bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The lived experience of community mental health nurses working with people who have dual diagnosis: a phenomenological study
Authors: COOMBES L. , WRATTEN A.
Published: May 2007

Dual diagnosis (the combination of mental health and substance misuse problems) is a significant facing mental health nurses in the UK. The purpose of the study was to describe the lived experience of community mental health nurses working with people who have a dual diagnosis. A phenomenological approach was us and a purposive sample of seven community mental health nurses with experience of working with people with a dual diagnosis was selected. Data were collected through audiotaped, semi‐structured interviews lasting approximately 1 h in duration and analysed using Colaizzi's (1978) method. Thirteen theme clusters relating to three major themes were identified: (1) difficulties in understanding the concept of dual diagnosis; (2) feeling deskilled when working with people who have a dual diagnosis; (3) struggling to work in a system which seeks to avoid people with dual diagnosis. Recommendations regarding the need for increased joint working between professionals, improved education and further research are made.
Analysis of 4495 canine and feline uroliths in the Benelux. A retrospective study: 1994–2004
Authors: Picavet P. , Detilleux J. , Verschuren S. , Sparkes A. , Lulich J. , Osborne C. , Istasse L. , Diez M.
Published: May 2007

From 1994 to 2004, Hill's Pet Nutrition received 4495 canine (65%) and feline (35%) uroliths from Benelux veterinary practitioners. They were sent to the Minnesota Urolith Center, USA for analysis. In 1994, 110 uroliths were analysed – 85% from dogs – and in 2003, 1067 uroliths were analysed – 59% from dogs. During this period, substantial changes were observed in composition. In 1994, 77% of the cats had uroliths composed of struvite, and 12% had uroliths composed of calcium oxalate. In 2003, feline uroliths were composed of 32% struvite, and 61% calcium oxalate. The same evolution was observed in the dogs. In 1994, 51% of canine uroliths were composed of struvite, and 33% of calcium oxalate. In 2003, 40% had struvite uroliths, and 46% had calcium oxalate uroliths. A significant effect of the size, the breed, and the gender were noticed in the dogs. The mean age of uroliths appearance was 7.3 years in the dogs and 7.2 years in the cats. The findings are similar to those previously published in the USA.
Effect of extruding the cereal and/or the legume protein supplement of a compound feed on in vitro ruminal nutrient digestion and nitrogen metabolism
Authors: Solanas E. , Castrillo C. , Calsamiglia S.
Published: May 2007

An experiment was performed to evaluate the effect of extruding the cereal and/or the protein supplement of a compound feed for intensively reared calves on ruminal N metabolism using an in vitro culture system. A conventional compound feed was produced without extruding [treatment non‐extruded (NE)], with the cereal blend extruded (CE), with the protein blend extruded (PE) and with both cereal and protein blends extruded (CPE). Four experimental diets, consisted of 0.90 of each experimental compound feed and 0.10 barley straw were assessed using dual‐flow continuous‐culture fermenters. 15N infusion as ammonia sulphate was used to label the microbial population. Average NH3 concentration in fermenter effluents ranged from 270 mg/l with diet NE to 69 mg/l for diet CPE (p < 0.05) and volatile fatty acid concentrations ranged from 161 mm in diet PE to 130 mm in diet CPE (p < 0.05). Diets PE and CPE showed a lower true organic matter degradability (49.5% and 48.2%) than NE and CE (52.8% and 52.2%). Non‐ammonia nitrogen flow in effluents was highest on diet CPE, intermediate on diets CE and PE and lowest on diet NE (p < 0.01), reflecting the differences in dietary N flow and dietary protein degradability (71.2%, 63.7%, 61.2% and 50.0%, respectively, for NE, CE, PE, CPE; p < 0.001). In contrast, microbial protein synthesis efficiency was lower for treatments including the cereal blend extruded, although the resulted differences were only significant (p < 0.001) for CPE diet.
Assessment of the Intensity of Behavioural Traits and Ovulation between Synchronized and Non‐synchronized Cows
Authors: Forster K , Galina CS , Maquivar M , Van der Laan G , Arnoni R , Verduzco A
Published: May 2007

Contents

Thirty cyclic, non‐suckled Brahman cows were divided into three groups, all of which were synchronized sequentially with CIDR‐B and observed continuously for 100 h to determine different behavioural oestrus signs. Twenty‐four hours after implant withdrawal, all synchronized cows in the group, together with all other cows displaying oestrus, were subjected to intensive ultrasonographic observations (every 6 h for 120 h) to pinpoint the moment of ovulation. In the first group, oestrus and ovulation response was 60% (6/10), in the second 44% (4/9) showed oestrus and six ovulated, and in the third group oestrus and ovulation were 80% (8/10). Significant differences were observed between the second and third groups (p < 0.05). No differences were observed in the duration of oestrus, time when oestrus was displayed after implant withdrawal, time of ovulation and onset of oestrus, end of oestrus to ovulation, and intensity of oestrus on a point scale. The relationship between duration of oestrus and time of ovulation was r2 = 0.16. Ovulation, on average, was 32.1 ± 14.5 h after the onset of oestrus, 22.3 ± 16.5 h after the end of oestrus, and 91.8 ± 16.7 after implant withdrawal, although no significant differences were observed. One non‐synchronized animal showed oestrous activity in the second group but failed to ovulate. In the third group, 8 animals showed oestrus, 4 with high concentrations of progesterone. Of the other four one ovulated. In conclusion, oestrous behaviour is not necessarily the best marker to predict the time when ovulation takes place due to variation in the length of the oestrous period and the possible integration of non‐ovulatory animals into sexually active groups.
Extramedullary relapse of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in childhood to the prostate
Authors: Maruyama Takuo , Yamamoto Shingo , Nojima Michio , Morita Naoko , Tanizawa Takakuni , Shima Hiroki
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  A 6‐year‐old boy presented with the chief complaints of miction pain and pollakisuria. He had a past history of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), which subsided in response to chemotherapy at 3 years of age. Ultrasonography revealed urinary retention associated with bilateral hydronephrosis secondary to the prostate enlargement. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed no other abnormal finding. Transrectal needle biopsy showed infiltration of leukemic cells in the prostate. Bone marrow puncture and cerebrospinal fluid aspiration revealed no leukemic cells, resulting in a diagnosis of extramedullary relapse of ALL in the prostate. Although he was successfully treated by chemotherapy, irradiation and his voiding function was improved, ALL relapsed in the left testis 1 year later. In spite of left orchiectomy, irradiation and additional chemotherapy, he died of bone marrow relapse and multiple organ failure. Extramedullary relapse of ALL in the prostate is very rare. To our knowledge, our case is the first well‐documented report in the published work.
Practice patterns regarding prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia in Japanese primary care practitioners
Authors: Fukagai Takashi , Maruyama Kunitaka , Nagata Masakazu , Morita Masashi , Naoe Michio , Yoshida Hideki
Published: May 2007

Objective:  Although primary care practitioners (PCP) take an active role in diagnosis of prostate disorders in Western countries, how PCP take part in management of prostate disease still differs worldwide by country. We investigated practice and referral patterns concerning prostate disease among Japanese PCP and compared these with reported patterns in the West.

Methods:  A 26‐question multiple‐choice questionnaire was mailed to 935 PCP in Tokyo for anonymous completion. Most items involved prostate cancer screening or management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Results:  The survey was completed by 281 non‐urological practitioners, among whom digital rectal examination was performed by 43%. Prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) was determined in serum by 89%. For asymptomatic men older than 50, serum PSA was determined routinely each year by only 17%. When PSA was 4.1–10.0 ng/mL, 70% of respondents immediately referred patients to urologists, while 18% did not make a referral unless PSA exceeded 10.0 ng/mL. Seventy‐four percent prescribed medication for benign prostate hypertrophy; among these respondents, 87% reported common use of α‐blockers. Although 31% of respondents were aware of the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), only 2% used it.

Conclusions:  Although Japanese PCP were involved increasingly in diagnosis and management of prostate disease, degree and proficiency of involvement were too limited and less than in Western countries. Continuing medical education appears desirable for PCP in Japan regarding prostate disease.
Self‐sterilizing catheters with titanium dioxide photocatalyst thin films for clean intermittent catheterization: Basis and study of clinical use
Authors: Sekiguchi Yuki , Yao Yanyan , Ohko Yoshihisa , Tanaka Katsuyuki , Ishido Tetsuro , Fujishima Akira , Kubota Yoshinobu
Published: May 2007

Objective:  Clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) requires a large number of disposable catheters or a large amount of water and disinfectant. We made titanium dioxide (TiO2)‐coated catheters for CIC using technology we have developed previously, and examined the photocatalytic antibacterial effect of this catheter using only light energy and the safety of this type of catheter for practical clinical use.

Methods:  TiO2‐coated catheters were filled with bacterial cell suspensions and illuminated with a 15‐W black‐light lamp for testing antibacterial potency. Next, we soaked control toxic materials (zinc diethyldithiocarbamate) and the tips of TiO2‐coated catheters in M05 medium, and evaluated cell toxicity from the numbers of V79 colonies in these dilutions. Then, bodyweight curves and histological tissue changes were observed over a period of time in mouse‐transplanted TiO2‐coated catheters and control catheters. Finally, we investigated the use of these TiO2‐coated catheters in 18 patients by questionnaire and bacterial culture of TiO2‐coated catheters and control catheters.

Results:  The survival rate of Escherichia coli in the liquid inside the TiO2 catheter decreased to a negligible level within 60 min under ultraviolet (UV)‐A illumination. The survival rate of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Serratia marcescens also decreased to a negligible level within 60 min. V79 cells showed no cytotoxicity of this catheter, and there was no difference in bodyweight or foreign body reaction between mouse‐transplanted TiO2‐coated catheters and control catheters. In a preliminary clinical analysis of 18 patients who voluntarily used this catheter, the rate of positive bacterial culture of the tips of TiO2‐coated catheters was 20% versus 60% for conventional catheters after 4 weeks of use.

Conclusion:  TiO2‐coated silicone catheters were easily sterilized under certain light sources and were shown to be safe in an experiment using cultured cells and in animal experiments. Sterilizing catheters with TiO2 photocatalyst thin films are expected to be used clinically for clean intermittent catheterization after proper modification based on this study.
Incorporation of TIP (paclitaxel, ifosfamide, cisplatin) into first‐line therapy for intermediate to poor risk testicular germ cell tumors with unfavorable marker decline after initial two cycles chemotherapy: A report of three cases
Authors: Ishioka Jun‐Ichiro , Kageyama Yukio , Ichiyanagi Nobutaka , Fukuda Hiroshi , Higashi Yotsuo
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Three patients of advanced‐non‐seminomatous germ cell tumors (International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group classification: poor risk, 2; intermediate, 1) without evidence of a second primary germ cell tumor were treated. The patients received two cycles of standard BEP (bleomycin, etopside, cisplatin) or VIP/VB (etoposide, ifosphamide, cisplatin/vinblastine, bleomycin) therapy first. All patients in this trial showed unfavorable marker response to these therapies and received four cycles of TIP subsequently. A complete remission was observed in all patients. No patient experienced life‐threatening toxicity. During the 34‐month observation period, all patients were alive without progression.
Epidermoid cyst of the ureter: A case report
Authors: Ishizaki Hironori , Iida Shizuka , Koga Hiroshi , Shimamatsu Kazuhide , Matsuoka Kei
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Epidermal cysts of the upper urinary tract are extremely rare. Only three cases have been reported in the published work written in English, Italian or German. We encountered a case of an epidermoid cyst in the ureter of a 72‐year‐old male. Findings on urine analysis and radiological examination were useful for establishing a correct diagnosis of epidermoid cyst of the urinary tract.
Inter‐functional Integration and Industrial New Product Portfolio Decision Making: Exploring and Articulating the Linkages
Authors: Perks Helen
Published: May 2007

This study investigates the relationship between the nature of inter‐functional integration and industrial new product/service portfolio decision making. While inter‐functional integration has been widely researched, there is little understanding of its influence on resource allocation decisions within the context of a broad portfolio of development projects. The detailed activities and decisions underpinning the inter‐functional management of the new product portfolio, as well as three specific new product/service projects, at a large European industrial product manufacturer are analysed. Detailed findings are provided. Two critical inter‐functional dimensions – functional domination and nature of evaluation criteria – are derived and discussed. Implications for managerial action are given.
Dynamics and incidence patterns of maternal complications in early‐onset hypertension of pregnancy
Authors: Ganzevoort W , Rep A , Bonsel GJ , De Vries JIP , Wolf H ,   PETRA investigators
Published: May 2007

Objective  To describe the variable disease expression and the patterns of development of major maternal morbidity and HELLP (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count) syndrome in women with different subtypes of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

Design  Prospective cohort study.

Setting  Two university hospitals, tertiary care centres.

Population  Two hundred and sixteen women participating in a randomised trial of temporising management in early‐onset hypertensive disease (PETRA trial). Women were between 24 and 34 completed weeks and had either HELLP syndrome, severe pre‐eclampsia, eclampsia or hypertension and fetal growth restriction. Women were delivered in the event of fetal marked heart rate abnormalities, pulmonary oedema, therapy‐resistant hypertension or recurrent HELLP syndrome.

Methods  Trial data were reanalysed to assess the time of onset of major maternal morbidity (e.g. pulmonary oedema, liver haematoma), HELLP syndrome and clinical disease. Associations between clinical parameters and prolongation of pregnancy were explored using logistic regression.

Main outcome measures  Diagnosis from admittance to discharge, major maternal morbidity and prolongation of pregnancy.

Results  The median time to delivery or fetal death was 8.2 (range 0.1–44) days. At study entry, 56 women (26%) had more than one diagnosis; this increased to 171 women (79%) by the time of discharge. The incidence of major maternal morbidity (total 26) was 4.2% at 2–4 days after inclusion and a mean of 1.7% (range 0–2%) thereafter per time frame of 3 days. The mean incidence of new or recurrent HELLP syndrome episodes was 5.5% (range 1.9–8.7%) per time frame of 3 days during the first 3 weeks after inclusion.

Conclusions  Pre‐eclampsia is a dynamic disease, with extensive overlap of subtypes of the syndrome. Prolongation of pregnancy in early‐onset hypertensive disorders results in the development of further HELLP syndrome episodes and reversible major maternal morbidity but may improve perinatal healthy survival.
Randomised clinical trial of a laxative alone versus a laxative and a bulking agent after primary repair of obstetric anal sphincter injury
Authors: Eogan M , Daly L , Behan M , O’Connell PR , O’Herlihy C
Published: May 2007

Objective  To compare two postpartum laxative regimens in women who have undergone primary repair of obstetric anal sphincter injury.

Design  Randomised controlled trial.

Setting  National Maternity Hospital, Dublin.

Population  A total of 147 postpartum women who had sustained anal sphincter injury at vaginal birth.

Methods  Women were randomised to receive either lactulose alone thrice daily for the first three postpartum days followed by sufficient lactulose to maintain a soft stool over the following 10 days (lactulose group, n= 77) or the lactulose regimen combined with a sachet of ispaghula husk daily for the first 10 postpartum days (Fybogel™ group, n= 70). All patients kept a diary of bowel habit for the first 10 postpartum days and were invited to return for review at 3 months postpartum.

Main outcome measures  Patient discomfort with first postpartum bowel motion, incidence of postnatal constipation and incontinence and incontinence score in postnatal period.

Results  Pain scores were similar in the two treatment groups; but incontinence in the immediate postnatal period was more frequent with the two preparations compared with lactulose alone (32.86% versus 18.18%, P= 0.03).

Conclusions  This study does not support routine prescribing of a stool‐bulking agent in addition to a laxative in the immediate postnatal period for women who have sustained anal sphincter injury at vaginal delivery.
The Cost‐Effectiveness of Improving Diabetes Care in U.S. Federally Qualified Community Health Centers
Authors: Huang Elbert S. , Zhang Qi , Brown Sydney E. S. , Drum Melinda L. , Meltzer David O. , Chin Marshall H.
Published: May 2007

Objective. To estimate the incremental cost‐effectiveness of improving diabetes care with the Health Disparities Collaborative (HDC), a national collaborative quality improvement (QI) program conducted in community health centers (HCs).

Data Sources/Study Setting. Data regarding the impact of the Diabetes HDC program came from a serial cross‐sectional follow‐up study (1998, 2000, 2002) of the program in 17 Midwestern HCs. Data inputs for the simulation model of diabetes came from the latest clinical trials and epidemiological studies.

Study Design. We conducted a societal cost‐effectiveness analysis, incorporating data from QI program evaluation into a Monte Carlo simulation model of diabetes.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods. Data on diabetes care processes and risk factor levels were extracted from medical charts of randomly selected patients.

Principal Findings. From 1998 to 2002, multiple processes of care (e.g., glycosylated hemoglobin testing [HbA1C] [71→92 percent] and ACE inhibitor prescribing [33→55 percent]) and risk factor levels (e.g., 1998 mean HbA1C 8.53 percent, mean difference 0.45 percent [95 percent confidence intervals −0.72, −0.17]) improved significantly. With these improvements, the HDC was estimated to reduce the lifetime incidence of blindness (17→15 percent), end‐stage renal disease (18→15 percent), and coronary artery disease (28→24 percent). The average improvement in quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) was 0.35 and the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was $33,386/QALY.

Conclusions. During the first 4 years of the HDC, multiple improvements in diabetes care were observed. If these improvements are maintained or enhanced over the lifetime of patients, the HDC program will be cost‐effective for society based on traditionally accepted thresholds.
Practicing Physician Education in Geriatrics: Lessons Learned from a Train‐the‐Trainer Model
Authors: Levine Sharon A. , Brett Belle , Robinson Bruce E. , Stratos Georgette A. , Lascher Steven M. , Granville Lisa , Goodwin Carol , Dunn Kathel , Barry Patricia P.
Published: May 2007

Evidence of poor performance in the evaluation and management of common geriatric conditions suggests the need for changing physician behavior in these areas. Traditional lecture‐style continuing medical education (CME) has not been shown to be effective. Expert faculty initially trained 60 nonexpert peer educators to conduct small‐group, learner‐centered CME using tool kits on memory loss, incontinence, and depression. Peer educators presented 109 community‐based sessions to 1,309 medical practitioners. Surveys were administered to community participants immediately and 6 months after a session. Evidence of effectiveness included statistically significant increases in self‐reported knowledge, attitudes, and office‐based practices on the target topics at the time of training and at the 6‐month follow‐up (P<.001) and two‐thirds of respondents reporting continued use of three or more tools at 6 months. Participants reported that the interactive presentation aided their understanding of and ability to use the tool kits more than an off‐the‐shelf review (mean rating±standard deviation 4.1±0.71, with 1=not at all and 5=significantly). After the formal evaluation period, additional information about the project dynamics and tool kits was obtained through a small interview sample and an on‐line survey, respectively. Receiving copies of the tool kits was an important factor in enabling educators to offer sessions. Barriers to offering sessions included finding time, an audience, and space. Findings suggest that modest positive changes in practice in relation to common geriatric problems can be achieved through peer‐led, community‐based sessions using principles of knowledge translation and evidence‐based tool kits with materials for providers and patients.
Food Safety Objectives Should Integrate the Variability of the Concentration of Pathogen
Authors: Rieu Emilie , Duhem Koenraad , Vindel Elisabeth , Sanaa Moez
Published: May 2007

The World Trade Organization introduced the concept of appropriate level of protection (ALOP) as a public health target. For this public health objective to be interpretable by the actors in the food chain, the concept of food safety objective (FSO) was proposed by the International Commission on Microbiological Specifications for Foods and adopted later by the Codex Alimentarius Food Hygiene Committee. The way to translate an ALOP into a FSO is still in debate. The purpose of this article is to develop a methodological tool to derive a FSO from an ALOP being expressed as a maximal annual marginal risk. We explore the different models relating the annual marginal risk to the parameters of the FSO depending on whether the variability in the survival probability and in the concentration of the pathogen are considered or not. If they are not, determination of the FSO is straightforward. If they are, we propose to use stochastic Monte Carlo simulation models and logistic discriminant analysis in order to determine which sets of parameters are compatible with the ALOP. The logistic discriminant function was chosen such that the kappa coefficient is maximized. We illustrate this method by the example of the risks of listeriosis and salmonellosis in one type of soft cheese. We conclude that the definition of the FSO should integrate three dimensions: the prevalence of contamination, the average concentration per contaminated typical serving, and the dispersion of the concentration among those servings.
Reduction of AF Recurrence After Pulmonary Vein Isolation by Eliminating ATP‐Induced Transient Venous Re‐Conduction
Authors: MATSUO SEIICHIRO , YAMANE TEIICHI , DATE TARO , INADA KEIICHI , KANZAKI YASUKO , TOKUDA MICHIFUMI , SHIBAYAMA KENRI , MIYANAGA SATORU , MIYAZAKI HIDEKAZU , SUGIMOTO KENICHI , MOCHIZUKI SEIBU
Published: May 2007

Background: Recent evidence has suggested that the transient re‐conduction of the isolated pulmonary vein (PV) induced by the intravenous injection of adenosine (dormant PV conduction) might predict the incidence of subsequent venous reconnection after the procedure, which is the main cause of the atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after PV isolation (PVI). We tested the hypothesis that the elimination of these dormant PV conductions by additional radiofrequency (RF) applications can improve the efficacy of the PVI.

Methods and Results: One hundred forty‐eight patients (124 males; mean age 53 ± 9 years) with drug‐refractory AF underwent the PVI procedure. The standard PVI was performed in 94 patients (Group A), whereas the elimination of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)‐induced dormant conduction using additional RF energy was performed in addition to the standard PVI in other 54 patients (Group B). Dormant conduction was observed in 56% of the patients (30/54) in Group B and 95% of these transient re‐conductions were successfully eliminated by additional RF applications (mean: 1.5 ± 1.0 times). During the mean follow‐up period of 20 months, recurrences of AF after the procedures were observed significantly less frequently in Group B (20%) than in Group A (40%) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: The use of additional RF applications to eliminate transient PV reconnection induced by ATP injection led to a reduction of AF recurrence after PVI, most likely due to the minimization of the subsequent PV reconnection.
Generally Speaking: The Logic and Mechanics of Social Pattern Analysis1
Authors: Zerubavel Eviatar
Published: May 2007

This paper examines social pattern analysis, the yet‐unarticulated research strategy that guides formal sociologists in their efforts to distill generic social patterns from their specific cultural, situational, and historical contexts. Following in the implicit methodological footsteps of Georg Simmel, social pattern analysts view specific sociohistorical configurations as mere instantiations of such patterns, thereby deliberately disregarding various idiosyncrasies of the particular communities, events, and social situations they examine. Analytically focused, they thus draw their evidence from multiple social contexts, thereby making their essentially decontextualized findings more generalizable. Furthermore, in sharp contrast to historians and ethnographers, they try to highlight universality rather than singularity, thereby focusing their attention on the common formal features of any given pattern across those contexts while deliberately ignoring differences among its various specific manifestations. The outcome of such transcultural, transsituational, and transhistorical (that is, transcontextual) mode of inquiry is an empirically grounded “social geometry.”
A comparison of two different techniques for oculomotor torque reduction
Authors: Hoerantner Robert , Priglinger Siegfried , Koch Martina , Haslwanter Thomas
Published: May 2007

Purpose:  To compare the results of two different surgical techniques: ‘Cüppers technique’, in which the torque of oculomotor rectus muscles is reduced by suturing the muscle to the globe in the posterior half of the globe; and ‘Y‐split recessions’, in which the muscle torque is reduced by Y‐splitting the rectus muscles, and reattaching the two halves at an angle to each other.

Methods:  We carried out a retrospective analysis of the outcome of surgery on 100 patients with infantile esotropia.

Results:  Both techniques show a sufficient reduction of strabismus angle variability, and minimal and maximal strabismus angle.

Conclusions:  Both techniques achieve satisfactory results. In addition, the Y‐split technique allows for accurate control of the muscle torque and requires no access to the posterior half of the eye, which can facilitate the surgical approach. For a reduction in muscle torque, the Y‐split recession is a good alternative to the established Cüppers technique.
Urinary and fecal immunoglobulin A, cortisol and 11‐17 dioxoandrostanes, and serum cortisol in metabolic cage housed female cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis)
Authors: Paramastri Yasmina , Royo Felix , Eberova Jitka , Carlsson Hans‐Erik , Sajuthi Dondin , Fernstrom Anna‐Linnea , Pamungkas Joka , Hau Jann
Published: May 2007

Background and methods  Quantitative enzyme‐immunoassays of urinary and fecal immunoglobulin A (IgA), cortisol and 11‐17‐dioxoandrostanes (11,17‐DOA), and serum cortisol in eight metabolic‐cage‐housed female cynomolgus monkeys were performed. The monkeys were divided into two groups, B and NB. Group B animals were blood sampled every 6 hours, whereas Group NB animals were not handled/blood sampled.

Results  No differences were recorded between the amounts of feces and urine excreted by the two groups. Group B animals excreted more urinary cortisol than did Group NB animals indicating that restraint‐blood sampling resulted in a stress response. Excreted amounts of IgA and 11,17‐DOA (urine and feces) did not differ between the groups.

Conclusions  Urinary cortisol was a reliable marker of the stress associated with repeated blood sampling. Declining amounts of excreted urinary cortisol indicated that cynomolgus monkeys acclimated quickly to repeated blood sampling in metabolism cages. Within and between animal variation in amounts of feces voided demonstrated the importance of expressing fecal markers as ‘amounts excreted per time unit per kg body weight’ rather than just measuring the concentrations in fecal samples.
Combination Effect of Herring Roe Lipids and Proteins on Plasma Lipids and Abdominal Fat Weight of Mouse
Authors: Moriya H. , Hosokawa M. , Miyashita K.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT:  Dietary effects of herring roe lipids (HR‐L) and proteins (HR‐P) on plasma lipids and abdominal fat pad weight were determined. The main lipid class of HR‐L was phospholipids (74%) and the main fatty acids were palmitic acid (16:0, 25.8%), DHA (22:6n‐3, 21.6%), EPA (20:5n‐3, 14.4%), and oleic acid (18:1n‐9, 13.2%). A little increase in total cholesterol level was observed in plasma lipids of mouse fed with HR‐L, although HR‐L contained 9% cholesterol. This would be due to the lowering effect of EPA and DHA contained in HR‐L on plasma cholesterol. Replacement of a part of dietary protein (5%) to HR‐P reduced abdominal fat pad weight, but not significantly. On the other hand, combination of HR‐P and HR‐L significantly reduced the fat pad weight of the mouse as compared with the control. A significant effect of HR‐P + HR‐L was also observed in the reducing plasma lipid levels.
Contribution of the Starch, Protein, and Lipid Fractions to the Physical, Thermal, and Structural Properties of Amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus) Flour Films
Authors: Tapia‐Blácido D. , Mauri A.N. , Menegalli F.C. , Sobral P.J.A. , Añón M.C.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT:  Amaranth protein–lipid (PL) and protein (P) films were elaborated and compared with amaranth flour films in order to determine the contribution of the interactions between the biopolymer (starch and protein) and the lipids to the film properties. The films were made by the casting method, using the same glycerol concentration (0.9 g glycerol/100 g solution). A separation of the lipid fraction in the PL films and a polymorphic transformation of the corresponding fatty acids were observed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and verified by an analysis of the microstructure by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The flour films showed no separation of the lipid fraction, evidence that the lipids were strongly associated with the proteins and homogenously distributed throughout the starch network, contributing to the good mechanical properties when compared to the PL films and to the excellent barrier properties when compared to both the PL and P films. The protein‐protein interactions also contributed to the mechanical properties of the flour films. The presence of proteins and lipids in the flour films had an important effect on film solubility, and also on the color and opacity of the films. This study showed that the flour film properties depended on the interactions formed by their polymers (starches and proteins) and by the lipid, on the distribution of these interactions within the film matrix and on the concentrations of each component in the film.
Novel approaches to assessing renal function in cirrhotic liver disease
Authors: Portal Andrew J. , Austin Mark , Heneghan Michael A.
Published: May 2007

Renal dysfunction is common in patients with end‐stage liver disease. Etiological factors include conditions as diverse as acute tubular necrosis, immunoglobulin A nephropathy and hepatorenal syndrome. Current standard tests of renal function, such as measurement of serum urea and creatinine levels, are inaccurate as the synthesis of these markers is affected by the native liver pathology. This article reviews novel markers of renal function and their potential use in patients with liver disease.
Effects of Various Parameters on Nanofluid Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Pil Jang Seok , Choi Stephen U. S.
Published: May 2007

The addition of a small amount of nanoparticles in heat transfer fluids results in the new thermal phenomena of nanofluids (nanoparticle-fluid suspensions) reported in many investigations. However, traditional conductivity theories such as the Maxwell or other macroscale approaches cannot explain the thermal behavior of nanofluids. Recently, Jang and Choi proposed and modeled for the first time the Brownian-motion-induced nanoconvection as a key nanoscale mechanism governing the thermal behavior of nanofluids, but did not clearly explain this and other new concepts used in the model. This paper explains in detail the new concepts and simplifying assumptions and reports the effects of various parameters such as the ratio of the thermal conductivity of nanoparticles to that of a base fluid, volume fraction, nanoparticle size, and temperature on the effective thermal conductivity of nanofluids. Comparison of model predictions with published experimental data shows good agreement for nanofluids containing oxide, metallic, and carbon nanotubes.
Optimum Battery Size for Fuel Cell Hybrid Electric Vehicle With Transient Loading Consideration—Part II
Authors: Sundström Olle , Stefanopoulou Anna
Published: May 2007

This study presents a simplified model of a midsized vehicle powered by a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell stack together with a lead-acid battery as an energy buffer. The model is used with dynamic programming in order to find the optimal coordination of the two power sources while penalizing transient excursions in oxygen concentration in the fuel cell and the state of charge in the battery. The effects of the battery size on the overall energy losses for different drive cycles are determined, and the optimal power split policies are analyzed to quantify all the energy losses and their paths in an effort to clarify the hybridization needs for a fuel cell vehicle with constraints on dynamically varying variables. Finally, a causal nonpredictive controller is presented. The battery sizing results from the dynamic programming optimizations and the causal controller are compared.
Health benefits of tennis
Authors: Pluim Babette M , Staal J Bart , Marks Bonita L , Miller Stuart , Miley Dave
Published: May 2007

The aim of the study was to explore the role of tennis in the promotion of health and prevention of disease. The focus was on risk factors and diseases related to a sedentary lifestyle, including low fitness levels, obesity, hyperlipidaemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. A literature search was undertaken to retrieve relevant articles. Structured computer searches of PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL were undertaken, along with hand searching of key journals and reference lists to locate relevant studies published up to March 2007. These had to be cohort studies (of either cross sectional or longitudinal design), case–control studies, or experimental studies. Twenty four studies were identified that dealt with physical fitness of tennis players, including 17 on intensity of play and 16 on maximum oxygen uptake; 17 investigated the relation between tennis and (risk factors for) cardiovascular disease; and 22 examined the effect of tennis on bone health. People who choose to play tennis appear to have significant health benefits, including improved aerobic fitness, a lower body fat percentage, a more favourable lipid profile, reduced risk for developing cardiovascular disease, and improved bone health.
Temperature and Magnetic Field Dependent Photoluminescence from Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Nicholas R. J. , Mortimer I. B. , Li L. J. , Nish A. , Portugall O. , Rikken G. L. J. A.
Published: May 2007

Photoluminescence as a function of temperature and magnetic field from single walled carbon nanotube solutions is described. This is modelled assuming that it is dominated by the small energy splitting between the dark and bright states of the singlet excitons which are found to be in the region of 1-5 meV for nanotubes of 0.8-1.2nm. The emission energies show a large red-shift due to the introduction of an Aharanov-Bohm phase by magnetic field along the tube axis and the luminescence intensity is strongly enhanced at low temperatures due to the mixing of the different valley states of the excitons.
MAGNETO SPECTROSCOPY OF SINGLE-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBES
Authors: PORTUGALL O. , KRSTIC V. , RIKKEN G. L. J. A. , KONO J. , SHAVER J. , ZARIC S. , MOORE V. C. , HAUGE R. H. , SMALLEY R. E. , MIYAUCHI Y. , MARUYAMA S.
Published: May 2007

Carbon nano-tubes (CNTs) are attracting tremendous interest as the object of fundamental studies in condensed matter and molecular physics as well as possible functional units for future nano-devices. Some of the most striking features of CNTs are related to the symmetry breaking effect of high magnetic fields threading the tube axis. In the present paper we review the results of recent magneto-optical studies of single-walled CNTs in pulsed magnetic fields up to 71 T and at temperatures between 4.2 and 300 K. We present clear evidence for (a) the effect of the Aharonov-Bohm phase on the bandstructure of CNTs, (b) the existence of dark excitons in CNTs due to Coulomb mixing and (c) the effect of magnetic brightening, i.e. the increase of the quantum yield of CNTs under the influence of an external field. Experimental data was derived from large ensembles of individualized tubes in either aligned films or in liquid suspension. A brief discussion of the effect of dynamic magnetic alignment of suspended tubes will be included.
MAGNETORESISTANCE OF A SILICON MOSFET ON THE (111) SURFACE IN A PARALLEL MAGNETIC FIELD
Authors: GOLD A. , ANTONIE O.
Published: May 2007

In comparison with silicon (100) we argue that the silicon (111) surface is a surface with higher mobility and stronger Coulomb interaction effects. For the resistance of the two-dimensional electron gas we discuss the effects of a magnetic field parallel to the surface: for zero temperature we present theoretical results for the magnetoresistance of an electron gas at the surface of silicon (111) with a six-fold valley degeneracy. Impurity scattering and interface roughness scattering are taken into account. A recent study of a hydrogen-passivated silicon (111) surface showed a mobility proportional to the electron density. We present, using a model for neutral impurities, predictions for the magnetoresistance of this sample in a parallel magnetic field.
CURRENT-INDUCED SPIN TORQUE ON A DOMAIN WALL IN A MAGNETIC NANOWIRE
Authors: DUGAEV V. K. , VIEIRA V. R. , SACRAMENTO P. D. , BARNAŚ J. , ARAÚJO M. A. N. , BERAKDAR J.
Published: May 2007

We develop a theory applicable in the regime, where the wavelength of spin up and down electrons, λ↑,↓, is smaller than the DW width L (smooth DW). This regime is appropriate for strongly doped magnetic semiconductors and metallic ferromagnets. We develop an approach related to a weak (adiabatic) perturbation arising after a local transformation to the uniform magnetization. In the limit of L ≫ λ↑,↓ we find an exponentially small reflection and spin-flip transition amplitudes. The theory is useful in the regime, where the DW width is not so large, and the perturbation corrections to the wave functions are quite essential. We calculate the current-induced spin density and the spin torque acting locally on the magnetic moments within the DW. The spatially-distributed torque acts as a force pushing the DW in one direction as a response to the external current, and also as an internal force, which can distort the static ordering of magnetic moments in the DW.
Neonatal immune challenge does not affect body weight regulation in rats
Authors: Spencer Sarah J. , Mouihate Abdeslam , Galic Michael A. , Ellis Shaun L. , Pittman Quentin J.
Published: May 2007

The perinatal environment plays a crucial role in programming many aspects of adult physiology. Myriad stressors during pregnancy, from maternal immune challenge to nutritional deficiency, can alter long-term body weight set points of the offspring. In light of the increasing concern over body weight issues, such as obesity and anorexia, in modern societies and accumulating evidence that developmental stressors have long-lasting effects on other aspects of physiology (e.g., fever, pain), we explored the role of immune system activation during neonatal development and its impact on body weight regulation in adulthood. Here we present a thorough evaluation of the effects of immune system activation (LPS, 100 μg/kg ip) at postnatal days 3, 7, or 14 on long-term body weight, adiposity, and body weight regulation after a further LPS injection (50 μg/kg ip) or fasting and basal and LPS-induced circulating levels of the appetite-regulating proinflammatory cytokine leptin. We show that neonatal exposure to LPS at various times during the neonatal period has no long-term effects on growth, body weight, or adiposity. We also observed no effects on body weight regulation in response to a short fasting period or a further exposure to LPS. Despite reductions in circulating leptin levels in response to LPS during the neonatal period, no long-term effects on leptin were seen. These results convincingly demonstrate that adult body weight and weight regulation are, unlike many other aspects of adult physiology, resistant to programming by a febrile-dose neonatal immune challenge.
Exercise training improves myocardial tolerance to ischemia in male but not in female rats
Authors: Thorp David B. , Haist James V. , Leppard Jennifer , Milne Kevin J. , Karmazyn Morris , Noble Earl G.
Published: May 2007

Acute exercise increases myocardial tolerance to ischemia-reperfusion (I-R) injury in male but not in female rat hearts, possibly due to a decreased heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) response in the female hearts. This study examined whether repetitive exercise training would increase Hsp70 and myocardial tolerance to I-R injury in female rat hearts. Adaptations in myocardial manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) were also assessed. Ten-week old male (M) and female (F) Sprague-Dawley rats ( n = 40 total) exercise-trained for 14 wk; the last 8 wk consisted of running 1 h at 30 m/min (2% incline), 5 days/wk. Following training, left ventricle mechanical function (LVMF) was monitored for 30 min of reperfusion following 30 min of global ischemia (Langendorff procedure). Myocardial Hsp70 content was not different in M and F control groups, while increases were observed in both trained groups (M greater than F; P < 0.05). Although MnSOD content did not differ between groups, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) levels were decreased in F, with no change in M, following training ( P < 0.05). Hearts from control F demonstrated a greater recuperation of all indices of LVMF following I-R compared with control M hearts ( P < 0.05). Hearts of trained M exhibited improved recovery of LVMF (left ventricular diastolic pressure, left ventrcular end-diastolic pressure, +dP/d t, −dP/d t) during reperfusion compared with control M hearts ( P < 0.05). In contrast, hearts of trained F did not show any change in recovery from I-R. Hence, exercise training is more beneficial to M than F in improving myocardial function following I-R injury.
Dissection of a genetic locus influencing renal function in the rat and its concordance with kidney disease loci on human chromosome 1q21
Authors: Garrett Michael R. , Gunning William T. , Radecki Tracy , Richard Arti
Published: May 2007

Previously, we conducted a genome scan on a population derived from the Dahl salt-sensitive hypertensive (S) and the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) using urinary albumin excretion (UAE) as our primary measure of renal function. We identified 10 quantitative trait loci (QTL) linked to several renal and/or cardiovascular traits. In particular, linkage and subsequent congenic strain analysis demonstrated that the loci on chromosome 2 had a large and significant effect on UAE compared with the S rat. The present work sought to characterize the chromosome 2 congenic strain [S.SHR( 2 )] by conducting a time-course analysis ( week 4–20), including evaluating additional renal parameters, histology, electron microscopy, and gene expression/ pathway analysis. Throughout the time course the congenic strain consistently maintained a threefold reduction in UAE compared with S rats and was supported by the histological findings of significantly reduced glomerular, tubular and interstitial changes. Gene expression/pathway analysis performed at week 4, 12, and 20 revealed that pathways involved in cellular assembly and organization, cellular movement, and immune response were controlled differently between the S and congenic. When all the data are considered, the chromosome 2 congenic appears to attenuate renal damage primarily through an altered fibrotic response. Recombinant progeny testing was employed to reduce the QTL to ∼1.5 cM containing several interesting candidate genes. The concordance of this rat QTL with renal disease loci on human chromosome 1q21 demonstrate that elucidating the causative gene and mechanism of the rat QTL may be of particular importance for understanding kidney disease in humans.
Activity Budget and Ranging Patterns of Colobus vellerosus in Forest Fragments in Central Ghana
Authors: Wong Sarah N.P. , Sicotte Pascale
Published: May 2007

The forest fragments surrounding the 192-ha Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary (BFMS) in central Ghana contain small populations of Colobus vellerosus. Data were collected on activity budget, ranging patterns and habitat use of 3 groups living in these small fragments in August–November 2003, and compared to 3 BFMS groups. Fragment groups spent less time moving and more time resting than BFMS groups. Home ranges of fragment groups tended to be smaller than those of BFMS groups. Fragment and BFMS groups used similarly sized trees. Comparisons of activity budget and ranging between fragments and the BFMS suggest that fragment habitat quality was sufficient to sustain current numbers. These behavioral trends are consistent with a concurrent study that we conducted investigating ecological quality in the same fragments.