bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Polysaccharide from Auricularia auricula on Blood Lipid Metabolism and Lipoprotein Lipase Activity of ICR Mice Fed a Cholesterol‐Enriched Diet
Authors: Chen G. , Luo Y.‐C. , Ji B.‐P. , Li B. , Guo Y. , Li Y. , Su W. , Xiao Z.‐L.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT:  Polysaccharides from Auricularia auricula (AAP) extracted in hot water and precipitated by ethanol were chemically well defined, including 42.5% total carbohydrate, 19.6% uronic acids, 15.8% sulfate groups, 1.7% N, and 20.3% ash. Gas chromatography analysis demonstrated that the neutral sugars were mainly composed of rhamnose, xylose, and glucose and smaller amounts of mannose, galactose, and arabinose. The present study was designed to investigate the antioxidant capacity of AAP on blood lipid metabolism and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity in ICR mice fed cholesterol‐enriched diet (CED) for the 1st time. Furthermore, the relationship between the atherosclerotic index (AI) and LPL activity to total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was studied. Thirty‐six ICR mice were randomly assigned to 3 groups (n= 12). The mice in control group (NG) received regular diet and the mice in model group (MG) received CED; these 2 groups were provided with distilled water by oral gavage. The experimental group (EG) was fed CED with oral gavage of AAP (120 mg/kg/d body weight) for an 8‐wk period. After 2, 4, 6, and 8 wk, total cholesterol (TC), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), and triglyceride (TG) levels of the serum were determined by enzymatic methods. The results indicated that the polysaccharides significantly lowered the concentrations of serum TC and LDL‐C compared with the CED control group (P < 0.05). Moreover, oral administration of polysaccharides significantly improved TAC, LPL activity, and decreased MDA level, as well as AI. These conclusions revealed the beneficial effects of AAP on the preventive actions against hypercholesterolemia.
Kurt Lewin
Authors: Wheeler Ladd
Published: July 2008

Kurt Lewin (1890–1947) is often called the father of social psychology, although this can be disputed. Lewin established a reputation in Germany for his work on affect and motivation when these topics were considered to be outside the scope of psychological research. He escaped the Nazis and started work in social psychology at the University of Iowa. In 1945, he established the Research Center for Group Dynamics at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, with faculty and students who formed modern experimental social psychology. He also established the Commission on Community Interrelationships and helped to found the T Group movement. Lewinian Field Theory stressed that behavior is a function of the person and the environment, or B = f (p, e).
Racial Order of Suburban Communities: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Haynes Bruce D.
Published: July 2008

The steady growth of the post‐war suburban Black middle class has been overshadowed by the mis‐characterization of the suburbs as conformist and racially homogeneous. Until recently, race remained an ever present yet unexplored dimension of studies of suburban communities. However, new suburban histories and a growing collection of black middle‐class suburban community case studies replace the monochrome descriptions of suburban life with an analysis that places the suburb within its regional, political, economic, and ideological landscape.
The Evolution of ‘Public Understanding of Science’: Public Engagement as a Tool of Science Policy in the UK
Authors: Gregory Jane , Lock Simon Jay
Published: July 2008

This historical review surveys the evolution of the science–society relationship in post‐war Britain. It observes the transformation since the 1980s of the idea of ‘public understanding of science’, in which scientists and laypeople differ by virtue of the scientific knowledge they have, into the idea of ‘public engagement which science’, in which scientists, laypeople and policy makers negotiate policy for future science and technology. We survey recent critiques of public engagement which draw attention to the ways in which it constructs particular publics, and which question its capacity to contribute to policy‐making.
Determination of Mercury in Thirty‐three International Stream Sediment and Soil Reference Samples by Direct Mercury Analyser
Authors: Roy Nitish Kumar , Bose Surya Sankar
Published: July 2008

Mercury was determined in thirty‐three international stream sediment and soil reference samples (eleven Chinese soils, GSS‐1 to GSS‐11; twelve Chinese stream sediments, GSD‐1A to GSD‐12; four Canadian stream sediments STSD‐1 to STSD‐4; South African stream sediments, SARM‐42, SARM‐46 and SARM‐47; Japanese stream sediments, JSd‐1 to JSd‐3) by direct mercury analyser. Samples were taken in 500 μl quartz boats, placed in an auto sampler and processed (drying time 60 s at 300 °C; decomposition time 120 s at 850 °C; waiting time 45 s). The instrument was calibrated in the low (0‐50 ng) and high ranges (50‐500 ng) with two reference materials GSS‐5 and GXR‐2 (USGS). Using the calibration line, reference samples were analysed for Hg. The results of the determinations agreed with the recommended values of RMs in all cases except JSd‐1. The RSD calculated for the RMs was found to be within 20%. The detection limit was 1 ng g−1.
Preparation and Certification of Biogeochemical Reference Materials
Authors: Shi Changyi , Gu Tiexin , Bu Wei , Yan Weidong , Liu Mei , Yan Mingcai
Published: July 2008

The Institute of Geophysical and Geochemical Exploration in China recently prepared ten biogeochemical certified reference samples GSB1‐10 (CRMs). The samples are primary agricultural products such as rice, wheat, corn, soybean, cabbage, spinach, tea, powder, chicken and apple. Lyophilisation technology and a high‐alumina ball mill were used to process the samples. Fourteen laboratories and hundreds analysts in China participated in the certification analysis. Over ten reliable analytical methods, predominately ICP‐MS, ICP‐AES and INAA, were used for analysing the samples for fifty‐nine elements. A total of 22477 determinations led to 5136 average data sets. Certified values of fifty‐four elements were assigned.
The Calcium Isotope Composition (δ44/40Ca) of NIST SRM 915b and NIST SRM 1486
Authors: Heuser Alexander , Eisenhauer Anton
Published: July 2008

The calcium isotopic composition of NIST SRM 915b and 1486 provided by the National Institute of Standards and Technology was analysed. The δ44/40Ca values of the two reference materials relative to NIST SRM 915a were: NIST SRM 915b =+0.72 ± 0.04‰ and NIST SRM 1486 =−1.01 ± 0.02‰. NIST SRM 1486 did not require any chemical separation prior to measurement.
The supply of natural gas in the European Union—strategic issues
Authors: Percebois Jacques
Published: July 2008

The objective of this paper was to analyse the weight of natural gas in the European Union and to insist on two points: the role of long‐term contracts for supply security and the impact of geopolitical considerations in the relationships with the main suppliers, Russia and Algeria. But for the European Commission, supply security should not be an obstacle to competition. The Commission is also cautious regarding the takeover risks of trans‐Europe natural gas transmission firms. Political considerations strongly affect economic factors in international gas exchanges in Europe.
Efficacy of olopatadine HCI 0.1%, ketotifen fumarate 0.025%, epinastine HCI 0.05%, emedastine 0.05% and fluorometholone acetate 0.1% ophthalmic solutions for seasonal allergic conjunctivitis: a placebo‐controlled environmental trial
Authors: Borazan Mehmet , Karalezli Aylin , Akova Yonca Aydin , Akman Ahmet , Kiyici Halil , Erbek Selim S.
Published: July 2008

Purpose:  We aimed to compare the clinical efficacy and ocular surface variables of olopatadine, ketotifen fumarate, epinastine, emedastine and fluorometholone acetate ophthalmic solutions in preventing the signs and symptoms of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC).

Methods:  This was a prospective, randomized, double‐blinded and placebo‐controlled study. A total of 100 patients with SAC were randomly assigned to one of five groups, in which they were administered olopatadine, ketotifen fumarate, epinastine, emedastine or fluorometholone acetate, instilled twice daily for 2 weeks. One eye of each patient was treated with the study drug and the other was treated with a placebo. Signs and symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis (itching, redness, tearing, chemosis and eyelid swelling) were scored on a 4‐point scale. Each symptom was assessed at baseline and then again after 1 and 2 weeks of treatment. Ocular surface variables were assessed by conjunctival impression cytology.

Results:  At weeks 1 and 2, all antiallergic agents were significantly more effective than placebo in alleviating itching, redness, tearing, chemosis and eyelid swelling. Fluorometholone acetate was significantly less effective than the other agents in reducing itching and redness at all control visits. Ocular surface findings by impression cytology improved significantly after all treatments compared with placebo.

Conclusions:  In patients with SAC, olopatadine, ketotifen, epinastine and emedastine are more efficacious than fluorometholone acetate in preventing itching and redness. All the antiallergic agents gave similar results in terms of reducing tearing, chemosis and eyelid swelling. Our data showed that impression cytology parameters improved after treatment with antiallergic agents in patients with SAC.
Clinical characteristics and visual outcome of non‐traumatic suprachoroidal haemorrhage in Taiwan
Authors: Wang Lu‐Chun , Yang Chung‐May , Yang Chang‐Hao , Huang Jen‐Sheng , Ho Tzyy‐Chang , Lin Chang‐Ping , Chen Muh‐Shy
Published: July 2008

Purpose:  This study aimed to evaluate the clinical features and visual outcomes of non‐traumatic suprachoroidal haemorrhage (SH) in Taiwan.

Methods:  We report a retrospective, non‐comparative, interventional case series study carried out in an institutional setting. Thirty‐nine eyes with non‐traumatic SH were studied using a new system for grading the severity of SH. The aetiologies of SH were analysed. The correlations between grades and prognoses of SH were studied. Multiple logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with final visual outcome.

Results:  Conditions causing SH in the eyes considered in this study included cataract surgery (43.59%), age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) (17.95%), filtering operation and vitrectomy (both 10.26%), scleral buckling (5.13%) and others. Twelve eyes (12/39, 30.77%) had a final visual outcome of no light perception. Only 12 eyes (12/39, 30.77%) had final visual acuity (VA) > 4/200. Grade of SH correlated significantly with need for surgical drainage and with final visual outcome (Spearman rank correlations 0.313 and − 0.408, p = 0.010 and p = 0.00317, respectively). ‘Good’ and ‘poor’ final VA was significantly associated with VA at the time of SH (multiple logistic regression coefficients 2.132 and − 2.809, p = 0.015 and p = 0.008, respectively), as well as initial retinal detachment (multiple logistic regression coefficients − 2.267 and 2.223, p = 0.036 and p = 0.006, respectively). Higher grades of SH and increased age were associated with poor final visual outcome (multiple logistic regression coefficients − 1.332 and − 0.122, p = 0.013 and p = 0.022, respectively).

Conclusions:  Suprachoroidal haemorrhage is a devastating ocular problem. Complications of intraoperative surgery and AMD are common causes. The new SH grading system provides a simple method for evaluating the need for drainage and for predicting visual prognosis. Visual acuity and retinal detachment at the time of SH are major factors associated with good and poor final VA, respectively.
Long‐term visual prognosis of corneal and ocular surface surgery in patients with congenital aniridia
Authors: De La Paz María Fideliz , Alvarez de Toledo Juan , Barraquer Rafael Ignacio , Barraquer Joaquín
Published: July 2008

Purpose:  To evaluate the long‐term visual prognosis of corneal and ocular surface surgery in patients with congenital aniridia.

Methods:  Retrospective comparative interventional case series on 88 eyes of 45 patients with congenital aniridia treated and/or operated on from 1956 to present. Corneal and ocular surface findings were identified and patients were classified into operated (group I) or not operated (group II). Long‐term best‐ever best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA), final BCVA and long‐term delta BCVA (long‐term best‐ever BCVA – final BCVA) were recorded and compared between the two groups, and between the limbal transplant (LT) (group I‐A) and the penetrating keratoplasty (PK) (group I‐B) patients. Postoperative results were also compared.

Results:  Limbal insufficiency was present in 58% of eyes and dense central corneal opacities were present in 27% of eyes. As a primary surgery, limbal allograft was performed in 10 eyes and PK in 13 eyes. The mean long‐term follow‐up times were 23 years in group I and 16 years in group II. The mean long‐term delta BCVA was 0.032 in group I and 0.028 in group II. Comparisons of the VA means were insignificant (long‐term best‐ever, final BCVA and long‐term delta BCVA). When comparing the LT and PK groups, mean long‐term delta BCVA was 0.0328 in group I‐A and 0.0382 in group I‐B. Mean postoperative delta BCVA was 0.028 in group I‐A and 0.048 in group I‐B. We found no statistical significance between the LT and the PK groups as regards long‐term postoperative BCVA results.

Conclusion:  Long‐term visual prognosis does not differ whether or not the patient undergoes surgery for aniridic keratopathy. LT and PK have comparable results over 5 years of follow‐up because of the eventual failure of transplanted allografts.
Macular microcirculation in hypertensive patients with and without branch retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Noma Hidetaka , Funatsu Hideharu , Sakata Kumi , Harino Seiyo , Mimura Tatsuya , Hori Sadao
Published: July 2008

Purpose:  Our purpose was to determine whether a reduction in blood flow velocity (BFV) in the perifoveal capillaries is involved in the pathogenesis of branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) in patients with hypertension.

Methods:  Subjects included hypertensive patients with (n = 12) and without (n = 16) BRVO and healthy volunteers (n = 16). Perifoveal BFV was measured by the tracing method using fluorescein angiography and a scanning laser ophthalmoscope. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess factors that influenced the presence or absence of BRVO.

Results:  Mean BFV showed a significant decrease across the three groups (healthy controls: 1.49 ± 0.11 mm/second; hypertensive patients without BRVO: 1.36 ± 0.12 mm/second; hypertensive patients with BRVO: 1.16 ± 0.24 mm/second; ptrend < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that BFV was a significant risk factor for the presence of BRVO.

Conclusions:  Perifoveal capillary BFV is reduced in hypertensive patients with and without BRVO. It is possible that a decrease in BFV may be involved in the occurrence of BRVO. Measurement of perifoveal capillary BFV may be useful for investigating the pathogenesis and progression of BRVO.
Molecular Survey ofRickettsiaspp. in Sick Dogs in Italy
Authors: Solano‐Gallego L. , Trotta M. , Caldin M. , Furlanello T.
Published: July 2008

The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the prevalence ofRickettsiaspp. DNA in the blood of sick dogs from Italy. Canine blood samples (n = 650) submitted for molecular testing ofRickettsiaspp. to a diagnostic laboratory from February 2003 to March 2006 were studied. TheRickettsiaspp. DNA detection was performed by Light Cycler real‐time PCR using hybridization probes separately conducted with specific primers and probes. The total percentage ofRickettsiaspp.‐positive dog samples was 1.5% (10 out of 650). The percentage ofRickettsiaspp.‐positive dog samples submitted from north, central and southern Italy were 0.4% (1/248), 1.4% (3/219) and 3.3% (6/183), respectively. Five out of 138 dogs (3.6%) from Sicily were positive onRickettsiaPCR testing. A statistical difference was found between the percentages of positive samples from the Yorkshire terrier group (10.7%) compared with the mixed breed group (0.7%). No statistical differences were found between seasonal period, region and gender. Based on molecular data, there is infrequent rickettsiemia in dogs.
Acute administration of sildenafil enhances hepatic cyclic guanosine monophosphate production and reduces hepatic sinusoid resistance in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Lee Kuei‐Chuan , Yang Ying‐Ying , Wang Ying‐Wen , Hou Ming‐Chih , Lee Fa‐Yauh , Lin Han‐Chieh , Lee Shou‐Dong
Published: July 2008

Aim:  In liver cirrhosis, the increased production of nitric oxide (NO) contributes to increased systemic and splanchnic vasodilatation. The inhibition of phosphodiesterase‐5 (PDE‐5), an enzyme responsible for the degradation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), is widely used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. The aim of our study is to evaluate the overall effects of PDE‐5 inhibitor administration on splanchnic, pulmonary and systemic hemodynamics in cirrhotic patients.

Methods:  Sildenafil, a specific PDE‐5 inhibitor, was administrated orally to cirrhotic patients (n = 7) to see the hemodynamic changes. A control group receiving a placebo was used as a point of comparison (n = 6).

Results:  Compared to the control group, the hepatic vein NO and cGMP levels were significantly increased after sildenafil administration in the sildenafil group (NO from 112.3 ± 43.5 to 325.3 ± 117.5 nM, P = 0.018; cGMP from 7.3 ± 0.4 to 19.2 ± 4.2 pmol, P = 0.018). The hepatic venous pressure gradient in the sildenafil group did not differ from that of the control group. However, a significantly decreased hepatic sinusoidal resistance in the sildenafil group (1999 ± 1243 vs. 1563 ± 1014 dyne/s/cm−5, P < 0.05) was noted. The study also found that the right arterial pressure, mean pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure were reduced at 60 min after administration, compared with the basal parameters in cirrhotic patients receiving sildenafil (RAP1.3 ± 2.0 vs −0.6 ± 1.3 mmHg, MPAP 14.1 ± 11.3 vs 11.7 ± 9.5 mmHg, PCWP 4.6 ± 1.7 vs 2.9 ± 1.6 mmHg, P < 0.05 respectively).

Conclusions:  An oral administration of 50 mg of sildenafil significantly decreased the mean pulmonary arterial pressure and hepatic sinusoid resistance with a significant increase in hepatic NO and cGMP production, and did not worsen portal hypertension in cirrhotic patients.
Extranodal γδ‐T‐cell lymphoma in a dog with leishmaniasis
Authors: Foglia Manzillo Valentina , Pagano Annalisa , Guglielmino Roberta , Gradoni Luigi , Restucci Brunella , Oliva Gaetano
Published: July 2008

Abstract: An 8‐year‐old intact male mongrel dog with alopecia and weight loss was referred to the Veterinary Faculty of Naples. The dog had pale mucous membranes, enlarged prescapular lymph nodes, and splenomegaly. Laboratory abnormalities included anemia, thrombocytopenia, and hyperglobulinemia. Bone marrow aspirate smears contained numerous Leishmania amastigotes and an immunofluorescent antibody titer was strongly positive (1:1280) for leishmaniasis. The dog was treated with a combination of meglumine antimoniate and allopurinol for 60 days and showed clinical improvement. Two months after the end of treatment the dog was again referred because of relapse of leishmaniasis and the presence of a firm subcutaneous mass on the medial right thigh. Based on cytologic examination of fine needle aspirates of the mass, a diagnosis of large‐cell lymphoma was made. Flow cytometry of tumor cells revealed γδ‐T‐cell lymphoma with a CD5+, CD3+, TCRγδ+, CD4−, CD8−, CD45RA+ immunophenotype. Using nested PCR, amastigotes were not detected in the neoplastic tissue. An association between leishmaniasis and hematopoietic tumors has been described rarely. γδ‐T cells may be involved in the host response to this parasite, and prolonged antigenic stimulation and chronic immunosuppression (typical of leishmaniasis) play a crucial role in the etiopathogenesis of T‐cell lymphoma.
Frequencies of feline blood types in the Rio de Janeiro area of Brazil
Authors: Medeiros Miguel A. S. , Soares Ana Maria , Alviano Daniela S. , Ejzemberg Regina , Da Silva Maria Helena , Almosny Nádia Regina
Published: July 2008

Background:The distribution and frequency of blood types in cat populations vary according to geographic region and breed. Frequencies of feline blood types in Rio de Janeiro city, as well as in other Brazilian areas, are unknown, and the risk of unmatched transfusions and neonatal isoerythrolysis has not been estimated.

Objectives:The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of feline blood types in the area of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Methods:EDTA blood samples were obtained from 172 nonpedigreed domestic shorthair (DSH) cats (92 female, 80 male, 3 months–20 years old) in different sites of Rio de Janeiro city. Blood typing was performed by agglutination assays usingTriticum vulgarislectin and feline anti‐A serum. The hemagglutination results for type B and AB cats were confirmed by high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography (HPTLC) of erythrocyte membrane gangliosides.

Results:The majority (163/172, 94.8%) of cats were type A, 2.9% were type B, and 2.3% were type AB. High‐titer anti‐A serum agglutinated RBCs from all cats in type A and type AB blood groups, with 3+ to 4+ agglutination. The probability that a type A cat would receive type B or AB blood in a first random transfusion was calculated as 2.25% and 2.20%, respectively. HPTLC analysis of glycolipids yielded a chromatographic profile characteristic of feline gangliosides for all blood groups.

Conclusions:These results indicate a high prevalence of type A cats in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and a low frequency of type B and AB cats, consistent with what has been observed for DSH cats in other regions of the world.
Circulating siderophagocytes and erythrophagocytes in a corn snake (Elaphe guttata) after coelomic surgery
Authors: George Jeanne W. , Holmberg Tara A. , Riggs Shannon M. , Hawkins Michelle G.
Published: July 2008

Abstract: Leukocytes containing nonheme iron and phagocytosed fragments of erythrocytes were found in blood smears from a corn snake (Elaphe guttata) collected 20 and 79 days after coelomic surgery (ovariosalpingectomy). Numerous immature and mitotic erythrocytes also were seen in the sample taken 20 days postsurgically. Siderophagocytes and erythrophagocytes had not been observed before surgery and were not found in multiple subsequent blood samples collected 112–602 days after surgery. Other than these hematologic abnormalities, laboratory findings were unremarkable and the snake recovered uneventfully. Based on examination of sequential blood smears, the circulating siderophagocytes were interpreted as recirculating macrophages involved in the removal of blood from the coelomic cavity after mild postsurgical hemorrhage.
Plateletcrit is superior to platelet count for assessing platelet status in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Authors: Tvedten Harold , Lilliehöök Inger , Hillström Anna , Häggström Jens
Published: July 2008

Background: Many Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (CKCS) dogs are affected by an autosomal recessive dysplasia of platelets resulting in fewer but larger platelets. The IDEXX Vet Autoread (QBC) hematology analyzer directly measures the relative volume of platelets in a blood sample (plateletcrit). We hypothesized that CKCS both with and without hereditary macrothrombocytosis would have a normal plateletcrit and that the QBC results would better identify the total circulating volume of platelets in CKSC than methods directly enumerating platelet numbers.

Objectives: The major purpose of this study was to compare the QBC platelet results with platelet counts from other automated and manual methods for evaluating platelet status in CKCS dogs.

Methods: Platelet counts were determined in fresh EDTA blood from 27 adult CKCS dogs using the QBC, Sysmex XT‐2000iV (optical and impedance), CELL‐DYN 3500, blood smear estimate, and manual methods. Sysmex optical platelet counts were reanalyzed following gating to determine the number and percentage of normal‐ and large‐sized platelets in each blood sample.

Results: None of the 27 CKCS dogs had thrombocytopenia (defined as <164 × 109 platelets/L) based on the QBC platelet count. Fourteen (52%) to 18 (66%) of the dogs had thrombocytopenia with other methods. The percentage of large platelets, as determined by regating the Sysmex optical platelet counts, ranged from 1% to 75%, in a gradual continuum.

Conclusions: The QBC may be the best analyzer for assessing clinically relevant thrombocytopenia in CKCS dogs, because its platelet count is based on the plateletcrit, a measurement of platelet mass.
Acute phase protein response in dogs with experimentally induced gastric mucosal injury
Authors: Bayramli Goksel , Ulutas Bulent
Published: July 2008

Background: The acute phase response is part of the innate defense system of an animal against trauma, inflammation, and infection.

Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the acute phase response in dogs with acetylsalicylic acid‐induced gastric mucosal injuries and to determine its potential diagnostic significance.

Methods: Ten, healthy, cross‐breed dogs (6 females and 4 males) were given oral acetylsalicylic acid in a single oral dose of 200 mg/kg for the experimental model of acute gastric mucosal injury. Heparinized blood samples were collected before (day 0) and on days 1, 4, and 7 after acetylsalicylic acid administration to determine plasma C‐reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid‐A (SAA), haptoglobin, fibrinogen, total protein, albumin, and iron concentrations. Total WBC counts were done in whole blood. Endoscopy was done on each of the selected days, and gastric lesions were scored and localized.

Results: Hemorrhagic linear erosions were found in all dogs on day 1, concurrent with significant increases in CRP, SAA, haptoglobin, and fibrinogen concentrations, and in WBC counts; however, iron concentration was decreased. Peak haptoglobin and fibrinogen concentrations occurred on day 4, at which time only nonhemorrhagic lesions were observed endoscopically. On day 7, results for all analytes except haptoglobin had returned to baseline levels, along with resolution of most gastric lesions.

Conclusions: Results of this study indicate that a rapid acute phase protein response occurs after induced gastric mucosal injury in dogs and may be potentially useful together with gastroscopy in the diagnosis and monitoring of gastric injury.
Automated flow cytometric cell count and differentiation of canine cerebrospinal fluid cells using the ADVIA 2120
Authors: Becker Martina , Bauer Natali , Moritz Andreas
Published: July 2008

Background: Microscopic cell counts in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are time‐consuming and prone to imprecision. The recently introduced automated hematology analyzer ADVIA 2120 offers an automated cell count and differential for CSF in the veterinary software mode based on laser light scatter and absorbance measurements.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the precision, linearity, and accuracy of the ADVIA 2120 CSF assay.

Methods: Sixty‐seven CSF samples were analyzed on the ADVIA 2120 and total nucleated cell counts (TNCC) and RBC counts were compared with the hemocytometer results. In 21 samples with TNCC >5/μL, ADVIA 2120 results were compared with 100–300 cell manual differentials performed on cytocentrifuged preparations. Statistical analysis included Spearman's rank correlation, Passing–Bablok regression, and Bland–Altman analysis.

Results: Repeatability (intra‐assay) coefficients of variation (CVs) ranged from 4.19% to 25.94%. Interassay CVs ranged from 2.56% to 28.67%. Accurate results within 30% were achieved for TNCC up to 4000/μL. Except for low TNCC, deviation from the expected value was higher (TNCC of 8/μL instead of 4/μL). The following correlation coefficients (r) and biases were achieved compared with the reference method: r=.90 and bias 2.3/μL for TNCC; r=.88 and bias 32.0/μL for RBC counts; r=.86 and bias ±13.4% for mononuclear and polymorphonuclear cell percentages; r=.88 and bias −6.1% for lymphocyte percentage; r=.56 and bias 19.4% for monocyte percentage; and r=.75 and bias −9.7% for neutrophil percentage.

Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that the automated ADVIA 2120 CSF assay generally compares well with reference methods although there are some limitations for the automated monocyte count and for samples with only mild pleocytosis.
Erythrophagocytic multiple myeloma in a cat
Authors: Webb Julie , Chary Parag , Northrup Nicole , Almy Frederic
Published: July 2008

Abstract:A 7‐year‐old neutered male domestic shorthair cat was presented to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at the University of Georgia for further evaluation of a suspected osteolytic lesion of the left 10th rib. Results of a CBC and biochemistry profile revealed mild nonregenerative anemia, hyperproteinemia, hyperglobulinemia, and hypercalcemia. Serum protein electrophoresis was consistent with a monoclonal gammopathy. Marked proteinuria with an increased urine protein to creatinine ratio was found. Cytologic examination of the liver, spleen, and bone marrow revealed numerous plasma cells, many of which were erythrophagocytic. Within the bone marrow, the plasma cells contained phagocytosed metarubricytes in addition to phagocytosed erythrocytes. A diagnosis of erythrophagocytic multiple myeloma was made and treatment with prednisone and melphalan was begun. Four weeks after presentation, the cat was euthanized due to clinical deterioration. A complete necropsy was performed. The distal one‐third of the left 10th rib was completely absent. Histologically, there was no evidence for osteolysis or neoplastic cells in the remaining portion of the rib. However, large sheets of plasma cells were found infiltrating the spleen and bone marrow. Moderate erythrophagocytosis by the plasma cells was observed in both organs. The plasma cells, including the erythrophagocytic cells, were positive for CD79α by immunohistochemical staining. Erythrophagocytosis by plasma cells as a cause of anemia is uncommon in people with multiple myeloma and is rare in animals. To our knowledge, this is the first report of erythrophagocytic plasma cells in a cat with multiple myeloma.
Evaluation of urine specific gravity and urine sediment as risk factors for urinary tract infections in cats
Authors: Bailiff Nathan L. , Westropp Jodi L. , Nelson Richard W. , Sykes Jane E. , Owens Sean D. , Kass Philip H.
Published: July 2008

Background:It has been suggested that diseases that promote isosthenuria predispose to urinary tract infections because of a lack of the common bacteriostatic properties present in concentrated urine.

Objectives:The purpose of this study was to assess the clinicopathologic risk factors for positive urine culture outcome in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes mellitus (DM), uncontrolled hyperthyroidism (HT), or lower urinary tract disease (LUTD).

Methods:For this retrospective study, medical records of all cats in which a urinalysis and aerobic bacterial urine culture were performed between January 1995 and December 2002 were reviewed. Signalment, body weight, and clinicopathologic data were recorded. Based on the medical records, cats were diagnosed with CKD, DM, HT, or LUTD. Prevalence odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using logistic regression. Multivariate models were created for each variable of interest while controlling for the confounding effect of disease group.

Results:Six hundred fourteen cats met the criteria for inclusion in the study. Overall, positive urine cultures were identified in 16.9% of cats with CKD, 13.2% of cats with DM, 21.7% of cats with HT, and 4.9% of cats with clinical signs of LUTD. Decreasing urine specific gravity was not associated with positive urine culture when controlled for disease but pyuria, bacteriuria, and hematuria were all associated with positive urine culture outcome. Persians, females, increasing age, and decreasing body weight were all associated with positive urine culture outcome.

Conclusions:Performing a urine culture sample based solely on the presence of isosthenuria does not seem warranted. Further studies are warranted to help identify host predisposing factors for urinary bacterial colonization in cats with these diseases.
Occupational exposures and risk of oesophageal cancer by histological type: a case–control study in eastern Spain
Authors: Santibañez M , Vioque J , Alguacil J , Barber X , García de la Hera M , Kauppinen T ,   for the PANESOES Study Group
Published: July 2008

Objective:

To explore the relationship between occupations and specific occupational exposures and oesophageal cancer (OC) by histological type.

Methods:

A multicentre hospital-based case–control study was conducted in two Mediterranean provinces of Spain. Occupational, sociodemographic and lifestyle information was collected from 185 newly diagnosed male oesophageal cancer patients (147 squamous cell, 38 adenocarcinoma) and 285 frequency matched controls. Occupation was coded according to the Spanish National Classification of Occupations 1994. Occupational exposure to a selection of carcinogenic substances was assessed by the FINJEM job exposure matrix. Odds ratios were calculated by unconditional logistic regression adjusting for age, education, alcohol intake and cigarette smoking.

Results:

For the squamous cell variety, statistically significant associations were found for waiters and bartenders (OR 8.18, 95% CI 1.98 to 33.75) and miners, shotfirers, stone cutters and carvers (OR 10.78, 95% CI 1.24 to 93.7) in relation to other occupations. For the adenocarcinoma variety, statistically significant associations were observed for carpenters and joiners (OR 9.69), animal producers and related workers (OR 5.61) and building and related electricians (OR 8.26), although these observations were based on a low number of cases. Regarding specific exposures, the study found a statistically significant increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma for ionising radiation, and of adenocarcinoma for high exposure to volatile sulphur compounds (OR 3.12) and lead (OR 5.30). For all histological types of OC combined, a three-fold increase in risk was found with a significant trend for asbestos exposure (OR 3.46, 95% CI 0.99 to 12.10).

Conclusions:

The data suggest that some occupational exposures may specifically increase the risk of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma, while other exposures such as asbestos may increase the overall risk of OC.
Sickness absence as a prognostic marker for common chronic conditions: analysis of mortality in the GAZEL study
Authors: Kivimäki M , Head J , Ferrie J E , Singh-Manoux A , Westerlund H , Vahtera J , Leclerc A , Melchior M , Chevalier A , Alexanderson K , Zins M , Goldberg M
Published: July 2008

Objectives:

To determine whether sickness absence is a prognostic marker in terms of mortality among people with common chronic conditions.

Methods:

Prospective occupational cohort study of 13 077 men and 4871 women aged 37–51 from the National Gas and Electricity Company, France. Records of physician-certified sickness absences over a 3-year period were obtained from employers’ registers. Chronic conditions were assessed in annual surveys over the same period. The main outcome measure was all-cause mortality (803 deaths, mean follow-up after assessment of sickness absence: 13.9 years).

Results:

In Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for age, sex, socioeconomic position and co-morbidity, >28 annual sickness-absence days versus no absence days was associated with an excess mortality risk among those with cancer (hazard ratio 5.4, 95% CI 2.2 to 13.1), depression (1.7, 1.1 to 2.8), chronic bronchitis or asthma (2.7, 1.6 to 4.6) and hypertension (1.6, 1.0 to 2.6). The corresponding hazard ratios for more than five long (>14 days) sickness-absence episodes per 10 person-years versus no such episodes were 5.4 (2.2 to 13.1), 1.8 (1.3 to 2.7), 2.0 (1.3 to 3.2) and 1.8 (1.2 to 2.7), respectively. Areas under receiver operating characteristics curves for these absence measures varied between 0.56 and 0.73, indicating the potential of these measures to distinguish groups at high risk of mortality. The findings were consistent across sex, age and socioeconomic groups and in those with and without co-morbid conditions.

Conclusion:

Data on sickness absence may provide useful prognostic information for common chronic conditions at the population level.
Incident and recurrent back injuries among union carpenters
Authors: Lipscomb H J , Cameron W , Silverstein B
Published: July 2008

Aims:

To describe incident and recurrent work-related back injuries among union carpenters, describe the hazard function for each and associated risk factors, and explore predictors of subsequent musculoskeletal back injury based on different definitions of the initial injury.

Methods:

This study identified a dynamic cohort of 18 768 carpenters who worked in the State of Washington 1989–2003, their hours worked each month, and their work-related back injuries and medical claims for treatment including ICD-9 codes. Using Poisson regression we calculated rates and rate ratios (RRs) of incident and recurrent injury adjusting for age, gender, union tenure and type of carpentry work. Predictors of subsequent musculoskeletal back injury were explored based on different definitions of the incident injury, as were time periods of greatest risk following return to work.

Results:

Recurrent back injuries occurred at a rate 80% higher than initial injuries. Survival curves were significantly different for incident and recurrent injuries, but patterns of relative risk were similar. Individuals with greatest union tenure were at lowest risk, likely reflecting a healthy worker effect or lower physical exposures with seniority. Individuals with long periods of work disability with their first injury were at particularly high risk of subsequent musculoskeletal injury compared with those with no prior history (RR 2.3; 95% CI 2.0 to 2.7), as were individuals with degenerative diagnoses (RR 2.0; 95% CI 1.5 to 2.6). Risk for second injury peaked between 1000 and 1500 h after return to work and then gradually declined.

Conclusions:

Carpenters with long periods of work disability following back injury warrant accommodation and perhaps better rehabilitation efforts to avoid re-injury. Challenges to workplace accommodation and limited ability to clearly define readiness to return to work following injury demonstrate the need for primary prevention of back injuries through attention to engineering solutions among carpenters involved in strenuous work.
The glucocorticoid receptor and FOXO1 synergistically activate the skeletal muscle atrophy-associated MuRF1 gene
Authors: Waddell David S. , Baehr Leslie M. , van den Brandt Jens , Johnsen Steven A. , Reichardt Holger M. , Furlow J. David , Bodine Sue C.
Published: July 2008

The muscle specific ubiquitin E3 ligase MuRF1 has been implicated as a key regulator of muscle atrophy under a variety of conditions, such as during synthetic glucocorticoid treatment. FOXO class transcription factors have been proposed as important regulators of MuRF1 expression, but its regulation by glucocorticoids is not well understood. The MuRF1 promoter contains a near-perfect palindromic glucocorticoid response element (GRE) 200 base pairs upstream of the transcription start site. The GRE is highly conserved in the mouse, rat, and human genes along with a directly adjacent FOXO binding element (FBE). Transient transfection assays in HepG2 cells and C2C12 myotubes demonstrate that the MuRF1 promoter is responsive to both the dexamethasone (DEX)-activated glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and FOXO1, whereas coexpression of GR and FOXO1 leads to a dramatic synergistic increase in reporter gene activity. Mutation of either the GRE or the FBE significantly impairs activation of the MuRF1 promoter. Consistent with these findings, DEX-induced upregulation of MuRF1 is significantly attenuated in mice expressing a homodimerization-deficient GR despite no effect on the degree of muscle loss in these mice vs. their wild-type counterparts. Finally, chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis reveals that both GR and FOXO1 bind to the endogenous MuRF1 promoter in C2C12 myotubes, and IGF-I inhibition of DEX-induced MuRF1 expression correlates with the loss of FOXO1 binding. These findings present new insights into the role of the GR and FOXO family of transcription factors in the transcriptional regulation of the MuRF1 gene, a direct target of the GR in skeletal muscle.
Metabolism and synthesis of arginine vasopressin in conscious newborn sheep
Authors: Miao Darryl C. , Velaphi Sithembiso C. , Roy Timothy , DeSpain Kevin , Rosenfeld Charles R.
Published: July 2008

Arginine vasopressin (AVP) is an important regulator of cardiovascular homeostasis in the fetus, but its role after birth is unclear. Although infused AVP increases mean arterial pressure (MAP) during the 1st mo after birth, pressor responses are unchanged, suggesting that vascular responsiveness is also unchanged. Alternatively, this could reflect increases in AVP metabolic clearance rate (MCRAVP). However, newborn AVP metabolism and synthesis are poorly studied. Therefore, we examined the pressor responses to infused AVP and the pattern of circulating AVP, AVP production rate (PRAVP), and MCRAVP in conscious newborn sheep ( n = 5) at 9–38 days after birth. Basal MAP rose and heart rate (HR) fell during the study period ( P ≤ 0.02), while circulating AVP was unchanged ( P > 0.1), averaging 3.01 ± 0.86 pg/ml. Infused AVP elicited steady-state responses at 10–40 min, increasing plasma AVP and MAP and decreasing HR ( P < 0.001). Although pressor responses were unchanged between 9 and 38 days, the rise in MAP correlated with increases in plasma AVP ( R = 0.47, P = 0.02, n = 24). MCRAVP was unchanged throughout the 1st mo ( P > 0.2), averaging 205 ± 17 ml·kg−1·min−1, and was associated with an elevated PRAVP, 973 ± 267 pg·kg−1·min−1, which also was unchanged ( P > 0.1). After birth, MCRAVP and PRAVP are elevated, probably accounting for the stable plasma AVP levels. The former is also likely to account for the stable pressor responses to infused AVP during the 1st mo. The reason for the elevated PRAVP is unclear but may relate to increases in vascular volume associated with postnatal growth.
Impaired microvascular perfusion: a consequence of vascular dysfunction and a potential cause of insulin resistance in muscle
Authors: Clark Michael G.
Published: July 2008

Insulin has an exercise-like action to increase microvascular perfusion of skeletal muscle and thereby enhance delivery of hormone and nutrient to the myocytes. With insulin resistance, insulin's action to increase microvascular perfusion is markedly impaired. This review examines the present status of these observations and techniques available to measure such changes as well as the possible underpinning mechanisms. Low physiological doses of insulin and light exercise have been shown to increase microvascular perfusion without increasing bulk blood flow. In these circumstances, blood flow is proposed to be redirected from the nonnutritive route to the nutritive route with flow becoming dominant in the nonnutritive route when insulin resistance has developed. Increased vasomotion controlled by vascular smooth muscle may be part of the explanation by which insulin mediates an increase in microvascular perfusion, as seen from the effects of insulin on both muscle and skin microvascular blood flow. In addition, vascular dysfunction appears to be an early development in the onset of insulin resistance, with the consequence that impaired glucose delivery, more so than insulin delivery, accounts for the diminished glucose uptake by insulin-resistant muscle. Regular exercise may prevent and ameliorate insulin resistance by increasing “vascular fitness” and thereby recovering insulin-mediated capillary recruitment.
Prokineticin 2 influences subfornical organ neurons through regulation of MAP kinase and the modulation of sodium channels
Authors: Fry Mark , Cottrell G. Trevor , Ferguson Alastair V.
Published: July 2008

Prokineticin 2 (PK2) is a neuropeptide that acts as a signaling molecule regulating circadian rhythms in mammals. We have previously reported PK2 actions on subfornical organ (SFO) neurons, identifying this circumventricular organ as a target at which PK2 acts to influence autonomic control (Cottrell GT, and Ferguson AV. J. Neurosci. 24: 2375–2379, 2004). In this study, we have examined the cellular mechanisms by which PK2 increases the excitability of SFO neurons. Whole cell patch recordings from dissociated rat SFO neurons demonstrated that the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase inhibitor PD-98059 prevented PK2-induced depolarization and decreases in delayed rectifier K+ current. PK2 also increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in 39% of dissociated SFO neurons (mean increase = 20.8 ± 5.5%), effects that were maintained in the presence of thapsigargin but abolished by both nifedipine, or the absence of extracellular Ca2+, suggesting that PK2-induced [Ca2+]i transients resulted from Ca2+ entry through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. Voltage-clamp recordings showed that PK2 was without effects on Ca2+ currents evoked by voltage ramps, suggesting that PK2-induced Ca2+ influx was secondary to PK2-induced increases in action potential frequency, an hypothesis supported by data showing that tetrodotoxin abolished effects of PK2 on [Ca2+]i. These observations suggested PK2 modulation of voltage-gated Na+ currents, a possibility confirmed by voltage-clamp experiments showing that PK2 increased the amplitude of both transient and persistent Na+ currents in 29% of SFO neurons (by 34 and 38%, respectively). These data indicate that PK2 influences SFO neurons through the activation of a MAP kinase cascade, which, in turn, modulates Na+ and K+ conductances.
The Representation of Amplitude Modulations in the Mammalian Auditory Midbrain
Authors: Krebs Bjarne , Lesica Nicholas A. , Grothe Benedikt
Published: July 2008

Temporal modulations in stimulus amplitude are essential for recognizing and categorizing behaviorally relevant acoustic signals such as speech. Despite this behavioral importance, it remains unclear how amplitude modulations (AMs) are represented in the responses of neurons at higher levels of the auditory system. Studies using stimuli with sinusoidal amplitude modulations (SAMs) have shown that the responses of many neurons are strongly tuned to modulation frequency, leading to the hypothesis that AMs are represented by their periodicity in the auditory midbrain. However, AMs in general are defined not only by their modulation frequency, but also by a number of other parameters (duration, duty cycle, etc.), which covary with modulation frequency in SAM stimuli. Thus the relationship between modulation frequency and neural responses as characterized with SAM stimuli alone is ambiguous. In this study, we characterize the representation of AMs in the gerbil inferior colliculus by analyzing neural responses to a series of pulse trains in which duration and interpulse interval are systematically varied to quantify the importance of duration, interpulse interval, duty cycle, and modulation frequency independently. We find that, although modulation frequency is indeed an important parameter for some neurons, the responses of many neurons are also strongly influenced by other AM parameters, typically duration and duty cycle. These results suggest that AMs are represented in the auditory midbrain not only by their periodicity, but by a complex combination of several important parameters.