bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smart Processing Development of Photonic Crystals and Fractals
Authors: Miyamoto Yoshinari , Kirihara Soshu , Kanehira Shingo , Takeda Mitsuo Wada , Honda Katsuya , Sakoda Kazuaki
Published: September 2010

A new concept of smart processing is proposed that can produce advanced materials and components by finely controlling processing energy and engineering structures. New functional components of 3D photonic crystals and fractals are demonstrated, which are constructed of dielectric ceramics and a polymer using a CAD/CAM stereolithography system. By modifying the structure of diamond‐like photonic crystals using free‐form fabrication, electromagnetic waves can be controlled, opening the way for new applications in communication and sensing technology. The photonic fractal, a new material that can strongly localize electromagnetic waves without reflection and transmission, will also lead to new applications in the energy and medical fields.
Nanostructures, Optical Properties, and Imaging Application of Lead‐Sulfide Nanocomposite Coatings
Authors: Lu Song Wei , Schmidt Helmut K.
Published: September 2010

Lead‐sulfide (PbS) nanocrystals were precipitated in nanocomposite coatings after a pre‐photo‐polymerization followed by a reaction with H2S gas at 25°C for 1 hr. PbS nanocrystalline size and optical absorption increased with decreasing UV energy for pre‐photo‐polymerization and increasing concentration. The absorption onset has a large blue shift from 0.41 eV of the corresponding bulk crystal, resulting from the quantum confinement effect. As a result, coating color changes significantly from deep brown to light yellow depending on coating processing conditions. Partially masking the coatings during pre‐photo‐polymerization gives rise to different colors, leading to imaging applications of PbS nanocomposite coatings.
Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Alumina‐Based Ceramics with Novel Mechanical, Electrical, and Thermal Properties
Authors: Zhan Guo‐Dong , Mukherjee Amiya K.
Published: September 2010

The extraordinary mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of single‐wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) have prompted the development of advanced engineering materials with improved properties through the incorporation of carbon nanotubes in selected matrices. Dense SWCNT reinforced alumina nanocomposites have been fabricated by novel spark‐plasma‐sintering (SPS) technique. SWCNT were also successfully used to convert insulating nanoceramics to metallically conductive composites. Additionally, novel anisotropic thermal properties have been observed in the carbon nanotube composites. Such multifunctional carbon nanotube/ceramic composites with improved mechanical and electrical properties along with anisotropic thermal properties are envisaged for a wide range of applications.
Carbon Fiber Reinforced CMC for High‐Performance Structures
Authors: Krenkel Walter
Published: September 2010

The demands in space technology originally played the decisive role in the development of carbon fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composites (CMC). Within the last few years, the properties and the manufacturing methods were consistently improved, so that now the industry in general can share in the profits of this new class of composite materials. The liquid silicon infiltration (LSI) process is regarded as one of the most promising processes for industrial products, especially if the aspect of cost is considered. An overview of the design, manufacture, properties, and applications of C/C‐SiC ceramics, produced with the LSI process, is given in this paper.
The Role of Dynamic Material Properties in the Performance of Ceramic Armor
Authors: Lankford James
Published: September 2010

The penetration of ceramic armor by a kinetic energy penetrator is complex, involving a continual process of material damage, micro‐crack nucleation, growth and coalescence, and multiaxial failure, all under conditions of high loading rate and inertial confinement. It will be shown that at sufficiently high stress, which usually requires either high loading rates or confinement (these conditions are known to prevail in the region just beneath a penetrator dwelling at the surface of an armor), plastic deformation occurs in ceramics. This deformation appears to limit the strength of most ceramics, since micro‐cracks are subsequently nucleated at the sites of the deformation defects and these immediately begin to coalesce into fragments. The constraint/rate‐limited flow of these fragments is the physical event that permits the penetration of ceramic armor. This paper considers the implications for modeling armor penetration of laboratory experiments involving both intact and fragmented ceramics tested under compressive loading at high strain rates and under confining pressure.
Visualization of Impact Damage in Ceramics Using the Edge‐On Impact Technique
Authors: Strassburger E.
Published: September 2010

Projectile impact generates severe fragmentation in ceramics which propagates at high velocities and precedes the penetration of the projectile. The high‐speed photographic technique of the Edge‐On Impact (EOI) has been developed at the Ernst‐Mach‐Institute (EMI) in order to visualize dynamic fracture in brittle materials. In a typical EOI test the projectile hits one edge of a specimen and fracture propagation is observed during the first 20 us after impact by means of a Cranz‐Schardin highspeed camera. EOI tests allow a characterization of different ceramics by the macroscopic fracture patterns, single crack velocities, and crack front velocities (damage velocities). The phenomenology of damage propagation in several ceramics and a ceramic‐metal composite is discussed. The EOI technique is useful for the evaluation of damage models for brittle materials because it enables a direct comparison of model predictions to experimental data obtained during the impact process.
Dynamic Compressive Response of Intact and Damaged AD995 Alumina
Authors: Luo Huiyang , Chen Weinong
Published: September 2010

The dynamic compressive responses of AD995 alumina have been determined as a function of loading rates and damage levels. To determine the dynamic properties under loading conditions simulating those encountered in ceramic armors subjected to impact, a novel dynamic compressive experimental technique modified from a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) was employed to load the ceramic specimen by two consecutive stress pulses. The first pulse determines the dynamic response of the intact ceramic material and then crushes the specimen. Before the specimen disintegrates, the second pulse determines the dynamic compressive constitutive behavior of the ceramic rubble that is still interlocked. The results show that the compressive strengths of damaged ceramics are insensitive to strain rates once the damage level exceeds a critical value.
Multifunctional Reaction‐Bonded Alumina Coatings for Porous Continuous Fiber‐Reinforced Oxide Composites
Authors: Mechnich Peter , Braue Wolfgang , Schneider Hartmut
Published: September 2010

Highly porous, alumina‐based ceramic matrix composites (CMCs), without additional fiber‐matrix interphase, display excellent high‐temperature stability, damage tolerance, and thermal shock resistance. However, the very high gas permeability and the rough CMC surface associated with the winding pattern may give rise to problems in a variety of applications. The solution for these problems is the application of additional functional coatings based on reaction‐bonded alumina (RBAO). RBAO topcoats for porous alumina‐based CMCs were fabricated by a simple painting and firing process. The RBAO topcoats display excellent adherence and provide smoothing and stabilization of the surface and, hence, protection against erosion and wear. The pore structure of the RBAO coats particularly depends on the RBAO starting materials. The gas permeability of RBAO coated CMCs is reduced by several orders of magnitude with respect to uncoated CMCs if optimized ratios between Al and Al2O3 in the RBAO starting compositions are employed. The RBAO coatings also work as suitable bond‐coats for additional plasma‐sprayed environmental barrier coatings.
New Thermal Barrier Coatings Based on Pyrochlore/YSZ Double‐Layer Systems
Authors: Vaßen R. , Traeger F. , Stöver D.
Published: September 2010

Pyrochlore materials La2Zr2O7 and Gd2Zr2O7 have been used to produce thermal barrier coating systems by atmospheric plasma spraying. The materials have been applied as single‐layer coatings with only a topcoat made of pyrochlore material. In addition, double‐layer systems with a first layer of yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) and a top layer made of pyrochlore material were produced. These systems have been tested in thermal cycling test rigs at surface temperatures between 1200‐1450°C and the results were compared to the behavior of YSZ coatings. Single‐layer coatings had a rather poor thermal cycling performance. On the other hand, double‐layer systems showed similar results to YSZ coatings at temperatures below about 1300°C. At higher temperatures the double‐layer coatings produced from our own powders revealed excellent thermal cycling behavior. At the highest test conditions, lifetime was thereby orders of magnitude better than that of YSZ coatings. Results indicate that an increase of the maximum surface temperature in gas turbines by at least 100 K becomes possible with the new coatings. Coatings produced from commercial powders showed a somewhat reduced performance.
Texture Development in Barium Titanate and PMN–PT Using Hexabarium 17‐Titanate Heterotemplates
Authors: Kimura Toshio , Miura Yuko , Fuse Kaori
Published: September 2010

Bulk BaTiO3 ceramics with 〈111〉‐texture have been prepared by the modified templated grain growth method, using platelike Ba6Ti17O40 particles as templates, and the mechanism of texture development is examined. The Ba6Ti17O40 particles induce the abnormal growth of BaTiO3 grains, and a structure similarity between {001} of Ba6Ti17O40 and {111} of BaTiO3 gives 〈111〉‐texture to abnormally grown BaTiO3 grains. Thus, the 〈111〉‐texture develops in the BaTiO3 matrix. The use of platelike Ba6Ti17O40 particles has been extended to a 0.65Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–0.35PbTiO3 matrix, but the matrix phase is decomposed by extensive chemical reactions between the matrix and template phases.
Functionalizing Polyester Fiber with a Self‐Cleaning Property Using Anatase TiO2 and Low‐Temperature Plasma Treatment
Authors: Qi Kaihong , Xin John H. , Daoud Walid A. , Mak Chee Leung
Published: September 2010

Anatase TiO2 prepared by an aqueous sol–gel process at 60°C was applied to polyester fibers that were treated with low‐temperature plasma. This process not only functionalizes polyester but also enhances its adhesion to the anatase. The self‐cleaning properties, such as bactericidal activities, colorant decomposition, and degradation of red wine and coffee stains, of the anatase functionalized polyester fibers were studied. The surface morphological changes of polyester fibers before and after plasma treatment, and of plasma‐treated fibers before and after anatase coating were characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The adhesion between the anatase TiO2 and polyester fibers was investigated.
Assessment of hypertension in 40 cats with left ventricular hypertrophy by Doppler‐shift sphygmomanometry
Authors: Lesser M. , Fox P. R. , Bond B. R.
Published: September 2010

Forty cats with left ventricular hypertrophic disease had blood pressure evaluated indirectly by Doppler‐shift sphygmomanometry. Disease categories included hyperthyroidism, chronic renal insufficiency and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy unrelated to either of the first two disorders. Nineteen (47‐5 per cent) of the 40 cats had systemic hypertension, nine had high systolic blood pressure only, 10 had high systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and none had only isolated diastolic hypertension. Blood pressure did not correlate with the degree of left ventricular thickness. The results of this study suggest a high prevalence of both left ventricular hypertrophy and systemic hypertension. Cause and effect relationships require further evaluation.
Isolation of C‐reactive protein from cat serum
Authors: Watanabe A. , Morimatsu M. , Yoshimatsu K. , Yamamoto S. , Terao A. , Tsukazaki K. , Saito M. , Naiki M.
Published: September 2010

C‐reactive protein (CRP) was isolated from sera from healthy cats by calcium‐dependent affinity chromatography on phosphorylcholine derivatives of bovine albumin‐coupled Toyopearl, followed by an anion‐exchange chromatography using DEAE cellulose. It was identified as CRP by its immunochemical cross reactivity with human CRP. The molecular weight of cat CRP was approximately 100 kilodaltons (kDa) and composed of two glycosylated subunits (23 kDa) and three non‐glycosylated subunits (20 kDa) with non‐covalent association. Under electron microscopic examination, cat CRP had a pentameric disc‐like configuration which is characteristic of CRP. Immunoelectrophoresis and isoelectric focusing showed that cat CRP is an acidic α1‐globulin (pi 4‐1 to 4‐3). Serum concentrations of CRP in cats and kittens were measured by single radial immunodiffusion. In 12 healthy cats from various sources, values ranged from 38 to 168 μg/ml. In kittens, serum CRP levels also showed a wide distribution, 81 per cent of them were less than 40 μg/ml.
‘Battered pets’: features that raise suspicion of non‐accidental injury
Authors: Munr0 H. M. C. , Thrusfield M. V.
Published: September 2010

A study of veterinarians' perceptions, and experience, of non‐accidental injury (NAI) to pets was undertaken using an anonymous questionnaire distributed to a random sample of 1000 small animal practitioners in the UK. NAI was acknowledged by 91‐3 per cent (95 per cent confidence interval, 88‐2 to 93‐9 per cent) of the 404 respondents who returned questionnaires, of whom 48‐3 per cent (95 per cent confidence interval, 43‐4 to 53‐1 per cent) had either suspected or seen NAI. Four hundred and forty‐eight cases were documented, predominantly in dogs (243) and cats (182). Factors either raising suspicion, or facilitating recognition, of NAI included: implication of a particular person, features of the history, referral agency involvement, behaviour of the owner and/or the animal, nature of the injuries, and socioeconomic class of owners. Additionally, sexual abuse and suspected cases of Munchausen syndrome by proxy were recorded.
The in vitro effects of piroxicam and meloxicam on canine cell lines
Authors: Knottenbelt C. , Chambers G. , Gault E. , Argyle D. J.
Published: September 2010

Objectives:To analyse the direct antiproliferative effects of both piroxicam and meloxicam at a variety of concentrations on a series of canine cancer cell lines and the mechanism of cell death.

Methods:The in vitro effects of piroxicam and meloxicam at various concentrations on canine cell cultures (Madin‐Darby canine kidney cells, osteosarcoma, mammary carcinoma, and lymphoma) were assessed with respect to proliferation inhibition and apoptosis induction. Western blot analysis of cyclooxygenase‐1 and cyclooxygenase‐2 expression was performed on all cell lines.

Results:All cell lines used in this study were cyclooxygenase‐1 and cyclooxygenase‐2 positive apart from Madin‐Darby canine kidney cells which were negative for both cyclooxygenase‐1 and cyclooxygenase‐2. Both meloxicam and piroxicam were able to inhibit proliferation in cell lines in a dose‐dependent manner. However, the drug concentration required for a given effect was cell line dependent.

ClinicalSignificance:The results suggest that significant inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis would only occur when drug concentrations were in excess of those that can be achieved in vivo following maximum recommended dose rates. It is possible, however, that local or topical treatment or altered dosing regimens may offer alternative approaches to the use of these drugs as antineoplastic agents.
Progressive dysphagia in a dog caused by a scirrhous, poorly differentiated perioesophageal carcinoma
Authors: Wray J. D. , Blunden A. S.
Published: September 2010

Investigation of canine dysphagia is performed by a combination of diagnostic imaging, direct visualisation of the upper gastrointestinal tract, and ancillary diagnostic testing to differentiate between structural and functional causes. Video fluoroscopy may be especially helpful. The case of a seven‐year‐old Border collie that presented with a history of progressive pharyngeal dysphagia is described. Fluoroscopic investigation was initially suggestive of functional pharyngeal disease, but magnetic resonance imaging and surgical exploration demonstrated the presence of a diffuse, scirrhous, poorly differentiated carcinoma with extensive oesophageal involvement. This case highlights that, in some circumstances, fluoroscopy may occasionally be of limited use in the investigation of dysphagia in the dog.
Genetic analysis of three different classification protocols for the evaluation of elbow dysplasia in German shepherd dogs
Authors: Janutta V. , Hamann H. , Klein S. , Tellhelm B. , Distl O.
Published: September 2010

Objectives:Three different scoring systems for elbow dysplasia and its radiographic signs were genetically evaluated in 2645 German shepherd dogs.

Methods:An animal model was used to estimate heritabilities and additive genetic and residual correlations for the three scoring systems: ED‐SV, which is recommended by the International Elbow Working Group; ED‐LA, developed by Lang and others; and ED‐TH, proposed by Tellhelm.

Results:The effects of sex, age at examination and the correlation between the two factors were significant for all three scoring systems. Heritability estimates (se) were 0·18 (0·04) for ED‐SV, 0·11 (0·03) for ED‐LA and 0.16 (0·04) for ED‐TH. The additive genetic correlations among the different single criteria for elbow dysplasia and the different elbow dysplasia scores were between 0·68 and 0·98, except for the criteria ununited anconeal process and osteochondrosis dissecans of the trochlea humeri, which were mostly genetically negatively correlated to the other radiological criteria.

ClinicalSignificance:The elbow dysplasia scores were determined by two genetically different traits. The possibilities for selecting German shepherd dogs with respect to elbow dysplasia might be improved by taking into account these two traits in the prediction of breeding values.
Co‐existence of ununited anconeal process and fragmented medial coronoid process of the ulna in the dog
Authors: Meyer‐Lindenberg A. , Fehr M. , Nolte I.
Published: September 2010

Objectives:To determine the incidence of fragmented medial coronoid process of the ulna in dogs with ununited anconeal process. The efficacy of presurgical radiography to diagnose the co‐existence of these diseases was also investigated.

Methods:One hundred and fifty‐five joints from 137 dogs with ununited anconeal process were included in the study. For the radiographic examinations, an extended mediolateral projection and a craniolateral‐caudomedial oblique projection of each elbow joint were taken before surgery. Inspection of the medial part of the joint was carried out either by arthrotomy or arthroscopy.

Results:Seventy‐two per cent of the dogs were German shepherd dogs. In 25 joints (16 per cent) a fragmented medial coronoid process was diagnosed and removed via arthrotomy or arthroscopy. The co‐existence of a fragmented medial coronoid process was diagnosed correctly in only 13 cases (52 per cent) by radiography. In five of these cases with advanced osteoarthritis, the fragment was directly visible because of its dislocation. Compared with published information, the occurrence of ununited anconeal process with fragmented medial coronoid process is noted more frequently in the present study.

ClinicalSignificance:It can be summarised that if ununited anconeal process is present, it is not usually possible to clearly identify fragmented medial coronoid process by radiography. Therefore, it is important to be able to inspect the medial aspect of the joint concerned during surgery.
Use of reconstructed computed tomography for the assessment of joint spaces in the canine elbow
Authors: Gemmill T. J. , Hammond G. , Mellor D. , Sullivan M. , Bennett D. , Carmichael S.
Published: September 2010

Objectives:To assess the accuracy of reconstructed computed tomography for imaging canine elbow joint spaces.

Methods:Computed tomography scans of eight cadaveric elbows were obtained and reconstructed computed tomography images were formatted in the dorsal and sagittal planes. Humeroradial and humeroulnar joint space measurements were obtained from these images. Intra‐observer and inter‐observer variations in joint space measurements were assessed, as was the effect of specimen positioning (inter‐image variation). After freezing, four elbows were sectioned in the dorsal plane and four in the sagittal plane. In addition to visual comparison of the frozen sections with reconstructed computed tomography images, joint space measurements were obtained from frozen sections and compared with those from reconstructed computed tomography images. Variation was assessed using statistical calculations and graphical techniques.

Results:Both inter‐image and intra‐observer analyses revealed good agreement and low variation between data sets. Inter‐observer correlation was only moderate, though variation was low. Visually, the reconstructed computed tomography images accurately reflected the frozen section anatomy. Agreement between frozen section and reconstructed computed tomography joint space measurements was good, with minimal variation.

ClinicalSignificance:These results indicate that reconstructed computed tomography is capable of accurately imaging elbow joint spaces and precise joint space measurements can be obtained. Reconstructed computed tomography may be useful for determining joint space measurements and detecting elbow incongruencies in dogs with elbow dysplasia.
The Duty of States to Assist other States in Need: Ethics, Human Rights, and International Law
Authors: Gostin Lawrence O. , Archer Robert
Published: September 2010

This article deals with a foreign policy question of extraordinary importance: what responsibilities do States have to provide economic and technical assistance to other States that have high levels of need affecting the health and life of their citizens? The question is important for a variety of reasons. There exist massive inequalities in health globally, with the result that poorer countries shoulder a disproportionate burden of disease and premature death. Average life expectancy in Africa is nearly 30 years shorter than in the Americas or Europe. In one year alone, an estimated 14 million of the poorest people in the world died, while only an estimated four million would have died if this population had the same death rate as the global rich.
The Proliferation of Human Rights in Global Health Governance
Authors: Gable Lance
Published: September 2010

As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, threats to global public health continue to proliferate. New and novel risks to health have emerged consistently over the past 30 years. Moreover, our shrinking world now allows health threats to spread more quickly than ever before. Given these realities, efforts to protect and improve global health must be expansive, flexible, and able to take into account the variety of circumstances that may imperil good health. These efforts also must consider the multiple levels and varying contexts in which laws, policies, and other factors govern global health and affect health outcomes.
Through the Quarantine Looking Glass: Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis and Public Health Governance, Law, and Ethics
Authors: Fidler David P. , Gostin Lawrence O. , Markel Howard
Published: September 2010

Dramatic events involving dangerous microbes often focus attention on isolation and quarantine as policy instruments. The incident in May-June 2007 involving Andrew Speaker and drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) joins other communicable disease crises that have forced contemplation or actual application of quarantine powers. Implementation of quarantine powers, which encompasses authority for both isolation and quarantine actions, is important not only for the handling of a specific event but also because the use of such authority provides a window on broader issues of public health and the legal rules, ethical principles, and governance systems that support it. Debates about quarantine powers reflect political and social attitudes about public health that often tell us more about this policy endeavor than acts of isolation and quarantine themselves.
What is Fair? Choice, Fairness, and Transparency in Access to Prescription Medicines in the United States and Australia
Authors: Lopert Ruth , Rosenbaum Sara
Published: September 2010

The role of government in assuring population access to affordable and appropriate health care represents a central question for any nation. Of particular concern is access to prescription drug coverage, not only because of the vital role played by drugs in modern medicine, but also because of their high costs. This article examines the sharply contrasting prescription drug coverage and payment policies found in Australia and the U.S. – strong political allies and international trading partners – and describes how key U.S. interests have sought, through an aggressive trade agenda, to expand markets for U.S. goods and services, even when market expansions clash with other nations’ contrasting emphasis on social equity and fairness. Indeed, the nation’s bilateral free trade negotiations have brought the contours of this policy schism into sharp relief.
Jewish Perspectives on the Use of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis
Authors: Popovsky Mark
Published: September 2010

The desire to have healthy and happy children is the most basic parental instinct. A parent's moral obligation to care for the child extends before the moment of birth back to the point of conception. In classical Jewish tradition, the Talmud itself offers pregnant women advice on how to improve the well-being of their offspring, such as eating parsley in order to have handsome children, drinking wine in order to bear healthy children, or eating coriander to have especially plump children. We stand on the cusp of a new era today because an explosion of genetic knowledge in recent years has provided us the ability to pursue certain health and wellness advantages even before pregnancy has begun. Technology called preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) allows parents to screen the DNA of embryos fertilized in vitro and to implant only those embryos that match the parents' desired genetic makeup. This may include selecting only embryos guaranteed not to have a particular genetic disease, only embryos of one particular gender, or eventually even only embryos with a predisposition for certain traits such as height, eye color, or enhanced memory.
The Impact of Web 2.0 on the Doctor-Patient Relationship
Authors: Lo Bernard , Parham Lindsay
Published: September 2010

The hypothetical case of Mr. Jenkins illustrates innovations in digital health information technology that may profoundly change medical care and the doctorpatient relationship. The Internet contains enormous amounts of health information, and about threequarters of Internet users look online for health information. 1 Sometimes patients bring information they found on the Internet to their physicians. Physicians and patients can also now communicate by e-mail rather than by telephone or office visits, although these e-mail communications may not be integrated into the patient’s medical record. Furthermore, electronic medical records are slowly being adopted, particularly in hospitals and large integrated health systems. Funding to promote the adoption of electronic medical records (EMRs) has been included in the 2009 federal stimulus package under the Obama Administration.
Aligning Ethics with Medical Decision-Making: The Quest for Informed Patient Choice
Authors: Moulton Benjamin , King Jaime S.
Published: September 2010

Medical practice should evolve alongside medical ethics. As our understanding of the ethical implications of physician-patient interactions becomes more nuanced, physicians should integrate those lessons into practice. As early as the 1930s, epidemiological studies began to identify that the rates of medical procedures varied significantly along geographic and socioeconomic lines. Dr. J. Alison Glover recognized that tonsillectomy rates in school children in certain school districts in England and Wales were in some cases eight times the rates of children in other districts, with the only significant predictive factors being the current chief medical officer in the area and the socioeconomic well-being of the child's parents. Unfortunately, Dr. Glover's work revealed that the increase in tonsillectomies did not improve the health of adolescent patients and appeared to be performed “as a routine prophylactic ritual for no particular reason and with no particular result.”
Currents in Contemporary Ethics
Authors: Rothstein Mark A.
Published: September 2010

There is widespread concern among public health and emergency response officials that there could be a shortage of health care providers in a public health emergency. At least the following three factors could cause an inadequate supply of physicians, nurses, and other health care providers: (1) the severity of the emergency might greatly increase the demand for health services and outstrip the available supply; (2) health care providers might become unavailable because of their own high rates of illness, as was the case in the SARS epidemic; and (3) many health care providers might not report for duty for personal, family, or professional reasons.

One way of addressing the shortage is to encourage health care providers from unaffected areas or parts of the country to volunteer their services. A variety of measures have been enacted to facilitate the use of such volunteers.
Modified Apple Polysaccharides Could Induce Apoptosis in Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Li Yuhua , Niu Yinbo , Wu Huanjie , Sun Yang , Li Qian , Kong Xianghe , Liu Li , Mei Qibing
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Multiple studies have pointed out that dietary components could inhibit cancer progression and metastasis, and it has been proven that many ingredients of apple have benefits for cancer prevention. We, therefore, extracted modified apple polysaccharides (MAP) from apple and hypothesized that MAP have a cancer‐preventive effect as do other ingredients of apple. Three human colorectal cancer cell lines: SW‐1116, HT‐29, and Caco‐2 were exposed to different concentrations of MAP (0% to 0.1%). Inhibition of cell proliferation was measured by 3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. DNA fragmentation was visualized by agarose‐gel electrophoresis. The amount of apoptotic cells was assessed by flow cytometry, and protein level of caspase 3, 8, 9, Bax, and Bcl‐2 was evaluated by Western blot. At the concentrations of 0.01% to 0.1%, MAP showed growth‐inhibiting and apoptosis‐inducing effects on cancer cells. It increased the expression of caspase 3, 8, 9, and Bax, while decreased of Bcl‐2, which denoted that MAP may induce apoptosis through both the mitochondrial‐mediated and death receptor‐mediated apoptotic ways. These data indicate that MAP has the potential for clinical prevention and treatment for colon cancer.
Acids in Combination with Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate Caused Quality Deterioration of Fresh‐Cut Iceberg Lettuce during Storage in Modified Atmosphere Package
Authors: Guan Wenqiang , Huang Lihan , Fan Xuetong
Published: September 2010

Abstract: Recent studies showed that sodium acid sulfate (SAS) and levulinic acid (LA) in combination with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) was effective in inactivating human pathogens on Romaine lettuce. The present study investigated the effects of LA and SAS in combination with SDS (as compared with citric acid and chlorine) on the inactivation ofE. coliO157:H7 and sensory quality of fresh‐cut Iceberg lettuce in modified atmosphere packages during storage at 4 °C. Results showed that LA (0.5% to 3%) and SAS (0.25% to 0.75%) with 0.05% SDS caused detrimental effects on visual quality and texture of lettuce. LA‐ and SAS‐treated samples were sensorially unacceptable due to development of sogginess and softening after 7 and 14 d storage. It appears that the combined treatments caused an increase in the respiration rate of fresh‐cut lettuce as indicated by higher CO2and lower O2in modified atmosphere packages. On the positive side, the acid treatments inhibited cut edge browning of lettuce pieces developed during storage. LA (0.5%), SAS (0.25%), and citric acid (approximately 0.25%) in combination with SDS reduced population ofE. coliOH157:H7 by 0.41, 0.87, and 0.58 log CFU/g, respectively, while chlorine achieved a reduction of 0.94 log CFU/g without damage to the lettuce. Therefore, compared to chlorine, LA and SAS in combination with SDS have limited commercial value for fresh‐cut Iceberg lettuce due to quality deterioration during storage.
The Antiallergic Effect of Kefir Lactobacilli
Authors: Hong Wei‐Sheng , Chen Yen‐Po , Chen Ming‐Ju
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  This study demonstrated that oral feeding of heat‐inactivated Lactobacillus (L b.) kefiranofaciens M1 from kefir grains effectively inhibited immunoglobulin (Ig) E production in response to ovalbumin (OVA) in vivo. The pattern of cytokine production by splenocyte cells revealed that the levels of cytokines produced by T helper (Th) 1 cells increased, and those of cytokines produced by Th2 cells decreased in the heat‐inactivated M1 feeding group. These findings indicated that Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens M1 in the kefir played an important role in antiallergic activities. By additional analysis using flow cytometry and microarray, the mechanism of suppression of IgE production by oral feeding of the heat‐inactivated M1 probably occurs because of upregulation of the expression of Cd2, Stat4, and Ifnr leading to skewing the Th1/Th2 balance toward Th1 dominance, elevation of the CD4+CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) percentage, and reduction of activated CD19+ B cells. Downregulation of complement system and components was also involved in suppression of IgE production.

Practical Application: Kefir has long been considered good for health. Its health benefits include immunoregulatory effects. However, there is a lack of knowledge concerning the immunoregulatory effects induced by kefir lactic acid bacteria (LAB). Our data clearly demonstrated the antiallergic activity of kefir LAB, Lactobacillus (L b.) kefiranofaciens M1. By additional analysis using flow cytometry and microarray, the possible mechanism of suppression of IgE production by oral feeding of the heat‐inactivated M1 was also elucidated. Our findings indicated that Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens M1 may have a great potential for utilization in functional food products.
Application of high‐resolution melt curve analysis for classification of infectious bronchitis viruses in field specimens
Authors: Hewson KA , Browning GF , Devlin JM , Ignjatovic J , Noormohammadi AH
Published: September 2010

Objective  A real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR)/high‐resolution melt (HRM) curve analysis protocol was developed in our laboratory to differentiate infectious bronchitis (IB) virus reference strains. In the current study, this method was used to detect and classify IB viruses in field submissions.

Procedure  Over an 11‐month period samples from 40 cases of suspected IB virus were received and 17 submissions were positive for IB virus by polymerase chain reaction. HRM curve analysis classified each strain as subgroup 1, 2 or 3 strain (12 submissions) or a strain that was unable to be classified (5 submissions). The 3′ untranslated region (UTR) and partial S1 gene nucleotide sequences for the 17 IB virus strains were determined and their identity with those of the relative reference strains compared to confirm the classifications generated using the HRM curve analysis.

Results  Of the 12 IB field viruses classified as subgroup 1, 2, or 3 using HRM curve analysis, the 3′UTR and S1 gene nucleotide sequences had identities ≥99% with the respective subgroup reference strain. Analysis of the 3′ UTR and S1 gene nucleotide sequences for the five IB virus strains that could not be classified indicated that four belonged to one of the subgroups, and one was a potential recombinant strain (between strains from subgroups 2 and 3). A novel recombinant strain was also detected.

Conclusion  HRM curve analysis can rapidly assign the majority of IB viruses present in field submissions to known subgroups. Importantly, HRM curve analysis also identified variant genotypes that require further investigation.
Staggers in horses grazing paspalum infected withClaviceps paspali
Authors: Cawdell‐Smith AJ , Scrivener CJ , Bryden WL
Published: September 2010

Invasion of the flowering heads of grasses byClavicepsspp. can produce sclerotia (ergots) containing several toxins. Ingestion of these toxins, through the consumption of paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum), can induce a range of clinical symptoms, including staggers. Cattle are the most commonly affected species, but although sheep and horses have been reported affected there are no published descriptions of paspalum staggers in horses. We describe two occurrences of paspalum staggers, the first in three Australian Stockhorse foals and the second in mature Standardbred horses. All three foals presented with ataxia in all limbs after consuming infected paspalum. One foal died from misadventure and the other two recovered within 1 week of removal from the infected paddock. In the second case, two of eight mares and geldings grazing in an irrigation channel developed hindquarter paresis. After removal of all horses from the area, one of the affected horses continued to deteriorate. Both horses were treated with antibiotics. The more severely affected horse was also treated with fluids and electrolytes, but had to be euthanased. The second affected horse recovered after 2 days. Paspalum pastures should inspected forClaviceps paspaliinfection before the introduction of horses.
Holter monitoring in 36 dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease
Authors: Crosara S , Borgarelli M , Perego M , Häggström J , La Rosa G , Tarducci A , Santilli RA
Published: September 2010

Objective Describe the presence of arrhythmias in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and the potential association with class of heart failure and left atrial enlargement. Compare the standard electrocardiogram (ECG) with Holter monitoring for assessing heart rate (HR).

Experimental procedure The study group of 36 dogs weighing less than 20 kg was divided into MMVD and no clinical signs (preclinical) or MMVD and clinical signs (clinical). A standard echocardiogram, ECG and 24‐h Holter recording were obtained in all dogs.

Results Minimum and mean Holter HRs were higher in the clinical group than in the preclinical group. Clinical dogs had more ventricular arrhythmias than preclinical dogs. An enlarged left atrium was associated with the presence of more supraventricular arrhythmias.

Conclusions Arrhythmias are a common finding in dogs with MMVD and Holter monitoring is a reliable tool for both HR monitoring and diagnosis.
Computed tomography diagnosis of eight dogs with brain infarction
Authors: Paul AEH , Lenard Z , Mansfield CS
Published: September 2010

Objective  Medical records of eight dogs presenting with acute onset of neurological signs and a diagnosis of brain infarction as determined by computed tomography (CT) imaging were reviewed.

Design  Retrospective single‐centre case review

Results  Ischaemic infarction in the territory of the rostral cerebellar artery was identified in three spaniel‐breed dogs. All cerebellar infarcts were non‐haemorrhagic. Telencephalic infarcts were identified in five dogs, in the territories of the middle cerebral artery (2/5) and rostral cerebral artery (3/5). One of these dogs had an ischaemic infarction, but all other infarctions appeared haemorrhagic. All dogs were geriatric (≥8 years old), with concurrent medical conditions identified in six dogs. One dog was euthanased after diagnosis because of the severity of its neurological signs and one dog was euthanased as a result of associated renal disease 2 months after diagnosis. Six dogs were alive at least 1 year after diagnosis.

Conclusions  CT is useful in the diagnosis of cerebrovascular accident in dogs, which can present as a spectrum of images with early changes in attenuation and subtle mass effects detected after infarction. CT is particularly sensitive for detecting haemorrhagic infarction, but under‐represent ischaemic and lacunar infarctions when compared with MRI.
5‐Aminolevulinic Acid‐induced Protoporphyrin IX Levels in Tissue of Human Malignant Brain Tumors
Authors: Johansson Ann , Palte Gesa , Schnell Oliver , Tonn Jörg‐Christian , Herms Jochen , Stepp Herbert
Published: September 2010

Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) produced from exogenous, orally administered 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA) displays high tumor‐selective uptake and is being successfully employed for fluorescence‐guided resection (FGR) of human malignant gliomas. Furthermore, the phototoxicity of PpIX can be utilized for photodynamic therapy (PDT) of brain tumors, which has been shown previously. Here, the absolute PpIX concentration in human brain tissue was investigated following oral ALA administration (20 mg kg−1 b.w.). An extraction procedure was used to quantify PpIX in macroscopic tissue samples, weighing 0.013–0.214 g, obtained during FGR. The PpIX concentration was significantly higher in vital grade IV tumors (5.8 ± 4.8 μm, mean ± SD, range 0–28.2 μm, n = 8) as compared with grade III tumors (0.2 ± 0.4 μm, mean ± SD, range 0–0.9 μm, n = 4). There was also a large heterogeneity within grade IV tumors with PpIX displaying significantly lower levels in infiltration zones and necrotic regions as compared with vital tumor parts. The average PpIX concentration in vital grade IV tumor parts was in the range previously shown sufficient for PDT‐induced tissue damage following irradiation. However, the feasibility of PDT for grade III brain tumors and for grade IV brain tumors displaying mainly necrotic tissue areas without solid tumor parts needs to be further investigated.
The Effectiveness of Canadian Oil‐ and Gas‐Pipeline Price Regulation 1976–82
Authors: Butterworth John E. , Falk Haim
Published: September 2010

This paper examines the effectiveness of the oil and gas‐pipeline price‐regulation system in Canada during the seven years beginning January 1976. Results for a threefold analysis are reported. When the seven‐year period was considered as a whole, the regulatory system was not found to be ineffective in implementing the “comparable‐earnings” and “capital‐attraction” criteria. This finding also holds for the pre‐October 1980 National Energy Plan‐announcement period. The regulatory system was not effective, however, in achieving its proclaimed goals on a yearly basis. The “consumer‐protection” hypothesis could not be rejected for the Canadian oil and gas‐pipeline regulatory system.

Résumé

Ce mémoire examine l'efficacité de la réglementation relative aux prix d'utilisation des gazoducs et oléoducs au Canada sur une période de sept ans à partir de janvier 1976. Les résultats de cette analyse comportent trois volets. Si l'on tient compte globablement des sept années qui sont évaluées, la réglementation ne se montre pas inefficace du point de vue des profits comparatifs et de la facilité d'obtention de capitaux. Ces résultats s'appliquent à la période précédant la mise en vigueur de la Politique énergétique nationale en octobre 1980. Cependant, la réglementation n'atteint pas les objectifs fixés. L'hypothèse de protection du consommateur ne pouvait ětre rejetée dans le cas de la réglementation relative aux prix d'utilisation des gazoducs et oléoducs au Canada.
Criteria Used in Selecting Vroom‐Yetton Decision Styles
Authors: Field Richard H. G. , Wedley William C. , Hayward Mark W. J.
Published: September 2010

An organizational leader confronting a problem needs to make a decision of what to do to resolve it. The Vroom and Yetton (VY) model of leadership and decision making specifies that the leader should analyze the problem according to seven situational criteria, and then determine which of five decision styles is most suited to solving the problem. What we do not know is if the seven criteria specified by the VY model are the most important criteria to be considered. We need to know what information individuals pull out of a decision situation case and the effect it has on their choice of decision style. An experiment was performed in which 155 subjects read two managerial cases each, and without any prompting specified the criteria of importance to them when selecting a Vroom‐Yetton decision style. It was found that the criteria of information availability; subordinate decision acceptance; task relevant experience levels of the leader and subordinates; the importance of decision quality; and the time available to make the decision were most important. Support was found for the VY model's theoretical specification of important problem criteria, though other important decision criteria were also uncovered.

En milieu organisationnel, un leader, faisant face à un problème, doit prendre une décision pour le résoudre. Le modèle de leadership et de prise de décision Vroom et Yetton (VY) précise comment le leader peut analyser le problème. En se servant de sept critères reliés à la situation et, ensuite, en déterminant le meilleur des cinq styles de décision, le leader peut arriver à résoudre le problème. Ce que nous ignorons, c'est si les sept critères présentés dans le modèle VY sont les plus importants critères à considérer. Nous devons savoir le genre de renseignements que les individus peuvent retenir lors d'une situation de décision et les effets que ces renseignements ont sur leur choix d'un style de décision. L'expérimentation exécutée comprenait 155 sujets. Ces sujets ont lu chacun deux cas de gestion et, sans ětre empressés, ont précisé les critères qu'ils considéraient importants pour leur choix d'un style de décision VY. Les résultats indiquent que la disponibilité de renseignements, l'acceptation des décisions par les subordonnés, les niveaux d'expérience reliés à la tǎche du leader et des subordonnés, l'importance de la qualité de décision, et le temps disponible pour la prise de décision sont les critères considérés les plus importants. L'appui pour les précisions théoriques des critères importants de problèmes du modèle VY est en évidence dans les résultats. également, la recherche démontre l'existence d'autres critères importants pour la prise de décision.
Study of a MEMS-Based Free Piston Expander for Energy Sustainability
Authors: Weiss Leland W.
Published: September 2010

A novel free piston expander (FPE) has been designed and modeled for energy sustainability applications. Specifically, the device has been designed to produce power from low-temperature energy sources as part of a larger low-temperature steam system. Due to the needs imposed by sustainability applications, the FPE was designed with two membranes: the first, a primary power output membrane and, the second, a regenerative membrane capable of mechanical energy recapture during the FPE cycle. The FPE model was studied under a variety of conditions. Different membrane sizes were shown to alter FPE performance considerably. Using 10 mm side length membranes, modeling showed that up to 25.6 mW of FPE power output was possible. The gap between the sliding free piston and its surrounding bore was examined using various fluids and gap geometries to simulate friction losses. By reducing fluid viscosity or increasing piston/bore gap, the energy lost to fluid shear was minimized. This resulted in improved energy recapture via the regenerative membrane. Various piston masses and materials were also considered. Decreasing piston mass reduced piston stroke length and increased frequency of operation. This resulted in an increased power output. The energy recapture capability of the FPE showed approximately 88% to 90% effectiveness for most of the scenarios considered in this work.