bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Kappa opioids promote the proliferation of astrocytes via Gβγ and β‐arrestin 2‐dependent MAPK‐mediated pathways
Authors: McLennan Gregory P. , Kiss Alexi , Miyatake Mayumi , Belcheva Mariana M. , Chambers Kari T. , Pozek John J. , Mohabbat Yasmin , Moyer Robert A. , Bohn Laura M. , Coscia Carmine J. 
Published: November 2008

AbstractGTP binding regulatory protein (G protein)‐coupled receptors can activate MAPK pathways via G protein‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms. However, the physiological outcomes correlated with the cellular signaling events are not as well characterized. In this study, we examine the involvement of G protein and β‐arrestin 2 pathways in kappa opioid receptor‐induced, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2)‐mediated proliferation of both immortalized and primary astrocyte cultures. As different agonists induce different cellular signaling pathways, we tested the prototypic kappa agonist, U69593 as well as the structurally distinct, non‐nitrogenous agonist, C(2)‐methoxymethyl salvinorin B (MOM‐Sal‐B). In immortalized astrocytes, U69593, activated ERK1/2 by a rapid (min) initial stimulation that was sustained over 2 h and increased proliferation. Sequestration of activated Gβγ subunits attenuated U69593 stimulation of ERK1/2 and suppressed proliferation in these cells. Furthermore, small interfering RNA silencing of β‐arrestin 2 diminished sustained ERK activation induced by U69593. In contrast, MOM‐Sal‐B induced only the early phase of ERK1/2 phosphorylation and did not affect proliferation of immortalized astrocytes. In primary astrocytes, U69593 produced the same effects as seen in immortalized astrocytes. MOM‐Sal‐B elicited sustained ERK1/2 activation which was correlated with increased primary astrocyte proliferation. Proliferative actions of both agonists were abolished by either inhibition of ERK1/2, Gβγ subunits or β‐arrestin 2, suggesting that both G protein‐dependent and ‐independent ERK pathways are required for this outcome.
Seeking calm water: Exploring policy options for India's water future
Authors: Amarasinghe Upali A. , Shah Tushaar , McCornick Peter G. 
Published: November 2008

Abstract This paper seeks to identify some promising policy options which could be part of a strategic and holistic effort to address India's future water challenges. Significant increases in agricultural water productivity would be a major factor in reducing the need for developing new water sources. Crop diversification, appropriately targeted to account for the present agricultural systems and available water resources, will increase productivity. Furthermore, much more emphasis needs to be placed on effective management of the groundwater resources through renewed efforts to enhance artificial recharge and conservation. Also, efforts should be revived to improve the existing surface irrigation systems. In particular, systems could be reconfigured to provide a more reliable water supply and allow effective community level management, where appropriate. Finally, while some of the increasing demands from domestic and industrial users will be met by the development of groundwater and reallocation of water from the agricultural sector, this will not be sufficient. Given that such conditions are emerging in states with high economic growth and relatively water scarce basins, this will require the further development of water resources. In some cases, these conditions along with the demand for reliable water for high value crops, will be part of the justification for inter‐basin transfers.
The need for integration of drought monitoring tools for proactive food security management in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Tadesse Tsegaye , Haile Menghestab , Senay Gabriel , Wardlow Brian D. , Knutson Cody L. 
Published: November 2008

Abstract Reducing the impact of drought and famine remains a challenge in sub‐Saharan Africa despite ongoing drought relief assistance in recent decades. This is because drought and famine are primarily addressed through a crisis management approach when a disaster occurs, rather than stressing preparedness and risk management. Moreover, drought planning and food security efforts have been hampered by a lack of integrated drought monitoring tools, inadequate early warning systems (EWS), and insufficient information flow within and between levels of government in many sub‐Saharan countries. The integration of existing drought monitoring tools for sub‐Saharan Africa is essential for improving food security systems to reduce the impacts of drought and famine on society in this region. A proactive approach emphasizing integration requires the collective use of multiple tools, which can be used to detect trends in food availability and provide early indicators at local, national, and regional scales on the likely occurrence of food crises. In addition, improving the ability to monitor and disseminate critical drought‐related information using available modern technologies (e.g., satellites, computers, and modern communication techniques) may help trigger timely and appropriate preventive responses and, ultimately, contribute to food security and sustainable development in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Degradation–environment–society spiral: A spatial auto‐logistic model in Thailand
Authors: Wahid Shahriar M. , Babel Mukand S. , Gupta Ashim Das , Routray Jayant K. , Clemente Roberto S. 
Published: November 2008

Abstract In this contemporary interpretation of the widespread land degradation problem in Southeast Asia, it is hypothesized that spatial interplay of environmental and socioeconomic predictors determines the occurrence of land degradation. Village surveys, remote sensing and spatial auto‐logistic modelling of the relationship between degradation and land use dynamics in Lam Phra Phloeng watershed of Thailand enabled 80.2% of land to be classified correctly in terms of the presence or absence of erosion and explained 53.2% of the total variation. Cultivation and dependence on agriculture for livelihood positively and significantly affect degradation. Lack of access to institutional credit and land titles significantly increased the probability of occurrence of degradation. On the other hand, education and social cohesion are negatively associated with the occurrence of degradation. The Relative Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was used to measures the performance of the model. The calculated area under the curve (0.879) suggests that significant predictor variables in the model can be confidently used to forecast the likelihood of occurrence of degradation and thus to identify priority areas for intervention. Policies to reduce land degradation should include measures to reduce pressure on the land, including alternative income sources. Policies could mobilize capital to invest in encouraging nature‐based tourism and other off‐farm income options.
Artificial Excretion of Weakly Bound Middle Molecules by Hemoanadiafiltration
Authors: Russo Luigi , Russo Anna , Viola Mario , Russo Vincenzo 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTThe concept of a subtractive therapeutic intervention in several diseases (shock, acute liver, failure, poisoning) to remove toxic middle molecules (MM) has led to the devising of a particular ultrafiltration system (anadiafiltration) to clear weakly bound MM. Clinical hemoanadiafiltration (HADF) with a polyacrylonitrile filter and in vitro experiments with a series of marker substances, have shown HADF efficacy in clearing MM, irrespective of their molecular weight, with protein binding K between 60 and 150.
Further Studies on the Realization of a Cold Carbon Portable Artificial Kidney
Authors: Giordano Carmelo , Esposito Renato , Leo Vito A. Di , Bello Pierino , Quarto Ernesto 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTOptimal conditions have been determined for the realization of a closed‐loop, cold carbon, portable artificial kidney to depurate the dialysate of urea and other catabolites. It has been noticed that a dialysate flow rate of about 250 ml/min represents an optimal compromise between urea mass transfer through the dialytic membrane and its mass adsorption on cold carbon. Under this condition, the use of a 2‐kg carbon column to remove urea is satisfactory for a routine dialysis treatment. Our experiments have been performed on simulated dialysis. A portable cold carbon artificial kidney requires a cooling unit and a heat exchanger to recover the power necessary to produce the 0°C temperature. A flat heat exchanger, consisting of three superposed plates, with a heat exchange surface of about 0.09 m2 and a total coefficient of thermal exchange, H., of 380 Kcal/m2‐°C‐hour has been chosen. With heat recovery, the cooling power required is 1/3 hp to allow for parasitic cold losses and the power necessary to reach a steady state. All mechanical parts necessary for heating and cooling weigh about 12 kg.
Chronic Hemofiltration Treatment
Authors: Streicher Erich , Schneider Hans , Knödler Ullrich , Müller Holger , Spohr Uwe , Schmidt‐Gayk Heinz 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTFourteen patients (six males and eight females) have been treated with chronic hemofiltration three times weekly for three to 27 months with the post‐dilution technique. All patients had previously been on regular dialysis treatment. Patients were selected for hemofiltration because of dialysis‐resistent hypertension (eight), symptoms of dialysis discomfort (five), hypertriglyceridemia (five) and poly‐neuropathy (seven). Hypertension improved in six of eight patients, symptoms of dialysis discomfort markedly diminished in all five patients, hypertriglyceridemia did not change consistently, polyneuropathy improved in six of seven patients. Balance studies of Na, Ca and Mg revealed a positive correlation to fluid balance. Phosphate, BUN, crentinine and uric acid increased. Loss of amino acids and protein is negligible. Hormone studies showed a decrease of T3, T4 and TSH though the pituitary‐thyroid axis is intact, possibly indicating a decreased TRH activity. Vitamin D remained unchanged, PTH levels increased, possibly related to a diminished excretion of phosphate and diminished intake of calcium, respectively, during hemofiltration treatment as compared to hemodialysis.
BRNO‐I, An Implantable, Diaphragm‐Type Total Artificial Heart: Technical Aspects of Design
Authors: Hanzelka P. , Krčma V. , Svoboda P. , Trbušek V. , Urbánek P. , Vašk° Jan , Vašk° Jar. , Uráhnek E. , Dostál M. 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTThe technical aspects of artificial heart design for experiments on calves are presented in this paper. The object of the design was to verify the basic anatomic and hemody‐namic criteria for the design of more perfect cardiac pros‐theses. Each of the ventricles has a 100‐ml stroke volume and is dismountable. Rigid parts are made of polymethyl‐methacrylate. The inlet valve has the shape of a flap. The outlet valve has two polyurethane reinforcing leaves. The diaphragm is also made of polyurethane. During tests using artificial circulation, a maximum cardiac output of 14.6 L/min was achieved. Typical sensitivity of flow on the atrial pressure is 0.3 L/min/torr at a frequency of 90 pulses per minute.
Influence of Uremic Middle Molecules on Blood Cells
Authors: Ota Kazuo , Sanaka Tsutomu , Agishi Tetsuzo , Nakajima Osamu 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTUremic middle molecular weight substances are obtained from the ultrafiltrate of plasma of uremic patients. Seven subfractions are isolated by chromatography using Sephadex G‐15 and DEAE 25 A columns. Each subfraction is tested for its inhibitory effect upon lymphocyte blastogenesis and influence upon osmotic fragility of red blood cells. Consequently, subfractions c and d exert notable effects on both lymphocytes and red blood cells. The main constituents of subfraction d are aspartic acid, glycine, glutamine, and cysteine.It is concluded that uremic middle molecular substances have a deleterious effect upon blood cells. Therefore, hemofiltration, which is advantageous for the removal of middle molecular weight substances, is considered to be a method of choice for uremic patients.
Effects of Different Filter Positions and Combinations in Extracorporeal Circulation
Authors: Krebber Hans J. , Hill J. Donald , Osborn John J. , Iatridis Angelo , Gerbode Frank 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTEven though filtration of the blood return from the coronary suction line has become widely accepted, there is still some question as to the benefit of arterial line filters and combinations of different filter positions. During 29 extracorporeal circulations, blood was sampled at 5, 15 and 30 minutes of bypass and at the end of bypass. All added donor blood was filtered through microporous filters (F1). In 12 instances a coronary suction line filter (F2) was in place and in all instances an arterial line filter (F3) was in place. Blood samples were taken before and after the arterial line filter and from the venous blood. All samples were studied for screen filtration pressure and electronic particle count using apertures from 8 to 120 microns. Particle counts were summarized under two groups: large particles ranging from 12.8 to 120 microns and small particles ranging from 8 to 12.7 microns. The filter combinations FI F2, F1F3 and F1F2F3 were studied. All of the filters were found to be capable of filtering large sized particles: however, slight improvement was seen by using the F1F2F3 combination. A high gradient of the large particle count was found across the arterial line filter. Small particles were found to be derived predominantly from the coronary suction line filter. While the low‐flow coronary suction line filter was well capable of removing particles of small size, no gradient in the particle count was found across the arterial line filter. Combinations of filters did not improve the filtering of small particles.A significant increase in the number of circulating small particles was found toward the end of bypass. An increasing differential between particles in the arterial line and venous blood was found toward the end of bypass. The number of circulating platelets dropped to 50% of the preoperative number within five minutes on bypass. No differences were found when using different filter combinations.The filtering of very small particles in the size range of the cellular elements of the blood is still an unsolved problem. With available systems, the Dacron mesh filter in the coronary suction line had the best results due to the lower flow and low velocity, while arterial line filters with high velocity are not capable of removing the smaller particles. Arterial‐to‐venous blood differences in the particle count suggest that some of the micro‐aggregates were removed from the blood within the patient. As the difference became larger toward the end of bypass, i.e., with rewarming of the patient and recirculation through the lung, increased capillary filtration seemed to play an important role.
Controlled Ultrafiltration During Single‐Pass Dialysis with the RP‐6 Dialyzer and Evaluation of Its Time‐Dependent Ultrafiltration Index
Authors: Zelman Allen , Bulloch Edwin , Stephen Robert , Kablitz Carl , Duffy Douglass , Kolff Willem J. 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTA simple and inexpensive method is described for controlling ultrafiltration when using the high flux RP‐6 dialyzer. When the RP‐6 is operated in the co‐current mode and with single‐pass dialysate delivery, (Pbo‐Pdn) can be used to accurately and safely control ultrafiltration. Combined results from ten dialyses indicate there is a pressure‐dependent concentration polarization which affects ultrafiltration as reported previously, and in addition, a time‐dependent effect indicating a more complex dialyzer/blood interaction. The ultrafiltration index decreases linearly with time. The ultrafiltration can be adequately predicted byQv=16.1 ml/hr‐mmHg [1–0.0761/hr t] (PBo‐PDo)
Pressure Control of Ultrafiltration Rate with High‐Flux Dialysis Membranes
Authors: Kablitz Carl , Stephen Robert L. , Zelman Allen , Harrow Jeffrey J. , Deeter Barry R. , Kolff Willem J. 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTControl of ultrafiltration with high‐flux dialysis membranes is normally achieved using complex, expensive, volumetric control methods. By using high‐flux dialyzers with distensible membranes (parallel‐plate dialyzers) in the cocurrent rather than in the countercurrent mode, ultrafiltration can be controlled simply and inexpensively by controlling the outlet pressure differential. Since this is the traditional method of ultrafiltration control, only minor, inexpensive equipment modifications are needed. As expected from transport theory, small molecule clearances are lower with cocurrent than with countercurrent flow. They are, however, adequate and superior to those achieved with post‐dilutional hemofiltration (urea clearance > 110 ml/min with cocurrent single‐pass, high‐flux dialysis). Ultrafiltration control with this method is so simple and predictable that clearances at zero net ultrafiltration rates can easily be measured rather than extrapolated. Since dialysate pressure is always positive, no deaeration systems would be needed in dialysis equipment designed for use with co‐current single‐pass, high‐flux dialysis.
Ferritin: A Reliable Indicator of Iron Supplementation in Patients on Chronic Hemodialysis/Hemofiltration Treatment?
Authors: Müller H. A. G. , Schneider H. , Hövelborn U. , Streieher E. 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTFour hundred and forty‐two serum ferritin determinations were performed in 144 patients on chronic intermittent hemodialysis treatment with intravenous iron substitution and/or oral iron substitution. Iron substitution should be done individually according to regular serum ferritin determinations. Intravenous iron substitution is easier to regualte. Iron substitution exceeding 100 mg per month normally leads to a slowly progressing iron overload except in those patients with additional blood loss or on chronic hemofiltration treatment. Iron administration should not be evaluated according to ferritin levels in patients with additional complications such as active hepatitis, tumors, infectious diseases, and operations. In these cases evaluation of iron storage can only be estimated by bone marrow examination.
Dialysis Treatment in Schizophrenia: Two Years Experience
Authors: Splendiani Giorgio , Bruno Vittorio , D'Alessandro Valfredo , Pomero Paolo , Cammà Maria Luigia , Tancredi Maurizio 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTThe authors summarize two years trial of dialysis treatment of schizophrenia. Twenty‐five schizophrenic patients were treated with hemodialysis using PAN membranes. The dialysis schedule was: dialyzer: RP 610; blood flow: 250 ml/min; dialysate flow: 500 ml/min; time: 3 hr; vascular access: arteriovenous fistula, femoral vein, antebrachial veins. Dialysis was first performed for three days, repeated after one week, two weeks, three weeks, and one month, and then performed once a month. The drug regimen was never modified or interrupted. The results were evaluated with the Overall and Lorr scale. Nine patients interrupted the treatment early and were not considered; nine patients showed disappearance of psychiatric symptomatology (Overall and Lorr index decreased to 21.8 at 2); non‐significant modifications of the main schizophrenic symptoms were observed in seven patients. According to our trial, dialysis with polyacrylonitrile membranes can modify the psychotic attitude in a group of schizophrenic “dialysis responders.“
Middle Molecular Weight Substances and Tryptophan in Cerebrospinal Fluid of Schizophrenic Patients
Authors: Sperschneider Heide , Spustova Viere , Neumann Jochen , Stein Günter 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTPatients with various forms of schizophrenia were analyzed in this study. Lumbar CSF was collected for fractionation of middle molecular weight substances with simultaneous tryptophan determination. Middle molecular weight substances could not be detected in CSF by measurement at 254 nm. Tryptophan analysis in CSF did not provide any relevant information concerning pathogenesis.
Axial Changes of Blood and Plasma Flow, Pressure, and Cellular Deposition in Capillary Plasma Filters
Authors: Zawicki I. , Malchesky P. S. , Smith J. W. , Harasaki H. , Asanuma Y. , Nosé Y. 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTThe ability to separate plasma on‐line from whole blood by membranes has generated interest in applying this process to source plasma collection and to the therapeutic treatment of various disease states. The availability of capillary membrane devices in particular has prompted investigations in these areas. The deposition of blood cellular elements has required the investigation of those parameters related to fluid and mass flux. Analytical solutions relating blood flow rate, filtration rate, and pressure and deposition with respect to axial distance have been obtained. Comparison of these solutions with preliminary experimental results have been made. Results indicate that the deposition parameter versus distance from the inlet is a very sensitive function of capillary membrane properties and operating conditions. Plasma fluxes are also highly dependent on blood, membrane, and filter properties and operating conditions.
Accessible Plasma Exchange Using Membrane Filter ‐ A Successfully Treated Case of TTP With Repeated Plasma Exchanges
Authors: Shinoda A. , Kitada H. , Suzuki S. , Kurihara S. , Saito Y. , Yuri T. , Ishikawa I. 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTPlasma exchanges with a hollow‐fiber type plasma filter were attempted in a variety of diseases. The unit was easily assembled and the procedures were safely carried out by our dialysis personnel after some instruction.Approximately 2 liters of fresh frozen plasma were used during each plasma exchange and about the same amount of plasma was removed from the patient in 1.5 to 2 hours. This resulted in 66% replacement of patient's albumin on one occasion.Fifty‐four plasma exchanges were done in seven patients. The procedure was well tolerated by all patients with only occasional muscle cramps or itching, which were treated with calcium gluconate infusion or antihistamines, respectively.A successfully treated case of TTP in which we used repeated membrane plasma exchanges combined with conventional treatment is also Reported.
Plasma Exchange and Immunoadsorption for Removal of Antibodies Prior to ABO Incompatible Bone Marrow Transplant
Authors: Bensinger William I. 
Published: November 2008

ABSTRACTABO incompatible allogeneic bone marrow transplants can be performed successfully to treat patients with leukemia or aplastic anemia. These transplants carry no great risk of rejection or graft‐versus‐host disease, however, some method must be used to avoid acute hemolysis at the time of infusion of ABO incompatible marrow. We have used successfully large volume plasma exchange to remove anti‐A or anti‐B antibodies prior to marrow infusion. More recently we have used immunoadsorbent columns containing synthetic A or B antigen specifically to remove anti‐A or anti‐B antibodies in lieu of plasma exchange. These columns are better tolerated than plasma exchange where allergic reactions are common.