bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymmetric Volatility, Correlation and Returns Dynamics Between the U.S. and U.K. Securitized Real Estate Markets
Authors: Michayluk David , Wilson Patrick J. , Zurbruegg Ralf
Published: February 2006

We construct synchronously priced indices of securitized property listed on the New York Stock Exchange and London Stock Exchange. The indices are then utilized to examine dynamic information flows between the two markets. By analyzing returns behavior, asymmetric volatility spillover effects and exceedance correlations, this study shows that the real estate markets in these two countries experience significant interaction on a daily basis when synchronously priced data are utilized. These results are different from when close‐to‐close returns are examined, implying that the use of close‐to‐close data can misconstrue the true dynamics that exist between these markets. Results also show significant asymmetric effects on both the volatility and correlation dynamics between the markets. This has several implications for property portfolio managers, indicating that positive and negative news impact the markets differently. This is particularly true for the United Kindom, where daily foreign news from the United States can influence U.K. volatility.
Effect of an Active Abdominal Pulse Generator on Defibrillation Thresholds with a Dual‐Coil, Transvenous ICD Lead System
Authors: RASHBA ERIC J. , FARASAT MORTEZA , KIRK MALCOLM M. , SHOROFSKY STEPHEN R. , PETERS ROBERT W. , GOLD MICHAEL R.
Published: February 2006

Introduction: Many patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) have older lead systems, which are usually not replaced at the time of pulse generator replacement unless a malfunction is noted. Therefore, optimization of defibrillation with these lead systems is clinically important. The objective of this prospective study was to determine if an active abdominal pulse generator (Can) affects chronic defibrillation thresholds (DFTs) with a dual‐coil, transvenous ICD lead system.

Methods and Results: The study population consisted of 39 patients who presented for routine abdominal pulse generator replacement. Each patient underwent two assessments of DFT using a step‐down protocol, with the order of testing randomized. The distal right ventricular (RV) coil was the anode for the first phase of the biphasic shocks. The proximal superior vena cava (SVC) coil was the cathode for the Lead Alone configuration (RV → SVC). For the Active Can configuration, the SVC coil and Can were connected electrically as the cathode (RV → SVC + Can). The Active Can configuration was associated with a significant decrease in shock impedance (39.5 ± 5.8 Ω vs. 50.0 ± 7.6 Ω, P < 0.01) and a significant increase in peak current (8.3 ± 2.6 A vs. 7.2 ± 2.4 A, P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in DFT energy (9.0 ± 4.6 J vs. 9.8 ± 5.2 J) or leading edge voltage (319 ± 86 V vs. 315 ± 83 V). An adequate safety margin for defibrillation (≥10 J) was present in all patients with both shocking configurations.

Conclusion: DFTs are similar with the Active Can and Lead Alone configurations when a dual‐coil, transvenous lead is used with a left abdominal pulse generator. Since most commercially available ICDs are only available with an active can, our data support the use of an active can device with this lead system for patients who present for routine pulse generator replacement.
Father Responsivity: Couple Processes and the Coconstruction of Fatherhood
Authors: MATTA DANA SHAWN , KNUDSON‐MARTIN CARMEN
Published: February 2006

Forty in‐depth interviews of heterosexual parents of children 5 five years of age and younger are analyzed using a qualitative grounded theory approach to understand how couples coproduce fatherhood within their day‐to‐day relationships and in social, cultural, and economic contexts. The analysis identifies the construct “responsivity” as a central process through which, to varying degrees, fathers are aware of the needs of their wives and children and able to take an active part in meeting them. Three groups of fathers are examined according to their level of responsivity: low, moderate, and high. Factors influencing degree of father responsivity include gender constructions, power and the wife's influence, attunement, work schedules, and emotional tradeoffs. Implications for practice are suggested.
On Wisdom
Authors: GRUNEBAUM HENRY
Published: February 2006

This article explores some of the features involved in making wise decisions in couples and family therapy. Delineating what qualities are involved in making wise decisions in life—so as to live the “good life” in the polis, and the necessary contributions of life experiences in this task—was first discussed by Aristotle.

A major problem that therapists face today is that our society offers many different ways of living well—or for that matter, badly—and our theories do the same. Family therapy theories are not value free. I clarify that different family theories embody different values: clear boundaries, good attachments, the ability to communicate, and so on. If our theories foster certain values, then, as Isaiah Berlin has made clear, seeking to achieve a particular value leads to placing less value on another. The article concludes with some thoughts about values that therapists could appropriately follow in their work.
Intraocular malignant teratoid medulloepithelioma in an adult: clinicopathological case report and review of the literature
Authors: Sosińska‐Mielcarek Katarzyna , Senkus‐Konefka Elżbieta , Jaskiewicz Kazimierz , Kordek Radzislaw , Jassem Jacek
Published: February 2006

Purpose:  To report a case of intraocular medulloepithelioma, an embryonal tumour with extremely rare presentation in adults.

Method:  The case of a 44‐year‐old man with intraocular malignant teratoid medulloepithelioma, primarily diagnosed as intraocular teratoma, is described and the literature on this subject is reviewed.

Results:  The patient presented with progressive proptosis caused by a tumour in the left eyeball. He had a 28‐year history of loss of vision in the left eye. Histopathological examination of the enucleated eye demonstrated an intraocular teratoma. No adjuvant treatment was given. Six months later the patient presented with massive progression in the left orbit and intracranial invasion. Cisplatin‐based chemotherapy was administered, but discontinued after two cycles due to poor tolerance and lack of response. At subsequent pathology review, a final diagnosis of malignant teratoid medulloepithelioma was made. Salvage radiotherapy (60 Gy in 30 fractions) resulted in partial response of the intracranial lesion. However, the patient died 6 months later due to intracranial tumour progression.

Conclusion:  Medulloepithelioma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intraocular tumours in adults, especially in the case of coexisting, long‐standing ocular symptoms. In some cases this disease is very aggressive.
Neural transdifferentiation of mesenchymal stem cells – a critical review
Authors: KRABBE CHRISTINA , ZIMMER JENS , MEYER MORTEN
Published: February 2006

The classic concept of stem cell differentiation can be illustrated as driving into a series of one‐way streets, where a given stem cell through generations of daughter cells becomes correspondingly restricted and committed towards a definitive lineage with fully differentiated cells as end points. According to this concept, tissue‐derived adult stem cells can only give rise to cells and cell lineages found in the natural, specified tissue of residence. During the last few years it has, however, been reported that under certain experimental conditions adult stem cells may lose their tissue or germ layer‐specific phenotypes and become reprogrammed to transdifferentiate into cells of other germ layers and tissues. The transdifferentiation process is referred to as “stem cell plasticity”. Mesenchymal stem cells, present in various tissues, including bone marrow, have – besides differentiation into bone, cartilage, smooth muscle and skeletal muscle – also been reported to transdifferentiate into skin, liver and brain cells (neurons and glia). Conversely, neural stem cells have been reported to give rise to blood cells. The actual occurrence of transdifferentiation is currently much debated, but would have immense clinical potential in cell replacement therapy and regenerative medicine. Controlled neural differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells might thus become an important source of cells for cell therapy of neurodegenerative diseases, since autologous adult mesenchymal stem cells are more easily harvested and effectively expanded than corresponding neural stem cells. This article provides a critical review of the reports of neural transdifferentiation of mesenchymal stem cells, and proposes a set of criteria to be fulfilled for validation of transdifferentiation.
The embryonic aorta‐gonad‐mesonephros region as a generator of haematopoietic stem cells
Authors: PIETILÄ ILKKA , VAINIO SEPPO
Published: February 2006

During mammalian embryonic development the definitive haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) may arise either in the extra‐embryonic mesoderm or in the aorta‐gonad‐mesonephros (AGM) region that forms in close proximity to the assembling urogenital system, generating the gonad, cortex of the adrenal gland and metanephros. Researchers have been attempting for a long time to define the region of importance for generating the definitive HSCs that colonize the fetal liver and bone marrow, the two major sites where haematopoiesis takes place in the adult. The fetal liver might gain HSCs from both of the primary haematopoietic sources, but the extra‐embryonic HSCs seem not to be able to colonize adult bone marrow directly. It is known that the microenvironment around the HSCs is important for directing cell fates, but we do not yet have much idea about the cell‐cell interactions, tissue interactions and molecules that regulate cell behaviour in the AGM. We will here discuss the contribution of the AGM to definitive haematopoiesis in mammals and review some of the cell‐cell interactions and associated signalling systems involved in the development of AGM stem cells.
Progenitor cells in liver regeneration: molecular responses controlling their activation and expansion
Authors: SANTONI‐RUGIU ERIC , JELNES PETER , THORGEIRSSON SNORRI S. , BISGAARD HANNE CATHRINE
Published: February 2006

Although normally quiescent, the adult mammalian liver possesses a great capacity to regenerate after different types of injuries in order to restore the lost liver mass and ensure maintenance of the multiple liver functions. Major players in the regeneration process are mature residual cells, including hepatocytes, cholangiocytes and stromal cells. However, if the regenerative capacity of mature cells is impaired by liver‐damaging agents, hepatic progenitor cells are activated and expand into the liver parenchyma. Upon transit amplification, the progenitor cells may generate new hepatocytes and biliary cells to restore liver homeostasis. In recent years, hepatic progenitor cells have been the subject of increasing interest due to their therapeutic potential in numerous liver diseases as alternative or supportive/complementary tools to liver transplantation. While the first investigations on hepatic progenitor cells have focused on their origin and phenotypic characterization, recent attention has focused on the influence of the hepatic microenvironment on their activation and proliferation. This microenvironment comprises the extracellular matrix, epithelial and non‐epithelial resident liver cells, and recruited inflammatory cells as well as the variety of growth‐modulating molecules produced and/or harboured by these elements. The cellular and molecular responses to different regenerative stimuli seem to depend on the injury inflicted and consequently on the molecular microenvironment created in the liver by a certain insult. This review will focus on molecular responses controlling activation and expansion of the hepatic progenitor cell niche, emphasizing similarities and differences in the microenvironments orchestrating regeneration by recruitment of progenitor cell populations or by replication of mature cells.
The bone regenerative effect of platelet‐rich plasma in combination with an osteoconductive material in rat cranial defects
Authors: Plachokova Adelina S. , Van Den Dolder Juliette , Stoelinga Paul J. , Jansen John A.
Published: February 2006

Abstract: The effect of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) on bone regeneration, in combination with an osteoconductive material, was evaluated in a rat model. Cranial defects, 6.2 mm in diameter, were filled with HA/β‐TCP particles, HA/β‐TCP particles combined with PRP and HA/β‐TCP particles combined with PRP gel, where some were left empty as a control. After 4 weeks of implantation histological, histomorphometrical and micro‐computed tomography analyses revealed no difference in new bone formation among the groups. Further, no additional effect of PRP gel in comparison with PRP liquid was detected, except for the increased handling capacity of the graft. These findings suggest that PRP had no positive effect on bone formation in addition to an osteoconductive material after an implantation period of 4 weeks. Also, no negative effect was seen, and neither PRP nor HA/β‐TCP hampered bone ingrowth into the defects.
Structural and functional roles for β‐strand 7 in the α‐crystallin domain of p26, a polydisperse small heat shock protein from Artemia franciscana
Authors: Sun Yu , Bojikova‐Fournier Svetla , MacRae Thomas H.
Published: February 2006

Oviparous development in the extremophile crustacean, Artemia franciscana, generates encysted embryos which enter a profound state of dormancy, termed diapause. Encystment is marked by the synthesis of p26, a polydisperse small heat shock protein thought to protect embryos from stress. In order to elucidate structural/functional relationships within p26 and other polydisperse small heat shock proteins, and to better define the protein's role during diapause, amino acid substitutions R110G, F112R, R114A and Y116D were generated within the p26 α‐crystallin domain by site‐directed mutagenesis. These residues were chosen because they are highly conserved across species boundaries, and molecular modelling indicates that they are part of a key structural interface between dimers. The F112R mutation, which had the greatest impact on oligomerization, placed two charged residues at the p26 dimer–dimer interface, demonstrating the importance of β‐strand 7 in tetramer formation. All mutated versions of p26 were less able than wild‐type p26 to confer thermotolerance on transformed bacteria and they exhibited diminished chaperone action in three in vitro assays; however, all variants retained protective activity. This apparent stability of p26 may, by prolonging effective chaperone life in vivo, enhance embryo stress resistance. All substitutions modified p26 intrinsic fluorescence, surface hydrophobicity and secondary structure, and the pronounced changes in variant R114A, as indicated by these physical measurements, correlated with the greatest loss of function. Although mutation R114A had the greatest effect on p26 chaperoning, it had the least on oligomerization. These results demonstrate that in contrast to many other small heat shock proteins, p26 effectiveness as a chaperone is independent of oligomerization. The results also reinforce the idea, occasioned by modelling, that R114 is removed slightly from dimer–dimer interfaces. Moreover, β‐strand 7 is shown to have an important role in oligomerization of p26, a function first proposed for this structural element upon crystallization of wheat Hsp16.9, a small heat shock protein with different quaternary structure.
Inhibition of human ether à go‐go potassium channels by Ca2+/calmodulin binding to the cytosolic N‐ and C‐termini
Authors: Ziechner Ulrike , Schönherr Roland , Born Anne‐Kathrin , Gavrilova‐Ruch Oxana , Glaser Ralf W , Malesevic Miroslav , Küllertz Gerhard , Heinemann Stefan H
Published: February 2006

Human ether à go‐go potassium channels (hEAG1) open in response to membrane depolarization and they are inhibited by Ca2+/calmodulin (CaM), presumably binding to the C‐terminal domain of the channel subunits. Deletion of the cytosolic N‐terminal domain resulted in complete abolition of Ca2+/CaM sensitivity suggesting the existence of further CaM binding sites. A peptide array‐based screen of the entire cytosolic protein of hEAG1 identified three putative CaM‐binding domains, two in the C‐terminus (BD‐C1: 674–683, BD‐C2: 711–721) and one in the N‐terminus (BD‐N: 151–165). Binding of GST‐fusion proteins to Ca2+/CaM was assayed with fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy and precipitation assays. In the presence of Ca2+, BD‐N and BD‐C2 provided dissociation constants in the nanomolar range, BD‐C1 bound with lower affinity. Mutations in the binding domains reduced inhibition of the functional channels by Ca2+/CaM. Employment of CaM‐EF‐hand mutants showed that CaM binding to the N‐ and C‐terminus are primarily dependent on EF‐hand motifs 3 and 4. Hence, closure of EAG channels presumably requires the binding of multiple CaM molecules in a manner more complex than previously assumed.
Metabolomics, modelling and machine learning in systems biology – towards an understanding of the languages of cells
Authors: Kell Douglas B.
Published: February 2006

The newly emerging field of systems biology involves a judicious interplay between high‐throughput ‘wet’ experimentation, computational modelling and technology development, coupled to the world of ideas and theory. This interplay involves iterative cycles, such that systems biology is not at all confined to hypothesis‐dependent studies, with intelligent, principled, hypothesis‐generating studies being of high importance and consequently very far from aimless fishing expeditions. I seek to illustrate each of these facets. Novel technology development in metabolomics can increase substantially the dynamic range and number of metabolites that one can detect, and these can be exploited as disease markers and in the consequent and principled generation of hypotheses that are consistent with the data and achieve this in a value‐free manner. Much of classical biochemistry and signalling pathway analysis has concentrated on the analyses of changes in the concentrations of intermediates, with ‘local’ equations − such as that of Michaelis and Mentenv=({{V}}max·{{S}})/({{S}}+{{K}}m) − that describe individual steps being based solely on the instantaneous values of these concentrations. Recent work using single cells (that are not subject to the intellectually unsupportable averaging of the variable displayed by heterogeneous cells possessing nonlinear kinetics) has led to the recognition that some protein signalling pathways may encode their signals not (just) as concentrations (AM or amplitude‐modulated in a radio analogy) but via changes in the dynamics of those concentrations (the signals are FM or frequency‐modulated). This contributes in principle to a straightforward solution of the crosstalk problem, leads to a profound reassessment of how to understand the downstream effects of dynamic changes in the concentrations of elements in these pathways, and stresses the role of signal processing (and not merely the intermediates) in biological signalling. It is this signal processing that lies at the heart of understanding the languages of cells. The resolution of many of the modern and postgenomic problems of biochemistry requires the development of a myriad of new technologies (and maybe a new culture), and thus regular input from the physical sciences, engineering, mathematics and computer science. One solution, that we are adopting in the Manchester Interdisciplinary Biocentre (http://www.mib.ac.uk/) and the Manchester Centre for Integrative Systems Biology (http://www.mcisb.org/), is thus to colocate individuals with the necessary combinations of skills. Novel disciplines that require such an integrative approach continue to emerge. These include fields such as chemical genomics, synthetic biology, distributed computational environments for biological data and modelling, single cell diagnostics/bionanotechnology, and computational linguistics/text mining.
EFFECT OF VIEWING BACKGROUND ON TURBIDITY PERCEPTION THRESHOLDS
Authors: FLEET CHRISTINE F. , SIEBERT KARL J.
Published: February 2006

Colloidal‐size synthetic‐polymer microspheres of three sizes (0.15, 0.31 and 0.70‐µm diameter) were each suspended in liquids of three different colors (clear, tan and dark brown) at a range of concentrations. The samples were presented to panelists in a viewing box. Visual‐threshold determinations were made for each of the nine sample sets using the ascending method of limits (AMLs) and bright illumination (1,192 lux) with each of the three viewing backgrounds: black velvet, white cotton and white taffeta. The thresholds were much more similarly expressed as turbidimeter observations than as either weight or number concentration. With the black‐velvet background, the thresholds ranged from 0.206 to 2.190 nephelometric turbidity units (NTU). With white cotton and white taffeta, they were considerably higher (P < 0.001), ranging from 1.97 to 41.00 and 2.97 to 34.40 NTU, respectively. This large difference appears to be a matter of contrast – scattered white light is much easier to perceive against a dark background.
Geochemical Factors Controlling Radium Activity in a Sandstone Aquifer
Authors: Grundl Tim , Cape Mike
Published: February 2006

Geochemical processes behind the occurrence of radium activities in excess of the U.S. EPA’s drinking water limit of 5 pCi/L combined radium were investigated in a regional sandstone aquifer located in southeastern Wisconsin. Geochemical speciation modeling (PHREEQC 2.7) combined with a detailed understanding of the regional flow system provided by recent flow modeling efforts was used to determine that radium coprecipitation into barite controls radium activity in the unconfined portion of the aquifer. As the aquifer transitions from unconfined to confined conditions, radium levels rise and the water becomes more sulfate rich yet the aquifer remains at saturation with barite throughout. Calculations based on published distribution coefficients and the observed Ra:Ba atomic ratios indicate that barite contains ∼12 μg/kg coprecipitated radium. Confined portions of the aquifer have high concentrations of sulfate, and barium concentrations become too low to be an effective control on radium activity. Additional, as yet undefined, controls on radium are operative in the downgradient, confined portion of the aquifer.
Comparison of Biophysical and Biologic Properties of α‐Helical Enantiomeric Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Chen Yuxin , Vasil Adriana I. , Rehaume Linda , Mant Colin T. , Burns Jane L. , Vasil Michael L. , Hancock Robert E. W. , Hodges Robert S.
Published: February 2006

In our previous study (Chen et al. J Biol Chem 2005, 280:12316–12329), we utilized an α‐helical antimicrobial peptide V681 as the framework to study the effects of peptide hydrophobicity, amphipathicity, and helicity on biologic activities where we obtained several V681 analogs with dramatic improvement in peptide therapeutic indices against gram‐negative and gram‐positive bacteria. In the present study, the d‐enantiomers of three peptides – V681, V13AD and V13KL were synthesized to compare biophysical and biologic properties with their enantiomeric isomers. Each d‐enantiomer was shown by circular dichroism spectroscopy to be a mirror image of the corresponding l‐isomer in benign conditions and in the presence of 50% trifluoroethanol. l‐ and d‐enantiomers exhibited equivalent antimicrobial activities against a diverse group of Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinical isolates, various gram‐negative and gram‐positive bacteria and a fungus. In addition, l‐ and d‐enantiomeric peptides were equally active in their ability to lyse human red blood cells. The similar activity of l‐ and d‐enantiomeric peptides on prokaryotic or eukaryotic cell membranes suggests that there are no chiral receptors and the cell membrane is the sole target for these peptides. Peptide d‐V13KD showed significant improvements in the therapeutic indices compared with the parent peptide V681 by 53‐fold against P. aeruginosa strains, 80‐fold against gram‐negative bacteria, 69‐fold against gram‐positive bacteria, and 33‐fold against Candida albicans. The excellent stability of d‐enantiomers to trypsin digestion (no proteolysis by trypsin) compared with the rapid breakdown of the l‐enantiomers highlights the advantage of the d‐enantiomers and their potential as clinical therapeutics.
An experimental investigation of aeration performance in stepped spillways
Authors: Baylar Ahmet , Emiroglu M. Emin , Bagatur Tamer
Published: February 2006

Dissolved oxygen content is a prime indicator of water quality. The oxygen transfer across the air–water interface at a hydraulic structure, such as a weir or spillway, occurs by self‐aeration along the chute and by flow aeration in the hydraulic jump at the downstream end of the structure. Despite increased research activities in the field of stepped spillways, the aeration efficiency of stepped spillways is not yet known. This paper investigates the aeration efficiency of stepped spillways, in particular the effects of varying chute angle and step height. Empirical correlations predicting length of the nonaerated flow region and aeration efficiency were developed. The results indicate that stepped spillways are effective for oxygen transfer.
Sludge dewatering using the reed bed system in the Gaza Strip, Palestine
Authors: Nassar Abdel Majid , Smith Michael , Afifi Samir
Published: February 2006

Sludge treatment using reed beds is more attractive in the Gaza Strip than traditional sludge drying beds. Sludges having solids contents of 1–2% can be applied to reed beds at a loading of 40 cm/m2 every 2 weeks. The infiltration rate for a reed bed system is high, and the evapotranspiration rate is typically 170% of pan evaporation. The cost of sludge treatment using reed beds is 0.34 US$/m3 compared with 1.01 US$/m3 for treatment using conventional drying beds. This paper presents the results of using reed beds for sludge treatment in the Gaza Strip for 3 years.
Likely sensitivity of bottlenose dolphins to pile‐driving noise
Authors: David J.A.
Published: February 2006

Pile driver‐generated noise has the potential to affect dolphin populations adversely as it is detectable up to 40 km from the source. At 9 kHz, this noise is capable of masking strong vocalisations within 10–15 km and weak vocalisations up to approximately 40 km. The masking radius reduces as the frequency increases: 6 km at 50 kHz and 1.2 km at 115 kHz. The impacts of masking are expected to be limited by the intermittent nature of pile driver noise, the dolphin's directional hearing, their ability to adjust vocalisation amplitude and frequency, and the structured content of their signals. Behavioural modifications have been observed in response to underwater sounds, including those produced by pile drivers, although in the latter case this may have been due to redistribution of prey species. A range of mitigation measures are proposed that are aimed at reducing the impact of pile driver noise on dolphin populations.
Urban diffuse pollution: key data information approaches for the Water Framework Directive
Authors: Ellis J. Bryan , Mitchell Gordon
Published: February 2006

The Water Framework Directive (WFD) provides a coherent structure within which the problems of diffuse urban pollution can be effectively tackled and managed. The context of impermeable surface water quality within the terms of the Directive are outlined, and the pollutant sources and loadings associated with various urban land uses are identified. Stormwater flows and quality are sufficient to prejudice any ‘good’ ecological potential, particularly in terms of chronic receiving water sediment toxicity. A simple volume–concentration method for the prediction of pollutant loadings and impact assessment on a subcatchment scale is described and discussed.
Membrane performance enhancer evaluations on pilot‐ and full‐scale membrane bioreactors
Authors: Collins John H. , Yoon Seong‐Hoon , Musale Deepak , Kong Jian Feng , Koppes Jeroen , Sundararajan Suma , Tsai Shih‐Perng , Hallsby G. Anders , Cachia Philippe , Kronoveter Karen
Published: February 2006

Recently developed polymeric membrane performance enhancer product, MPE50, was tested in various pilot‐ and full‐scale membrane bioreactors (MBRs). The Initial MPE50 dosage was determined by visual jar tests and by using various bench‐top filtration tests. Different amounts of MPE50 were dosed, and the particle size and supernatant clarity of the mixed liquor were monitored visually. Bench‐top filtration tests were also conducted. A 50% higher MPE50 dosage is recommended to be added to the pilot/full‐scale bioreactors because, based on experience, some of the soluble microbial products in the mixed liquor do not completely react with polymer during the relatively short bench‐test mixing time interval. With the addition of 400 mg/L MPE50 to a pilot MBR, the design flow was increased twofold without any significant transmembrane pressure (TMP) increase for 1 day. The control TMP surged within a few hours without MPE50. Long‐term field trials in a full‐scale plant also showed a substantial flux increase. In addition to flux enhancement, MPE50 helped to remove foam from the bioreactors and improved plant aesthetics, safety and general operating performance.
Rights Theory
Authors: Rainbolt George W.
Published: February 2006

Both moral and legal theory feature prominent talk about rights. Yet there is very little agreement about what rights are, about why we use rights in our moral or legal theories, or about what to do when there is a conflict between rights. This article surveys many of the popular theory for analysing rights and explaining their scope.
Aesthetic Experience and Aesthetic Value
Authors: Stecker Robert
Published: February 2006

What possesses aesthetic value? According to a broad view, it can be found almost anywhere. According to a narrower view, it is found primarily in art and is applied to other items by courtesy of sharing some of the properties that make artworks aesthetically valuable. In this paper I will defend the broad view in answering the question: how should we characterize aesthetic value and other aesthetic concepts? I will also criticize some alternative answers.
Propositional Attitudes
Authors: Schroeder Timothy
Published: February 2006

The propositional attitudes are attitudes such as believing and desiring, taken toward propositions such as the proposition that snow flurries are expected, or that the Prime Minister likes poutine. Collectively, our views about the propositional attitudes make up much of folk psychology, our everyday theory of how the mind works.
The Problem of Change
Authors: Wasserman Ryan
Published: February 2006

The Eleatic philosophers argued that it was impossible for anything to change, since that would require something to differ from itself. Although this line of reasoning is unpersuasive, it challenges us to provide an account of temporal predication, which is the focus of much recent work on change. This paper surveys various approaches to change and temporal predication and addresses related questions about identity, persistence, properties, time, tense, and temporal logic.
Partial atrioventricular canal defect in a dog
Authors: Santamarina G. , Espino L. , Vila M. , Suarez M. L.
Published: February 2006

A case of a partial atrial canal defect is described in a nine‐month‐old female English setter. The patient had a large ostium primum atrial septal defect and a concurrent malformation of the mitral valve. Electrocardiographic and radiographic findings were suggestive of marked enlargement of the right heart and pulmonary overcirculation. Definitive diagnosis and assessment of the haemodynamic consequences were made using echocardiography. The magnitude of the left‐to‐right intracardiac shunt was estimated by measuring the pulmonary to systemic flow ratio (Qp/Qs) from Doppler‐derived pulmonary and aortic blood flow. The results of this report suggest that dogs with a partial atrioventricular canal defect and concurrent mild mitral regurgitation may exhibit no clinical signs during the first years of life, even in cases with a Qp/Qs ratio of greater than 2.
Unilateral renal agenesis associated with additional congenital abnormalities of the urinary tract in a Pekingese bitch
Authors: Agut A. , del Palacio M. J. Fernandez , Laredo F. G. , Murciano J. , Bayon A. , Soler M.
Published: February 2006

An eight‐month‐old Pekingese bitch with urinary incontinence was found to have three congenital anomalies of the urinary tract: left renal agenesis, bilateral ectopic ureters with a left cranial blind‐ending ureter, and urinary bladder hypoplasia. The diagnoses were made by retrograde vaginourethrography, excretory urography, ultrasonography and duplex Doppler ultrasonography. Although urological anomalies associated with renal agenesis have been frequently observed, a cranial blind‐end ectopic ureter has not, to the authors’knowledge, been described in the bitch. The dog was managed medically with a restricted protein diet because of a compromised unilateral kidney with hydronephrosis and hydroureter.
Canine pleural and mediastinal effusions: a retrospective study of 81 cases
Authors: Mellanby R. J. , Villiers E. , Herrtage M. E.
Published: February 2006

Eighty‐one cases of canine pleural and/or mediastinal effusions were identified from radiography and ultrasonography records reviewed between 1992 and 2000 at the Queen's Veterinary School Hospital, University of Cambridge. All cases had a follow‐up period of at least 12 months. Twenty‐eight underlying disease processes were associated with pleural and/or mediastinal effusions. The most common disease was pyothorax (13 cases). Other common diseases identified were idiopathic pericardial effusion, cranial mediastinal mass, idiopathic chylothorax, secondary lung metastases and dilated cardiomyopathy. Approximately one‐quarter of all cases recovered completely after initial treatment and onethird of all cases either died during, or were euthanased immediately after, completion of the initial investigations.
Bronchogenic cyst in a German shepherd dog
Authors: Dahl K. , Rørvik A. M. , Lanageland M.
Published: February 2006

Intermittent episodes of fever, severe dyspnoea and cyanosis were observed in a two‐and‐a‐half‐year‐old male German shepherd dog. The clinical signs were of sudden onset but disappeared within eight hours, in five almost identical episodes over a period of 40 days. Radiological examination of the thorax revealed a large rounded area of radiolucency surrounded by a thin radiopaque structure. The lesion increased in volume between examinations, but otherwise remained similar in appearance. It could not be confirmed from the radiographs whether the structure was situated in lung tissue or mediastinum. Bronchoscopic examination revealed no abnormal findings and there was no bacterial growth from samples taken 30 days after the onset of symptoms. A large, vesicular structure, partly adherent to the mediastinum, was surgically removed from the left cranial lung lobe. The structure was 8 to 10 cm in diameter and partly filled with mucoid pink fluid. Histological examination revealed that the wall contained traces of bronchial epithelial cells. On bacteriological examination of the fluid, Gram‐positive, mucusforming bacteria were present. The definitive gross pathological and histopathological diagnosis was a bronchogenic cyst which had developed secondarily to bronchiectasis. Bronchitis and peribronchitis were also identified. The dog recovered well after surgery and, at the time of writing, was in active duty as a police dog, showing no signs of respiratory illness.
Use of punctal occlusion in the treatment of canine keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Authors: Williams D. L.
Published: February 2006

Twenty eyes of 10 dogs with keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) were treated by occlusion of the ventral nasolacrimal punctum with a silicone punctal plug in order to increase the volume of the remaining tear lake. Punctal size was measured using a commercially available punctal gauge and the appropriate sized plug was inserted under local anaesthesia. Seven dogs showed an increase in Schirmer tear test I (STT) value. STT values immediately prior to plug placement were 2·3 ±1·7 mm/minute. STT values with punctal occlusion were 6·1 ±4·1 mm/minute, giving a mean increase of 3·8±2·7 mm/minute (P< 0 ·001). In 14 eyes of eight dogs, the increase in STT values was accompanied by a clinical improvement in the appearance of the ocular surface. In the three dogs with no increase in STT values, the use of punctual plugs reduced the frequency of artificial tear replacement therapy required to maintain a healthy ocular surface. These results show that use of punctal plugs in dogs with KCS may be appropriate where other lacrimomimetic medications have been unsuccessful.
Insulinoma in a normoglycaemic dog with low serum fructosamine
Authors: Mellanby R. J. , Herrtage M. E.
Published: February 2006

An insullnoma was diagnosed in an eight‐year‐old, male golden retriever. Four fasted serum glucose concentrations were within the reference values over a seven‐week period. Two serum fructosamine values over the same seven‐week period were both low. An exploratory laparotomy and histopathology of an excised pancreatic nodule confirmed the diagnosis of insulinoma. This report demonstrates that a dog with a histologically confirmed insulinoma can have normal fasting serum glucose concentrations on multiple assays. It also demonstrates that fructosamine assays may be helpful in the diagnostic evaluation of normoglycaemic dogs with clinical signs suggestive of insullnoma.
Rupture of the cranial pubic tendon in the cat
Authors: Friend E. J. , White R. A. S.
Published: February 2006

Seven cats with rupture of the cranial pubic tendon (CPT) were presented to the authors between 1992 and 2001. The causal aetiology was unclear in each case. Diagnosis was made on physical examination (five animals) or surgical exploration (two animals). Concurrent injuries were present in four cats, including injury to the urinary tract and musculoskeletal system. All ruptures were surgically explored and primary repair of the CPT rupture was performed in five cats. Repair was not possible in two cats, and follow‐up examination showed that scar tissue had apparently formed to support the deficit. All cats were asymptomatic at follow‐up examination. The prognosis for CPT rupture in the cat is favourable.
Evaluation of two point‐of‐care analysers for measurement of fructosamine or haemoglobin A1c in dogs
Authors: Davison L. J. , Podd S. L. , Ristic J. M. E. , Herrtage M. E. , Parnham A. , Catchpole B.
Published: February 2006

Measurement of glycosylated proteins such as fructosamine and haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) can be used to assess glycaemic control in canine diabetic patients. Two point‐of‐care analysers, designed for human diabetics, were evaluated for use in dogs. Blood samples were collected from 50 normoglycaemic dogs, 100 diabetic patients and five dogs with insulinoma and tested using the In Charge fructosamine meter and the Haemaquant/Glycosal HbA1c meter. Readings were obtained in all cases except for 21 of 50 diabetics, which were above the upper limit of the In Charge meter. Diabetic dogs had higher fructosamine and HbA1c concentrations compared to controls. However, there was poor agreement between the In Charge meter readings and serum fructosamine concentrations, suggesting that there are problems associated with the use of this device in dogs. HbA1c concentrations showed a high degree of correlation with glycosylated haemoglobin measured at an external laboratory, suggesting that the Haemaquant/Glycosal meter warrants further evaluation for veterinary use.
Eosinophilic diseases in two Cavalier King Charles spaniels
Authors: German A. J. , Holden D. J. , Hall E. J. , Day M. J.
Published: February 2006

This report describes the clinical presentation of two Cavalier King Charles spaniels with different eosinophilic diseases. The first case presented with dyspnoea and a non‐productive cough, and investigations demonstrated eosinophilic bronchopneumonopathy. The second dog was referred for the investigation of haemorrhagic vomiting and diarrhoea and was eventually diagnosed with eosinophilic enteritis. Both dogs had concurrent eosinophilic stomatitis, and both responded completely to immunosuppressive glucocorticoid therapy. This report is the first to describe the concurrence of eosinophilic stomatitis and systemic eosinophilic disease in Cavalier King Charles spaniels, and suggest that this breed may be predisposed to eosinophilic syndromes.
Closure of large patent ductus arteriosus with a self‐expanding duct occluder in two dogs
Authors: Glaus T. M. , Berger§ F. , Ammann¶ F. W. , Kiowski¶ W. , Ohlert S. , Boller M. , Kästner S. , Reusch C. E. , Sisson D.
Published: February 2006

Of the different catheterisation methods described for closure of patent ductus arterlosus (PDA), coil embolisation is most commonly used in dogs. However, for a PDA larger than 4 to 5 mm in diameter, coil implantation is difficult. For these cases, the Amplatzer duct occluder (ADO) offers an alternative method. This report describes the successful implantation of an ADO in two dogs with large PDAs of approximately 6 mm diameter. The self‐expandible device attached to an implantation wire was advanced through a long sheath antegrade to the femoral vein through the right heart and pulmonary artery to the duct and delivered into the PDA. Thereafter the device was released by unscrewing it from the delivery cable. The large PDA in both dogs was totally occluded by these means without any residual shunt. Thus, the ADO is a controlled release implant that also allows occlusion of a large PDA. Its high costs limit its general use in veterinary medicine at the present time.
Feline hyperthyroidism: advances towards novel molecular therapeutics
Authors: Blanckwood L. , Argyle D. J.
Published: February 2006

Feline hyperthyroidism is the most common endocrine disorder of the elderly cat. Traditionally, the disease is treated by surgical thyroidectomy, medical management with antithyroid drugs or radiation therapy using iodine‐131. However, none of these treatments is ideal and molecular therapeutics may offer novel methods of treating the disease. This article reviews the background of, and preliminary investigations into, the development of a transcriptionally targeted somatic gene therapy strategy for the treatment of this feline condition.
Influence of a high fibre diet on glycaemic control and quality of life in dogs with diabetes mellitus
Authors: GRAHAM P. A. , MASKELL I. E. , RAWLINGS J. M. , NASH A. S. , MARKWELL P. J.
Published: February 2006

A study was undertaken to evaluate a high fibre diet used in the management of 10 dogs with naturally occurring insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus. Following baseline measurements of health and glycaemic control, the dogs were fed a canned diet containing a blend of insoluble and soluble dietary fibres and were monitored during the ensuing four months. Switching to the high fibre diet was associated with significantly lower mean 24‐hour and postprandial plasma glucose concentrations, which were maintained over the study period. The high fibre diet was also associated with significant reductions in plasma concentrations of fructosamine, glycated haemoglobin, free glycerol and cholesterol, and there were significant improvements in dog activity and demeanour. Bodyweight declined during the fourth month of feeding the diet, which is likely to have resulted from underfeeding relative to increased activity. The results indicate that a high fibre diet can significantly improve glycaemic control and quality of life in dogs with diabetes mellitus.
Syncope associated with paroxysmal atrioventricular block and ventricular standstill in a cat
Authors: Ferasin L. , vande Stadt M. , Rudorf H. , Langford K. , Moore A. Hotston
Published: February 2006

A four‐and‐a‐half‐year‐old neutered male shorthair cat was presented with a three‐week history of episodic fainting. Twenty‐four hour electrocardiographic (Holter) recording revealed frequent prolonged episodes of complete atrioventricular (AV) block with ventricular standstill. The fainting episodes coincided with the longest periods of ventricular inactivity. A permanent transjugular pacemaker was placed to prevent further life‐threatening episodes of syncope. Three months after discharge, the patient was re‐presented with sudden onset dyspnoea associated with chylothorax and electrocardiography showed a third degree (complete) AV block. The pacemaker was reprogrammed in view of the third degree AV block and the chylous effusion was successfully treated by repeated thoracocentesis and long‐term diuresis. However, the patient's general condition deteriorated progressively and the cat was euthanased five and a half months after implantation of the pacemaker.
Uterine carcinoma in a 10‐month‐old golden retriever
Authors: Cave T. A. , Hine R. , Howie F. , Thompson H. , Argyle D. J.
Published: February 2006

A 10‐month‐old golden retriever was presented for investigation of reduced appetite, occasional vomiting and general dullness. Abdominal radiography demonstrated a large mid‐abdominal soft tissue mass. Exploratory laparotomy identified a uterine mass, which was removed surgically. Histopathology confirmed uterine adenocarcinoma. Adjunctive chemotherapy with epirubicin was performed. The dog remained clinically normal without evidence of metastatic disease 24 months after surgery. Canine uterine adenocarcinoma is an extremely rare tumour and, as far as the authors are aware, this is the youngest reported case to date.
Use of proligestone in the management of three German shepherd dogs with pituitary dwarfism
Authors: Knottenbelt C. M. , Herrtage M. E.
Published: February 2006

Three German shepherd dogs were diagnosed with pituitary dwarfism and subsequently treated with proligestone. Treatment resulted in development of an adult hair coat, increased bodyweight and elevated insulin‐like growth factor‐1 concentration. Two dogs received thyroid supplementation during proligestone therapy. Adverse effects (cystic endometrial hyperplasia and acromegaly) were reported in two cases. No side effects were reported in the remaining case. This is the first report of the use of proligestone in the management of pituitary dwarfism.
Diffuse bronchiolo‐alveolar carcinoma in a dog
Authors: Bertazzolo W. , Zuliani D. , Pogliani E. , Caniatti M. , Bussadori C.
Published: February 2006

An eight‐year‐old female German wirehaired pointer was presented with signs of respiratory distress. Clinical examination, laboratory results, thoracic radiography and echocardiography indicated the presence of a diffuse interstitial lung disease with secondary appropriate erythrocytosis, pulmonary hypertension and cor pulmonale. Transthoracic fine needle aspiration biopsy of the lung suggested malignant epithelial neoplasia. A primary lung cancer with an unusually diffuse distribution of miliary/micronodular lesions was found at postmortem examination. Histological diagnosis was bronchiolo‐alveolar carcinoma. Bronchiolo‐alveolar carcinoma can occasionally occur in a diffuse fashion involving most or all of the lung parenchyma. In man, diffuse bronchiolo‐alveolar carcinoma is considered a great imitator of other, more common diffuse interstitial forms of lung disease. This case report indicates that it is also a differential diagnosis to consider in dogs.