the fractured‐rock research site in Floyd County, Virginia. Vastly different barometric and tidal signatures existed at the two wells prior to hydrofracing as well EX‐1 had no discernable fractures, while W‐03 was connected to an identified fault‐zone aquifer and produced a notable water‐level earth tide and barometric signatures. After hydrofracing EX‐1, new fractures were induced and the resulting water‐level tidal signature and barometric efficiencies were nearly identical to the W‐03 well. Aquifer testing conducted from both wells verified this connectivity along the fault‐zone aquifer. The small phase difference between the tidal responses in the two wells can be accounted for by the calculated differences in transmissivity and casing diameter.
In this issue – May 2010
Authors: Jackson AE
Published: April 2010

Flea‐associated infectious agents in cats in Eastern Australia · Complications of barium‐impregnated polyethylene spheres · Reproductive efficiency of Thoroughbred and Standardbred horses · GPS tracking collars to monitor horses · Correction of vesicovaginal reflux in mares · Antibodies to Lawsonia intracellularis in Australian pig herds · Mucormycosis in the platypus · Panniculitis from Mycobacterium mageritense in a Tasmanian devil
Surgical results and fertility following correction of vesicovaginal reflux in mares
Authors: Jalim SL , McKinnon AO
Published: April 2010

Objective To evaluate the surgical results and fertility of mares bred at various intervals relative to surgical management of urovagina.

Design Sixty‐one mares underwent surgery to correct vesicovaginal reflux. Surgery was performed at varying times relative to breeding and postoperative fertility was evaluated.

Results Five mares were lost to follow‐up and a further four were electively not bred. Of the remaining 52 mares, seasonal pregnancy and live foaling rates were 67% (35/52) and 54% (26/48), respectively. When mares were bred in the same cycle as the surgery, the first cycle following surgery, the second cycle following surgery or the following breeding season after surgery the seasonal pregnancy rates were 89% (8/9), 63% (10/16), 67% (2/3) and 63% (15/24), respectively. After censoring four mares that died of natural causes pre‐foaling, the foaling rates were 88% (7/8), 50% (7/14), 0% (0/3), 52% (12/23), respectively. All mares bred in the same cycle as surgery or in the next cycle were bred once only that season, so the pregnancy rate per cycle of 72% (18/25) was identical to the seasonal pregnancy rate.

Conclusions Good fertility (comparable to a normal population of mares) was achieved following surgery and the results suggest that delaying breeding until the following breeding season is not necessary. In addition, breeding in the same cycle as surgical repair is a previously unreported technique that should be considered to maintain a yearly foaling interval.
Prevalence of antibodies toLawsonia intracellularisin pig herds in Australia
Authors: Holyoake PK , Emery D , Gonsalves J , Donahoo M , Collins A
Published: April 2010

Objective Proliferative enteropathy (PE) of pigs is caused byLawsonia intracellularis. Clinical severity appears to depend, at least partly, on the infective dose and strain ofL. intracellularis. Serological tests are able to detect subclinical disease. The Bioscreen ELISA for detectingL. intracellularis‐specific antibodies is widely used to monitor the circulating antibody status of pigs in Australia, but its sensitivity and specificity have not been reported. The aim of the present study was to measure the seroprevalence of antibodies toL. intracellularisin growing pigs in Australia.

Methods Test sera were sourced from 1817 serum samples collected from finisher pigs from 63 herds across Australia in 2001, selected from a larger sample of 180 herds to represent the contribution that each herd size makes to the number of pigs produced. The test sera were the most recent collection of pig sera from all states and samples had been stored at −80°C from 2001 until testing was conducted in 2008. Sera were tested using the BioScreen ELISA.

Results All herds tested positive forL. intracellularis‐specific antibodies. The mean percentage of positive samples within each herd was 84.2% (range 31.3–100%).

Conclusions Lawsonia intracellularisis endemic in pig herds in Australia and cost‐effective strategies to reduce reliance on antibiotics, such as vaccination and/or all‐in/all‐out pig flow coupled with cleaning and disinfection of pens, are warranted.
Inguinal panniculitis in a young Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) caused by Mycobacterium mageritense
Authors: Reppas G , Nosworthy P , Hansen T , Govendir M , Malik R
Published: April 2010

A 1‐year‐old, entire male Tasmanian devil living in captivity was presented because of a nodular inguinal lesion that subsequently developed a draining sinus tract. A second, similar lesion developed later in the ipsilateral axillary region. A deep representative biopsy specimen of abnormal subcutaneous tissue showed chronic active pyogranulomatous inflammation and beaded Gram‐positive and acid‐fast bacilli situated in lipid vacuoles within the lesion. A rapidly growing Mycobacterium species, shown subsequently to be M. mageritense, was grown from a swab of the primary lesion. It was susceptible to tetracyclines (including doxycycline) and moxifloxacin in vitro. The lesions resolved following treatment with doxycycline monohydrate (50 mg PO once daily) and then moxifloxacin (10 mg/kg PO for 20 days). The infection probably resulted from inoculation of subcutaneous tissues by material containing this Mycobacterium following fight or bite injuries. The presentation is reminiscent of similar lesions attributable to rapidly growing mycobacterial infections of the subcutis observed in domestic cats and quolls.
Aspiration of barium‐impregnated polyethylene spheres by a dog
Authors: Greci V , Bissett SA , Copple CN , Hawkins EC
Published: April 2010

This case report describes an 11‐year‐old Belgian Malinois dog with acute onset of cough caused by aspiration of barium‐impregnated polyethylene spheres (BIPS) and pneumonia following an episode of suspected gastric dilation. Although bronchoscopic retrieval of the BIPS was largely unsuccessful, the dog recovered uneventfully, with most of the BIPS being coughed out and swallowed over a 1‐month period. Aspiration of BIPS should be considered a potential complication of their administration. Furthermore, endoscopic removal of aspirated BIPS is challenging and may not be indicated because of their inert nature and possible self‐clearance.
Preliminary investigation into the prevalence of mucormycosis in the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in three catchments in north‐west Tasmania
Authors: Macgregor JW , Holyoake CS , Munks SA , Robertson ID , Warren KS
Published: April 2010

Objective To investigate the distribution and prevalence of mucormycosis in platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) from the Inglis, Emu and Black‐Detention catchment areas in north‐west Tasmania.

Procedure A field study was performed and resulted in the examination of 44 wild platypuses; in addition, one dead platypus and two live platypuses were examined after they were independently submitted to a local veterinary clinic.

Results No cases of mucormycosis were conclusively diagnosed. One platypus with signs consistent with those previously described in cases of mucormycosis was captured in the Emu River catchment. However, laboratory tests did not provide a definitive diagnosis for the lesion. Two platypuses from the Inglis catchment area had signs very similar to those previously described in cases of mucormycosis, but laboratory tests foundCorynebacterium ulceransto be the likely cause of the cutaneous ulcers on one of these platypuses and an unidentified fungal agent to be the cause of a cutaneous nodule in the other.

Conclusions These findings do not prove that mucormycosis is absent from the populations studied. However, they may indicate that the prevalence of disease is low. The possibility thatMucor amphibiorumis present in a subclinical form in platypuses, or infecting another reservoir, is not excluded. The findings also suggest that caution should be exercised when diagnosing mucormycosis based on clinical findings alone and raise the possibility that some cases may have been incorrectly diagnosed.
Prevalence of Bartonella species, Rickettsia felis, haemoplasmas and the Ehrlichia group in the blood of cats and fleas in eastern Australia
Authors: Barrs VR , Beatty JA , Wilson BJ , Evans N , Gowan R , Baral RM , Lingard AE , Perkovic G , Hawley JR , Lappin MR
Published: April 2010

Objectives  To define the prevalence of Bartonella spp., Rickettsia felis, Mycoplasma haemofelis, ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ (Mhm) and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’ (Mtc) in cats and their fleas in eastern Australia.

Design and procedure  Conventional PCR assays that detect Bartonella spp., M. haemofelis, Mhm, Mtc, Rickettsia spp., Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp. and Neorickettsia spp. were performed on DNA extracted from blood and fleas collected from 111 cats. Cat sera were assayed by ELISA for IgG of Bartonella spp.

Results  DNA of M. haemofelis, Mtc and Mhm was amplified from 1 (0.9%), 1 (0.9%) and 17 cats (15.3%), respectively. Only DNA of Mhm was amplified from the 62 of 111 pooled flea samples (flea sets; 55.9%). Overall, the prevalence rates for Bartonella spp. DNA in the cats and the flea sets was 16.2% (18 cats) and 28.8% (32 flea sets), respectively. Bartonella spp. IgG was detected in 42 cats (37.8%), of which 11 (26.2%) were positive for Bartonella spp. DNA in their blood. R. felis DNA was amplified from 22 flea sets (19.8%), but not from cats. Overall, DNA of one or more of the organisms was amplified from 27% (30) of cats and 67.6% (75) of the flea sets.

Conclusions  This is the first Australian study to determine the prevalence of R. felis and B. clarridgeiae in both fleas and the cats from which they were collected. Flea‐associated infectious agents are common in cats and fleas in eastern Australia and support the recommendation that stringent flea control be maintained on cats.
Quenching of Singlet Oxygen by Pyocyanin and Related Phenazines†
Authors: Reszka Krzysztof J. , Bilski Piotr J. , Britigan Bradley E.
Published: April 2010

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a human pathogen, which causes infections of various organs, including lung, skin and eye, particularly in individuals who are immunocompromised. Pyocyanin (1‐hydroxy‐5‐methylphenazine), a cytotoxic pigment secreted by the bacterium, is among the factors that contribute to virulence of this pathogen. We have previously shown that rose bengal and riboflavin photosensitize oxidation of pyocyanin to a product(s) with diminished reactivity and toxicity. Singlet oxygen was suggested as the major oxidant, based on the inhibitory effect of sodium azide. In the present study, we used the time resolved technique to investigate direct interaction of pyocyanin and related phenazines (1‐hydroxyphenazine [1‐OH‐Phen], 1‐methoxy‐5‐methylphenazine [1‐MeO‐PCN] and phenazine methosulfate [PMS]) with 1O2. The rate constants for the 1O2 quenching (physical + chemical) by pyocyanin and 1‐OH‐Phen in D2O buffer (pD ∼7.2) have been determined to be 4.8 × 108 and 6.8 × 108 M−1 s−1, respectively. 1‐MeO‐PCN and PMS were markedly less efficient 1O2 quenchers. Among the phenazines studied only phenazine methosulfate photogenerated 1O2 (Φ(1O2) = 0.56 in acetonitrile). Interaction of 1O2 with pyocyanin and other related phenazines produced by the bacteria may be important in determining the potential utility of photochemical/pharmacological approaches to eradicate P. aeruginosa from infected tissues.
TiO2 Nanotubes as a Therapeutic Agent for Cancer Thermotherapy
Authors: Lee Chongmu , Hong Chanseok , Kim Hohyeong , Kang Jungwoo , Zheng Hong Mei
Published: April 2010

We report the photothermal properties as well as the in vitro cell test results of titanium oxide nanotubes (TiO2 NTs) as a potential therapeutic agent for cancer thermotherapy in combination with near‐infrared (NIR) light. TiO2 NTs are found to have a higher photothermal effect upon exposure to NIR laser than Au nanoparticles and single‐wall carbon nanotubes, which have also attracted considerable interest as therapeutic agents for cancer thermotherapy. The temperature increase of a TiO2 NT/NaCl suspension during NIR laser exposure is larger than that of a TiO2 NT/D.I. water suspension due to the heat generated by the formation of Na2TiF6. According to the in vitro cell test results the cells exposed to NIR laser without TiO2 NT treatment have a cell viability of 96.4%. Likewise, the cells treated with TiO2 NTs but not with NIR irradiation also have a cell viability of 98.2%. Combination of these two techniques, however, shows a cell viability of 1.35%. Also, the cell deaths are mostly due to necrosis but partly due to late apoptosis. These results suggest that TiO2 NTs can be used effectively as therapeutic agents for cancer thermotherapy due to their excellent photothermal properties and high biocompatibility.
Effect of HeNe Laser Irradiation on Extracellular Matrix Deposition and Expression of Cytokines and Chemokines in Paracoccidioidomycotic Lesions
Authors: Nagib Patrícia R. A. , Gameiro Jacy , Da Costa Thiago Alves , Di Gangi Rosária , Da Silva Ribeiro Júlia , Paulino Luciana Campos , Verinaud Liana
Published: April 2010

Paracoccidioidomycosis is the most prevalent human mycosis in Latin America. Cutaneous lesions are extremely painful and sensitive, and current treatment with antifungal drugs is lengthy and may cause side effects to patients. In this perspective, the helium‐neon (HeNe) laser emerges as a novel therapy form due to its ability to heal wounds without changing cell function. In this work, we evaluate the effects of HeNe laser irradiation on extracellular matrix deposition and expression of cytokines and chemokines in cutaneous lesions caused by experimental infection of Balb/c mice. Our results showed decreased levels of pro‐inflammatory interleukin (IL)‐17 and tumor necrosis factor‐α, and of anti‐inflammatory IL‐10 cytokines in lesions exposed to HeNe laser irradiation. Chemokines CCL3 and CXCL10 showed decreased levels in laser‐treated lesions, but no significant difference was observed in relation to CCL5 expression. We also detected decreased density of fibronectin and laminin in HeNe laser‐treated lesions. Data presented herein support the validity of our previous results suggesting positive effects of HeNe laser in accelerating wound healing in this experimental model. We believe that HeNe laser is a new nonharmful strategy that may be used as adjuvant and/or alternative therapy for improving treatment of paracoccidioidomycotic lesions.
Rationale for using insensitive quality control rules for today’s hematology analyzers
Authors: CEMBROWSKI G. S. , SMITH B. , TUNG D.
Published: April 2010

Diverse approaches have been used to assure the analytical quality of automated hematology; as such, there is great variation in their error detection capabilities. We summarize the intralaboratory performance of a cohort of Sysmex XE‐2100’s running e‐Check hematology quality control (QC). The imprecisions of a median performing (50th percentile imprecision) and more imprecise [15th percentile (15P) imprecision] Sysmex XE‐2100 are compared with measures of total allowable error (regulatory and physiologically based) to obtain multiples of the usual imprecision that must be detected to prevent the hematology analyzer from producing medically unacceptable results. The resultant large multiples of the usual imprecision (s) demonstrate the need for insensitive QC rules employing very broad control ranges, control rules that have been implicitly supported by hematology analyzer manufacturers for the last several decades. For today’s highly precise hematology analyzers, the following control rules are strongly advised: 13.5s, 14s and 14.5s rules (violated if a single control observation exceeds either its ±3.5, ±4.0 and ±4.5s limits, respectively). In order for the hematology laboratory to totally embrace expanded QC limits, manufacturers must make available their instruments’ usual and poorer (e.g. the 15P performance) imprecision’s. Users of hematology analyzers that require more sensitive but less specific rules to prevent the reporting of clinically erroneous data are advised to acquire more precise (and thus more dependable) instrumentation.