bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Structural determinants for membrane trafficking and G protein selectivity of a mouse olfactory receptor
Authors: Katada Sayako , Tanaka Motonari , Touhara Kazushige 
Published: September 2004

AbstractThe G protein‐coupled olfactory receptor (OR) superfamily plays a critical role in recognizing a broad range of odorants. Each OR appears to recognize odorants based on similarities in molecular structures such that mOR‐EG, a mouse OR, binds eugenol, vanillin, and some other structurally related odorants. Only a few ORs, however, have been characterized functionally due to the difficulties in expressing ORs in heterologous cells. In this report, we demonstrate roles of the N‐ and C‐terminal domains as key elements in the functional expression and signal transducing activity of an OR. Disruption of the N‐terminal glycosylation site of the mOR‐EG completely impaired its membrane trafficking to the cell surface. Functional expression of the mOR‐EG was greatly enhanced by addition of extra N‐terminal glycosylation sequences. Addition of a C‐terminal epitope‐tag or C‐terminal truncation significantly reduced the odorant‐response activity, although the receptors were properly targeted to the plasma membrane. Analysis of a series of truncated ORs revealed a region in the C‐terminus that was crucial for the receptor activity. Replacement of the C‐terminal portion of the mOR‐EG with that of rhodopsin disrupted the coupling to Gαs but not to Gα15, demonstrating that the C‐terminus is involved in regulating G protein specificity. These results suggest that glycosylation of the N‐terminal portion is critical for OR expression and membrane trafficking, while the C‐terminal portion plays a role in defining proper conformation, which, in turn, specifies the G protein selectivity of the OR. This information helps clarify the mechanisms that regulate membrane trafficking and G protein interaction of the OR superfamily.
Potentiation of myelin proteolipid protein (Plp) gene expression is mediated through AP‐1‐like binding sites
Authors: Dobretsova Anna , Kokorina Natalia A. , Wight Patricia A. 
Published: September 2004

AbstractThe myelin proteolipid protein (Plp) gene is expressed in oligodendrocytes and encodes the most abundant protein found in mature CNS myelin. Expression of the gene is dynamic and peaks during the active myelination period of CNS development. The surge in Plp gene activity during this period has been purported to be mediated by a positive regulatory region located within the first intron. This region, designated ASE for antisilencer/enhancer, is located approximately 1 kb downstream of exon 1 sequences and encompasses nearly 100 bp. However, neither the critical nucleotides within this region, nor the associated DNA‐binding proteins have been identified. In the present study, DNase I footprinting analysis demonstrated widespread protection of the region on both the coding and non‐coding strands suggesting that multiple transcription factors are likely involved. Targeting of putative DNA‐protein binding sites contained within the ASE by gel shift, transfection and mutagenesis studies revealed the importance of several AP‐1‐like binding sites in governing high levels of Plp gene expression in oligodendrocytes. Our results suggest that factors, which bind to these sites, form the core of a multiprotein complex that assembles on the ASE and ultimately affects the temporal regulation of the gene in oligodendrocytes.
Fetal alcohol exposure alters neurosteroid levels in the developing rat brain
Authors: Caldeira Jerri C. , Wu Yan , Mameli Manuel , Purdy Robert H. , Li Pui‐Kai , Akwa Yvette , Savage Daniel D. , Engen John R. , Valenzuela C. Fernando 
Published: September 2004

AbstractNeurosteroids are modulators of neuronal function that may play important roles in brain maturation. We determined whether chronic prenatal ethanol exposure altered neurosteroid levels in the developing brain. Rat dams were exposed to: (i) a 5% ethanol‐containing liquid diet that produces peak maternal blood alcohol levels near the legal intoxication limit (approximately 0.08 g/dL); (ii) an isocaloric liquid diet containing maltose‐dextrin instead of ethanol with pair‐feeding; (iii) rat chow ad libitum. Neurosteroid levels were assessed in offspring brains using radioimmunoassay or gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry techniques. A prenatal ethanol exposure‐induced increase in pregnenolone sulfate levels, but not dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels, was evident at the earliest time point studied (embryonic day 14). This effect lasted until post‐natal day 5. Levels of other neurosteroids were assessed at embryonic day 20; pregnenolone levels, but not allopregnanolone levels, were elevated. Pregnenolone sulfate levels were not altered in the maternal brain. Neither pregnenolone nor pregnenolone sulfate levels were significantly altered in the fetal liver, placenta and maternal blood, indicating that the effect of ethanol is not secondary to accumulation of peripherally‐produced steroids. Fetal ethanol exposure has been shown to decrease both cellular and behavioral responsiveness to neurosteroids, and our findings provide a plausible explanation for this effect.
A mathematical model for designing and sizing sow farms
Authors: Plà L. M. , Babot D. , Pomar J. 
Published: September 2004

AbstractA semi‐Markov model and its application for designing and sizing swine facilities are presented. Swine production is becoming more and more specialised. Hence the sizing of a farm producing piglets is the main strategic decision of farmers who invest in sow production, since a farm comprises different facilities with different possible sizes. The classical approach is simple but the resulting design assumes some security margins without considering variations in sow performance or in the management policy. The model presented here has revealed differences with respect to the classical approach. As a result, the Markov chain approach is useful to determine more accurately the capacity, improve farm design and reduce housing cost.
Tax impact on multi‐stage mean‐variance portfolio allocation
Authors: Osorio M.A. , Gülpınar N. , Rustem B. , Settergren R. 
Published: September 2004

AbstractWe investigate the sensitivity to tax change of multi‐stage portfolio allocation over a discrete time investment horizon. Special taxation rules within wrappers grouped a number of risky assets are integrated with multi‐stage linear or quadratic stochastic programming in the mean‐variance framework. The uncertainty on the returns of assets is specified as a scenario tree generated by a simulation‐based approach. We adjust different values on capital gains tax under different asset bounds and risk levels. The tax impact in the yearly reallocation of the investments for a typical case with an annual fixed withdrawal that utilizes completely the option of taper relief is also explored. Our computational results show that taxes, combined with other effects such as risk and investment upper bounds, have a significant performance impact on portfolio allocation as well as diversification over wrappers. Yet, investment strategies can be made robust to changes in taxation.
ANTICOAGULANT EFFECTS OF LOW MOLECULAR WEIGHT HEPARIN IN HEALTHY CATS
Authors: Alwood AJ , Downend AB , Brooks MB , Slensky KA , Fox JA , Simpson SA , Waddell LS , Otto CM 
Published: September 2004

Objectives: 1) Validate a chromogenic assay to measure Factor Xa inhibitory activity (anti‐Xa activity) in normal feline plasma and following administration of low molecular weight heparins and unfractionated heparin. 2) Compare the effects of two commercially available low molecular weight heparins (LMWH), unfractionated heparin (UFH), and placebo on TEG, anti‐Xa activity, PT/aPTT, PCV/TS and platelet count in healthy cats.Methods: Our study consisted of two phases: 1) the evaluation of a commercially available chromogenic anti‐Xa assay (Rotachrom Heparin, Diagnostic Stago) for use in cats, and 2) the evaluation of hemostatic effects of LMWH in healthy cats. Phase 1: The anti‐Xa assay was validated for use in cats using feline plasma and serial dilutions of the plasma spiked with UFH, enoxaparin, and dalteparin. Phase 2: Five healthy cats were included in a randomized Latin Squares model crossover‐design to compare the effects of UFH and LMWH in cats. The cats then received one of the following subcutaneously: 1) 250 IU/kg UFH QID, 2) 100 IU/kg dalteparin BID, 3) 1 mg/kg enoxaparin BID, 4) 0.25 mL/kg 0.9% saline (placebo) QID. A minimum of a two‐week washout period separated each treatment period. Each drug was administered for 5 days. Blood samples were obtained to measure anti‐Xa, TEG, PT/aPTT, platelet count, and PCV/TS on Days 1, 3, 5, and 6 of each treatment cycle. Samples were collected at time 0 on each sample day for all parameters and on select days at hours 4, 8, and 12 for anti‐Xa and TEG.Results: Preliminary results using the validated anti‐Xa assay (from the first part of this study) demonstrate that LMWH treatment results in peak anti‐Xa activity at the 4‐hour sampling time that returned toward baseline by 8 hours (in 5/6 cats treated with LMWH thus far). Similar anticoagulant effects were noted in the TEG parameters of cats receiving LMWH (i.e., peak effects were noted at 4 hours). Analysis of current data by linear regression identifies a relationship between anti‐Xa measurements and TEG parameters for cats treated with all heparin therapies (p<0.001). A similar relationship exists between anti‐Xa and aPTT.Conclusions: Preliminary results suggest an anticoagulant effect of LMWH in cats that may not be uniform across individuals. Anti‐Xa activity or TEG may provide useful tools for monitoring LMWH.
ELECTROCARDIOGRAPHIC ASSESSMENT OF HYPERKALEMIA IN DOGS AND CATS
Authors: Tag TL , Day TK 
Published: September 2004

Objective: To demonstrate whether ECG changes induced by hyperkalemia correspond with previously described changes.Design: ProspectiveAnimals: Eighteen dogs and 22 cats with serum potassium levels >5.5 mEq/L as the result of various disease processes.Procedure: Once hyperkalemia was documented, the following data were collected: ECG (n=40), total magnesium (mg/dl) (n=18), total calcium (mg/dl) (n=31), and venous blood gas (n=20). Animals were divided into 5 groups based on expected ECG's changes associated with hyperkalemia (mEq/L): Group 1‐ 5.5–6.5; Group 2‐ 6.6–7.0; Group 3‐ 7.1–8.5; Group 4‐ 8.6–10.0; Group 5‐ >10.0. ECG's were interpreted to determine if the rate, rhythm and changes in the P‐QRS‐T complex were similar to those previously reported.Results: Twelve ECGs demonstrated changes previously described, while 28 did not: Group 1 (n=7)‐ 1/7; Group 2 (n=2)‐ 0/2; Group 3 (n=14)‐ 4/14; Group 4 (n=6)‐ 3/6; Group 5 (n=11)‐ 4/11. Many ECG abnormalities not previously described were also identified such as atrioventricular dissociation and ventricular tachyarrhythmias. Blood gas analysis revealed acidemia (19/20) with severe acidemia (pH<7.2) in the majority (16/19). Hypocalcemia was documented (5/13) and most of these patents (4/5) were in Group 5. Hypermagnesemia was documented in the majority of patients (10/18), though not in one particular group.Clinical Implications: It is difficult to establish typical ECG changes in patients with hyperkalemia, which represents a departure from the historical description. Hypocalcemia may be involved with ECG changes and arrhythmias in Group 5. Hypermagnesemia causes electrocardiographic abnormalities similar to those described with hyperkalemia and therefore does not explain the results of this study. There likely are complex interactions with electrolytes and acid base abnormalities that affect ECG formation.
RAPID MILLER'S KNOT METHOD FOR EMERGENCY LUNG LOBE REMOVAL
Authors: Crowe DT 
Published: September 2004

A simple and rapid technique for the emergency removal of lung lobes was developed. It has been used successfully in 2 cats and 10 dogs without complications being recognized in any, with a minimum follow‐up of four months. The purpose of this abstract is three‐fold: 1) To briefly describe how the technique was done; 2) To describe the results of the use of the technique in these 14 emergency cases; and 3) Provide recommendations for the continued use of the technique in emergency cases.Method: The lung lobe requiring removal was selected and elevated; soft connective tissues around the lung lobe base were separated from the main pedicle using a fine curved scissors. With mild traction applied, 3 curved Halstead or Kelly hemostatic forceps were applied across the entire pedicle, one right after the other except for a break between the last 2 distal clamps. The lung lobe was removed by cutting the entire pedicle with a Metzenbaum scissors between the distal most clamps. The tips of the scissors were tilted slightly to produce a “tissue bumper” of 1–3 mm above the distal most hemostatic forceps left. A Miller's knot of 3–0 to 2–0 polypropylene (cats and very small dogs) and 0 to 1 polypropylene (medium to large dogs) was applied around the entire pedicle under the clamps and tightened as the proximal most clamp was loosened briefly (flashed). The ends of the suture were continued to be carried around the pedicle in the direction they were coursing and then tied. A third ligation of the polypropylene was completed in large pedicles or where added security was deemed necessary such as in cases with a torn lung lobe due to trauma.Results: The procedure was used in emergency lung lobectomy in 2 cats involving 3 lobes and in 10 dogs. The reasons for emergency lobectomy were lung consolidation in 4 dogs (involving 6 lobes), trauma with severe tears or openings in 4 dogs (involving 6 lobes), a leaking congenital bulla in 1 dog, and 1 abscess/foreign body (wooden stick). Time taken to perform a lobectomy with this technique ranged from 3–7 minutes. No leaks or complications with the pedicle have been observed in any of the cases. Because only limited dissection is needed to perform the lobectomy, the author recommends this method over conventional lobectomy where artery, bronchus and vein are all managed individually.
PRESENTATION LABORATORY VALUES, ADMINISTRATION OF SODIUM BICARBONATE AND OUTCOME OF CATS TREATED FOR DIABETIC KETOACIDOSIS
Authors: Fertig AJ , Rudloff E , Kirby R , Thamm DH 
Published: September 2004

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious complication in the cat, carrying a mortality rate as high as 26% during initial hospitalization. In humans, the presenting laboratory values can be correlated with the length of hospitalization and survival. To our knowledge, no studies of this kind can be found in the veterinary literature. The objective of this study was to compare the duration of therapy and clinical outcome of cats with DKA based on laboratory values, and whether or not administration of sodium HCO3 had an impact on survival.Only completed medical records of cats treated at the Animal Emergency Center for DKA from January 1998 to January 2004 were reviewed. All patients received a standardized protocol for treatment of DKA. Data collected included presenting blood glucose level, presenting venous blood gas values, whether or not bicarbonate therapy was administered, length of hospitalization, and survival. Median duration of hospitalization of survivors was calculated using the Kaplan‐Meier product limit method, and comparisons between groups performed using the log‐rank test. Differences in laboratory values between survivors and non‐survivors were compared using a one‐sided unpaired t‐test and Fisher's exact test.Twenty medical records fit the study criteria. There were 12 male and 8 female cats, of which 14 were released to owner care and 6 died in the hospital (5 euthanized). Median duration of hospitalization among survivors was 4.5 days. There was a trend toward increased hospital stay in cats presenting with a blood glucose >269 mg/dL (3 days versus 5 days; p=0.0685). There was a trend for nonsurvivors to have pCO2 <21.5 mmHg (p=0.063), and K+<3.65 mmol/L (p=0.063). Eight cats presented with HCO3 <10 mmol/L. Of these, 2 were administered sodium HCO3.In conclusion, there was no statistically significant correlation between presenting laboratory values and outcome of cats with DKA. Those presenting with a pCO2<21.5 mmol/L or K+<3.65 mEq/L may have a greater chance for morbidity. There does not appear to be an association between sodium HCO3 administration and outcome in these cats. Additional case evaluations would provide greater power in confirming the validity of these preliminary results.
Equine abstracts HELICOPTER RESCUE – TO FLY OR NOT TO FLY
Authors: Gimenez Rebecca M. , Gimenez Tomas , Baker Janice 
Published: September 2004

Improved options for the successful transport of horses trapped in inaccessible areas (floodwater, steep ravines, etc.) during a disaster or emergency are available to practitioners using helicopter assets and the Anderson Sling™. Horses present a particularly difficult problem to remove from the rescue environment of a wide flooded area, or difficult steep terrain far from access by vehicles or heavy equipment. Due to their fractious and fearful nature, they may fight any effort to walk, climb or swim them to safety, and those attempts are inherently very dangerous for the rescuer(s). Unfortunately, many disaster or emergency scenarios may occur in areas not conducive to the use of other options (barge, rescue glide, simple vertical lift sling). Veterinary practitioners on scene should have familiarity with helicopter sling‐load operations.The use of cargo nets, inappropriate home‐made slings, and inadequate equipment has contributed to disastrous efforts by well‐intentioned rescuers. There have even been desperate attempts at sling loading of cattle by roping the horns or one leg and transporting them into a waiting truck for removal from public lands.The Anderson Sling™ has been successfully used for helicopter operations in multiple emergencies and training demonstration flights, and is the only Equine Sling recommended for this purpose. Although it was originally intended for clinical use in long‐term recovery cases, it has become the industry standard for helicopter operations with equines because of its demonstrated safety margin, design and strength. In clinical use, leg straps further distribute the animal's weight to the legs, but are not necessary in rescue lifts. In some states, there are Large Animal Rescue Teams associated with the Veterinary School, the State Emergency Management Association, or local private Equine Ambulance Services that may have equipment and personnel trained in helicopter sling‐loading. This is a specialty interest that requires prior coordination, significant planning, and training of all personnel involved.
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE EQUINE RESCUE GLIDE
Authors: Gimenez Rebecca M. , Gimenez Tomas , Stafford Keith 
Published: September 2004

The Rescue Glide Sked provides a practical means of moving a recumbent, non‐ambulatory or injured horse from the site of an accident. Horses with serious injuries, displaying severe malnutrition or neurological symptoms, can be easily moved out of a stall or even down a trail to a horse ambulance for transport to a veterinary facility. It is a specialty cut piece of 8′× 4′ recycled polypropylene with tie‐down straps and steel attachment points for winch loading into an equine ambulance. A horse must be fully sedated during transport on the rescue glide to prevent further injury to itself or rescuers. Moving a recumbent horse is very difficult due to the weight of the animal, often causing damage to the head and eyes, and with many safety concerns for the rescuers (struggling, kicking). It may take 8 to 10 people to move a horse just a few feet, especially uphill or on high friction surfaces. Benefits of the Rescue Glide include that the plastic reduces the friction of the weight of the animal on the ground surface, so fewer people are needed to move the animal. The tough resilient plastic is flexible so it goes easily over obstacles such as logs, roots, or through ditches. It folds up around the animal's body to get through a standard stall door or tight spaces as might be encountered on a trail. The Glide may be attached to a winch, ropes pulled by human rescuers, or even vehicle (ATV, car, etc.)The practical use of the Rescue Glide has been demonstrated in numerous situations including severe limb injuries, neurological compromise, geriatric, recumbent/unable to rise, severe neglect/malnutrition, and recovery/removal of dead large animals. The equipment has been used at race tracks and riding competition events for transport of animals into ambulances, as well as by veterinary rescue response teams in trail riding accidents, pasture accidents, and severe trailer injuries.The Rescue Glide, in conjunction with an equine ambulance trailer, provides a safe and suitable means of transport of large animals to veterinary facilities and should be a part of the equine practitioner's emergency equipment.
RESPIRATORY MECHANICS AND DIFFUSION CAPACITY IN AWAKE, ADULT LLAMAS: CLINICAL APPLICATIONS IN CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE
Authors: Lascola Kara , Hoffman Andrew , Oura Trish , Mazan Melissa , Bedenice Daniela 
Published: September 2004

The purpose of this study was to establish reference values of respiratory mechanics and diffusion capacity in awake llamas for the interpretation and diagnosis of respiratory disease in critically ill camelids. The following procedures were performed in 10 healthy adult llamas (2–9 years; 100–204 kg): Respiratory Inductive Plethysmography and Pneumotachography (RIP) for the assessment of thoraco‐abdominal synchrony and airflow obstruction (Hoffman, J Appl Physiol 2001;91: 2767–75), diffusion capacity of carbon monoxide (DLCO) and functional residual capacity (FRC) via helium dilution, esophageal balloon‐pneumotachography to determine pulmonary resistance (RL) and dynamic compliance (Cdyn), as well as Monofrequency Forced Oscillatory Mechanics (FOM) (Young, J Appl Physiol 1994;76:2467–72) to establish respiratory system resistance (Rrs) and reactance (Xrs) at the oscillatory frequencies of 1,2,3,5 and 7 Hz. RIP was further performed in 3 camelid patients to determine the cause of respiratory failure.The results of conventional lung mechanics, FOM (1 Hz), DLCO and FRC in healthy llamas are listed in the table below. Rrs at 1 Hz (closest to breathing frequency) was positively correlated with RL (P=.05). The calculated mean resonant frequency was 3.37 (+/−0.68) Hz. RIP results showed a peak difference between plethysmographic flow (V'sum) and nasal flow (V'n) of 2.61 (+/−1.02) during expiration (PEsf), and 2.48 (+/−1.04) during inspiration (PIsf). The area difference between V'sum and V'n was 0.05 (+/−0.14) and 0.05 (+/−.04) during the first 25% of expiration (SFEx) and inspiration (SFIx), respectively. Noninvasive evaluation of respiratory mechanics in clinical patients was essential to establish severity, type and progression of respiratory disease, especially in camelids presenting for upper airway obstruction, pulmonary disease or thoraco‐abdominal asynchrony.

TV
[L]
PIF
[L/s]
PEF
[L/s]
FRC/ kg
[ml/kg]
DLCO
[ml/min/ mmHg]
Cdyn
[L/ cmH2O]
RL
[cmH2O/ L/s]
Rrs(1 Hz)
[cmH2O/ L/s]
Xrs(1 Hz)
[cmH2O/ L/s]

Mean
0.98
2.13
2.00
39.18
10.70
1.44
1.48
2.40
−1.17

SD
0.28
0.61
0.75
11.45
3.37
0.75
0.57
0.93
0.46