bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autoimmune pancreatitis: an important diagnostic consideration in obstructive jaundice due to a pancreatic mass lesion
Authors: Swan M. P. , Bourke M. J. , Hopper A. D. , Kwan V. , Williams S. J.
Published: October 2010

Autoimmune or immunoglobulin G subtype (IgG4) pancreatitis is a newly recognised clinical entity and is an important differential diagnosis for patients presenting with obstructive jaundice. Knowledge of autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) continues to evolve both for pathogenesis and management; however diagnosis is often not straightforward or even considered, therefore a high index of suspicion remains an important tool for the treating physician. The six cases presented illustrate both the difficulties in diagnosis as well as management of this condition.
Glary appearance of men's faces and an evaluation method
Authors: Yamaguchi A. , Onishi K. , Kuriyama K.‐I.
Published: October 2010

It is generally thought that the ‘glary’ appearance impression developed on men's faces is closely related to the amount of skin surface lipids. Although the amount of sebum excretion decreases gradually with aging, the glary appearance is noticeable in middle‐aged men. In order to elucidate the factors other than skin surface lipids affecting the glary appearance of the forehead, a correlation study between the visual evaluation score of glary appearance and morphological measurements of skin surface was conducted. As a result of multiple regression analysis, the standardized partial regression coefficients were 0.490 for the amount of skin surface lipids, –0.370 for skin micro texture and –0.314 for value of skin color. The data indicated that the amount of skin surface lipids was most important, but skin micro texture and value of skin color were also irreplaceable factors to comprehend the glary appearance. A multiple regression equation of glary appearance degree was determined with optical parameters of surface reflection and body reflection by image analysis at the forehead. The results suggested that the surface reflection parameter was influenced by the skin micro texture and actual amount of skin surface lipids. Since Japanese men still hesitate to use skin care products daily for UV protection, the continual exposure of their skin to UV rays gives rise to the flattened micro texture and darkened tone of the skin. These topographical and/or optical changes of skin surface enhance the generation of glary appearance on men's faces. It was concluded that the improvement of the skin micro texture and the tone with skin care products after the removal of excess surface lipids with face wash products was effective for the reduction of the glary appearance.
Skin efficacy of liposomes composed of internal wool lipids rich in ceramides
Authors: Ramírez R. , Martí M. , Barba C. , Méndez S. , Parra J. L. , Coderch L.
Published: October 2010

Ceramides from intercellular lipids of skin stratum corneum are known to play an essential role in maintaining and structuring the lipid barrier of the skin. Internal wool lipids (IWL), which are also rich in ceramides, have a composition similar to that of the stratum corneum lipids. IWL extracted with chloroform/methanol azeotrope at the laboratory scale have been shown to be capable of forming liposomes with a stable bilayer structure. Furthermore, topical application of these IWL liposomes on intact and compromised skin has been demonstrated to improve barrier skin properties. In this study we evaluated the effect on human skin repair of different IWL extract compositions obtained by two extraction methodologies. The formation and characteristics of the liposomes prepared were greatly influenced by the IWL composition, primarily the sterol sulfate content. The IWL liposomes improved skin barrier integrity and increased skin hydration when applied onto intact skin. These improvements were slightly enhanced in the case of IWL liposomes that were richer in polar lipids.
A survivor's account of sexual exploitation by a Jungian analyst
Authors: Jones Susan
Published: October 2010

Abstract:  This essay explains the ramifications of sexual exploitation in the context of Jungian analysis. It argues that misuse of work specifically framed as Jungian can cause severe, deep, and long‐lasting harm. It suggests that Jungian professionals strengthen and increase the scope of their actions to deter rogue colleagues from exploiting their analysands.
Constructing the collective unconscious
Authors: Gullatz Stefan
Published: October 2010

Abstract:  Innovative attempts at collating Jungian analytical psychology with a range of ‘post‐modern’ theories have yielded significant results. This paper adopts an alternative strategy: a Lacanian vantage point on Jungian theory that eschews an attempt at reconciling Jung with post‐structuralism. A focused Lacanian gaze on Jung will establish an irreducible tension between Jung's view of archetypes as factors immanent to the psyche and a Lacanian critique that lays bare the contingent structures and mechanisms of their constitution, unveiling the supposed archetypes’a posteriori production through the efficacy of a discursive field. Theories of ideology developed in the wake of Lacan provide a powerful methodological tool allowing to bring this distinction into focus.

An assembly of Lacan's fragmentary accounts of Jung will be supplemented with an approach to Jungian theory via Žižek's Lacan‐oriented theory of the signifying mechanism underpinning ‘ideology’. Accordingly, the Jungian archetype of the self, which is considered in some depth, can begin to be seen in a new light, namely as a ‘master signifier’, not only of Jung's academic edifice, but also —and initially—of the discursive strategies that establish his own subjectivity. A discussion of Jung's approach to mythology reveals how the ‘quilting point’ of his discourse comes to be coupled with a correlate in the Real, a non‐discursive ‘sublime object’ conferring upon archetypes their fascinating aura.
Impaired neoangiogenesis in β2–adrenoceptor gene‐deficient mice: restoration by intravascular human β2–adrenoceptor gene transfer and role of NFκB and CREB transcription factors
Authors: Ciccarelli Michele , Sorriento Daniela , Cipolletta Ersilia , Santulli Gaetano , Fusco Anna , Zhou Rui‐Hai , Eckhart Andrea D. , Peppel Karsten , Koch Walter J. , Trimarco Bruno , Iaccarino Guido
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

There is much evidence supporting the role of β2‐adrenoceptors (β2AR) in angiogenesis but the mechanisms underlying their effects have not been elucidated. Hence, we studied post‐ischaemic angiogenesis in the hindlimb (HL) of β2AR knock‐out mice (β2AR−/−) in vivo and explored possible molecular mechanisms in vitro.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Femoral artery resection (FAR) was performed in wild‐type and β2AR−/− mice and adaptive responses to chronic HL ischaemia were explored; blood flow was measured by ultrasound and perfusion of dyed beads, bone rarefaction, muscle fibrosis and skin thickness were evaluated by immunoflourescence and morphometric analysis. Intrafemoral delivery of an adenovirus encoding the human β2AR (ADβ2AR) was used to reinstate β2ARs in β2AR−/− mice. Molecular mechanisms were investigated in mouse‐derived aortic endothelial cells (EC) in vitro, focusing on NFκB activation and transcriptional activity.

RESULTS

Angiogenesis was severely impaired in β2AR−/− mice subjected to FAR, but was restored by gene therapy with ADβ2AR. The proangiogenic responses to a variety of stimuli were impaired in β2AR−/− EC in vitro. Moreover, removal of β2ARs impaired the activation of NFκB, a transcription factor that promotes angiogenesis; neither isoprenaline (stimulates βARs) nor TNFα induced NFκB activation in β2AR−/− EC. Interestingly, cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), a transcription factor that counter regulates NFκB, was constitutively increased in β2AR−/− ECs. ADβ2AR administration restored β2AR membrane density, reduced CREB activity and reinstated the NFκB response to isoprenaline and TNFα.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Our results suggest that β2ARs control angiogenesis through the tight regulation of nuclear transcriptional activity.
Pharmacology of structural changes at the GABAA receptor transmitter binding site
Authors: Akk Gustav , Li Ping , Bracamontes John , Wang Mengya , Steinbach Joe Henry
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The binding of transmitter to specialized binding pockets leads to rearrangements in the structure of the receptor eventually resulting in channel opening. We used voltage‐clamp fluorometry to investigate the pharmacological basis and biophysical processes that underlie structural changes at the transmitter binding site of the rat α1β2γ2L GABAA receptor.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Simultaneous electrophysiological and site‐specific fluorescence measurements were conducted on receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes and labelled with an environmentally‐sensitive fluorophore, Alexa 546 maleimide, at the α1L127C site.

KEY RESULTS Receptors activated by GABA demonstrate a concentration‐dependent increase in fluorescence intensity, indicating that the environment surrounding the fluorophore becomes less polar upon activation. Qualitatively similar responses were observed with other GABA site ligands such as piperidine‐4‐sulphonic acid, muscimol, β‐alanine and 4,5,6,7‐tetrahydroisoxazolo[5,4‐c]pyridin‐3‐ol. Fluorescence changes were not affected by the direction of current flow. During long applications of GABA significant desensitization developed, which was not accompanied by additional changes in fluorescence. Pentobarbital was an efficacious agonist of the labelled mutant receptor but did not cause changes in fluorescence. Direct activation by etomidate or the steroid allopregnanolone also did not result in fluorescence changes. Functional potentiation of GABA‐activated receptors by allopregnanolone or etomidate enhanced both the GABA‐elicited functional response and the fluorescence change. In contrast, potentiation by pentobarbital was not accompanied by an enhanced fluorescence response.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The data indicate that there is no direct correlation between current flow or position of the activation gate and the structural changes as detected by Alexa 546‐labelled α1L127Cβ2γ2L GABAA receptors. Channel potentiation by pentobarbital qualitatively differs from potentiation by etomidate or allopregnanolone.
Ramipril retards development of aortic valve stenosis in a rabbit model: mechanistic considerations
Authors: Ngo Doan TM , Stafford Irene , Sverdlov Aaron L , Qi Weier , Wuttke Ronald D , Zhang Yuan , Kelly Darren J , Weedon Helen , Smith Malcolm D , Kennedy Jennifer A , Horowitz John D
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Aortic valve stenosis (AVS) is associated with significant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. To date, no therapeutic modality has been shown to be effective in retarding AVS progression. We evaluated the effect of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibition with ramipril on disease progression in a recently developed rabbit model of AVS.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The effects of 8 weeks of treatment with either vitamin D2 at 25 000 IU for 4 days a week alone or in combination with ramipril (0.5 mg·kg−1) on aortic valve structure and function were examined in New Zealand white rabbits. Echocardiographic aortic valve backscatter (AVBS) and aortic valve : outflow tract flow velocity ratio were utilized to quantify changes in valve structure and function.

KEY RESULTS

Treatment with ramipril significantly reduced AVBS and improved aortic valve : outflow tract flow velocity ratio. The intravalvular content of the pro‐oxidant thioredoxin‐interacting protein was decreased significantly with ramipril treatment. Endothelial function, as measured by asymmetric dimethylarginine concentrations and vascular responses to ACh, was improved significantly with ramipril treatment.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Ramipril retards the development of AVS, reduces valvular thioredoxin‐interacting protein accumulation and limits endothelial dysfunction in this animal model. These findings provide important insights into the mechanisms of AVS development and an impetus for future human studies of AVS retardation using an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of the fertility of patients with schizophrenia and their unaffected relatives
Authors: Bundy H. , Stahl D. , MacCabe J. H.
Published: October 2010

Bundy H, Stahl D, MacCabe JH. A systematic review and meta‐analysis of the fertility of patients with schizophrenia and their unaffected relatives.

Objective: We aimed to systematically evaluate the empirical evidence for the commonly held view that the reduced reproductive output in patients with schizophrenia is compensated for by an increased fitness in unaffected relatives. Secondary aims were to quantify the magnitude of the fertility disadvantage and the apparent gender difference in fertility of patients with schizophrenia.

Method: We carried out a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies investigating the fertility of patients with schizophrenia, their siblings, their parents and the general population.

Results: Patients with schizophrenia had reduced fertility compared with the general population, [Fertility Ratio (FR) = 0.39 (95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 0.35–0.44)]. Siblings of patients with schizophrenia had somewhat fewer offspring than the general population (FR = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.93–1.00). Parents of patients with schizophrenia had fertility similar to the general population (FR = 1.17, 95% CI = 0.94–1.46). Men had a greater impairment in fertility than women, both in patients (FR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.50–0.57) and in their unaffected siblings (FR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.71–0.92).

Conclusion: Compensatory fitness advantage in siblings and parents cannot explain the maintenance of schizophrenia in the population. Alternative explanations include mutation‐selection balance and the role of quantitative traits.
Preventing breast cancer in women with schizophrenia
Authors: Seeman M. V.
Published: October 2010

Seeman MV. Preventing breast cancer in women with schizophrenia.

Objective:  To record risk factors for breast cancer in women with schizophrenia and recommend preventive actions.

Method:  A PubMed literature search (from 2005 to 2010) was conducted, using the search terms ‘schizophrenia’, ‘antipsychotics’, ‘breast cancer’ and ‘risk factors’.

Results:  Several risk factors of relevance to schizophrenia were identified: obesity, elevated prolactin levels, low participation in mammography screening, high prevalence of diabetes, comparatively low parity, low incidence of breastfeeding, social disadvantage, high levels of smoking and alcohol consumption, low activity levels.

Conclusion:  Awareness of breast cancer risk should lead to more accurate risk ascertainment, stronger linkage with primary care, regular monitoring and screening, judicious choice and low dose of antipsychotic treatment, concomitant use of adjunctive cognitive and psychosocial therapies, referral to diet and exercise programmes as well as smoking and drinking cessation programmes, avoidance of hormonal treatment and discussion with patient and family about the pros and cons of preventive measures in high‐risk women. Psychiatrists are in a position to reverse many of the identified risk factors.
Pre‐Sorting Endosomal Transport of the GPI‐Anchored Protein, CD59, is Regulated by EHD1
Authors: Cai Bishuang , Katafiasz Dawn , Horejsi Vaclav , Naslavsky Naava
Published: October 2010

EHD1 regulates the trafficking of multiple receptors from the endocytic recycling compartment (ERC) to the plasma membrane. However, the potential role of EHD1 in regulating the family of glycosylphosphatidylinositol‐anchored proteins (GPI‐APs) has not been determined. Here we demonstrate a novel role for EHD1 in regulating the trafficking of CD59, an endogenous GPI‐AP, at early stages of trafficking through the endocytic pathway. EHD1 displays significant colocalization with newly internalized CD59. Upon EHD1 depletion, there is a rapid Rab5‐independent coalescence of CD59 in the ERC region. However, expression of an active Arf6 mutant (Q67L), which traps internalized pre‐sorting endosomal cargo in phosphatidylinositol(4,5)‐bisphosphate enriched vacuoles, prevents this coalescence. It is of interest that sustained PKC activation leads to a similar coalescence of CD59 at the ERC, and treatment of EHD1‐depleted cells with a PKC inhibitor (Go6976) blocked this rapid relocation of CD59. However, unlike sustained PKC activation, EHD1 depletion does not induce the translocation of PKCα to ERC. The results presented herein provide evidence that EHD1 is involved in the control of CD59 transport from pre‐sorting endosomes to the ERC in a PKC‐dependent manner. However, the mechanisms of EHD1‐induced coalescence of CD59 at the ERC differ from those induced by sustained PKC activation.
The impact of coupled dark energy cosmologies on the high-redshift intergalactic medium
Authors: Baldi M. , Viel M.
Published: October 2010

We present an analysis of high-resolution hydrodynamical N-body simulations of coupled dark energy cosmologies which focuses on the statistical properties of the transmitted Lyman α flux in the high-redshift intergalactic medium (IGM). In these models the growth of the diffuse cosmic web differs from the standard ΛCDM case: the density distribution is skewed towards underdense regions and the matter power spectra are typically larger (in a scale-dependent way). These differences are also appreciable in the Lyman α flux and are larger than 5 per cent (10 per cent) at z= 2–4 in the flux probability distribution function (pdf) for high-transmissivity regions and for values of the coupling parameter β= 0.08 (β= 0.2). The flux power spectrum is also affected at the ∼2 per cent (∼5–10 per cent) level for β= 0.08 (β= 0.2) in a redshift-dependent way. We infer the behaviour of flux pdf and flux power for a reasonable range of couplings and present constraints using present high- and low-resolution data sets. We find an upper limit β≲ 0.15 (at 2σ confidence level), which is obtained using only IGM data and is competitive with those inferred from other large-scale structure probes.
EFFECT OF PRE‐EXPOSURE TO SODIUM CHLORIDE ON THE RESISTANCE OF PATHOGENS TO THERMAL AND ACID STRESSES
Authors: BAE YOUNG‐MIN , LEE SUN‐YOUNG
Published: October 2010

This study determined the effects of pre‐exposures to sodium chloride (NaCl) on the survival of three pathogens (Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella Typhimurium, and Listeria monocytogenes) when the organisms were subsequently treated with moderate heat (55C) or an organic acid (acetic acid). Pre‐exposure to 5% NaCl especially increased the thermal resistance of E. coli O157:H7 and L. monocytogenes, whereas there was no significant increase in thermal resistance for S. Typhimurium. Pre‐exposure to 10% NaCl reduced the resistance of the three pathogens to 1% acetic acid, and similar reductions in acidic resistance were observed in S. Typhimurium and L. monocytogenes samples that were pre‐exposed to 5% NaCl. These results indicate that prior exposure to NaCl can affect the resistance of pathogens to environmental stresses.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Subsequent stress responses of pathogens by stress‐adaptation should be addressed to develop the effective techniques for controlling pathogens in foods and environment. It is because that environmental stresses can provide varying results as some bacteria may become more resistant or even more virulent under such circumstances through stress reactions. Although salt does not have great effectiveness to inactivate populations of pathogens, it could affect the stress reactions of pathogens or the antimicrobial action of other preservation hurdles. In fact, the result of this study showed that pre‐exposure to NaCl resulted in difference stress responses of pathogens depending on the type of environmental stress subsequently applied. Therefore, this report could provide important information for developing control or preservative methods to improve the microbial safety of foods.
Schizophrenia
Authors: Walker Elaine , Tessner Kevin
Published: October 2010

Theoretical conceptualizations of schizophrenia have undergone significant change in the past century. Through the application of behavioral science methodology, psychologists have played a major role in the pivotal scientific advances that have led us to contemporary models. The field has moved from simplistic conceptualizations of mind—brain distinctions to models that encompass complex gene—environment interactions and neural pathways that mediate the relation between psychosocial events and brain dysfunction.
Understanding the Vital Human Quest for Self-Esteem
Authors: Greenberg Jeff
Published: October 2010

Authors have long noted the human penchant for self-esteem. Experimental research has revealed that this desire for self-esteem has wide-ranging effects on cognition, emotion, and behavior. Terror management theory explains that this desire for self-esteem results from a fundamental need for psychological security, which is engendered by humans' awareness of their own vulnerability and mortality. A large body of evidence has supported this explanation. Specifically, substantial lines of research have shown that self-esteem buffers anxiety and reduces defenses against death and that reminders of mortality increase efforts to defend and bolster self-esteem. Complementary findings have helped clarify the role of culture in self-esteem striving and the ways in which people can vary in their level, stability, and sources of self-esteem. I conclude by briefly considering how this contemporary knowledge regarding the quest for self-esteem informs current events and daily life.
Morality
Authors: Haidt Jonathan
Published: October 2010

Moral psychology is a rapidly growing field with two principle lineages. The main line began with Jean Piaget and includes developmental psychologists who have studied the acquisition of moral concepts and reasoning. The alternative line began in the 1990s with a new synthesis of evolutionary, neurological, and social-psychological research in which the central phenomena are moral emotions and intuitions. In this essay, I show how both of these lines have been shaped by an older debate between two 19th century narratives about modernity: one celebrating the liberation of individuals, the other mourning the loss of community and moral authority. I suggest that both lines of moral psychology have limited themselves to the moral domain prescribed by the liberation narrative, and so one future step for moral psychology should be to study alternative moral perspectives, particularly religious and politically conservative ones in which morality is, in part, about protecting groups, institutions, and souls.
Gut lymph and lymphatics: a source of factors leading to organ injury and dysfunction
Authors: Deitch Edwin A.
Published: October 2010

Major trauma, shock, sepsis, and other conditions can lead to the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which may progress to the highly lethal multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Although a number of therapeutic strategies have been initiated, their success has been limited largely due to an incomplete understanding of the biology of MODS. However, recent studies indicate that the intestinal lymphatics serve as the primary route for nonbacterial, tissue injurious gut‐derived factors, which can induce acute ARDS and MODS. The gut lymph hypothesis of ARDS and MODS thus helps clarify several important issues. First, because the lung is the first organ exposed to mesenteric lymph and not the liver (i.e., mesenteric lymph enters the subclavian vein via the thoracic duct, which, in turn, empties directly into the heart and lungs), it would explain the clinical observation that the lung is generally the first organ to fail. Second, this hypothesis provides new pathophysiologic information, thereby providing a basis for novel therapies. Finally, by studying the composition of lymph, MODS‐inducing factors can be isolated and identified.
Soluble VEGFR‐2: an antilymphangiogenic variant of VEGF receptors
Authors: Pavlakovic Helena , Becker Jürgen , Albuquerque Romulo , Wilting Jörg , Ambati Jayakrishna
Published: October 2010

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family of secreted proteins and their receptors are major regulators of blood vessel development (hemangiogenesis) and lymphatic vessel development (lymphangiogenesis). VEGF acts through a complex system of receptor tyrosine kinases, which can be membrane bound or soluble. New data concerning the receptor system are still emerging, thus contributing to the complexity of the system. Very recently a soluble form of VEGFR‐2, termed sVEGFR‐2, which is a result of alternative splicing, has been discovered. Earlier, it has been shown that a secreted/soluble form of VEGFR‐1, termed sVEGFR‐1, is produced by alternative splicing and exerts an antihemangiogenic effect by binding VEGF‐A. The newly discovered spliced variant of sVEGFR‐2 binds the lymphangiogenic growth factor VEGF‐C and thus inhibits VEGF‐C‐induced activation of VEGFR‐3, consequently inhibiting lymphatic endothelial cell proliferation. Its inactivation in murine embryos permits hyperplasia of dermal lymphatics and invasion of lymphatics into the cornea. Tumor lymphangiogenesis seems to influence the metastatic behavior of malignant cells. A correlation has been found between the downregulation of  sVEGFR‐2 and the malignant progression of neuroblastoma, which is characterized by lymphogenic metastases in progressed stages. Data show that lymphangiogenesis is regulated by both activators and inhibitors, and its balance is crucial in health and disease.
Prostate cancer – friend or enemy. Part two, the daughter
Authors: Bruun Poul , Pedersen Birthe , Osther Palle , Wagner Lis
Published: October 2010

This study is part two in an investigation of the daily life experiences of adult children following the prostate cancer diagnosis. Research in this field is lacking. Only one personal narrative was found through a literature review describing the daughter's experience in life following the father's cancer diagnosis. This study assumes a phenomenological‐hermeneutic approach, using Ricoeur's theories of narratives and text interpretation. The participants were seven daughters of men diagnosed with incurable prostate cancer. The daughters were interviewed 3 and 10 months after the fathers were informed of the cancer diagnosis. Data analysis was performed in three stages; naïve reading, followed by a structured analysis, and concluded with critical interpretation and discussion. Results showed that throughout the period life was experienced full of worries and dilemmas, characterized by a lasting sorrow and an incipient experience of suffering as a consequence.

Sorrow was seen in the whole period in different forms of expression. Nurses need to be very aware of the need of support and intervention to alleviate the daughters' sorrow.
In this issue – November 2010
Authors: Jackson AE
Published: October 2010

Management and preventive health care in aged horses · Echocardiographs in healthy Thoroughbred foals  · Surgical stapling technique for caecal impaction in horses · MRI of the second phalanx in horses  · Radiotransmitters in snakes  · Nasotracheal intubation of a kangaroo · Avian tracheal resection and anastomosis  · Nasal bot fly in a cat  · First report of Cryptosporidium andersoni in Australian cattle
Cryptosporidium andersoniin Western Australian feedlot cattle
Authors: Ralston B , Thompson RCA , Pethick D , McAllister TA , Olson ME
Published: October 2010

Cryptosporidium andersonihas not been previously reported in feedlot beef cattle in Western Australia. Faecal samples were collected from 10 groups of cattle ranging in age from 11 to 36 months in five different feedlots in Western Australia. The incidence ofC. andersoniranged from 0% to 26%. There were no clinical signs associated withC. andersoniinfection, but there was a significant reduction in rate of gain of 0.44 kg in infected animals compared with negative pen mates.Cryptosporidium andersoniis characterised by large oocysts (7.4 × 5.5 µm) and was confirmed by 18S sequencing.
Complete caecal bypass without ileal transection for caecal impaction in horses: seven clinical cases (1997–2007)
Authors: Quinteros DD , García‐López JM , Provost PJ
Published: October 2010

Objectives To report the clinical outcome in seven horses following use of a newly described surgical technique for treating caecal impaction.

Methods The medical records of seven horses with caecal impaction treated surgically using a stapling technique to create a complete caecal bypass without ileal transection were reviewed. Data were obtained from the records and through telephone interviews with case‐associated personnel.

Results The mean age was 10 years (range 2–22 years) and duration of colic ranged from 24 h to 2 weeks. Five horses had type II motility dysfunction and the remaining two had type I. Mean surgical time was 185 min (range 146–245 min) and the horses were hospitalised for a mean of 12.4 days (range 9–22 days); 71% (5/7) were discharged from hospital and all five were alive 60 days from the surgery date. One horse was lost to follow‐up. The four (66.7%) available remaining horses were alive ≥ 1 year (long‐term survivors).

Conclusions Complete caecal bypass without ileal transection for clinical cases of caecal impaction had comparable outcomes to complete bypass with ileal transection. The technique is easy to perform, has the potential to reduce surgical time, compared with traditional bypass techniques, and may reduce the risk of intraoperative abdominal contamination. It is recommended for use in clinical cases in which caecal bypass is desirable.
Tracheal resection and anastomosis in a red‐tailed black cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus banksii banksii)
Authors: Doneley RJT , Raidal SR
Published: October 2010

Tracheal stricture is an uncommon sequel to tracheitis in birds. We describe a case in a red‐tailed black cockatoo that was attributed to a bacterial tracheitis associated with inhaled plant material and was successfully resolved by surgical resection and anastomosis of the trachea.
A survey of aged horses in Queensland, Australia. Part 1: management and preventive health care
Authors: McGowan TW , Pinchbeck G , Phillips CJC , Perkins N , Hodgson DR , McGowan CM
Published: October 2010

Objective To describe management practices and routine preventive care of aged horses in Queensland, Australia, including effects of owner characteristics, affiliation to an equestrian group and retirement of the horse.

Methods Owners of horses were contacted via Equestrian Australia (EA) and asked to complete a questionnaire about their aged horses (e.g. age, breed, sex and colour); their use and management, including preventive health care; and use of equine healthcare providers.

Results Horses aged 15 years or greater represented one‐third of the total horses owned in the population sample. The median age of the horses was 20.7 years (range 15–44 years). Basic husbandry and preventive health care varied depending on demographic region, age of the horse and its use. Affiliation with EA was associated with the breed and use of the horse, but not with management or preventive health care other than frequency of hoof care visits. Retired horses had reduced basic husbandry and preventive health care compared with non‐retired horses. There was reduced preventive health care in rural compared with urban areas. The majority (61%) of horses in the current study had not been visited by a veterinarian in the previous 12 months.

Conclusion Aged horses constitute a large subgroup of the Australian horse population. Although basic management is at a high level for most aged horses, it appears to be reduced following the horse's retirement and in the more rural areas. There was limited veterinary involvement in preventive healthcare strategies for aged horses, especially in rural areas.
Two‐dimensional and M‐mode echocardiographic findings in healthy Thoroughbred foals
Authors: Collins NM , Palmer L , Marr CM
Published: October 2010

Objective The aim of this study was to establish reference values for a series of conventional two‐dimensional (2‐D) and M‐mode echocardiographic variables in Thoroughbred foals at increasing age intervals.

Design Nineteen healthy Thoroughbred foals (11 males, 8 females) were examined at 1, 2, 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks of life. Auscultatory findings were recorded and echocardiographic examinations (2‐D and M‐mode) were performed. Descriptive statistical analyses, including mean, standard deviation and 95% confidence interval for the means, were used to summarise the data. The relationships between selected echocardiographic variables and age, body weight and heart rate were analysed.

Results Reference values were determined for 12 routinely used 2‐D and M‐mode echocardiographic variables in healthy Thoroughbred foals at increasing age intervals. Linear relationships between echocardiographic variables and age (P < 0.001) and body weight (P < 0.001) were found, with the linear relationships between echocardiographic variables and body weight being stronger than those with age. Weak (R2≤ 0.37) but significant (P < 0.001) correlations between the echocardiographic variables and heart rate were identified.

Conclusions Reference values for 2‐D and M‐mode echocardiographic variables in clinically normal Thoroughbred foals up to 4 months of age and approximately 190 kg body weight may assist in the interpretation of echocardiograms of Thoroughbred foals of similar age and body weight with suspected congenital or acquired cardiac disease.
Diagnostic yield of computed tomography of the brain in first episode psychosis
Authors: Strahl Britta , Cheung York K , Stuckey Stephen L
Published: October 2010

Introduction:  Brain computed tomography (CT) is inconsistently recommended worldwide in the investigative algorithm of patients presenting with first episode psychosis (FEP).

The objective of this study is to investigate the clinical efficacy of brain CT in patients presenting with FEP without neurological signs in a major metropolitan teaching hospital.

Methods:  The CT brain scan reports of 237 consecutive patients, for which the imaging requests or reports provided a history of FEP but no focal neurological signs, were retrospectively identified within a 6‐year period in a 750‐bed tertiary referral teaching hospital using the radiology information system text‐search function (170 male, 67 female; mean age, 28.3 years). All reports were authored or approved by consultant radiologist. They were reviewed for the presence of any lesion that could cause psychosis and hence alter clinical management. Minor neuroradiological abnormalities were also noted. Hospital Ethics Committee registration and approval were obtained and patient informed consent was not required.

Results:  No focal brain lesion potentially responsible for the psychosis or focal lesion requiring surgical intervention was identified in any patient. Findings unable to be directly linked to the psychosis such as evidence of small vessel ischaemic disease, arachnoid cysts, cerebral atrophy, and normal variants were present in 17.6% of patients (45 of 237 studies), none of which led to an alteration of clinical management.

Conclusion:  The results of this study postulate that brain CT should not be universally performed in the initial assessment of patients with first episode psychosis without neurological signs.
For discussion: Obtaining consent for ionising radiation: Has the time come?
Authors: Mendelson Richard M
Published: October 2010

The aim of this paper is to promote debate on the issues surrounding the provision of information to, and the obtaining of valid consent from patients exposed to ionising radiation (IR) from diagnostic and interventional imaging procedures. This is especially pertinent in view of recent interest in the risks of IR expressed in the medical and lay press.
Involved‐field radiotherapy with concurrent chemotherapy for limited‐stage small‐cell lung cancer: Disease control, patterns of failure and survival
Authors: Watkins John M , Wahlquist Amy E , Zauls A Jason , Shirai Keisuke , Garrett‐Mayer Elizabeth , Aguero Eric G , Silvestri Gerard A , Sherman Carol A , Sharma Anand K
Published: October 2010

Introduction: Major randomised trials have employed elective nodal irradiation as part of combined modality therapy for limited‐stage small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC). The present investigation describes patterns of failure, disease control, and survival outcomes for involved‐field radiotherapy with concurrent chemotherapy, without elective irradiation of uninvolved mediastinal nodal regions.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of SCLC patients treated with curative‐intent accelerated, twice‐daily radiotherapy and concurrent platinum‐based chemotherapy at an academic institution. Treatment fields were reviewed, and patients who completed ≥42 Gy in 1.5 Gy twice‐daily fractions to involved fields (without elective irradiation of uninvolved mediastinal lymphatic regions) were included in the present analysis. Initial patterns of failure, disease control and overall survival were recorded.

Results: Fifty‐two patients fulfilled study criteria and were included in the present analysis. All but one patient completed three to four cycles of chemotherapy, and 10 patients experienced grade 3 acute esophagitis. At a median survivor follow‐up of 35 months (range 5.5–91.9), 22 patients were alive (15 without recurrence) and 30 had died (23 of/with disease, four of unknown cause, two of other cause and one of treatment toxicity). Initial site(s) of disease failure were loco‐regional only (11 patients), distant only (14) and loco‐regional plus distant (3). There were no cases of isolated out‐of‐field mediastinal recurrence in the absence of supraclavicular or more distant disease. The estimated 3‐year disease‐free and overall survivals were 36% and 44%, respectively.

Conclusions: Involved‐field radiotherapy did not appear to have an adverse impact on the anticipated patterns of failure, disease control, or overall survival in this population of limited‐stage SCLC patients.
Tribulations of a prostate cancer trial – Lessons learned from TOAD, a Cancer Council Victoria and Transtasman Radiation Oncology Group trial
Authors: Duchesne Gillian M , Woo Henry H , Howell Deborah , Kaimakamis Mary , Kemp Evan
Published: October 2010

From 2004–2009 a total of 226 out of a target of 750 prostate cancer patients have been randomised into the Timing of Androgen Deprivation trial between immediate and delayed androgen deprivation. A screening log was kept by participating centres for the first 928 patients, which documented the reasons for non‐entry into the trial; 42.7% of screened patients were ineligible and a further 33.0% were not entered for other reasons. Fewer than 10% of patients cited not wanting to be part of a clinical trial as a reason for non‐entry. Strategies to improve recruitment included broadening the eligibility criteria, encouraging international collaboration, the use and support of research nurses in the private health care environment, and the use of phone follow‐up. Recruitment will be completed at the number originally intended to inform the interim analysis designed to test the validity of the statistical assumptions, and a combined survival analysis with the Canadian study is planned.
A Novel Phytochemical, Digoxigenin‐3‐O‐Rutin in the Amelioration of Isoproterenol‐Induced Myocardial Infarction in Rat: A Comparison with Digoxin
Authors: Panda Sunanda , Kar Anand
Published: October 2010

Introduction: The commonly used cardiac glycoside, digoxin (DIG), has a narrow therapeutic window. Although some investigations were made to counteract its toxic effects, no alternate phytochemical is available till date that is more potent and safer than DIG. Aims: Our main aim was to isolate a novel cardenolide from the seeds of Trigonella foenum graceium and to evaluate its relative potential in comparison to that of DIG. Experimental design: In one experiment effects of the isolated compound at 2.5, 5.0, and 10 mg/kg (p.o.) were evaluated in isoproterenol (ISO)‐induced cardiovascular problems in rats. As the test drug (TDR) reversed most of the ISO‐induced changes, it was subjected to the phytochemical analyses and was identified as digoxigenin‐3‐O‐rutin. In another experiment effects of DIG and rutin (Rtn) were compared with those of TDR or DIG alone. The hydroxyl radical scavenging activity was also measured by electron spin resonance (EPR). Results: digoxigenin‐3‐O‐rutin at 10 mg/kg markedly reduced the ISO‐induced increase in cardiac lipid peroxidation and in the levels of serum creatinine phosphokinase‐MB, glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, glutamate pyruvate transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, and creatinine. It also reversed the ISO‐induced changes in the cardiac histomorphology. Interestingly TDR appeared to be more effective than DIG alone or DIG and Rtn in combination. Conclusion: The newly isolated digoxigenin‐3‐O‐rutin appears to be more potent and safe than digoxin. Its higher efficacy could be due to its structural specificity and might have been mediated through its better free radical scavenging action.
Falsely Reassuring Magnetic Resonance Imaging Appearance of the Forearm Interosseous Membrane following an Essex-Lopresti Injury: Does it Ever Completely Heal?
Authors: Stevenson Jonathan D. , Radesh Lalam , Pickard Simon , Adrian Simon , Hay Stuart M.
Published: October 2010

The rare Essex-Lopresti injury classically involves the radial head, interosseous membrane and distal radioulnar joint. Treatment principles are to prevent proximal radial migration through reconstruction or replacement of the radial head. This case describes such an injury treated with metallic radial head prosthesis requiring later prosthesis removal. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was conducted to investigate and reassure the treating surgeon of the integrity of the interosseous membrane. Despite the reassurance of MRI, the patient developed severe wrist symptoms because significant longitudinal displacement of the radius recurred. MRI is not a reliable determinant of integrity of the interosseous membrane in the forearm. It is clear from discussion amongst specialist upper limb surgeons that doubt exists regarding the potential for the membrane to heal and thereby restore its integrity. This fact is not clear in the literature but is of vital importance should the decision be made to remove the radial head, as illustrated particularly well in the present case.
Extreme Response of Very Large Floating Structure Considering Second-Order Hydroelastic Effects in Multidirectional Irregular Waves
Authors: Chen Xujun , Moan Torgeir , Fu Shixiao
Published: October 2010

Hydroelasticity theory, considering the second-order fluid forces induced by the coupling of first-order wave potentials, is introduced briefly in this paper. Based on the numerical results of second-order principal coordinates induced by the difference-frequency and sum-frequency fluid forces in multidirectional irregular waves, the bending moments, as well as the vertical displacements of a floating plate used as a numerical example are obtained in an efficient manner. As the phase angle components of the multidirectional waves are random variables, the principal coordinates, the vertical displacements, and the bending moments are all random variables. Extreme values of bending moments are predicted on the basis of the theory of stationary stochastic processes. The predicted linear and nonlinear results of bending moments show that the influences of nonlinear fluid forces are different not only for the different wave phase angles, but also for the different incident wave angles. In the example very large floating structure (VLFS) considered in this paper, the influence of nonlinear fluid force on the predicted extreme bending moment may be as large as 22% of the linear wave exciting forces. For an elastic body with large rigidity, the influence of nonlinear fluid force on the responses may be larger than the first-order exciting forces and should be considered in the hydroelastic analysis.
Conceptual Design of Monocolumn Production and Storage With Dry Tree Capability
Authors: Gonçalves Rodolfo T. , Matsumoto Fabio T. , Malta Edgard B. , Medeiros Higor F. , Nishimoto Kazuo
Published: October 2010

A new concept and a preliminary study for a monocolumn floating unit are introduced, aimed at exploring and producing oil in ultradeep waters. This platform, which combines two relevant features—great oil storage capacity and dry tree production capability—comprises two bodies with relatively independent heave motions between them. A parametric model is used to define the main design characteristics of the floating units. A set of design alternatives is generated using this procedure. These solutions are evaluated in terms of stability requirements and dynamic response. A mathematical model is developed to estimate the first order heave and pitch motions of the platform. Experimental tests are carried out in order to calibrate this model. The response of each body alone is estimated numerically using the WAMIT® code. This paper also includes a preliminary study on the platform mooring system and appendages. The study of the heave plates presents the gain, in terms of decreasing the motions, achieved by the introduction of the appropriate appendages to the platform.
Gaussian Analysis of an Irregular Wave Impact on Deck
Authors: Kota Ravikiran S. , Moan Torgeir
Published: October 2010

Level-crossing analysis of long-crested, Gaussian waves in space and time are studied in the context of wave loads on a fixed, horizontal deck-box above mean waterline. Vertical wave loads on decks due to insufficient airgap are a major concern for many in-service platforms. Reliable estimation of magnitude and duration of these loads is important in assessing structural and global response of an offshore platform. In the case of an irregular wave-impact on a flat deck of dimensions comparable to mean wavelength of the incident waves, both temporal and spatial variability of wave-kinematics need to be considered during the deck-wetting process. In the present study, we have used a multidimensional Gaussian formulation of incident wave-kinematics to derive a joint probability density function of deck-wetting (or exceedance) duration and its spatial extent. We have also derived a probability density function for initial slam force on deck. A numerical scheme for simulating wave-impact events on a two-dimensional deck is discussed, results from which are compared against corresponding analytical estimates. Vertical force on deck was estimated using the momentum method, which includes a von Kármán slamming model applied over the wetted-length determined from an undisturbed wave profile.
Dose loss of phosphorus due to interface segregation in silicon-on-insulator substrates
Authors: Chang Ruey-Dar , Ma Chia-Chi , Tsai Jung-Ruey
Published: October 2010

The dose loss of phosphorus due to interface segregation in silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrates was characterized by using sheet resistance. Bulk silicon and SOI wafers were implanted with phosphorus at a dose of 5×1014 cm−2, followed by annealing at 900 °C to produce phosphorus segregation at the SiO2–Si interface. The effectiveness of the mobility model for calculating sheet resistance and the reliability of parameters in interface segregation models were verified based on the sheet resistance data and the secondary ion mass spectrometry profiles of phosphorus in bulk silicon samples. The sheet resistance in SOI substrates was then simulated using the verified mobility model and interface segregation parameters. Simulation results indicate that the equilibrium segregation behavior at the interfaces in SOI samples is similar to that in bulk silicon samples. Moreover, the dose loss in SOI substrates is more significant than that in bulk silicon wafers owing to a larger interface area in the SOI substrates.