bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caring for Women From Culturally Diverse Backgrounds: Midwives' Experiences
Authors: Cioffi Jane , (Nsg) Grad Dip Ed
Published: December 2015

The aim of this study was to show how midwives cared for women from culturally diverse backgrounds. In‐depth interviews were used to collect data from 12 experienced midwives who volunteered to participate in the study from a midwifery unit with a culturally diverse population. Study findings revealed that midwives preserved and accommodated the cultural preferences of women from a Chinese background by incorporating the forces of yin‐yang into care, heeding the maternal hierarchy and women's stoicism; and for women from an Islamic background by heeding modesty and gender preferences (Hejab), the place of prayer in daily life (Salat), and the imperative of visiting by others (Hadith). Hence, midwives negotiated care that was culturally comfortable for women and their families. Furthermore, triangulated studies addressing the partnership between the midwife and the diverse client are needed, as well as the development of aspects of the health service that are more culturally sensitive.
Antispermatozoal Antibodies in Human Follicular Fluid
Authors: KAY D.J. , BOETTCHER B. , YOVICH J.L. , STANGER J.D.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The possibility of antispermatozoal antibodies in women having significant effects in the higher regions of the female reproductive tract has been investigated. Follicular fluids (FF) and sera taken at the time of oocyte recovery from women undergoing in vitro fertilisation and embryo transfer (IVF‐ET) were tested for the presence of antispermatozoal antibodies, and the concentrations of IgM, IgG, IgA, and complement C3 were determined. The concentrations of immunoglobulins and C3 in FF were consistent with transudation from serum inversely proportional to molecular weight. Titres of agglutinating and immobilising antibodies in FF were usually one or two dilution steps below those of serum except where immobilising activity was associated with IgM. IgG: IgA ratios were lower in FF from women with antispermatozoal antibodies, suggesting local production or enhanced transudation of IgA; however, a secretory component could not be detected in any of the follicular fluids in this study. Two women with antispermatozoal antibodies and infertility in excess of 5 years had successful IVF‐ET and have delivered healthy infants.
Comparison of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Measurements by Radioimmunoassay and In Vitro Bioassay
Authors: MADANES AMOS E. , FENCL MONTSERRAT DE M. , TULCHINSKY DAN
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: A sensitive, accurate, and reproducible in vitro bioassay was developed for measuring human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), based on testosterone production by collagenase‐dispersed interstitial cells of rat testes in response to hCG. The results were compared to those obtained by established beta hCG radioimmunoassay. The assay sensitivity was 25 pg hCG‐CR119/ml (65 μIU second IRP/ml). The intra‐assay coefficient of variation (CV) was 8.8%, and the interassay CV was 13% and 33% in the high and low ranges of the standard curve, respectively. hCG recoveries were 89.6 ± 3.12% (SE, n = 12). The pattern of serum bio‐hCG followed established patterns of immuno‐hCG, with the highest level measured during the first trimester (mean, 52,600 ± 7,250 SE (mIU/ml, n = 11), decreasing thereafter to a mean value of 7,400 ± 1,500 mIU/ml at term. The mean ratio of the bio/immunoactivity was consistently greater than one and did not significantly change at the various stages of pregnancy, or between normal and molar pregnancies (first trimester, 1.75 ± 0.12 SE; mid‐trimester, 1.46 ± 0.12; term, 1.50 ± 0.09; molar, 1.55 + 0.2). When serum bioactive and immunoactive hCG were measured in a woman at five weeks of pregnancy, an episodic secretion of hCG was obtained by both assays.
The Effects of Indomethacin Administration During Pregnancy on Womens' and Newborns' T‐Suppressor Lymphocyte Activity and on HLA Class II Expression by Newborns' Leukocytes
Authors: DURANDY ANNE , BRAMI CHARLES , GRISCELLI CLAUDE
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: It has been previously shown that T lymphocytes from human newborns and pregnant women exert a suppressive activity when assayed on the PWM‐induced B cell maturation. The mechanisms of the suppression have remained entirely unknown. Prostaglandin E2, known to trigger T‐cell mediated suppressive activity, may be involved. We took advantage of the treatment of pregnant women with indomethacin, because of premature labor or hydramnios, to investigate the role of prostaglandins in the activation of T suppressor (TS) activity. Administration of indomethacin (250 mg/day for 1–7 weeks, then 150 mg/day for 3–12 weeks) during the third trimester of pregnancy, abrogated the TS activity in the nine women and the three newborns tested. Abrogation of TS activity by indomethacin therapy led to normal PWM‐induced B cell maturation in pregnant women but not in newborns. Moreover, the low expression of HLA class II antigens observed on normal newborn B lymphocytes and monocytes was corrected in newborns from indomethacin‐treated mothers. Our results strongly suggest that prostaglandins may play a role in induction of TS activity observed in normal pregnant women and newborns and in the decreased expression of HLA class II antigens on newborns' leucocytes. Both phenomena could play a role in immunological interactions between mother and fetus.
On the Immunogenicity of the β Subunit of Ovine Luteinizing Hormone (oLHβ) and Equine Chorionic Gonadotropin (eCG) in the Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes): Effect of Antiserum on Monkey Cycle and Early Pregnancy
Authors: MOUDGAL N.R. , SAIRAM M.R. , MAHONEY J.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Antibody to ovine LHβ (oLHβ) subunit and equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) were produced in adult male chimpanzees and evaluated for cross reactivity with oLH, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and eCG by in vitro and in vivo methods. Chimpanzee antiserum to eCG failed to cross‐react with hCG, but antibody raised against oLHβ subunit effectively neutralized not only exogenously administered hCG but also endogenous pituitary LH and monkey (Macaca radiata) chorionic gonadotropin. Chimpanzee antiserum to oLHβ when administered early in pregnancy reduced progesterone levels and terminated gestation in bonnet monkeys. Our data suggest that active immunization of chimpanzee, an ape that is very close to human, with oLHβ subunit leads to production of antibodies that are likely to affect both normal cycle as well as pregnancy.
Deficiency of Blocking Factors in Intrauterine Growth Retardation and Its Relationship With Chronic Villitis
Authors: LABARRERE CARLOS , ALTHABE OMAR , CALETTI ELENA , MUSCOLO DOMINGO
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: We tested sera from 22 women and their singleton full‐term infants for inhibition in one‐way mother/father mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC). Ten of these infants were small for gestational age (SGA) and 12 of them adequate for gestational age (AGA). Twenty placentas from these cases (ten from SGA infants and ten from AGA infants) were histologically studied. The results show evidence that blocking factors capable of inhibiting responses of wife's lymphocytes to husband's cells in MLC are present in sera from women with normal pregnancies but not in women with SGA infants. Sera from AGA infants showed a blocking activity on responses of husband's lymphocytes to wife's cells and this was not observed in sera from SGA infants. Lesions of chronic villitis were found in six placentas from SGA infants and in none from AGA infants. A deficit of blocking protective factors and its relationship with placental lesions is in favor of an immunological mechanism for intrauterine growth retardation.
Lymphocyte Subsets in Habitual Abortion
Authors: VIRAG I. , SCHECTER E. , ELGAT M. , ZAKUT H. , MEYTES D.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Lymphocyte subpopulations were characterized by means of monoclonal antibodies in 25 women with habitual abortion and 21 muciparous normal women. Compared to nonpregnant women (N = 8), pregnant normal women were associated with significantly lower helper‐to‐suppressor ratios (1.71 ± 0.41 versus 2.37 ± 0.66). In contrast in pregnant women with habitual abortion (N = 13) the ratio remained high (2.32 ± 0.73). Failure to increase the number of suppressors and a significant rise in helpers caused this increased ratio. We discuss the possible mechanisms and etiological importance of this finding in habitual abortion.
Testis Lesions and Cellular and Humoral Immune Responses Induced in Rats by Immunization With Laminin
Authors: LUSTIG LIVIA , DONCEL GUSTAVO F. , BERENSZTEIN ESPERANZA , DENDUCHIS BERTA
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Sixty‐six percent of rats immunized with laminin isolated from a mouse Engelbreth‐Holm‐Swarm (EHS) sarcoma developed moderate lesions in the testis characterized by multiple foci of seminiferous tubules with different degrees of sloughing of the germinal epithelium or atrophy intermingled with normal histological areas. Interstitial mononuclear cell infiltrates were seen in the epididymis. By electron microscopy, pathological changes in the basement membranes of the seminiferous tubules, such as splitting and focal thickenings of knob‐like projections toward the epithelium, were observed. Moreover, Sertoli cell cytoplasm showed dilated smooth endoplasmic reticulum and large vacuoles. By electron microscopy with the immunoper‐oxidase technique, staining for in vivo‐bound rat IgG was detected along the walls of the seminiferous tubules as a bright linear immunofluorescence and as a dense reaction product on the basal lamina. High titers of circulating antilaminin antibodies were detected by ELISA in all the rats immunized with laminin. As revealed by the skin test, a delayed type hypersensitivity reaction to laminin was observed in these rats.
A Fertile Man With a High Sperm Agglutination Titer in the Seminal Plasma: A Case Report
Authors: JAGER S. , RÜMKE Ph. , KREMER J.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: A fertile man had sperm‐agglutinating activity in his serum (titers 1:16‐1:128) and in his seminal plasma (titers 1:128‐1:2048). The antibodies in the seminal plasma could be absorbed with anti‐IgA antiserum but not with anti‐IgG antiserum. A fresh ejaculate showed strong auto‐agglutination of the spermatozoa. With mixed antiglobulin reaction tests (MART) and/or immunobead tests (IBT), IgA and IgG were detected on almost all motile spermatozoa; the erythrocytes, in the MART, and the latex spheres, in the IBT, adhered mainly to the tip of the tail. After mixing the fresh semen with cervical mucus, only 40% of the spermatozoa were locally shaking. The spermatozoa showed excellent penetration of cervical mucus in vitro. This case shows that IgA coating of the tails of the spermatozoa does not necessarily lead to adherence of these spermatozoa to the micelles of the cervical mucus and that the sperm cervical mucus contact test has a better predictive value than the sperm agglutination titer in the seminal plasma.
Distribution of Human Leukocyte Antigen‐ABC and ‐D/DR Antigens in the Unfixed Human Testis
Authors: HAAS GILBERT G. , D'CRUZ OSMOND J. , DE BAULT LAWRENCE E.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The distribution of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigens in the unfixed human testicle was studied by indirect immunofluorescence. Three murine monoclonal antibodies to the common determinants of class I MHC antigens (human leukocyte antigen [HLA]‐ABC) and three against class II MHC antigens (HLA‐D/DR antigens), respectively, were utilized. No class I MHC antigens were identified on developing testicular germ cells including spermatozoa, but interstitial cells between the seminiferous tubules (including Leydig cells) and blood vessel endothelium expressed the antigen. Class II MHC antigens were not found on any cells within the seminiferous tubules. However, the class II antigen was identified on dendritic‐like cells between the seminiferous tubules and on vessel endothelium, although its expression was expectedly limited. These findings indicate that human testicular germ cells express minimal or no MHC antigens.
Delineation Between T‐ and B‐Suppressive Molecules From Human Seminal Plasma: I. Partial Characterization of a 180‐kD Protein Inhibiting the B Response to T‐Independent Antigens
Authors: BOUVET JEAN‐PIERRE , COUDERC JACQUES , QUAN CANH P. , PIRÈS RENÉ , D'AZAMBUJA SOLANGE , PILLOT JACQUES
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The immunosuppressive activity of fractionated human seminal plasma (SP) was investigated both in vitro (on human lymphocytes) and in vivo with Balb/ c mice. SP fractionation by dialysis allowed delineation of the major suppressor factors according to their respective sizes—small (< 12kD) or large (> 12kD). In vitro, large molecules were found to suppress the B‐cell proliferative response induced by the Nocardia mitogen, while small molecules suppressed the T‐cell proliferation induced by phytohemagglutinin. In vivo, immunosuppression was obtained almost exclusively on T‐independent responses after preliminary treatments either with unfractionated SP or with large SP molecules. Both type 1 and type 2 T‐independent responses were suppressed, as evidenced by plaque‐forming cells and antibody assays. In contrast, no immunosuppression was found in vivo after treatment by small SP molecules. Purification of the B‐cell suppressor by gel filtration and high‐performance liquid chromatography, as well as by preparative isofocusing, indicated that its molecular weight was 180 kD and its isoelectric charge was between pH 5 and 6. This factor is a protein, as evidenced by pronase digestion. A possible role for this molecule in the protection of sperm against the female immune system is discussed.
Detection of Antisperm Antibodies on the Surface of Motile Spermatozoa. Comparison of the Immunobead Binding Technique (IBT) and the Mixed Antiglobulin Reaction (MAR)
Authors: MEINERTZ HELLE , BRONSON RICHARD
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Investigators testing for antisperm antibodies have recently focused on tests that detect the Ig classes of the sperm‐bound antibodies. The aim of this study was to compare the sensitivity of two of these tests, viz. the immunobead binding technique (IBT) and the mixed antiglobulin reaction (MAR). Twenty‐one male or female sera were tested for IgG and IgA antisperm antibodies with the IBT and the MAR. The sera were selected on the basis of the IBT results, and the MAR was carried out without knowledge of these results. For IgG antisperm antibodies, there was a highly significant correlation between the two tests (P = 0.0043), whereas, for IgA antisperm antibodies, the correlation was poor (P = 0.2951), because the IBT revealed a positive reaction for IgA in sera in which no such antibodies could be detected by the MAR.
Differential Expression of HLA‐DR, HLA‐DP, and HLA‐DQ Antigenic Determinants of the Major Histocompatibility Complex in Human Endometrium
Authors: TABIBZADEH SIAMAK S. , SATYASWAROOP PONDICHERY G.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: We reported on the expression of HLA‐DR molecules of the major histocompatibility complex in human endometrium. We now report on the expression of two other class II molecules, the HLA‐DP and HLA‐DQ determinants. These molecules were localized by monoclonal antibodies in 11 proliferative and 12 secretory endometria by avidin‐biotin‐complex (ABC) procedure. The expression of all three molecules was invariable and consistent throughout the entire menstrual cycle in endothelial and lymphoid cells. HLA‐DR molecules were expressed in endometrial epithelium, particularly in the basalis in the mid to late proliferative phases of the cycle. In contrast, through the entire menstrual cycle, the expression of HLA‐DP and HLA‐DQ antigenic determinants was absent, and only occasionally a focal expression of these molecules was seen in endometrial epithelium. The in vitro induction of expression of the class II molecules in human endometrial epithelial cell cultures (HEE) by IFN‐gamma was dose‐dependent. After treatment with low doses of IFN‐gamma, these cells primarily expressed HLA‐DR molecules in vitro. The differential expression of the molecules of the major histocompatibility complex in human endometrial epithelium in vivo may be due to the differential sensitivity of the epithelium in response to cytokine(s).
Survival in Extreme Conditions
Authors: Bloom Martin , Halsema James
Published: December 2015

This article explores the psychosocial and environmental configurations that might have been responsible for an unusual situation of survival under extreme conditions. A group of 500 civilians (mostly Americans) lived 3 ½ years in a Japanese internment camp in the Philippines during World War II. Although conditions were very harsh, the survival rate of this group was better than expected for a comparable group under normal conditions. Discussion of available demographic, social organizational, and cultural information leads to three hypotheses that might account for this outcome.
Patterns of Suicide among Hospitalized Mentally Disordered Offenders
Authors: Haynes Robert L. , Marques Janice K.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The case records of 29 mentally disordered offenders who committed suicide in a state hospital were reviewed. Information was collected on demographic and clinical characteristics; time, method and location of the suicides; and the presence of suicide indicators. Comparisons were made between the characteristics of the suicide patients and those of the current hospital population. Major findings were: 80 percent of the suicides were committed by psychotic patients and 66 percent were by patients with diagnoses which included paranoia; 48 percent of the suicide patients had been charged with or convicted of murder or attempted murder; most suicides occurred in individual patient rooms; nearly 50 percent of the patients had a history of suicide attempts; and other common indicators of suicide risk were often masked by psychotic symptomatology. Several recommendations for identifying and managing potentially suicidal patients in this population are presented.
Vicissitudes of the Suicidal Impulse in Dreams
Authors: Levitan Harold
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The author presents several dreams reported by psychosomatic patients which contain an overt or disguised act of suicide. In the latter instances various transformations of the act of suicide had been brought about by the defensive functions of the dreaming ego. Paradoxically, in several of these instances it was the very efforts of the dreaming ego to defend itself which allowed the suicidal impulse to reach its consummation.
Suicide and Suicide Attempts in the European Economic Community: An Analysis of Trends, with Special Emphasis upon Trends among the Young
Authors: Diekstra Rene F.W.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: An attempt is made to explain the increase in adolescent suicidal behavior reported for most countries in the European Economic Community over the last two decades, within the framework of a social learning theory. A typology of suicidal acts based on an outcome‐expectancy model is proposed that would make intelligible the observed positive correlation between the incidence of lethal and nonlethal suicidal acts, the latter having grown to epidemic proportions among the young.

This epidemic can be attributed to the interplay of three groups of factors, namely, the socialization of a specific problem‐solving behavior repertoire, socioeconomic conditions, and attitudes toward suicide. The implications for suicide prevention are briefly discussed.
The Fusion of Pressing Situation and Releasing Writing: On Adolescent Suicide Poetry
Authors: Sharlin Shlomo A. , Shenhar Aliza
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The poetry of adolescents in despair may provide us with early signs of suicide; hence referral to professional help may result at an early stage. The present study concentrated on two adolescents who wrote poetry and committed suicide. The words used in these adolescents' poetry and in the poetry of two nonsuicidal adolescents were analyzed and classified into semantic fields. Significant differences were found between the suicide and the control groups. These differences showed themselves in the vigor and intensity of the loaded words in the suicide group, as well as in the more extreme occurrence of two major foci, “Death” and “Bad Situation.” These foci are demonstrated in a constructed model that may guide parents and professionals in early detection of suicide.
Concurrent Validity of a Stress–Vulnerability Model of Suicidal Ideation and Behavior: A Follow‐Up Study
Authors: Rich Alexander R. , Bonner Ronald L.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: A follow‐up study to test the concurrent validity of a stress‐vulnerability model of suicidal ideation and behavior was conducted. A total of 202 college students (139 females, 63 males) completed self‐report measures of life stress, loneliness, depression, dysfunctional cognitions, reasons for living, hopelessness, current suicide ideation, and predictions of future suicide probability. The results of a multiple‐regression analysis indicated that 30% of the variation in suicide ideation scores could be accounted for by the linear combination of negative life stress, depression, loneliness, and few reasons for living. The linear combination of current suicide ideation, hopelessness, dysfunctional cognitions, and few reasons for living explained 56% of the variance in self‐predicted future suicide probability. The results are interpreted as being supportive of the proposed model.
Hamilton's rule, inclusive fitness maximization, and the goal of individual behaviour in symmetric two‐player games
Authors: Okasha S. , Martens J.
Published: December 2015

Hamilton's original work on inclusive fitness theory assumed additivity of costs and benefits. Recently, it has been argued that an exact version of Hamilton's rule for the spread of a pro‐social allele (rb > c) holds under nonadditive pay‐offs, so long as the cost and benefit terms are defined as partial regression coefficients rather than pay‐off parameters. This article examines whether one of the key components of Hamilton's original theory can be preserved when the rule is generalized to the nonadditive case in this way, namely that evolved organisms will behave as if trying to maximize their inclusive fitness in social encounters.
Central kynurenine pathway shift with age in women
Authors: de Bie Josien , Guest Jade , Guillemin Gilles J. , Grant Ross
Published: December 2015

Age is considered a dominant risk factor in the development of most neurodegenerative disorders. The kynurenine pathway, a major metabolic pathway of tryptophan is altered in the majority of neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, we have analysed CSF samples from 49 healthy women across a wide age range (0–90) for kynurenine pathway metabolites and the inflammatory marker neopterin. Our results show central tryptophan metabolism is increased with age in women, with an apparent shift towards the neurotoxin quinolinic acid. We also observed an increase in central levels of the inflammatory marker neopterin with age and a positive correlation between neopterin and kynurenine pathway activation. We conclude that, the changes that occur in the kynurenine pathway as a result of normal ageing are mechanistically linked to increased inflammatory signalling and have some explanatory potential with regard to age‐associated degenerative diseases in the CNS. Management of health in ageing and (preventative) treatment would do well to look to the kynurenine pathway for potentially novel solutions.

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Both the inflammation marker neopterin and kynurenine pathway activity were increased with age in the CSF of female subjects. While levels of quinolinic acid (QUIN), picolinic acid (PIC), kynurenine and quinaldic acid (QA) were increased, 3‐hydroxykynurenine (3HK) was decreased and 3‐hydroxyanthranilic acid (3HAA) and kynurenic acid (KYNA) remained unchanged. Of particular interest is the increase in QUIN, a neuroexcitotoxin associated with neurodegeneration.
THE PUZZLE OF JOB SEARCH AND HOUSING TENURE: A RECONCILIATION OF THEORY AND EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE
Authors: Morescalchi Andrea
Published: December 2015

Oswald's thesis posits that homeowners should have longer unemployment spells than renters due to restricted mobility, but repeatedly the reverse is found. I contribute to solve this puzzle analyzing both job search intensity and unemployment duration. First, I show that homeowner's mobility constraints have a negative impact on search. Theoretically, it is shown in a search model with moving costs. Using U.K. Labour Force Survey (LFS) data, it is confirmed when considering outright owners, while leveraged owners have the highest search. Second, I find evidence that homeowners select search methods associated with shorter unemployment spells, suggesting that they search more efficiently.
Evaluation of Canine Pancreas‐Specific Lipase Activity, Lipase Activity, and Trypsin‐Like Immunoreactivity in an Experimental Model of Acute Kidney Injury in Dogs
Authors: Hulsebosch S.E. , Palm C.A. , Segev G. , Cowgill L.D. , Kass P.H. , Marks S.L.
Published: December 2015

Background

Diagnosis of pancreatitis in dogs is complicated by extrapancreatic disorders that can alter the results of laboratory tests. Extrapancreatic disorders can also affect the diagnosis of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). The effects of acute kidney injury (AKI) on pancreas‐specific lipase activity (SpeccPL®Test), serum lipase activity and trypsin‐like immunoreactivity (TLI) in dogs have not been evaluated.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Serum SpeccPL, lipase activity, andTLIconcentrations will increase secondary to decreased kidney function.

Animals

Five purpose‐bred dogs.

Methods

Experimental prospective study. Gentamicin was used to induceAKIin 5 purpose‐bred dogs. Serum samples were collected for measurement of creatinine, SpeccPL, lipase activity andTLIover 60 days, during both induction of, and recovery from,AKI.

Results

All dogs developed and recovered fromAKI. Six of 52 (12%) serum SpeccPLconcentrations were increased (2 in the equivocal zone and 4 consistent with pancreatitis) in 2 of 5 (40%) dogs. Two of 51 (4%) serum lipase activity values were increased in 2 of 5 dogs. SerumTLIwas increased above the reference range in 17 of 50 (34%) samples in 3 of 5 dogs. For all biomarkers, there was no consistent correlation with increases in serum creatinine concentration.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Decreased renal excretion during experimentalAKIdid not cause consistent and correlated increases in serum SpeccPL, lipase activity, orTLIin this cohort of dogs.
Pharmacokinetics and lung and muscle concentrations of tulathromycin following subcutaneous administration in white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus)
Authors: Bachtold K. A. , Alcorn J. M. , Boison J. O. , Matus J. L. , Woodbury M. R.
Published: December 2015

Respiratory tract infections are common in farmed North American white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). Tulathromycin is approved for use in cattle but not deer but is often employed to treat deer. The pharmacokinetic properties and lung and muscle concentrations of tulathromycin in white‐tailed deer were investigated. Tulathromycin was administered to 10 deer, and then, serum, lung, and muscle tulathromycin concentrations were measured using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS). The mean maximal serum tulathromycin concentration in deer was 359 ng/mL at 1.3 h postinjection. The mean area under the serum concentration–time curve, apparent volume of distribution, apparent clearance, and half‐life was 4883 ng·h/mL, 208 L/kg, 0.5 L/h/kg, and 281 h (11.7 days), respectively. The maximal tulathromycin concentration in lung and muscle homogenate from a single animal was 4657 ng/g (14 days) and 2264 ng/g (7 days), respectively. The minimum concentrations in lung and muscle were 39.4 ng/g (56 days) and 9.1 ng/g (56 days), respectively. Based on similarity in maximal serum concentrations between deer and cattle and high lung concentrations in deer, we suggest the recommended cattle dosage is effective in deer. Tissue concentrations persisted for 56 days, suggesting a need for longer withdrawal times in deer than cattle. Further tissue distribution and depletion studies are necessary to understand tulathromycin persistence in deer tissue; clinical efficacy studies are needed to confirm the appropriate dosage regimen in deer.
Optimal Staging Area Locations and Material Recycling Strategies for Sustainable Highway Reconstruction
Authors: Smith Ryan , Ferrebee Eric , Ouyang Yanfeng , Roesler Jeffery
Published: December 2015

Highway reconstruction consumes large amounts of energy and material resources and at the same time produces significant quantities of emissions during material processing, transportation, and site construction. Sustainable highway reconstruction requires strategies that optimally utilize recycled or virgin material from supply locations (e.g., existing roadway, material markets), assign material use in reconstruction process, select fixed staging area(s) and mobile unit location(s) to process material, and ship the material to the destinations (e.g., markets, landfills, highway construction sites). We present a decision support system based on a network optimization model that determines (i) optimal locations of fixed staging areas and mobile processing units and (ii) optimal material recycling and shipment strategies that minimize the total cost for material procurement, transportation, staging area and mobile processing unit investment, and CO2 equivalent (CO2e) emissions. A hypothetical case study of a 35‐mile reconstruction project was conducted to test the performance of the model and to draw insights on how different system parameters influence the optimal staging locations, recycled material use, and traffic management plan. It was found that the use of mobile processors and/or recycled material can have significant impacts on hauling costs, emissions, and optimal locations of staging areas.
The urticating setae of Ochrogaster lunifer, an Australian processionary caterpillar of veterinary importance
Authors: PERKINS L. E. , ZALUCKI M. P. , PERKINS N. R. , CAWDELL‐SMITH A. J. , TODHUNTER K. H. , BRYDEN W. L. , CRIBB B. W.
Published: December 2015

The bag‐shelter moth, Ochrogaster lunifer Herrich‐Schaffer (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae), is associated with a condition called equine amnionitis and fetal loss (EAFL) on horse farms in Australia. Setal fragments from O. lunifer larvae have been identified in the placentas of experimentally aborted fetuses and their dams, and in clinical abortions. The gregarious larvae build silken nests in which large numbers cohabit over spring, summer and autumn. The final instars disperse to pupation sites in the ground where they overwinter. Field‐collected O. lunifer larvae, their nests and nearby soil were examined using light and electron microscopy to identify setae likely to cause EAFL and to determine where and how many were present. Microtrichia, barbed hairs and true setae were found on the exoskeletons of the larvae. True setae matching the majority of setal fragments described from equine tissue were found on third to eighth instar larvae or exuviae. The number of true setae increased with the age of the larva; eighth instars carried around 2.0–2.5 million true setae. The exuvia of the pre‐pupal instar was incorporated into the pupal chamber. The major sources of setae are likely to be nests, dispersing pre‐pupal larvae and their exuviae, and pupal chambers.
A tale of two plasticities: leaf hydraulic conductances and related traits diverge for two tropical epiphytes from contrasting light environments
Authors: North Gretchen B. , Browne Marvin G. , Fukui Kyle , Maharaj Franklin D. R. , Phillips Carly A. , Woodside Walter T.
Published: December 2015

We compared the effects of different light environments on leaf hydraulic conductance (Kleaf) for two congeneric epiphytes, the tank bromeliads Guzmania lingulata (L.) Mez and Guzmania monostachia (L.) Rusby ex Mez. They occur sympatrically at the study site, although G. monostachia is both wider ranging and typically found in higher light. We collected plants from two levels of irradiance and measured Kleaf as well as related morphological and anatomical traits. Leaf xylem conductance (Kxy) was estimated from tracheid dimensions, and leaf conductance outside the xylem (Kox) was derived from a leaky cable model. For G. monostachia, but not for G. lingulata, Kleaf and Kxy were significantly higher in high light conditions. Under both light conditions, Kxy and Kox were co‐limiting for the two species, and all conductances were in the low range for angiosperms. With respect to hydraulic conductances and a number of related anatomical traits, G. monostachia exhibited greater plasticity than did G. lingulata, which responded to high light chiefly by reducing leaf size. The positive plasticity of leaf hydraulic traits in varying light environments in G. monostachia contrasted with negative plasticity in leaf size for G. lingulata, suggesting that G. monostachia may be better able to respond to forest conditions that are likely to be warmer and more disturbed in the future.
Unusual childhood presentations of abdominal non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma
Authors: Foley Robert W , Aworanti Olubenga M , Gorman Laura , McGovern Brianan , O'Sullivan Maureen , Smith Owen P , Twomey Eilish , Gillick John
Published: December 2015

Non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is a relatively common childhood cancer that can present in a myriad of ways. It is essential that NHL is included in the differential diagnosis of children presenting with an abdominal complaint, especially those with unexplained or prolonged symptoms. We describe three acute pediatric presentations of abdominal NHL, two of which presented as acute abdomen (the first mimicking intussusception and the second appendicitis), and the third involving lower limb edema. This case series illustrates the array of presentations of abdominal NHL and the diagnostic challenges that they can provide.
Effectiveness of maternal influenza immunization in young infants in Japan
Authors: Sugimura Tetsu , Nagai Takao , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Ozaki Yukiko , Yamakawa Rumi , Hirata Rumiko
Published: December 2015

Background

Infants with influenza, particularly those younger than 1 year of age, are at high risk of developing a severe case or of dying. Recently, owing to the spread of pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended maternal immunization to reduce the risk of influenza infection in pregnant women and infants. Such reporting is rare in Japan. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the effect on the newborn of influenza vaccination of pregnant women in Japan.

Methods

The study included 200 infants who were born to healthy mothers at Kobayashi Ladies Clinic during influenza season from November 2010 to April 2011. The incidence of fever and laboratory‐confirmed influenza was assessed in the infants for the 6 months after their birth.

Results

Of the 200 infants, four were excluded from this study due to loss to follow up. The 106 infants in the group whose mothers received the influenza vaccine (vaccinated group) before parturition were compared with the 90 infants in the group whose mothers did not receive the influenza vaccine (non‐vaccinated group). Fever was noted in 36 infants (34.0%) in the vaccinated group and in 47 infants (52.2%) in the non‐vaccinated group (P < 0.007), and the incidence of influenza was 0 (0%) and 5 (5.6%), respectively (P = 0.019). The incidence of fever and influenza among infants was significantly lower in the vaccinated group compared with the non‐vaccinated group.

Conclusions

Maternal influenza immunization should be actively recommended in Japan to protect newborns from influenza viruses.
Current‐aligned dewatering sheets and ‘enhanced’ primary current lineation in turbidite sandstones of the Marnoso‐arenacea Formation
Authors: Amy Lawrence A. , Talling Peter J. , Sumner Esther J. , Malgesini Giuseppe
Published: December 2015

Turbidite sandstones of the Miocene Marnoso‐arenacea Formation (northern Apennines, Italy) display centimetre to decimetre long, straight to gently curved, 0·5 to 2·0 cm regularly spaced lineations on depositional (stratification) planes. Sometimes these lineations are the planform expression of sheet structures seen as millimetre to centimetre long vertical ‘pillars’ in profile. Both occur in the middle and upper parts of medium‐grained and fine‐grained sandstone beds composed of crude to well‐defined stratified facies (including corrugated, hummocky‐like, convolute, dish‐structured and dune stratification) and are aligned sub‐parallel to palaeoflow direction as determined from sole marks often in the same beds. Outcrops lack a tectonic‐related fabric and therefore these structures may be confidently interpreted to be sedimentary in origin. Lineations resemble primary current lineations formed by the action of turbulence during bedload transport under upper stage plane bed conditions. However, they typically display a larger spacing and micro‐topography compared to classic primary current lineations and are not associated with planar‐parallel, finely laminated sandstones. This type of ‘enhanced lineation’ is interpreted to develop by the same process as primary current lineations, but under relatively high near‐bed sediment concentrations and suspended load fallout rates, as supported by laboratory experiments and host facies characteristics. Sheets are interpreted to be dewatering structures and their alignment to palaeoflow (only noted in several other outcrops previously) inferred to be a function of vertical water‐escape following the primary depositional grain fabric. For the Marnoso‐arenacea beds, sheet orientation may be linked genetically to the enhanced primary current lineation structures. Current‐aligned lineation and sheet structures can be used as palaeoflow indicators, although the directional significance of sheets needs to be independently confirmed. These indicators also aid the interpretation of dewatered sandstones, suggesting sedimentation under a traction‐dominated depositional flow – with a discrete interface between the aggrading deposit and the flow – as opposed to under higher concentration grain or hindered‐settling dominated regimes.
Low Protein A20 in Minor Salivary Glands is Associated with Lymphoma in Primary Sjögren's Syndrome
Authors: Johnsen S. J. , Gudlaugsson E. , Skaland I. , Janssen E. A. M. , Jonsson M. V. , Helgeland L. , Berget E. , Jonsson R. , Omdal R.
Published: December 2015

Patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) have an increased risk of developing lymphomas, particularly the subtype mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. Chronic antigen stimulation and increased activation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) are important factors for the pathogenesis of MALT lymphomas. Protein A20 is an inhibitor of NF‐κB. A recent study of pSS‐associated MALT lymphomas identified potential functional abnormalities in the TNFAIP3 gene, which encodes protein A20. The present study aimed to assess protein A20 by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in minor salivary glands (MSGs) and lymphoma tissue sections of patients with pSS and investigate a potential association with lymphoma development. Protein A20 staining in lymphocytes was scored in four categories (0 = negative, 1 = weak, 2 = moderate and 3 = strong). For statistical purposes, these scores were simplified into negative (scores 0–1) and positive (scores 2–3). We investigated associations between protein A20‐staining, focus scores, germinal centre (GC)‐like structures and monoclonal B‐cell infiltration in MSGs. MSG protein A20 staining was weaker in pSS patients with lymphomas than in those without lymphomas (P = 0.01). Weak protein A20 staining was also highly associated with a lack of GC formation (P < 0.01). Finally, weaker A20 staining was observed in the majority of pSS‐associated MALT lymphoma tissues. In conclusion, we found absent or weak protein A20 immunoreactivity in MSGs of patients with pSS with lymphomas. This finding indicates that protein A20 downregulation in lymphocytes might be a mechanism underlying lymphoma genesis in patients with pSS.
ANTI‐CURARE ACTION OF POTASSIUM AND OTHER SUBSTANCES
Authors: Wilson A. T. , Wright Samson
Published: December 2015

1. The effects of intra‐arterial injection of potassium chloride, prostigmine, adrenaline and acetyl‐choline on normal, curarised and denervated skeletal muscle are described.

2. Potassium ions are shown to have a striking anti‐curare action with distinctive characteristics, differing in important respects from that produced by the other drugs named.

3. The action of potassium in antagonising fatigue in striped muscle is very slight. The same is the case with prostigmine. These findings and other results recorded in the literature suggest that the mechanism of curare action and that of fatigue in striped muscle differ in fundamental respects.
AN EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS OF THE ACTION OF ADRENALINE AND HISTAMINE ON DIFFERENT PARTS OF THE PULMONARY VASCULAR BED
Authors: Daly I. de Burgh , Foggie P. , Hebb Catherine O.
Published: December 2015

In isolated dog's lungs under negative pressure ventilation and perfused at constant volume inflow with defibrinated blood—

1. The increase in pulmonary arterial pressure and the augmentation in venous outflow produced by adrenaline are suppressed or reversed by ergotoxine.

2. Evidence is produced which favours the view that the blood‐vessels responsible for the adrenaline rise in pulmonary pressure differ from those which cause the increase in venous outflow.

3. Histamine in small doses tends to increase and in large doses to diminish the venous outflow. The venous outflow response to histamine is also determined by other experimental conditions; the presence of ether in the lungs and a low venous pressure favour a histamine diminution in outflow.

Experiments have been reported which suggest that, by injection of drugs into the pulmonary vascular bed by way of the bronchial arteries, it is possible to confine the site of drug action chiefly or almost exclusively to the pulmonary veins in lungs perfused in the normal direction, and in all probability chiefly or almost exclusively to the pulmonary arteries in lungs perfused in the reverse direction. Using this method, results have been obtained which indicate that adrenaline in small doses constricts both pulmonary arteries and veins, and in large doses probably constricts the pulmonary capillaries.

The authors express their thanks to the Government Grants Committee of the Royal Society for a grant to one of them (I. de B. D.) and to the Lewis Cameron Research Fund which defrayed the cost of animals.
PANCREATIC β CELL FUNCTION IN THE FETAL PIG AND SOW
Authors: Fowden Abigail L. , Comline R. S. , Silver Marian
Published: December 2015

Insulin secretion was investigated in acutely anaesthetized and chronically catheterized sows and their fetuses during late gestation. In the conscious animals, the mean fetal concentration of plasma insulin was 8·4±1·5 µu./ml which was significantly less than the corresponding maternal value of 33·9±6·5 µu./ml (n = 12, P 〈 001). The plasma concentrations of insulin and glucose in the new‐born piglets from these litters were not significantly different from the values observed in utero. The plasma concentration of insulin in the anaesthetized fetuses was significantly less than that in the chronically catheterized piglets over the same range of glucose levels. In the chronically catheterized animals, both fetal and maternal levels of insulin rose with increasing concentrations of plasma glucose while under acute conditions there was no correlation between the endogenous concentrations of insulin and glucose in either the fetuses or their mothers. Infusion of exogenous glucose (0·5 g as a 50% solution in 0·9% NaCl) stimulated the release of insulin in all the chronically catheterized fetuses studied but rarely increased the concentration of insulin in the anaesthetized fetusus. The present findings show that anaesthesia and surgery depress pancreatic β cell function in the pig, particularly in the fetus.
EFFECTS OF DIET AND ACUTE NORADRENALINE TREATMENT ON BROWN ADIPOSE TISSUE DEVELOPMENT AND MITOCHONDRIAL PURINE‐NUCLEOTIDE BINDING
Authors: Brooks Sarah L. , Rothwell Nancy J. , Stock Michael J.
Published: December 2015

Feeding rats a highly palatable ‘cafeteria’ diet resulted in a two‐fold increase in interscapular brown adipose tissue (b.a.t.) mass after only 3 d on the diet. No significant difference in DNA content of b.a.t. was noted between control and cafeteria‐fed rats at this time but DNA content was elevated 2–3–fold in the latter group by day 30, and incorporation rates of tritiated thymidine into DNA were elevated in these animals after 5, 15 and 30 d of cafeteria feeding. A doubling of specific GDP binding (per mg protein) to b.a.t. mitochondria was seen in cafeteria‐fed rats on days 3, 15 and 30 and total GDP binding in the interscapular depot was increased by 3–4–fold. Injection of the animals with noradrenaline (25 µg/100 g body weight) 1 h before killing caused 180 and 430% increases in b.a.t. mitochondrial GDP binding in control and cafeteria‐fed rats respectively. Linear Scatchard plots of binding data obtained from 15 d control and cafeteria groups indicated a single class of receptor, with the same affinity for GDP in all animals, but the maximum number of binding sites was markedly elevated in cafeteria rats and was increased further after treatment with noradrenaline 1 h prior to sacrifice. When cafeteria‐fed rats were returned to stock diet alone the differences in b.a.t. mass and GDP binding diminished but after 10 d brown fat mass and noradrenaline‐stimulated GDP binding were still significantly higher than control levels. These data provide further evidence for the involvement of b.a.t. and its mitochondrial proton conductance pathway in diet‐induced changes in thermogenic capacity.
ISOLATION AND CULTURE OF RENAL CORTICAL TUBULES FROM NEONATE RABBIT KIDNEYS
Authors: Richardson J. C. W. , Waterson P. , Simmons N. L.
Published: December 2015

A method is described for the preparation of an enriched population of proximal tubules from the cortices of neonate (21–28 d old) rabbits. The method uses collagenase‐hyaluronidase digestion, followed by gentle shear to yield a suspension of tubules and glomeruli. Tubular enrichment is achieved by discontinuous density gradient centrifugation in a Percoll gradient. Two fractions were obtained by this method. The denser fraction contained predominantly proximal tubules, was depleted of glomeruli and was enriched in the proximal tubule marker enzyme alkaline phosphatase. Qualitatively similar results to those obtained with neonate animals were obtained with adult tissue. Neonate tubules from the denser gradient fraction grew readily in tissue culture. When examined by electron microscopy the cells exhibited a marked polarity of ultrastructural organization and retained apical tight junctions. Despite this, there was an obvious loss of structure in comparison with in vivo proximal tubule cells. The use of primary culture techniques to study in vitro renal epithelial function is discussed.
Breathing movements in fetal lambs and the effect of hypercapnia.
Authors: Chapman R L , Dawes G S , Rurak D W , Wilds P L
Published: December 2015

1. A breath‐by‐breath analysis was made of tracheal pressure records from fetal lambs in utero at 117‐‐130 days gestation. 2. Episodes of rapid irregular breathing were accompanied by diaphragmatic e.m.g. activity and were characterized by a gradual increase in breathing rate initially and a terminal decline. Within each episode breathing was very irregular. 3. Inspiratory time increased with increasing expiratory time rapidly as the rate fell to about 80/min, and thereafter more slowly. 4. The principal effects of hypercapnia (a rise in fetal Pa, CO2 by approximately 11 mmHg) were to increase the depth of fetal breathing, by nearly twofold, and to make breathing much more regular. A change in rate was doubtful because of the skew distribution of normal breath intervals.