bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lead toxicosis in the horse: A review
Authors: Puschner B. , Aleman M.
Published: September 2010

Lead intoxication is rarely diagnosed in horses and can present a major challenge to the equine practitioner because of the variety of clinical signs. Horses with lead poisoning can develop gastrointestinal disturbances, neurological abnormalities, haematological changes, or nonspecific signs of weight loss, weakness and rough hair coat, which makes early diagnosis difficult. Fortunately, lead analysis of whole blood is routinely available and can confirm intoxication. Because of the well‐described lead‐induced peripheral neuropathies in horses, a thorough neurological examination is essential in the investigation of a suspect case. Once diagnosed, the source of lead has to be identified and further exposure prevented. Intoxication can be treated by administering chelating drugs and providing symptomatic and supportive care.
Climate change effects on fishes and fisheries: towards a cause‐and‐effect understanding
Authors: Pörtner H. O. , Peck M. A.
Published: September 2010

Ongoing climate change is predicted to affect individual organisms during all life stages, thereby affecting populations of a species, communities and the functioning of ecosystems. These effects of climate change can be direct, through changing water temperatures and associated phenologies, the lengths and frequency of hypoxia events, through ongoing ocean acidification trends or through shifts in hydrodynamics and in sea level. In some cases, climate interactions with a species will also, or mostly, be indirect and mediated through direct effects on key prey species which change the composition and dynamic coupling of food webs. Thus, the implications of climate change for marine fish populations can be seen to result from phenomena at four interlinked levels of biological organization: (1) organismal‐level physiological changes will occur in response to changing environmental variables such as temperature, dissolved oxygen and ocean carbon dioxide levels. An integrated view of relevant effects, adaptation processes and tolerance limits is provided by the concept of oxygen and capacity‐limited thermal tolerance (OCLT). (2) Individual‐level behavioural changes may occur such as the avoidance of unfavourable conditions and, if possible, movement into suitable areas. (3) Population‐level changes may be observed via changes in the balance between rates of mortality, growth and reproduction. This includes changes in the retention or dispersion of early life stages by ocean currents, which lead to the establishment of new populations in new areas or abandonment of traditional habitats. (4) Ecosystem‐level changes in productivity and food web interactions will result from differing physiological responses by organisms at different levels of the food web. The shifts in biogeography and warming‐induced biodiversity will affect species productivity and may, thus, explain changes in fisheries economies. This paper tries to establish links between various levels of biological organization by means of addressing the effective physiological principles at the cellular, tissue and whole organism levels.
Non‐Audit Fees, Market Leaders and Concentration in the German Audit Market: A Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Bigus Jochen , Zimmermann Ruth‐Caroline
Published: September 2010

This is the first study to analyze auditors’ market shares and concentration in Germany on the basis of audit fees, which have been subject to disclosure since 2005. Previous studies have all used surrogates to measure concentration, and were therefore unable to distinguish between non‐audit and audit fees. We have at our disposal the data from 175 audits (including three joint audits) and 40 audit firms. These data show that the Big4 obtained 87% of the total audit fees and 90% of the total fees in the period under investigation. PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) is the market leader, based on both the total fees and the audit fees. KPMG earns the most in the sub‐market for tax consultancy. The non‐audit fees amount to 41.9% of the total fees. Audit firms specialize in certain industries or stock market segments. Market concentration increases over time. At present, concentration seems to be higher in Switzerland, although it is lower in the United States of America (USA) and the United Kingdom (UK).
Internal Auditors' Evaluation of Fraud Factors in Planning an Audit: The Importance of Audit Committee Quality and Management Incentives
Authors: Asare Stephen Kwaku , Davidson Ronald A. , Gramling Audrey A.
Published: September 2010

We examine internal auditors’ fraud risk decisions in response to variations in audit committee quality and management performance incentives. Using an experimental approach, we find that internal auditors serving in a either a self‐assessment role or a due diligence role were sensitive to variations in management performance incentives, linked these variations to fraud risk assessments and altered their audit plans accordingly. With respect to audit committee quality, internal auditors in both roles were sensitive to variations in quality, but the responses to quality variations depended on whether they were in a due diligence or self‐assessment role. With respect to the former, they linked the variation in quality to fraud risk, but did not alter the scope of their planned audit effort. With respect to the latter, they neither linked the variations in quality to fraud risk nor to planned scope.
Meta‐analysis: insulin sensitizers for the treatment of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Rakoski M. O. , Singal A. G. , Rogers M. A. M. , Conjeevaram H.
Published: September 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32: 1211–1221

Background  Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease generally has a benign course; however, patients with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) may progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Currently, there is a lack of consensus about optimal NASH treatment.

Aim  To assess the efficacy of insulin‐sensitizing agents on histological and biochemical outcomes in randomized control trials of biopsy‐proven NASH.

Methods  Multiple online databases and conference abstracts were searched. Random effects meta‐analyses were performed, with assessment for heterogeneity and publication bias.

Results  Nine trials were included; five trials using thiazolidinediones (glitazones), three using metformin and one trial using both drugs. There was no publication bias. Compared with controls, glitazones resulted in improved steatosis (WMD = 0.57, 95% CI 0.36–0.77, P = <0.001), hepatocyte ballooning (WMD = 0.36, 95% CI 0.24–0.49, P < 0.001) and ALT (WMD = 16.4, 95% CI 7.7–25.0, P < 0.001), but not inflammation (P = 0.09) or fibrosis (P = 0.11). In patients without diabetes, glitazones significantly improved all histological and biochemical outcomes, most importantly including fibrosis (WMD = 0.29, 95% CI 0.078–0.51, P = 0.008). Metformin failed to improve any pooled outcome.

Conclusions  Treatment of NASH with glitazones, but not metformin, demonstrates a significant histological and biochemical benefit, especially in patients without diabetes. Additional studies are needed to investigate long‐term outcomes of glitazone therapy in patients without diabetes.
Increased expression of chemokine receptor CCR3 and its ligands in ulcerative colitis: the role of colonic epithelial cells inin vitrostudies
Authors: Manousou P , Kolios G , Valatas V , Drygiannakis I , Bourikas L , Pyrovolaki K , Koutroubakis I , Papadaki H A , Kouroumalis E
Published: September 2010

Human colonic epithelial cells express T helper type 1 (Th1)-associated chemoattractants, yet little is known about the production of Th2-associated chemoattractants. CCL11/eotaxin-1, CCL24/eotaxin-2 and CCL26/eotaxin-3 are known to attract CCR3-expressing, Th2-polarized lymphocytes. We studied constitutive and inflammation-induced expression and production of CCR3 together with its ligands in the colon and peripheral blood of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by flow cytometry, reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We further defined the regulated expression of these chemokines by RT–PCR and ELISA using cultured human epithelial cell lines. A higher fraction of peripheral T lymphocytes were found to be positive for CCR3 in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) compared to Crohn's disease (CD), while almost no CCR3+ T cells were found in normal controls (NC). Similarly, higher and more frequent expression of CCR3 was observed in colonic biopsies from patients with UC, regardless of the disease activity, when compared to CD or NCs. Serum CCL11/eotaxin-1 was increased significantly in UC (306 ± 87 pg/ml) and less so in CD (257 ± 43 pg/ml), whereas CCL24/eotaxin-2, and CCL26/eotaxin-3 were increased only in UC. Colonic expression of the three chemokines was minimal in NCs but high in inflammatory bowel diseases (especially UC) and was independent of disease activity. Th2, and to a lesser extent Th1, cytokines were able to induce expression and production of all three eotaxins from colonic epithelial cells in culture. CCR3 and ligands over-expression would appear to be a characteristic of UC. The production of CCR3 ligands by human colonic epithelial cells suggests further that epithelium can play a role in modulating pathological T cell-mediated mucosal inflammation.
Down-regulation of single immunoglobulin interleukin-1R-related molecule (SIGIRR)/TIR8 expression in intestinal epithelial cells during inflammation
Authors: Kadota C , Ishihara S , Aziz M M , Rumi M A , Oshima N , Mishima Y , Moriyama I , Yuki T , Amano Y , Kinoshita Y
Published: September 2010

Single immunoglobulin (Ig) interleukin-1R-related molecule (SIGIRR) is an Ig-like membrane protein critical for negative regulation of Toll-like receptor (TLR)-4-mediated signalling. We investigated SIGIRR expression and its regulation mechanism in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) during inflammation. Endoscopic biopsy specimens were obtained from active and inactive colonic mucosa of ulcerative colitis (UC) patients, then SIGIRR expression was examined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry (IH). Mice experimental colitis models were established by administrations of sulphonic acid (TNBS) and dextran sodium sulphate (DSS), and epithelial expression of SIGIRR was examined using real-time PCR, IH and flow cytometry. The effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α on SIGIRR expression were evaluated in vitro using cultured IECs. To elucidate SIGIRR expression regulation in IECs, binding ability of the transcription factor SP1 at the responsive element of the SIGIRR promoter was examined using gel-shift and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays. In human colonic samples, SIGIRR was expressed mainly in IECs at levels significantly higher in inactive compared to active mucosa. In the mice, SIGIRR colonic expression decreased rapidly after colitis development and returned gradually to basal levels. Experimental colitis-mediated down-regulation of SIGIRR in IECs was also confirmed by IH and flow cytometry results. Further, inflammatory conditions induced by TLR ligands and TNF-α caused significant down-regulation of SIGIRR expression in IECs, which was dependent upon decreased SP1 binding at the responsive element of the SIGIRR promoter. We found that SIGIRR is expressed in IECs and serves as a negative regulator to maintain gut innate immunity, which is down-regulated during inflammation by inhibition of an SP1-mediated pathway.
Fitness consequences of immune responses: strengthening the empirical framework for ecoimmunology
Authors: Graham Andrea L. , Shuker David M. , Pollitt Laura C. , Auld Stuart K. J. R. , Wilson Alastair J. , Little Tom J.
Published: September 2010

1. Ecoimmunologists aim to understand the costs, benefits, and net fitness consequences of different strategies for immune defense.

2. Measuring the fitness consequences of immune responses is difficult, partly because of complex relationships between host fitness and the within‐host density of parasites and immunological cells or molecules. In particular, neither the strongest immune responses nor the lowest parasite densities necessarily maximize host fitness.

3. Here, we propose that ecoimmunologists should routinely endeavour to measure three intertwined parameters: host fitness, parasite density, and relevant immune responses. We further propose that analyses of relationships among these traits would benefit from the statistical machinery used for analyses of phenotypic plasticity and/or methods that are robust to the bi‐directional causation inherent in host‐parasite relationships. For example, analyses of how host fitness depends upon parasite density, which is an evolutionary ecological definition of tolerance, would benefit from these more robust methods.

4. Together, these steps promote rigorous quantification of the fitness consequences of immune responses. Such quantification is essential if ecoimmunologists are to decipher causes of immune polymorphism in nature and predict trajectories of natural selection on immune defense.
Regulatory T cells and tumour immunity – observations in mice and men
Authors: Gallimore Awen , Godkin Andrew
Published: September 2010

An enormous body of work supports a role for CD4+ CD25+ regulatory cells (Tregs) in shaping the immune response to tumours. Indeed, there is evidence that the cells impede effective tumour immunosurveillance, inhibit vaccine‐induced antitumour immune responses and promote tumour progression. Studies exploring the impact of Tregs on tumour development are discussed in the context of manipulating this T‐cell population for the purpose of cancer immunotherapy.
A multiple‐theory analysis of a diffusion of information technology case
Authors: Baskerville Richard , Pries‐Heje Jan
Published: September 2010

Abstract.This paper describes a multiple‐theory analysis of a diffusion of information technology case. Three innovation diffusion models, the interactive model, the linked‐chain model and the emergent model, are used to develop an analysis that describes the essential knowledge that each model produces. Rather than develop conflicting stories, each model leads to distinctly different, but complementary, knowledge about the case setting. More generally, the analysis enables us to circumscribe the distinct conceptual domain of each model. These domains define the scope of research questions that can be addressed by each of the innovation diffusion models. In addition to the theoretical implications, the paper also describes the practical indications and actions of the case subjects.
Extended cyclic fatigue life of F2 ProTaper instruments used in reciprocating movement
Authors: De‐Deus G. , Moreira E. J. L. , Lopes H. P. , Elias C. N.
Published: September 2010

De‐Deus G, Moreira EJL, Lopes HP, Elias CN. Extended cyclic fatigue life of F2 ProTaper instruments used in reciprocating movement. International Endodontic Journal

Aim  To evaluate the cyclic fatigue fracture resistance of engine‐driven F2 ProTaper instruments under reciprocating movement.

Methodology  A sample of 30 NiTi ProTaper F2 instruments was used. An artificial canal was made from a stainless steel tube, allowing the instruments to rotate freely. During mechanical testing, different movement kinematics and speeds were used, which resulted in three experimental groups (n = 10). The instruments from the first group (G1) were rotated at a nominal speed of 250 rpm until fracture, whilst the instruments from the second group (G2) were rotated at 400 rpm. In the third instrument group (G3), the files were driven under reciprocating movement. The time of fracture for each instrument was measured, and statistical analysis was performed using parametric methods.

Results  Reciprocating movement resulted in a significantly longer cyclic fatigue life (P < 0.05). Moreover, operating rpm was a significant factor affecting cyclic fatigue life (P < 0.05); instruments used at a rotational speed of 400 rpm (approximately 95 s) failed more rapidly than those used at 250 rpm (approximately 25 s).

Conclusions  Movement kinematics is amongst the factors determining the resistance of rotary NiTi instruments to cyclic fracture. Moreover, the reciprocating movement promoted an extended cyclic fatigue life of the F2 ProTaper instrument in comparison with conventional rotation.
Can eccentric arterial plaques alone cause flow stagnation points and favour thrombus incorporation?
Authors: Beneli Cristina T. , Barbosa Priscila F. , Floriano Elaine M. , Abreu Mônica A. , Ramalho Fernando S. , Júnior Jorge Elias , Rossi Marcos A. , Ramos Simone G.
Published: September 2010

We have used an experimental model of aorta stenosis, with a Plexiglas plug, simulating a stable atheromatous plaque that promotes local turbulence and thrombosis. With animal survival of more than 24 h, we followed the partial fibrinolysis of the thrombus as well as its posterior organization and incorporation to the arterial wall as a neointima for up to 30 days. The mushroom plug form permitted the development of recirculation and stasis areas around it, favouring this evolution. Despite noted limitations, this study demonstrates that thrombus incorporation can contribute to plaque extension, as it can promote recirculation and stasis areas.
The vasculature in rheumatoid arthritis: cause or consequence?
Authors: Paleolog Ewa M.
Published: September 2010

The expansion of the synovial lining of joints in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) necessitates an increase in the vascular supply to the synovium, to cope with the increased requirement for oxygen and nutrients. New blood vessel formation –‘angiogenesis’– is recognized as a key event in the formation and maintenance of the pannus in RA, suggesting that targeting blood vessels in RA may be an effective future therapeutic strategy. Although many pro‐angiogenic factors have been demonstrated to be expressed in RA synovium, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been demonstrated to a have a central involvement in the angiogenic process in RA. Nevertheless, it is unclear whether angiogenesis – whether driven by VEGF and/or other factors – should be considered as a ‘cause’ or ‘consequence’ of disease. This ongoing ‘chicken vs. egg’ debate is difficult, as even the success of angiogenesis inhibition in models of RA does not provide a direct answer to the question. This review will focus on the role of the vasculature in RA, and the contribution of different angiogenic factors in promoting disease. Although no data regarding the effectiveness of anti‐angiogenic therapy in RA have been reported to date, the blockade of angiogenesis nevertheless looks to be a promising therapeutic avenue.
Coronary vessel development and insight towards neovascular therapy
Authors: Smart Nicola , Dubé Karina N. , Riley Paul R.
Published: September 2010

Formation of the coronary arteries consists of a precisely orchestrated series of morphogenetic and molecular events which can be divided into three distinct processes: vasculogenesis, angiogenesis and arteriogenesis (Risau 1997; Carmeliet 2000). Even subtle perturbations in this process may lead to congenital coronary artery anomalies, as occur in 0.2–1.2% of the general population (von Kodolitsch et al. 2004). Contrary to the previously held dogma, the process of vasculogenesis is not limited to prenatal development. Both vasculogenesis and angiogenesis are now known to actively occur within the adult heart. When the need for regeneration arises, for example in the setting of coronary artery disease, a reactivation of embryonic processes ensues, redeploying many of the same molecular regulators. Thus, an understanding of the mechanisms of embryonic coronary vasculogenesis and angiogenesis may prove invaluable in developing novel strategies for cardiovascular regeneration and therapeutic coronary angiogenesis.
Microtubule depolymerizing vascular disrupting agents: novel therapeutic agents for oncology and other pathologies
Authors: Kanthou Chryso , Tozer Gillian M.
Published: September 2010

Vascular disrupting agents (VDAs) are a relatively new group of ‘vascular targeting’ agents that exhibit selective activity against established tumour vascular networks, causing severe interruption of tumour blood flow and necrosis to the tumour mass. Microtubule depolymerizing agents form by far the largest group of small molecular weight VDAs many of which, including lead compound disodium combretastatin A‐4 3‐O‐phosphate (CA‐4‐P), are under clinical development for cancer. Although distinct from the angiogenesis inhibitors, VDAs can also interfere with angiogenesis and therefore constitute a potential group of novel drugs for the treatment of pathological conditions characterized by excessive angiogenesis, in addition to cancer. The endothelial cytoskeleton is the primary cellular target of this family of drugs, and some progress in understanding the molecular and signalling mechanisms associated with their endothelial disrupting activity has been made in the last few years. Susceptibility of tumour vessels to VDA damage is ascribed to their immature pericyte‐defective nature, although the exact molecular mechanisms involved have not been clearly defined. Despite causing profound damage to tumours, VDAs fail to halt tumour growth unless used together with conventional treatments. This failure is attributed to resistance mechanisms, primarily associated with cells that remain viable within the tumour rim, and enhanced angiogenesis. The focus is now to understand mechanisms of susceptibility and resistance to identify novel molecular targets and develop strategies that are more effective.
A detailed microscopic study of the changes in the aorta of experimental model of postmenopausal rats fed with repeatedly heated palm oil
Authors: Adam Siti Khadijah , Das Srijit , Jaarin Kamsiah
Published: September 2010

Hypercholesterolaemia, increase in lipid peroxidation and hyperhomocysteinaemia may contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. This study was performed to examine the effects of repeatedly heated palm oil mixed with 2% cholesterol diet on atherosclerosis in oestrogen‐deficient postmenopausal rats. Ovariectomy causes disruption of tunica intima layer of the rat aorta simulating a postmenopausal condition in females. Twenty‐four ovariectomized female Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into four groups. The control group received 2% cholesterol diet without palm oil. A diet with 2% cholesterol content fortified with fresh, once‐heated and five‐times‐heated palm oil was given to the other treatment groups. The rats were sacrificed at the end of 4 months of study and the aortic arch tissue was processed for histomorphometry and electron microscopy. On observation, there was disruption of the intimal layer of the ovariectomized rat aorta. There was no obvious ultrastructural change in the aorta of the rats fed with fresh palm oil. The ultrastructural changes were minimal with once‐heated palm oil, in which there was a focal disruption of the endothelial layer. The focal disruption was more pronounced with five‐times‐heated palm oil. The results of this study show that the ingestion of fresh palm oil may have a protective effect on the aorta but such a protective action may be lost when the palm oil is repeatedly heated. The study may be clinically important for all postmenopausal women who are susceptible to atherosclerosis.
Ischaemia/reperfusion induced cardiac stem cell homing to the injured myocardium by stimulating stem cell factor expression via NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Guo Junli , Jie Wei , Kuang Dong , Ni Juan , Chen Duoen , Ao Qilin , Wang Guoping
Published: September 2010

Ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) is a major cause of heart failure. Recently cardiac stem cells (CSCs) were proposed as the most appropriate cell type for heart disease therapy. However, it is still unclear whether I/R can stimulate the CSCs homing to the injured myocardium. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were subjected to a 30‐min ischaemia followed by reperfusion of different intervals. RT‐PCR, western blotting and immunohistochemistry were performed to detect stem cell factor (SCF) expression at mRNA and protein levels respectively. Activation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) was determined by electrophoretic mobility shift assay. To assess the homing of CSCs in vivo, BrdU‐labelled CSCs were injected into AV‐groove before induction of ischaemia and examined by immunofluorescent staining in the injured myocardium after I/R. From day 3 to day 6 after reperfusion, the accumulation of CSCs was significantly elevated in the injured area, which was matched with the increased SCF expression during I/R. Pretreatment of rats with NF‐κB inhibitor, N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine (NAC) not only suppressed NF‐κB activation induced by I/R but also attenuated SCF expression. Further analysis revealed that I/R induced phosphorylation of IκBα after 15 min of reperfusion, and the raised phosphor‐IκBα returned to the basal level at 2 h of reperfusion. In simulated I/R(SI/R) in vitro, it enhanced NF‐κB activation and SCF expression in cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes, which was markedly inhibited by NF‐κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotide or NAC. Taken together, our results demonstrated that I/R induced CSCs homing to the injured myocardium by stimulating myocardial SCF expression via activation of NF‐κB.
An Initial Approach to the Taxonomy of Some Gram Negative Yellow Pigmented Rods
Authors: McMeekin T. A. , Patterson J. T. , Murray J. G.
Published: September 2010

SUMMARY: The responses of various groups of Gram negative, yellow pigmented rods constructed on the basis of classical criteria to a wide range of cultural and biochemical features were examined. The occurrence of a wide area of slime surrounding true growth with isolates which may spread but did not glide is described. The correlation between the classical groups and divisions suggested on the basis of pigment absorption curves was examined.
Antitubercular Action of Disinfectants
Authors: Bergan T. , Lystad A.
Published: September 2010

SUMMARY: The antitubercular effect of disinfectants has been tested with adaptations of 2 recently introduced techniques (Kelsey & Sykes, 1969; Bergan & Lystad, 1971b). Only the phenolic compounds tested were effective tuberculocides.
The Inhibitory Effect of Sodium Deoxycholate on Escherichia coli
Authors: Fraser Margaret E.
Published: September 2010

SUMMARY: Sodium deoxycholate (0.2%) inhibited growth of Escherichia coli in semi‐digested meat and milk, but had very little effect in media in which the source of nitrogen was amino acids or ammonia. The addition of more digested forms of protein (peptone and casein hydrolysate) to a less digested form (beef infusion) overcame the inhibitory effect. The significance which this phenomenon may have in controlling the population of E. coli in the small intestine is discussed.
The Effect of Halocarbon Aerosol Propellents on Bacteria
Authors: Stretton R. J. , Gretton W. R. , Watson‐Walker J.
Published: September 2010

SUMMARY: The survival of Escherichia coli and spores of Bacillus subtilis var. niger and B. stearothermophilus suspended in halocarbon propellents for several weeks has been demonstrated. There was no significant loss of dipicolinic acid from the spores. Lethal action may be due to interaction of the propellents with cellular lipid.
A Composite Arginine Glucose Medium for the Characterization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other Gram Negative Bacilli
Authors: Stewart D. J.
Published: September 2010

SUMMARY: A composite agar medium is described for the characterization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other Gram negative bacilli. Glucose oxidation and the production of ammonia by the arginine dihydrolase system are demonstrable in one tube. This arginine glucose (AG) medium also indicates the evolution of gas by glucose fermenting Gram negative bacilli.
Efficient Mutagenesis by Near Ultraviolet Light in the Presence of 8‐Methoxypsoralen in Streptomyces
Authors: Townsend Marie E. , Wright Helen M. , Hopwood D. A.
Published: September 2010

SUMMARY: Treatment of streptomyces spores with near UV light in the presence of photosensitizing 8‐methoxypsoralen was effective in inducing auxotrophic mutations with good survival. This treatment should be a valuable alternative to nitrosoguanidine in the routine mutagenesis of industrial streptomycetes, particularly as there is reported to be a lack of cistron specificity in its action on other micro‐organisms.
Innovative pedagogical practice with ICT in three Nordic countries – differences and similarities
Authors: Ottestad G.
Published: September 2010

Three Nordic countries, Denmark, Finland and Norway, participated in the IEA SITES 2006 study. All the three countries have launched huge policy and investment programmes to promote digital literacy and readiness for the information age. In relation to the remarkable Finnish Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results, it is interesting to see if the Finnish school system may be better suited to ground and contextualize pedagogical practice with Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) than the Danish and Norwegian counterparts. One main difference is that the Finnish system seems to anchor decisions about and interpretations on how ICT should be utilized stronger at the local level than the two other systems. One of the general goals in the policy programmes is to get teachers to innovate with ICT in the classrooms. The Second Information Technology in Education Study (SITES) 2006 indicators for two innovative pedagogical orientations, lifelong learning orientation and connectedness are utilized to compare teachers from the three nations. The main findings is that Finnish teachers are either not differing or they are scoring significantly lower on the two indicators than teachers from Denmark or Norway. The exception is Finnish science teachers who are more inclined towards using ICT in lifelong learning practices than their Danish and Norwegian counterparts. Generally, the Finnish teachers seem to be more autonomous in their pedagogical choices but may also be more conservative than the Danish and Norwegian teachers in making use of ICT.
Estimating diagnostic test accuracy for infectious salmon anaemia virus in Maine, USA
Authors: Gustafson L , Ellis S , Bouchard D , Robinson T , Marenghi F , Warg J , Giray C
Published: September 2010

Infectious salmon anaemia virus (ISAV) is a pathogen of consequence to farmed Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L. ISA control centres on active surveillance for early detection by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), indirect fluorescent antibody assay (IFAT) and virus isolation. Because diagnostic test performance varies among populations and laboratories, the Office International des Epizooties (OIE) recommends an evaluation of test accuracy in each region of use. This is complicated in Maine, USA by the co‐existence of ISAV genotypes homologous to North American (NA) and European (EU) isolates. While NA ISAV genotypes isolated in Maine are characterized by high morbidity and mortality, the single EU genotype in Maine has not yet been linked to disease or isolated by cell culture. Consequently, distinguishing among genotypes is critical to infection response. Accuracy in NA genotype detection was estimated from ISA surveillance data using latent class models. Results suggested that RT‐PCR is an excellent screening test for NA ISAV genotypes in Maine, although probably with reduced specificity in the presence of EU genotypes. IFAT, in contrast, was a poor screening test for detection of ISAV in Maine, although it may be useful in confirmation of NA genotypes during disease outbreaks.
Occurrence of gyrodactylids on wild Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., in Danish rivers
Authors: Von Gersdorff Jørgensen L , Heinecke R D , Kania P , Buchmann K
Published: September 2010

Three hundred and one parr of wild salmon, Salmo salar L., from three river systems in Denmark were examined in December 2005 and August 2006 for gyrodactylid infections. The species determination was done by morphological analyses of the opisthaptoral hard parts and molecular analyses of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region using PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and sequencing. Five species of the genus Gyrodactylus were found: Gyrodactylus derjavini, Gyrodactylus teuchis, Gyrodactylus truttae, Gyrodactylus arcuatus and Gyrodactylus salaris. The parasite species G. derjavini dominated over G. teuchis and G. truttae and only one specimen of G. arcuatus and one specimen of G. salaris were recovered. This specimen of G. salaris had the same mutation in the ITS‐region as a previously described non‐pathogenic Danish G. salaris variant. The prevalence of gyrodactylids on the salmon ranged from 0% to 100% but the mean abundance never exceeded 12.8.
A review on the morphology, molecular characterization, morphogenesis and pathogenesis of white spot syndrome virus
Authors: Escobedo‐Bonilla C M , Alday‐Sanz V , Wille M , Sorgeloos P , Pensaert M B , Nauwynck H J
Published: September 2010

Since it first appeared in 1992, white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) has become the most threatening infectious agent in shrimp aquaculture. Within a decade, this pathogen has spread to all the main shrimp farming areas and has caused enormous economic losses amounting to more than seven billion US dollars. At present, biosecurity methods used to exclude pathogens in shrimp farms include disinfecting ponds and water, preventing the entrance of animals that may carry infectious agents and stocking ponds with specific pathogen‐free post‐larvae. The combination of these practices increases biosecurity in shrimp farming facilities and may contribute to reduce the risk of a WSSV outbreak. Although several control methods have shown some efficacy against WSSV under experimental conditions, no therapeutic products or strategies are available to effectively control WSSV in the field. Furthermore, differences in virulence and clinical outcome of WSSV infections have been reported. The sequencing and characterization of different strains of WSSV has begun to determine aspects of its biology, virulence and pathogenesis. Knowledge on these aspects is critical for developing effective control methods. The aim of this review is to present an update of the knowledge generated so far on different aspects of WSSV organization, morphogenesis, pathology and pathogenesis.
Pan‐steatitis in farmed northern bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus (L.), in the eastern Adriatic
Authors: Roberts R J , Agius C
Published: September 2010

Clinical, gross and histopathological investigations were carried out into large‐scale mortalities on eastern Mediterranean bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus (L.), farms. Fish showed only nervous signs and darkened colour. At post‐mortem the liver was bronze coloured and the pyloric area waxy in consistency. There was no evidence of any other gross pathology. Histopathology showed severe hepatic necrosis and lipidosis. Peri‐pancreatic lipoid tissue was heavily infiltrated with an inflammatory round cell infiltrate. Fish on all three farms had been fed on a North African pilchard diet rather than traditional local or Baltic species. Once the diet was modified, losses ceased. A diagnosis of pan‐steatitis as seen in other farmed fish species, as well as in terrestrial animals, on particular fish‐based diets was made, although the actual factor within the diet which induced the inflammatory effect is not known.
First report of Streptococcus iniae in red porgy (Pagrus pagrus, L.)
Authors: El Aamri F , Padilla D , Acosta F , Caballero M J , Roo J , Bravo J , Vivas J , Real F
Published: September 2010

This work describes the first isolation of Streptococcus iniae in red porgy, Pagrus pagrus (L.), and the first European isolation of this pathogen in gilthead seabream, Sparus aurata (L.). In both farmed fish species, infection resulted in lethargy, anorexia, abnormal swimming, exophthalmia and sudden death, with mortality rates of over 25% in red porgy and 10% in gilthead seabream. Beta‐haemolytic Gram‐positive cocci, catalase negative and oxidase negative, were isolated in pure culture from internal organs. Conventional and rapid identification systems, and 16S rRNA gene partial sequencing were used to identify the causative agent of the natural disease. LD50 trials were carried out to show the virulence of this isolated strain in these species, with values of 1.7 × 104 CFU per fish in red porgy and 1.32 × 105 CFU per fish in gilthead seabream. The most prominent lesions were meningoencephalitis and multifocal infiltration of macrophage cells in the kidney and spleen.
Weight status and body image perception in Italian children
Authors: Gualdi‐Russo E. , Albertini A. , Argnani L. , Celenza F. , Nicolucci M. , Toselli S.
Published: September 2010

Background  Previous research suggests there is a tendency in overweight subjects to underestimate their weight status. This study investigated the perception of body image in Italian children, with particular regard to overweight children.

Methods  Primary school children (n = 866) were recruited for this cross‐sectional nutritional survey in northern Italy. Anthropometric measurements were performed to determine body mass index (BMI). Body image perception was assessed with the Body Silhouette Chart for preadolescent children shown to the children and to their mothers (n = 778) during an interview. A new scheme to identify wrong (F.1, F.2) or inappropriate (F.3) self figure responses in overweight subjects was used.

Results  More than one‐third of the Italian children examined were above the normal BMI range (prevalence of overweight: 35.8%, girls; 37.2%, boys). A higher degree of dissatisfaction was expressed by girls than by boys, and the percentage increased in overweight/obese children. A discrepancy between the self figure perception and the real nutritional status of the subject occurred in 6–9% of the overweight/obese children.

Conclusion  The comparison of body image perception and anthropometric assessment of nutritional status could play an important role in future programs of nutritional surveillance as they provide indications of dissatisfaction and body image disturbances.
Self‐monitoring cognitive performance during sleep deprivation: effects of modafinil, d‐amphetamine and placebo
Authors: BARANSKI JOSEPH , PIGEAU ROSS
Published: September 2010

Self‐monitoring refers to the ability to assess accurately one's own performance in a specific environment. The present study investigated the effects of the stimulating drugs modafinil (300 mg) and d‐amphetamine (20 mg) on the ability to self‐monitor cognitive performance during 64 h of sleep deprivation (SD) and sustained mental work. Two cognitive tasks were investigated: a visual (perceptual) judgment task and a complex mental addition task. Subjects in the placebo condition displayed marked circadian and SD effects on cognitive task performance but their self‐monitoring was substantively undisturbed by SD. Subjects performing under the influence of d‐amphetamine likewise displayed highly proficient self‐monitoring throughout the SD period. In contrast, modafinil had a disruptive effect on self‐monitoring, inducing a reliable «overconfidence» effect (i.e. an overestimation of actual cognitive performance), which was particularly marked 2–4 h post‐dose. Although modafinil has proven to be a safe and effective countermeasure to the effects of extensive SD on cognitive task performance, we encourage a more comprehensive understanding of the relation between its subjective and performance enhancing effects before the drug is recommended as a viable fatigue countermeasure.
Plasma cytokine levels in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: a preliminary study
Authors: Alberti Andrea , Sarchielli Paola , Gallinella Elisabetta , Floridi Ardesio , Floridi Alessandro , Mazzotta Giovanni , Gallai Virgilio
Published: September 2010

The levels of some pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)‐1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, IL‐6, IL‐10, and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β], were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method in the plasma of patients affected by obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) at 22:00 hours before polysomnographic recording and immediately after the first obstructive apnea causing an SaO2 below 85%. Significantly higher levels of TNF‐α were found in OSAS patients assessed before polysomnography compared with the control group (P < 0.01). A slight but significant increase in the plasma levels of IL‐6 was also present (P < 0.05). Conversely, a significant decrease in the plasma levels of IL‐10 was evident at baseline in OSAS patients (P < 0.04). No significant difference emerged between the mean values of IL‐1α and TGF‐β between OSAS patients and controls. The present data support a prevailing activation of the Th1‐type cytokine pattern in OSAS patients, which is not associated with the severity and duration of OSAS. This can have important consequences for the outcome of OSAS patients, especially with regard to the increased risk for developing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Immediately after the first obstructive apnea causing an SaO2 <85%, a significant variation was observed in the plasma levels of TNF‐α in OSAS patients compared with those measured before the beginning of polysomnographic recording (P < 0.001). The role played by this further increase in TNF‐α levels after the obstructive apnea in OSAS patients remains to be established in the light of the pathogenic mechanisms of this sleep disorder.
Pharmacodynamics of warfarin in cats
Authors: SMITH S. A. , Kraft S. L. , LEWIS D. C. , MELETHIL S. , FREEMAN L. C.
Published: September 2010

The overall purpose of this study was to evaluate the pharmacodynamic response to warfarin in cats. The specific aim was to determine if a log‐linear indirect response model (Nagashima et al., 1969) used to describe the in vivo effect of warfarin in humans could be applied to cats. The pharmacokinetics of racemic warfarin were described using a non‐compartmental approach. The relationship between prothrombin complex activity (PCA) and normalized prothrombin time (PTR) was defined for feline plasma under our experimental conditions, and determined to be: %PCA=12.38+648 e−PTR/0.492. These data were then integrated and used to predict the warfarin dose associated with therapeutic anti‐coagulation defined as an International Normalized Ratio (INR) of 2.0–3.0.

The maximum prothrombinopenic response to warfarin in cats after a single intravenous dose of 0.5 mg/kg occurred at 24–48 h. Pharmacodynamic modeling suggested that each cat had a narrow therapeutic range of the steady‐state concentration of total warfarin required to appropriately block prothrombin complex synthesis (median: 265.2–358.7 ng/mL). The median daily dose range predicted to yield therapeutic concentrations of warfarin was 0.061–0.088 mg/kg per day. Wide inter‐individual variations in both pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic response suggest that a more optimal dosing of warfarin may be possible with the development of individual pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic algorithms, analogous to those currently employed in human patients.
Tissue distribution of benzylpenicillin after intramammary administration in the isolated perfused bovine udder
Authors: Ehinger A. M. , Kietzmann M.
Published: September 2010

Udders from previously healthy lactating cows were perfused with warmed and gassed Tyrode solution in vitro. Benzylpenicillin was administered in three formulations: an oily suspension with micronized particles of <10 μm diameter, an oily suspension with average particle size of 40 μm and an aqueous solution (3 million IU benzylpenicillin–potassium, volume 15 mL). The antibiotics were administered intracisternally to six front and six rear quarters each. Moreover, a dry‐off‐ointment (100 000 IU benzylpenicillin–potassium and 100 000 IU benzylpenicillin–benzathine, volume 7.5 mL) was tested in four udder halves. Perfusate samples were collected over 3 h. Furthermore, glandular tissue at different vertical distances from the teat base and the regional lymph node were sampled after 3 h. The determination of benzylpenicillin was performed by high pressure liquid chromatography with UV detection. With increasing distance from the teat base, the concentration of benzylpenicillin in tissue exponentially decreased. Using the aqueous solution or oily suspension that contained micronized active principle, higher concentrations were reached compared to the formulation with particle sizes of 40 μm. In udder lymph nodes, the concentration was highest after treatment with the coarse suspension. The transfer from the dry‐off‐ointment with benzathine‐salt into perfusate was very low. These results suggest that it is possible to study tissue distribution of antibiotics in the isolated perfused bovine udder.
Involvement of platelet activating factor in the endotoxin‐induced effects on gastrointestinal electrical activity and some haematological parameters in the conscious miniature pig
Authors: Wechsung E. , Houvenaghel A.
Published: September 2010

In conscious miniature pigs the influence of intravenous dose of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), 10 μg/kg over 10 min, with and without pretreatment with a platelet activating factor (PAF) antagonist, SAH 63‐675 10 mg/kg, on gastrointestinal electrical activity, arterial pressure and clinical and haematological parameters was studied. Dose of LPS provoked mild clinical signs and hypotension, which were prevented by PAF antagonism. The LPS induced leukocytosis and increase in mature neutrophils, however, were PAF independent. Pretreatment with the PAF antagonist attenuated the LPS‐provoked inhibition of electrical activity in the antrum, jejunum, ileum and caecum. These results suggest a beneficial effect of PAF antagonism in porcine endotoxaemia.
Pharmacokinetics and metabolic effects of triamcinolone acetonide and their possible relationships to glucocorticoid‐induced laminitis in horses
Authors: French K. , Pollitt C. C. , Pass M. A.
Published: September 2010

Experiments were performed to establish the pharmacokinetics of triamcinolone acetonide and the effects of the glucocorticoid on glucose metabolism in horses. The pharmacokinetics after intravenous (i.v.) dosing was best described by a three‐compartment open model. There was rapid distribution from the central compartment followed by two phases of elimination. The half‐life of the rapid elimination phase was 83.5 min and of the slower phase was 12 h. The term (Vss/Vc)−1was 12.3 indicating extensive distribution into the tissues. Triamcinolone acetonide given i.v. or intramuscularly (i.m.) induced a prolonged period of hyperglycaemia, hyperinsulinaemia and hypertriglyceridaemia. Significant changes in plasma glucagon and serum non‐esterified fatty acids were not observed. These observations suggest that the hyperglycaemia was a result of decreased glucose utilization by tissues and increased gluconeogenesis. The effects on glucose metabolism persisted for 3–4 days after triamcinolone was given i.m. at 0.05 mg/kg, the upper limit of the recommended dose range, and for 8 days when given at 0.2 mg/kg. These observations, together with recent evidence implicating inhibition of glucose metabolism in the pathogenesis of equine laminitis, indicated that triamcinolone‐induced laminitis may be associated with the long duration of action of the glucocorticoid when higher than recommended doses or when repeated doses are given.