bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parent reported home smoking bans and toddler (18–30 month) smoke exposure: a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: October 2005

.
 
Spencer N.,
Blackburn C.,
Bonas S.,
Coe C.,
Dolan A.
(
2005
)

,
90
,
670
–
674
.

Aims  To study the relation between the use of parent reported home smoking bans and smoke exposure among children aged 18–30 months.

Methods  A total of 309 smoking households with children aged 18–30 months, who were part of the Coventry Cohort study, consented to participate in this cross‐sectional survey.

Results  Although parents in almost 88% of smoking households reported using harm reduction strategies to protect their toddlers from smoke exposure, only 13.9% reported smoking bans in the house. Mean log urinary cotinine : creatinine ratio was significantly lower for those children whose parents reported no smoking in the house (1.11, 95% CI 0.64–1.49) compared with none/less strict strategies (1.87, 95% CI 1.64–2.10). In linear regression models fitted on log cotinine : creatinine ratio, no smoking in the house was independently associated with a significant reduction in cotinine : creatinine ratio (B = −0.55, 95% CI −0.89 to −0.20) after adjusting for mother's and partner's average daily cigarette consumption, housing tenure, and overcrowding. The final model accounted for 44.3% of the variance.

Conclusions  Not smoking in the house was associated with a reduction in mean urinary cotinine : creatinine ratio in children aged 18–30 months; the relation persisted after adjustment for levels of mother's and partner's daily cigarette consumption and socio‐demographic factors. Results suggest that home smoking bans in this age group have a small but significant effect on smoke exposure independent of levels of parental tobacco consumption.
Pharmacokinetics of two once‐daily parenteral cephalexin formulations in dogs
Authors: REBUELTO M. , MONTOYA L. , KREIL V. , AMBROS L. , WAXMAN S. , ALBARELLOS G. , HALLU R.
Published: October 2005

The aims of this study were to describe and compare the pharmacokinetic profiles andT>MIC90of two commercially available once‐daily recommended cephalexin formulations in healthy adult dogs administered by the intramuscular (i.m.) route. Six beagle dogs received a 10 mg/kg dose of an 18% parenteral suspension of cephalexin of laboratory A (formulation A) and laboratory B (formulation B) 3 weeks apart. Blood samples were collected in predetermined times after drug administration. The main pharmacokinetic parameters were (mean ± SD):AUC(0−∞), 72.44 ± 15.9 and 60.83 ± 13.2 μg·h/mL;Cmax, 10.11 ± 1.5 and 8.50 ± 1.9 μg/mL; terminal half‐life, 3.56 ± 1.5 and 2.57 ± 0.72 h andMRT(0−∞), 5.86 ± 1.5 and 5.36 ± 1.2 h for formulations A and B, respectively.T>MIC90was 63.1 ± 14.7 and 62.1 ± 14.7% of the dosing interval for formulations A and B, respectively. Median (range) fortmaxwas 2.0 (2.0–3.0) h and 3.0 (2.0–4.0) for formulations A and B, respectively. Geometric mean ratios of natural log‐transformedAUC(0−∞)andCmaxand their 90% confidence intervals (CI) were 0.84 (0.72–0.98) and 0.83 (0.64–1.07), respectively. The plasma profiles of cephalexin following the administration of both formulations were similar. No statistical differences between pharmacokinetic parameters orT>MIC90were observed, however, bioequivalence between both formulations could not be demonstrated, as lower 90% CI failed to fell within the selected range of 80–125% for bioequivalence.
Effects of formulation concentration on intravenous pharmacokinetics, chirality and in vitro solubility of oxfendazole and its metabolites in sheep
Authors: SÁNCHEZ BRUNI S. F. , JONES D. G. , SMALL J. , MCKELLAR Q. A.
Published: October 2005

This study compared pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles in sheep dosed intravenously with three different concentrations of oxfendazole (OFZ). An in vitro plasma OFZ solubility study provided additional information on plasma saturation. For the PK study, 18 adult, parasite‐free, female Suffolk cross sheep, allocated into three groups (n = 6), were treated intravenously, at a dose rate of 5 mg/kg bodyweight, with aqueous formulations containing at 4, 8 or 16% OFZ. Plasma drug concentrations were measured, for up to 72 h post‐treatment, by a validated high performance liquid chromatography method with UV detection. OFZ and fenbendazole sulphone (FBZSO2) were the main metabolites detected in all three experimental groups. In animals given the 4% formulation, OFZ depleted according to a biexponential concentration vs. time curve. In contrast, those given 8 or 16% preparations produced atypical curves fitted by monoexponential equations. No statistically significant differences in area under concentration‐time curves (AUC) were observed, but concentration‐dependent differences in distribution and mean residence time (MRT) were evident. Compared with 4% OFZ, animals treated with 8 and 16% formulations had slower half‐lives of metabolite formation, and lower AUC's, suggesting that OFZ sulphonation may have been modified. In vitro there was evidence of plasma saturation associated with 8 and 16% OFZ preparations. It is concluded that differences in PK profiles were related to OFZ solubility and/or tissue drug precipitation.
Pharmacokinetics of azithromycin after i.v. and i.m. administration to sheep
Authors: CÁRCELES C. M. , FONT A. , ESCUDERO E. , ESPUNY A. , MARÍN P. , FERNÁNDEZ‐VARÓN E.
Published: October 2005

The pharmacokinetics (PK) of azithromycin after i.v. and i.m. injection at a single dosage of 20 mg/kg bodyweight was studied in sheep. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein until 120 h after dosing for both routes. Plasma concentrations of azithromycin were determined by bioassay. The plasma concentration–time data of azithromycin best fitted a three‐compartment model after i.v. administration and a two‐compartment model with first‐order absorption after i.m. administration. The elimination half‐life (t1/2λz) was 47.70 ± 7.49 h after i.v. administration and 61.29 ± 13.86 h after i.m. administration. Clearance value after i.v. dosing was 0.52 ± 0.08 L/kg·h. After i.m. administration a peak azithromycin concentration (Cmax) of 1.26 ± 0.19 mg/L was achieved at 1.24 ± 0.31 h (tmax). Area under the curve (AUC) were 38.85 ± 5.83 mg·h/L and 36.03 ± 1.52 mg·h/L after i.v. and i.m. administration respectively. Bioavailability obtained after i.m. administration was 94.08 ± 11.56%. The high tolerability of this i.m. preparation and the favourable PK behaviour such as the long half‐life and high bioavailability make azithromycin likely to be effective in sheep.
Multiple dose pharmacokinetics and acute safety of piroxicam and cimetidine in the cat
Authors: HEEB H. L. , CHUN R. , KOCH D. E. , MOORE L. , RADLINSKY M. , CORSE M. , PELLERIN M. A. , GARRETT L. , HUNTER R. P.
Published: October 2005

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the multiple dose pharmacokinetics and acute safety of piroxicam and cimetidine alone and in combination in cats. Seven healthy cats were included in this randomized‐crossover study. The cats were assigned to groups designated to receive cimetidine alone (15 mg/kg, p.o., q12 h), piroxicam alone (0.3 mg/kg, p.o., q24 h), and piroxicam combined with cimetidine (both at aforementioned doses). The cats were dosed for 10 days followed by at least a 2‐week washout period between trials. Serial blood samples were collected following the first and last doses and analyzed utilizing a high‐performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry detection (LC/MS) assay. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined using noncompartmental analysis. Endoscopic evaluation of the gastric mucosa was performed and serum urea nitrogen (SUN), creatinine, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and alanine transaminase (ALT) activities were evaluated. There were not a clinically relevant difference between the pharmacokinetic parameters of piroxicam administered alone or in combination with cimetidine after either the first or last dose. Gastric ulcers were not observed in any cats although gastric erosions were. The SUN, creatinine, ALP, and ALT activities remained within reference ranges for all cats. It appears that once daily, short‐term use of piroxicam alone and in combination with cimetidine in cats is relatively safe based on the parameters evaluated in this study. However, further studies are necessary to determine the long‐term gastrointestinal safety of piroxicam.
klavier (klv), A novel hypernodulation mutant of Lotus japonicus affected in vascular tissue organization and floral induction
Authors: Oka‐Kira Erika , Tateno Kumiko , Miura Kin‐ichiro , Haga Tatsuya , Hayashi Masaki , Harada Kyuya , Sato Shusei , Tabata Satoshi , Shikazono Naoya , Tanaka Atsushi , Watanabe Yuichiro , Fukuhara Izumi , Nagata Toshiyuki , Kawaguchi Masayoshi
Published: October 2005

A novel hypernodulation mutant line was isolated from Lotus japonicus Miyakojima MG‐20 by irradiation with a helium ion beam. This mutant, named klavier (klv), had roots that were densely covered with small nodules. The nodulation zone of klv was significantly wider than that of the wild type. Grafting experiments showed that klv is impaired in the long‐distance shoot‐to‐root autoregulatory mechanism. Thus the shoot genotype was found to be responsible for the negative regulation of nodule development by KLV. Nodulation of klv showed a higher tolerance to nitrogen (KNO3) than the wild type, which is a common feature of hypernodulating mutants. In addition to an increased number of nodules, the klv mutant showed convex leaf veins on the adaxial leaf surface, markedly delayed flowering and dwarf phenotypes. Microscopic examination of the leaf veins revealed that they were discontinuous. Other phenotypes such as fasciated stems, increased number of flowers and bifurcated pistils were also frequently observed in the klv mutant. Among these phenotypes, hypernodulation, aberrant leaf vein formation and significantly delayed flowering were all linked in a monogenic and recessive manner, indicating that these phenotypes are caused by either a single mutation, or tightly linked mutations. KLV was mapped within 0.29 cM on the long arm of chromosome 1.
Tissue‐specific localization of gibberellins and expression of gibberellin‐biosynthetic and signaling genes in wood‐forming tissues in aspen
Authors: Israelsson Maria , Sundberg Björn , Moritz Thomas
Published: October 2005

Bioactive gibberellins (GAs) are known regulators of shoot growth and development in plants. In an attempt to identify where GAs are formed, we have analyzed the expression patterns of six GA biosynthesis genes and two genes with predicted roles in GA signaling and responses in relation to measured levels of GAs. The analysis was based on tangential sections, giving tissue‐specific resolution across the cambial region of aspen trees (Populus tremula). Gibberellin quantification by GC/MS‐SRM showed that the bioactive GA1 and GA4 were predominantly located in the zone of expansion of xylem cells. Based on co‐localization of the expression of the late GA biosynthesis gene GA 20‐oxidase 1 and bioactive GAs, we suggest that de novo GA biosynthesis occurs in the expanding xylem. However, expression levels of the first committed GA biosynthesis enzyme, ent‐copalyl diphosphate synthase, were high in the phloem, suggesting that a GA precursor(s) may be transported to the xylem. The expression of the GA signaling and response genes DELLA‐like1 and GIP‐like1 coincided well with sites of high bioactive GA levels. We therefore suggest that the main role of GA during wood formation is to regulate early stages of xylem differentiation, including cell elongation.
Optimization of aromatic side chain size complementarity in the hydrophobic core of a designed coiled‐coil
Authors: Sakurai Y. , Mizuno T. , Hiroaki H. , Oku J.‐I. , Tanaka T.
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  The coiled‐coil structure plays an important roles, especially in protein assembly. Previously we constructed AAB‐type heterotrimeric coiled‐coils by manipulating the packing in the hydrophobic core using Trp and Ala residues, where one Trp and two Ala residues were placed in the hydrophobic core instead of three Ile residues. To optimize the packing complementarity in the hydrophobic core, we investigated the effects of introducing various aromatic amino acids on the formation of an AAB‐type heterotrimeric coiled‐coil, by circular dichroism, thermal stability, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies. We found that the Phe residue was more suitable for heterotrimeric coiled‐coil formation than the Trp residue, when combined with two Ala residues, whereas the Tyr and His residues did not induce the coiled‐coil structure efficiently.
Dynamics of the Welfare Mix in the Republic of Korea: An Expenditure Study Between 1990 and 2001
Authors: Kim Jin Wook
Published: October 2005

Although non‐State sectors have played an important role in people's welfare, their expenditures have usually been excluded from social policy studies when measuring the welfare efforts of a nation. This article experiments with a new approach synthesizing welfare mix research using an expenditure study as a tool and applies the model to the Korean case. It presents the following major findings: first, the welfare system of the Republic of Korea has presented a genuine welfare mix in which the role of non‐State sectors has been of immense importance; and second, the dynamics of the welfare mix since 1997 have been largely due to the growing role of the State in social welfare, both directly and indirectly. Based on these findings, this article ultimately urges the necessity of the welfare mix approach in comparative social policy research.
In vivo interaction between serotonin and galanin receptors types 1 and 2 in the dorsal raphe: implication for limbic seizures
Authors: Mazarati Andrey M. , Baldwin Roger A. , Shinmei Steve , Sankar Raman
Published: October 2005

The neuropeptide galanin suppresses seizure activity in the hippocampus by inhibiting glutamatergic neurotransmission. Galanin may also modulate limbic seizures through interaction with other neurotransmitters in neuronal populations that project to the hippocampus. We examined the role of galanin receptors types 1 and 2 in the dorsal raphe (DR) in the regulation of serotonergic transmission and limbic seizures. Infusion of a mixed agonist of galanin receptors types 1 and 2 [galanin (1–29)] into the DR augmented the severity of limbic seizures in both rats and wild‐type mice and concurrently reduced serotonin concentration in the DR and hippocampus as measured by immunofluorescence or HPLC. In contrast, injection of the galanin receptor type 2 agonist galanin (2–11) mitigated the severity of seizures in both species and increased serotonin concentration in both areas. Injection of both galanin fragments into the DR of galanin receptor type 1 knockout mice exerted anticonvulsant effects. Both the proconvulsant activity of galanin (1–29) and seizure suppression by galanin (2–11) were abolished in serotonin‐depleted animals. Our data indicate that, in the DR, galanin receptors types 1 and 2 modulate serotonergic transmission in a negative and a positive fashion, respectively, and that these effects translate into either facilitation or inhibition of limbic seizures.
A structural metamorphic study of the Broken Hill Block, NSW, Australia
Authors: FORBES C. J. , BETTS P. G. , WEINBERG R. , BUICK I. S.
Published: October 2005

The prograde pressure–temperature (P–T) path for the complexly polydeformed Proterozoic Broken Hill Block (Australia) has been reconstructed through detailed structural analysis in conjunction with calculation of compositionally specific P–T pseudosections of pelitic rock units within a high‐temperature shear zone that formed early in the tectonic evolution of the terrane. Whilst the overall P–T path for the Broken Hill Block has been interpreted to be anticlockwise, the prograde portion of this path has been unresolved. Our results have constrained part of this prograde path, showing an early heating event (M1) at P–T conditions of at least c. 600 °C and c. 2.8–4.2 kbar, associated with an elevated geothermal gradient (c. 41–61 °C km−1). This event is interpreted to be the result of rifting at c. 1.69–1.67 Ga, or at c. 1.64–1.61 in the Broken Hill Block. Early rifting was followed by an episode of lithospheric thermal relaxation and burial, during which time sag‐phase sediments of the upper Broken Hill stratigraphy (Paragon Group) were deposited. Following sedimentation, a second tectonothermal event (M2/D2) occurred. This event is associated with peak low‐pressure granulite facies metamorphism (c. 1.6 Ga) and attained conditions of at least 740 °C at c. 5 kbar. A regionally pervasive, high‐temperature fabric (S2) developed during the M2/D2 event, and deformation was accommodated along lithology‐parallel, high‐temperature shear zones. The larger‐scale deformation regime (extensional or shortening) of this event remains unresolved. The M2/D2 event was terminated by intense crustal shortening during the Olarian Orogeny, during which time the first mappable folds within the Broken Hill Block developed.
Ethnic Differences in the Place of Death of Elderly Hospice Enrollees
Authors: Johnson Kimberly S. , Kuchibhatala Maragatha , Sloane Richard J. , Tanis David , Galanos Anthony N. , Tulsky James A.
Published: October 2005

Elderly minorities are more likely to die in inpatient settings than their Caucasian counterparts. It is not known whether this difference is due to cultural preferences for place of death or decreased access to hospice. This analysis examines ethnic differences in the place of death of elderly hospice patients.

Using data from a large, national hospice provider, elderly (≥65) African‐American, Hispanic, and Caucasian decedents admitted to hospice between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2003, were identified. Of the 115,854 eligible decedents, 78.3% were Caucasian, 10.7% African American, and 11% Hispanic. Hispanics and African Americans were more likely to die in inpatient hospice settings than Caucasians (38.5%, 38.5%, and 32%, respectively). After adjustment for demographic and hospice use variables, older African Americans had higher odds than older Caucasians of dying in an inpatient hospice setting than a nursing home (odds ratio (OR)=1.12, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.07–1.19). However, African‐American ethnicity was not a significant predictor of death in an inpatient setting versus home (OR=1.03, 95% CI=0.97–1.08)). Hispanics had lower odds than Caucasians of death in an inpatient hospice setting than at home (OR=0.88, 95% CI=0.84, 0.93) and higher odds of death in an inpatient setting than a nursing home (OR=1.45, 95% CI=1.37–1.53).

Admission to hospice reduces but does not eliminate ethnic differences in place of death. Further research should examine the effect of individual and cultural preferences for place of death on decisions to enroll in hospice.
The Effect of Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy Position on Cranial Tibial Subluxation: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Kowaleski Michael P. , Apelt Detlef , Mattoon John S. , Litsky Alan S.
Published: October 2005

Objectives—To compare centered versus distal tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) position on cranial tibial subluxation, postoperative tibial plateau angle (TPA), and tibial long axis shift (TLAS).

Study Design—In vitro biomechanical evaluation.

Animals—Six pairs of canine cadaveric hind limbs.

Methods—One limb of each pair was randomly assigned to the distal (TPLO‐D) or centered (TPLO‐C) osteotomy group. Cranial tibial subluxation (CTS) under load was quantified sequentially under 3 conditions: intact, after cranial cruciate ligament transection, and after TPLO; a corrected CTS value was also calculated. Postoperative TPA and TLAS were measured. Comparisons were made using 1‐way repeated measures ANOVA with a Tukey's multiple comparison post hoc test for CTS, and a Wilcoxon's sign rank test for TPA and TLAS. Significance was set atP<.05.

Results—TPLO‐C had a significantly lower mean CTS than TPLO‐D (P<.01). Corrected CTS was also significantly lower in TPLO‐C than in TPLO‐D (P<.001). Postoperative TPA and TLAS were less in TPLO‐C than in TPLO‐D (P=.0312).

Conclusion—Our results confirm that distal centering of the TPLO leads to craniodistal translation of the tibial plateau, TLAS, and a postoperative TPA that is greater than expected. This geometric effect has the biomechanical effect expected of inadequate tibial plateau leveling, namely incomplete neutralization of cranial tibial thrust.

Clinical Relevance—The centered osteotomy position is geometrically more precise, and biomechanically more effective than the distal position.
Experimental Use of Polyamide Bands in Combination with Intramedullary Pinning for Repair of Oblique Femoral Fractures in Rabbits
Authors: Carrillo Jose M. , Sopena Joaquin J. , Rubio Monica , Redondo Jose I. , Serra Ivan , Soler Carme
Published: October 2005

Objective— To evaluate the use of polyamide bands, manufactured for securing electrical cables, for repair of oblique femoral fractures in rabbits.

Study Design— Experimental study.

Animals— Twelve nulliparous, 21–25‐week‐old, California female rabbits.

Methods— Rabbits were divided into 3 groups (n=4) and studied for 14, 28, or 56 days. A Z‐shaped mid‐diaphyseal femoral osteotomy was repaired with a 2.5 mm intramedullary pin and a polyamide 6.6 cerclage band. Healing was evaluated at intervals by physical examination, limb use, femoral radiographs, and callus histology.

Results— Rabbits had early limb use with good wound healing. From the 1st day, movement of the hip and stifle joints was satisfactory. Radiographically, fractures were healed at 28 days. Histologically, there was no foreign body reaction and bone healing was normal.

Conclusion— Nylon cerclage band application was accomplished easily, maintained reduction, and resulted in good healing and limb use.

Clinical Relevance— Sterilized nylon bands, manufactured for electrical use, can be used for cerclage in rabbits.
Ureteral Papilla Implantation as a Technique for Neoureterocystostomy in Cats
Authors: Hardie Robert J. , Schmiedt Chad , Phillips Lynette , McAnulty Jonathan
Published: October 2005

Objective—To evaluate ureteral papilla implantation for neoureterocystostomy in cats.

Study Design—Experimental study.

Animals—Five domestic shorthair cats.

Methods—The ureteral papilla was resected and the ureter isolated to the level of the renal hilus. The ureter was reimplanted into the apex of the bladder and the contralateral kidney was removed. Serum creatinine concentrations were measured daily for 7 days, then every other day from days 7–14, then every 3rd day until day 35. Ultrasound examination (once during the first 4 days, then again on day 35) and intravenous pyelography (day 35) were performed to assess ureteral patency. Histologic examination of the anastomosis was performed on day 35.

Results—Serum creatinine concentration remained within reference range for all cats except for a transient (<24 hour) increase (2.2, 2.3, and 3.6 mg/dL respectively) in 3 cats. Ultrasound examination and intravenous pyelography revealed no evidence of ureteral obstruction. Histologic examination revealed complete mucosal epithelialization of the anastomosis, moderate inflammation localized to residual suture material, and no evidence of vascular compromise of the ureteral papilla.

Conclusion—Implantation of the ureteral papilla is a viable technique for neoureterocystostomy in cats.

Clinical Relevance—Advantages of ureteral papilla neoureterocystostomy include the technical ease of suturing the ureteral papilla, reduced risk of ureteral obstruction because sutures are not placed directly within the ureteral lumen and a more secure anastomosis because a complete 2‐layer closure is performed.
Multiple Rib Fracture in a Neonatal Foal Using a Nylon Strand Suture Repair Technique
Authors: Kraus Beth M. , Richardson Dean W. , Sheridan Georgiana , Wilkins Pamela A.
Published: October 2005

Objectives— To report rib fracture repair using the Securos Cranial Cruciate Ligament Repair System (SCCLRS; Securos Veterinary Orthopedics, Charlton, MA) in a neonatal foal.

Study Design— Case report.

Animals— A 1‐day‐old Standardbred foal with fracture of left ribs 2–9.

Methods— Four days after admission the foal was anesthetized and rib fractures were repaired using open reduction and the SCCLRS.

Results— Rib fractures were successfully stabilized and the foal was discharged 7 days postoperatively without further complications.

Conclusions— The SCCLRS provided a straightforward, effective method of rib fracture repair in neonatal foals.

Clinical Relevance— Effective rib fracture repair in neonatal foals can be achieved with the SCCLRS.
Use of Autogenous Fascia Lata Graft for Perineal Herniorrhaphy in Dogs
Authors: Bongartz Alexandre , Carofiglio Francesca , Balligand Marc , Heimann Marianne , Hamaide Annick
Published: October 2005

Objective—To evaluate the effectiveness of a herniorrhaphy technique, using an autogenous fascia lata graft (FLG) for perineal hernia (PH) repair in dogs.

Study Design—Prospective clinical study.

Animals—Twelve dogs with PH.

Method—PHs were repaired with FLG harvested from the dog's ipsilateral thigh and sutured directly into the perineal defect. Correction of associated conditions, and castration were performed. Surgical time, pain, inflammation, pattern of defecation, lameness, hospitalization time, postoperative complications, and owner satisfaction were recorded. Histopathologic examination was performed in 1 dog euthanatized 10 months after repair.

Results—Hernia did not recur (mean follow‐up, 5.8 months). Lameness was the most frequent minor complication, and was resolved within a few days. Transient rectal prolapse occurred in 2 dogs with bilateral PH. The mean (±SD) hospitalization was 1.8±0.9 days, and the surgical time was 76.5±9.8 minutes. Histopathologic examination in 1 dog revealed perfect integration of FLG into adjacent tissues without substantial tissue reaction.

Conclusions—FLG reconstruction of PH is a simple, effective method of treatment.

Clinical Relevance—FLG can be used without major complications for primary repair of PH, as an augmentation procedure when the internal obturator muscle is thin or friable, or when herniation has recurred after another repair technique.
Melatonin in the treatment of cancer: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mills Edward , Wu Ping , Seely Dugald , Guyatt Gordon
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  Most observational studies show an association between melatonin and cancer in humans. We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of melatonin in solid tumor cancer patients and its effect on survival at 1 yr. With the aid of an information specialist, we searched 10 electronic databases from inception to October 2004. We included trials using melatonin as either sole treatment or as adjunct treatment. Prespecified criteria guided our assessment of trial quality. We conducted a meta‐analysis using a random effects model. We included 10 RCTs published between 1992 and 2003 and included 643 patients. All trials included solid tumor cancers. All trials were conducted at the same hospital network, and were unblinded. Melatonin reduced the risk of death at 1 yr (relative risk: 0.66, 95% confidence interval: 0.59–0.73, I2 = 0%, heterogeneity P ≤ 0.56). Effects were consistent across melatonin dose, and type of cancer. No severe adverse events were reported. The substantial reduction in risk of death, low adverse events reported and low costs related to this intervention suggest great potential for melatonin in treating cancer. Confirming the efficacy and safety of melatonin in cancer treatment will require completion of blinded, independently conducted RCTs.
Melatonin restores endothelium‐dependent relaxation in aortic rings of pancreatectomized rats
Authors: Reyes‐Toso Carlos F. , Linares Laura M. , Ricci Conrado R. , Obaya‐Naredo Daniel , Pinto Jorge E. , Rodríguez Ricardo R. , Cardinali Daniel P.
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  In rats turned hyperglycemic by a subtotal pancreatectomy, a decreased relaxation response of aortic rings to acetylcholine (ACh) was found; this effect was amplified by preincubation in a high glucose medium (44 mmol/L). The relaxation response to ACh did not occur in endothelium‐denuded rings or after the aortic rings were exposed to l‐nitro‐arginine methyl ester [l‐NAME, a nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor]. Incubation with the NO donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) restored the impaired relaxation response seen in endothelium‐denuded or l‐NAME‐treated aortic rings. Pancreatectomy decreased the vasorelaxation of aortic rings caused by SNP. Only in pancreatectomized rats, incubation in a high glucose medium impaired the relaxation effect of SNP. To assess whether melatonin preincubation reversed the impaired relaxation response to ACh (intact endothelium aortic rings) or to SNP (endothelium‐denuded or l‐NAME‐treated rings) in hyperglycemic rats, cumulative dose–response curves were performed in the presence of 10−5 mol/L melatonin. Melatonin preincubation did not modify ACh‐induced relaxation of aortic rings in a normal glucose concentration but was highly effective in preventing the impairment of relaxation caused by a high glucose solution. Melatonin was also effective in restoring the impaired SNP‐induced vasorelaxation seen in endothelium‐denuded or l‐NAME‐treated aortic rings from hyperglycemic rats. The results further support the improvement by melatonin of the endothelial‐mediated relaxation in blood vessels of diabetic rats.
Morphological, stereological and radiological changes in pinealectomized chicken cervical vertebrae
Authors: Turgut Mehmet , Kaplan Süleyman , Turgut Ahmet T. , Aslan Hüseyin , Güvenç Tolga , Çullu Emre , Erdoǧan Serpil
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  Considerable evidence supports the hypothesis that melatonin plays an important role in osteogenesis. We carried out an experiment to investigate histological and radiological changes in the cervical vertebrae of pinealectomized chickens. Thirty new‐hatched chicks were divided into two groups: pinealectomized group (n = 15) and nonpinealectomized control (n = 15). Surgical pinealectomies were performed in Hybro broiler chickens at the age of 3 days. At 8 wk, one animal from each group was examined using computed tomography scanner to obtain density histograms of four consecutive vertebrae between the 4th and 7th cervical vertebral segments of chickens. At the end of the study, all animals were killed for subsequent measurement of bone mineral density (BMD) and macroscopic, radiographic and histopathological evaluation of specimens. We found that the profile of the density histogram in nonpinealectomized control group showed a spike profile for the vertebral body, indicating an increase in the amount of higher density tissues in this region, while a plateau‐shaped profile was obtained for the vertebral body in pinealectomy group, indicating the presence of heterogenous bone tissue. Accordingly, the mean value of BMD in pinealectomy group was significantly lower at the vertebral body in chickens compared with control subjects (P < 0.001). At the end of the experiment, almost all of the chickens in pinealectomy group developed a scoliotic curvature and the mean weight and length of the cervical vertebral bodies of the pinealectomized chickens were significantly lower than those of control group (P < 0.001). Although the numerical density of osteocytes and osteoblasts in pinealectomy group was significantly higher than that from the control group, total number of osteocytes but not osteoblasts in cervical vetrebrae from pinealectomized animals was significantly lower than that from nonpinealectomized control animals (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the results of the current study demonstrated for the first time pinealectomy‐induced histomorphometrical changes in chicken vertebral column using stereological methods, suggesting that pineal gland/melatonin may have an osteoinductive effect on bone formation, but further studies are needed to elucidate the relationship of our findings with some disorders such as postmenopausal and/or senile osteoporosis.
The Chemokine SDF‐1/CXCL12 Contributes to T Lymphocyte Recruitment in Human Pre‐ovulatory Follicles and Coordinates with Lymphocytes to Increase Granulosa Cell Survival and Embryo Quality
Authors: Kryczek Ilona , Frydman Nelly , Gaudin Françoise , Krzysiek Roman , Fanchin Renato , Emilie Dominique , Chouaib Salem , Zou Weiping , Machelon Véronique
Published: October 2005

We investigated the production and the role of the chemokine stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1/CXCL12) in pre‐ovulatory follicles of women undergoing in vitro fertilization. We detected CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4 by flow cytometry, western blotting and RT‐PCR. We tested cell migration in Transwell experiments. We measured apoptosis using ΔΨm‐sensitive fluorescent probe DiOC6(3) and we screened apoptosis‐related gene expression with macro‐arrays. Granulosa cells from follicular aspirates produce CXCL12 that contributes to T lymphocytes recruitment. CXCL12 reduces early apoptosis of granulosa cells. This effect is accompanied by a shift of bcl2/bax ratio, and decreased expression of p53‐targeted genes (pig7, pig8, p21, gadd45). Removal of lymphocytes disables CXCL12‐mediated anti‐apoptotic effect on granulosa cells. Anti‐apoptotic activity of CXCL12 is positively correlated to high quality of embryos. In conclusion, CXCL12 is locally produced by luteinizing granulosa cells. It specifically contributes to T lymphocytes recruitment and coordinates with local lymphocytes to increase granulosa cell survival and embryo quality.
Two different types of hepcidins from the Japanese flounder Paralichthys olivaceus
Authors: Hirono Ikuo , Hwang Jee‐Youn , Ono Yasuhito , Kurobe Tomofumi , Ohira Tsuyoshi , Nozaki Reiko , Aoki Takashi
Published: October 2005

The cysteine‐rich peptide hepcidin is known to be an antimicrobial peptide and iron transport regulator that has been found in both fish and mammals. Recently, we found two different types (designated Hep‐JF1 and Hep‐JF2) of hepcidin cDNA in the Japanese flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus, by expressed sequence tag analysis. The identity of amino acid sequences between Hep‐JF1 and Hep‐JF2 was 51%. The Hep‐JF1 and Hep‐JF2 genes both consist of three exons and two introns, and both exist as single copies in the genome. The predicted mature regions of Hep‐JF1 and Hep‐JF2 have six and eight Cys residues, respectively. The first Cys residue of Hep‐JF1 was deleted and the second was replaced with Gly. The number and positions of Cys residues in Hep‐JF2 are the same as they are in human Hep. Hep‐JF1 is specifically expressed in liver while the expression of Hep‐JF2 was detected from gill, liver, heart, kidney, peripheral blood leucocytes, spleen and stomach. Gene expression of Hep‐JF1 in liver decreased during experimental iron (iron‐dextran) overload. Expression of Hep‐JF1 in liver was decreased by injecting fish with iron‐dextran and increased by injecting lipopolysaccharide. Iron overload did not significantly affect expression of Hep‐JF2 in liver but it did increase expression of Hep‐JF2 in kidney. Lipopolysaccharide injection increased expression of Hep‐JF2 in both liver and kidney. In liver, some cells expressed both Hep‐JF1 and Hep‐JF2 while some other cells expressed just one of them. Synthesized Hep‐JF2 peptide showed antimicrobial activity, while synthesized Hep‐JF1 peptide did not against several bacteria including fish‐pathogenic bacteria used in this study.
Fabrication of Low‐Temperature Co‐Fired Ceramics Micro‐Fluidic Devices Using Sacrificial Carbon Layers
Authors: Birol H. , Maeder T. , Jacq C. , Straessler S. , Ryser P.
Published: October 2005

Ease of fabrication and design flexibility are two attractive features of low‐temperature co‐fired ceramics (LTCC) technology for fabrication of complex micro‐fluidic devices. Such structures are designed and processed using different shaping methods, the extent and complexity of which depends on the final device specifications (dimensions, and mechanical and functional properties). In this work, we propose a sacrificial layer method based on carbon‐black paste, which burns out during the LTCC firing stage. The article will summarize the preparation of the paste, influence of processing conditions on the final dimensions, and demonstrate the mechanically integrated structures obtained using this technique. Some of these are membranes of various diameters (7–12 mm) with a thickness of 40 μm and a variety of internal spacing (15–60 μm), free‐hanging thick‐film resistor bridges on LTCC for heating micro‐volumes. The main methods of the study will be thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and dilatometry in addition to electronic instruments for device characterization.
Zero Shrinkage of LTCC by Self‐Constrained Sintering
Authors: Rabe Torsten , Schiller Wolfgang A. , Hochheimer Thomas , Modes Christina , Kipka Annette
Published: October 2005

Low shrinkage in x and y direction and low tolerances of shrinkage are an indispensable precondition for high‐density component configuration. Therefore, zero shrinkage sintering technologies as pressure‐assisted sintering and sacrificial tapes have been introduced in the low‐temperature co‐fired ceramics (LTCC) production by different manufacturers. Disadvantages of these methods are high costs of sintering equipment and an additional process step to remove the sacrificial tapes. In this article, newly developed self‐constrained sintering methods are presented. The new technology, HeraLock®, delivers LTCC modules with a sintering shrinkage in x and y direction of less than 0.2% and with a shrinkage tolerance of ±0.02% without sacrificial layers and external pressure. Each tape is self‐constrained by integration of a layer showing no shrinkage in the sintering temperature range of the LTCC. Large area metallization, integration of channels, cavities and passive electronic components are possible without waviness and camber. Self‐constrained laminates are an alternative way to produce zero shrinkage LTCC. They consist of tapes sintering at different temperature intervals. Precondition for a successful production of a self‐constrained LTCC laminate is the development of well‐adapted material and tapes, respectively. This task is very challenging, because sintering range, high‐temperature reactivity and thermal expansion coefficient have to be matched and each tape has to fulfill specific functions in the final component, which requires the tailoring of many properties as permittivity, dielectric loss, mechanical strength, and roughness. A self‐constrained laminate is introduced in this article. It consists of inner tapes sintering at especially low‐temperature range between 650°C and 720°C and outer tapes with an as‐fired surface suitable for thin‐film processes.
Maximal motor unit firing rates during isometric resistance training in men
Authors: Pucci A. R. , Griffin L. , Cafarelli E.
Published: October 2005

This study measured changes in maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) force, percentage maximal activation, maximal surface EMG, M‐wave amplitude and average motor unit firing rates during the initial 3 weeks of isometric resistance training of the quadriceps muscle. Ten men participated in a resistance training programme three times a week for 3 weeks and 10 men participated as a control group. In the training group, MVC increased by 35% (from 761 ± 77 to 1031 ± 78 N) by the end of the 3 weeks. There were no changes in mean motor unit firing rates during submaximal or maximal voluntary contractions of 50 (15.51 ± 1.48 Hz), 75 (20.23 ± 1.85 Hz) or 100% MVC (42.25 ± 2.72 Hz) with isometric resistance training. There was also no change in maximal surface EMG relative to the M‐wave amplitude. However, there was a small increase in maximal activation (from 95.7 ± 1.83 to 98.44 ± 0.66%) as measured by the twitch interpolation technique. There were no changes in any of the parameters measured in the control group. It is suggested that mechanisms other than increases in average motor unit firing rates contributed to the increase in maximal force output with resistance training. Such mechanisms may include a combination of increased motor unit recruitment, enhanced protein synthesis, and changes in motor unit synchronization and muscle activation patterns across the quadriceps synergy.
Monte Carlo modeling of the response of NRC's primary beta standard
Authors: Selvam T. Palani , Saull P. R. B. , Rogers D. W. O.
Published: October 2005

The BEAMnrc/EGSnrc Monte Carlo code system is employed to develop a model of the National Research Council of Canada primary standard of absorbed dose to tissue in a beta radiation field, comprising an extrapolation chamber and beta source. We benchmark the model against the measured response of the chamber in terms of absorbed dose to air, for three different experimental setups when irradiated by the source. For the first setup, the chamber cavity depth is fixed at and the source‐to‐chamber distance varied between 11 and . In the other two cases, the source‐to‐chamber distance is fixed at . In one case the response for different chamber depths is studied, while in the other case the chamber depth is fixed at as different thicknesses of Mylar™ are added to the front surface of the extrapolation chamber. The agreement as a function of distance between the calculated and measured responses is within 0.37% for a variation in response of a factor of 29. In the case of dose versus chamber depth, the agreement is within 0.4% for the ISO‐recommended nominal depths of . Agreement between calculated and measured responses is very good (between 0.02% and 0.2%) for added Mylar foils of thicknesses up to . For larger Mylar thicknesses, deviations of 0.6%–1.2% are observed, which are possibly due to the systematic uncertainties associated with the restricted collisional stopping powers of air or Mylar used in the calculations. We conclude that our simulation model represents the extrapolation chamber and source with adequate accuracy to calculate correction factors for accurate realization of dose rate to tissue at a depth of in an ICRU tissue phantom, despite the fact that the uncertainties in the physical characteristics of the source leave some uncertainty in certain calculated quantities.
Comparison of full‐field digital mammography to screen‐film mammography with respect to contrast and spatial resolution in tissue equivalent breast phantoms
Authors: Kuzmiak Cherie M. , Pisano Etta D. , Cole Elodia B. , Zeng Donglin , Burns Charles B. , Roberto Craig , Pavic Dag , Lee Yeonhee , Seo Bo Kyoung , Koomen Marcia , Washburn David
Published: October 2005

To determine if the improved contrast resolution of full‐field digital mammography (FFDM) with reduced spatial resolution allows for superior or equal phantom object detection compared with screen‐film mammography (SFM). Tissue equivalent breast phantoms simulating an adipose to glandular ratio of , and were imaged according to each manufacturers’ recommendation with four full‐field digital mammography units (Fuji, Sectra, Fischer, and General Electric) and a screen‐film mammography unit (MammoMatII 2000, Siemens, Munich, Germany). A total of 20 images were obtained in both hard‐ and soft‐copy formats. For the purpose of soft‐copy display, the screen‐film hard‐copy images were digitized with a micron scanner. Six radiologists, experts in breast imaging, and three physicists, experts in scoring mammography phantoms, participated in a reader study where each reader scored each phantom for visibility of line‐pairs and for 24 objects (fibers, clusters of specks, and masses). The data were recorded, entered into a database, and analyzed by a mixed‐effect model. The limiting spatial resolution in line‐pairs per millimeter visible with the digital units was less, regardless of display modality used, than that provided by the screen‐film unit. The difference was statistically significant for the General Electric and Fuji digital mammography units . With respect to the number of visible objects, a statistically significant higher number could be detected with the screen‐film unit as compared to the Fischer and Sectra digital mammography units, but there was no significant difference between the other digital units and screen film. Overall, there was significantly better performance on the phantom than with the and phantoms for object visibility. For the digital mammography units, soft‐copy display performed better than hard‐copy display for the Fischer and Sectra images, but worse for Fuji and General Electric. In addition, soft‐copy display of digitized screen‐film images was significantly better than hard‐copy display of the original screen films for object visibility, but worse for spatial resolution. The higher contrast resolution of the FFDM units tested did not result in improved detection of line‐pair resolution or objects in the phantoms tested versus screen‐filmmammography. The phantom performance of a digital mammography unit seems to be influenced by the type of detection task (line‐pair resolution versus object visibility), the display modality (soft‐copy versus hard‐copy) chosen to score the phantoms, and the parenchymal pattern composition of the phantom.
Computed tomography simulation with superquadrics
Authors: Zhu Jiehua , Zhao Shiying , Ye Yangbo , Wang Ge
Published: October 2005

Accurate and efficient simulation of an x‐ray transform for representative structures plays an important role in research and development of x‐ray CT, for the evaluation and improvement of CT image reconstruction algorithms, in particular. Superquadrics are a family of three‐dimensional objects, which can be used to model a variety of anatomical structures. In this paper, we propose an algorithm for the computation of x‐ray transforms for superellipsoids and tori with a monochromatic x‐ray. Their usefulness is demonstrated by projection and reconstruction of a superquadric‐based thorax phantom. Our work indicates that superquadric modeling provides a more realistic visualization than quadratic modeling, and a faster computation than spline methods.
Patient positioning method based on binary image correlation between two edge images for proton‐beam radiation therapya)
Authors: Sawada Akira , Yoda Kiyoshi , Numano Masumi , Futami Yasuyuki , Yamashita Haruo , Murayama Shigeyuki , Tsugami Hironobu
Published: October 2005

A new technique based on normalized binary image correlation between two edge images has been proposed for positioning proton‐beam radiotherapy patients. A Canny edge detector was used to extract two edge images from a reference x‐ray image and a test x‐ray image of a patient before positioning. While translating and rotating the edged test image, the absolute value of the normalized binary image correlation between the two edge images is iteratively maximized. Each time before rotation, dilation is applied to the edged test image to avoid a steep reduction of the image correlation. To evaluate robustness of the proposed method, a simulation has been carried out using 240 simulated edged head front‐view images extracted from a reference image by varying parameters of the Canny algorithm with a given range of rotation angles and translation amounts in and directions. It was shown that resulting registration errors have an accuracy of one pixel in and directions and zero degrees in rotation, even when the number of edge pixels significantly differs between the edged reference image and the edged simulation image. Subsequently, positioning experiments using several sets of head, lung, and hip data have been performed. We have observed that the differences of translation and rotation between manual positioning and the proposed method were within one pixel in translation and one degree in rotation. From the results of the validation study, it can be concluded that a significant reduction in workload for the physicians and technicians can be achieved with this method.