bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experience of delivering women with HIV in an inner city London hospital 1994–2004
Authors: Parisaei Maryam , Anderson J , Erskine K J , Gann S
Published: August 2007

The objective of this study was to compare deliveries in women with HIV at Homerton University Hospital with those in the general antenatal hospital population. The study was a retrospective case-note review of deliveries from 1994 to 2004 at an Inner City London Hospital, UK (Homerton University Hospital). In all, 113 deliveries were studied in 98 women with HIV. Compared with the general antenatal population, women with HIV were more likely to be from African backgrounds, describe inadequate housing and be without the support of a partner or family; 79.8% of deliveries in women with HIV were by caesarean section in comparison with 22.4% in the overall hospital population. A majority of women with HIV received antiretroviral therapy in pregnancy. Intercurrent medical and antenatal complications were uncommon and in a majority the postpartum periods were uncomplicated. A significantly higher proportion of women with HIV infection described a previous history of depression than in the general hospital population. There were two instances of vertical transmission of HIV. In conclusion, our observations suggest that with appropriate monitoring and management strategies, successful pregnancy outcomes can be achieved in a complex HIV-positive patient population.
Role of salivary tumour necrosis factor α in HIV-positive patients with oral manifestations
Authors: Ino Tomoaki , Tada Akio , Tominaga Akira , Komori Yasuo , Chiba Hiroshige , Senpuku Hidenobu
Published: August 2007

In HIV-1-infected patients, oral manifestations such as recurrent apthous ulcers are often seen. A total of 29 HIV-infected patients were examined to determine salivary tumour necrosis factor α (TNF α) concentrations by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, the amount of HIV-1 RNA copy by Amplicor HIV-1 Monitor test, number of CD4 cells by flow cytometry and oral manifestations by oral examination. TNF α concentration was significantly correlated with the amount of HIV-1 RNA, however, not with the number of CD4 cells in HIV-1-infected patients. Further, patients with oral manifestations showed significantly higher concentrations of TNF α in saliva and HIV-1 RNA copies in serum than those without oral manifestations. Following recovery from oral ulcers, TNF α concentration was decreased by half to 20 times lower than the level of that during ulcer incidence. Our results suggest that salivary TNF α is a good indicator for oral manifestations and HIV RNA amounts in HIV-1-infected patients.
Can nucleic acid amplification tests be used to test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea in microbicide trials?
Authors: Rizzo-Price Patricia , Stamper Paul D , Wood Billie Jo , Reynolds Steven J , Quinn Thomas C , Gaydos Charlotte
Published: August 2007

Microbicides may interfere with detection of Chlamydia trachomatis ( Ct) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae ( Ng) in urine samples from women who use microbicides. The inhibitory effects of BufferGel, PRO2000 and PRO2000 placebo, in urine samples, were determined by nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs). Uninfected urine was inoculated with different concentrations (105–101 organisms/mL); microbicides were added to achieve final concentrations from 5% to 0.1%. Specimens were tested using strand displacement amplification (SDA) for Ct and Ng. Samples with BufferGel demonstrated no inhibition. Samples with PRO2000 showed inhibition at the 5% concentration when tested for Ct, whereas for Ng, PRO2000 showed inhibition at 5%, 2% and some 1% concentrations. The placebo showed no inhibition when detecting Ct, and variable inhibition at the 5% and 2% concentrations for Ng. The potential inhibitory effects of microbicides on the NAATs selected for detection of Ct and Ng should be considered in clinical trials involving topical microbicides.
A negative association between condom availability and incidence of urethral discharge in a closed Malawian community
Authors: Metcalfe David
Published: August 2007

Condom promotion in sub-Saharan Africa has been accused by some conservative groups of encouraging promiscuity. This study explored the relationship between condom availability and sexually transmitted infection (STI) incidence in a closed Malawian community. An audit of clinic records charted the changing availability of condoms and the concurrent incidence of patients presenting with STI-associated urethral discharge (UD). When condoms first became available, their distribution steadily increased and the UD incidence declined. During a three-month period of unavailability, this previously uninterrupted decline was reversed and UD incidence increased. Once condoms again became available, UD incidence resumed its decline. This association was found to be statistically significant (Spearman's correlation coefficient, −0.499; P = 0.035). In a small community largely isolated from neighbouring towns, condom distribution appeared to negatively correlate with the number of patients presenting with UD. This may challenge the local belief that condoms have a damaging effect on sexual health in Malawi.
Efavirenz-induced neurological symptoms in rare homozygote CYP2B6 *2/*2 (C64T)
Authors: Usami Osamu , Ashino Yugo , Komaki Yuichi , Tomaki Masafumi , Irokawa Toshiya , Tamada Tsutomu , Hayashida Tsunefusa , Teruya Katsuji , Hattori Toshio
Published: August 2007

Some of the HIV-1-infected patients who were given highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) including efavirenz (EFV) presented adverse central nervous system (CNS) symptoms such as fatigue and insomnia. The incidence of adverse CNS symptoms is associated with hepatic cytochrome P450 isozymes (CYP2B6) polymorphisms. For example, CYP2B6 *6 (G516T and A785G) and *7 (G516T, A785G and C1459T) prolonged the EFV half-life despite discontinuation of EFV. CYP2B6 *2/*2 (C64T) is extremely rare and there have been no data describing the EFV plasma concentrations in C64T homozygous patients, who developed adverse CNS symptoms. C64T homozygous possibly has some catalytic defects.
Reduced risk of toxoplasma encephalitis in HIV-infected patients – a prospective study from Gauteng, South Africa
Authors: Hari K R , Modi M R , Mochan A H D , Modi G
Published: August 2007

Toxoplasma seroprevalence was determined in 307 consecutive HIV-infected medical inpatients at the Helen Joseph Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa, using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay to detect immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM antibodies. The mean age of patients was 36 years, with a female to male ratio of 1.3 to 1. The mean CD4 count was 109 cells/mL. Toxoplasma antibodies were detected in 25 patients (8%). Twenty-two of these patients were IgG positive and IgM negative, i.e. reactivation toxoplasmosis. Only two patients (0.65%) had clinical manifestations of toxoplasmosis (one toxoplasma encephalitis and one retinitis). The risk for toxoplasma encephalitis (TE) was 0.33%. These results indicate that the toxoplasma seroprevalence and the TE risk in this population is low. The implication from this study is that in HIV-infected populations where the toxoplasma seroprevalence is low, the TE risk will be low and empiric treatment of focal brain lesions with anti-toxoplasma therapy may be inappropriate.
Comparison of first antiretroviral treatment duration and outcome in HIV, HIV–HBV and HIV–HCV infection
Authors: Cooper Curtis L , Mills Ed
Published: August 2007

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) co-infection may differentially influence HIV treatment duration and outcome. This was assessed at The Ottawa Hospital Immunodeficiency Clinic in first-time highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) recipients visited between January 2000 and December 2004. Of 968 patients, 526/700 (75%) HIV, 173/230 (75%) HIV–HCV and 30/38 (79%) HIV–HBV-infected patients initiated HAART. Co-infected patients stopped treatment sooner (HBV – 10 months, HCV – 9 months) than HIV mono-infected (17 months) ( P<0.001). Injection drug history predicted shorter treatment duration (odds ratio [OR]1.59, P<0.001). Use of non-nucleoside-reverse-transcriptase-inhibitor-containing HAART (OR 0.76, P<0.01) and low-dose ritonavir (<400 mg twice daily)-based HAART (OR 0.83, P = 0.06) predicted longer treatment duration. HCV co-infection did not predict duration of therapy (OR 1.19, P=0.19) once controlled for by these three variables. Poor adherence was a major explanation for eventual treatment interruption in those with HIV–HCV (22% versus 5% in HIV alone; P<0.001) as was substance abuse (7% versus < 1% in HIV; P<0.001). Metabolic complications resulted in HAART interruption in HIV mono-infection (8%) but not with HBV or HCV co-infection (both <1%; P<0.001). Antiretroviral selection is critical to the longevity of initially prescribed regimens, irrespective of viral hepatitis co-infection. Attention to this and strategies targeting substance abuse and adherence in HIV–HCV are predicted to increase the duration of HAART.
Quality of life and functional outcome after primary total hip replacement
Authors: Ng C. Y. , Ballantyne J. A. , Brenkel I. J.
Published: August 2007

We have evaluated the quality of life and functional outcome after unilateral primary total hip replacement (THR). Between 5 January 1998 and 31 July 2000, we recruited a consecutive series of 627 patients undergoing this procedure and investigated them prospectively. Each was assessed before operation and reviewed after six months, 18 months, three years and five years. The Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36) and Harris Hip scores were evaluated at each appointment.

All dimensions of the SF-36 except for mental health and general health perception, improved significantly after operation and this was maintained throughout the follow-up. The greatest improvement was seen at the six-month assessment. On average, women reported lower SF-36 scores pre-operatively, but the gender difference did not continue post-operatively. The Harris Hip scores improved significantly after operation, reaching a plateau after 18 months. The improved quality of life was sustained five years after THR.
Antegrade Rush nailing for fractures of the distal humerus
Authors: Chaarani M. W.
Published: August 2007

A single antegrade Rush nail was used to treat 37 fractures of the distal humerus extending to the olecranon fossa and up to 6.5 cm proximal to it. In order to stabilise the fracture, the bent tip of the Rush nail was directed into the lateral epicondylar ridge. This gave immediate stability. All the fractures united without residual stiffness of the shoulder or elbow.
Cement penetration and primary stability of the femoral component after impaction allografting
Authors: Albert C. , Patil S. , Frei H. , Masri B. , Duncan C. , Oxland T. , Fernlund G.
Published: August 2007

This study explored the relationship between the initial stability of the femoral component and penetration of cement into the graft bed following impaction allografting.

Impaction allografting was carried out in human cadaveric femurs. In one group the cement was pressurised conventionally but in the other it was not pressurised. Migration and micromotion of the implant were measured under simulated walking loads. The specimens were then cross-sectioned and penetration of the cement measured.

Around the distal half of the implant we found approximately 70% and 40% of contact of the cement with the endosteum in the pressure and no-pressure groups, respectively. The distal migration/micromotion, and valgus/varus migration were significantly higher in the no-pressure group than in that subjected to pressure. These motion components correlated negatively with the mean area of cement and its contact with the endosteum.

The presence of cement at the endosteum appears to play an important role in the initial stability of the implant following impaction allografting.
The influence of posterior condylar offset on knee flexion after total knee replacement using a cruciate-sacrificing mobile-bearing implant
Authors: Hanratty B. M. , Thompson N. W. , Wilson R. K. , Beverland D. E.
Published: August 2007

We have studied the concept of posterior condylar offset and the importance of its restoration on the maximum range of knee flexion after posterior-cruciate-ligament-retaining total knee replacement (TKR). We measured the difference in the posterior condylar offset before and one year after operation in 69 patients who had undergone a primary cruciate-sacrificing mobile bearing TKR by one surgeon using the same implant and a standardised operating technique. In all the patients true pre- and post-operative lateral radiographs had been taken.

The mean pre- and post-operative posterior condylar offset was 25.9 mm (21 to 35) and 26.9 mm (21 to 34), respectively. The mean difference in posterior condylar offset was + 1 mm (−6 to +5). The mean pre-operative knee flexion was 111° (62° to 146°) and at one year postoperatively, it was 107° (51° to 137°).

There was no statistical correlation between the change in knee flexion and the difference in the posterior condylar offset after TKR (Pearson correlation coefficient r = −0.06, p = 0.69).
Acute near-fatal necrotising fasciitis complicating a primary total hip replacement
Authors: Sharma H. , Kelly M. P.
Published: August 2007

Necrotising fasciitis is a rapidly spreading, life-threatening condition. We report a case of necrotising fasciitis in a 71-year-old woman after a primary total hip replacement which became deeply infected as a result.
The role of polymethylmethacrylate bone cement in modern orthopaedic surgery
Authors: Webb J. C. J. , Spencer R. F.
Published: August 2007

Polymethylmethacrylate remains one of the most enduring materials in orthopaedic surgery. It has a central role in the success of total joint replacement and is also used in newer techniques such as percutaneous vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty.

This article describes the current uses and limitations of polymethylmethacrylate in orthopaedic surgery. It focuses on its mechanical and chemical properties and links these to its clinical performance. The behaviour of antibiotic-loaded bone cement are discussed, together with areas of research that are now shedding light upon the behaviour of this unique biomaterial.
Arthrodesis of the hindfoot for valgus deformity
Authors: Jackson W. F. M. , Tryfonidis M. , Cooke P. H. , Sharp R. J.
Published: August 2007

Correction of valgus deformity of the hindfoot using a medial approach for a triple fusion has only recently been described for patients with tight lateral soft tissues which would be compromised using the traditional lateral approach. We present a series of eight patients with fixed valgus deformity of the hindfoot who had correction by hindfoot fusion using this approach.

In addition, we further extended the indications to allow concomitant ankle fusion. The medial approach allowed us to excise medial ulcers caused by the prominent medial bony structures, giving simultaneous correction of the deformity and successful internal fixation.

We had no problems with primary wound healing and experienced no subsequent infection or wound breakdown. From a mean fixed valgus deformity of 58.8° (45° to 66°) pre-operatively, we achieved a mean post-operative valgus angulation of 13.6° (7° to 23°). All the feet were subsequently accommodated in shoes. The mean time to arthrodesis was 5.25 months (3 to 9).

We therefore recommend the medial approach for the correction of severe fixed valgus hindfoot deformities.
The design and assessment of prospective randomised, controlled trials in orthopaedic surgery
Authors: Boutron I. , Ravaud P. , Nizard R.
Published: August 2007

Randomised controlled trials represent the gold standard in the evaluation of outcome of treatment. They are needed because differences between treatment effects have been minimised and observational studies may give a biased estimation of the outcome. However, conducting this kind of trial is challenging. Several methodological issues, including patient or surgeon preference, blinding, surgical standardisation, as well as external validity, have to be addressed in order to lower the risk of bias. Specific tools have been developed in order to take into account the specificity of evaluation of the literature on non-pharmacological intervention. A better knowledge of methodological issues will allow the orthopaedic surgeon to conduct more appropriate studies and to better appraise the limits of his intervention.
New Ceramifying Polymer Materials for Passive Fire Protection Applications
Authors: Thomson K. W. , Shanks R. A. , Genovese A.
Published: August 2007

A new class of polymer composites has been developed for flame retardancy and passive fire protection. The key feature is a controlled transition from a degrading polymer composite to a ceramic residue in a fire situation. The polymer can be thermoplastic, thermoset or elastomeric. The composites are processable using conventional equipment to form extruded profiles, sheet, moldings, each of which may be foamed. The composites can retain flexibility and durability within the required filler content range. Fire protection is afforded by formation of a ceramic by fusion and reaction of the fillers over a defined temperature range. Ceramic formation commences at relatively low temperature coincident with polymer pyrolysis to maintain structural integrity of the material and minimizes shrinkage. The ceramic is able to develop adequate strength to maintain a fire barrier. One form of the material has been implemented in fire resistant cable sheathing. The composites discussed were prepared from poly(siloxiane) elastomer to demonstrate the concept.
Introducing Standards and Sustainable Design
Authors: Kelly William E.
Published: August 2007

The ABET Engineering Criteria require a capstone design project where students use “appropriate engineering standards.” One of the ABET design constraints that students must consider is “sustainability.” The new United States Standards Strategy has as one of its goals to “establish standards education as a high priority within the United States private, public and academic sectors.” The first Fundamental Canon of the ASCE Code of Ethics states in part that civil engineers “shall strive to comply with the principles of sustainable development in the performance of their professional duties.” ASTM E 2432-05 Standard Guide for General Principles of Sustainability Relative to Buildings provides a framework for organizing student design projects to accomplish multiple objectives. However, IEEE’s experience in introducing standards in senior design courses indicates that the senior year may be too late and that the introduction to standards should occur in the first or second year. The purpose of this paper is to outline strategies for including standards and sustainability in courses throughout curricula to build the experience, knowledge, and interest necessary to fulfill the ABET capstone requirements in a meaningful way.
Dielectric anomaly and magnetic response of epitaxial orthorhombic YMnO3 thin films
Authors: Martí X. , Skumryev V. , Laukhin V. , Sánchez F. , García-Cuenca M.V. , Ferrater C. , Varela M. , Fontcuberta J.
Published: August 2007

The structure, magnetic response, and dielectric response of the grown epitaxial thin films of the orthorhombic phase of YMnO3 oxide on Nb:SrTiO3 (001) substrates have been measured. We have found that a substrate-induced strain produces an in-plane compression of the YMnO3 unit cell. The magnetization versus temperature curves display a significant zero-field cooling (ZFC)-field cooling hysteresis below the Néel temperature (TN ≈ 45 K). The dielectric constant increases gradually (up to 26%) below the TN and mimics the ZFC magnetization curve. We argue that these effects could be a manifestation of magnetoelectric coupling in YMnO3 thin films and that the magnetic structure of YMnO3 can be controlled by substrate selection and/or growth conditions.
Epitaxial thin films of multiferroic Bi2FeCrO6 with B-site cationic order
Authors: Nechache Riad , Carignan Louis-Philippe , Gunawan Lina , Harnagea Catalin , Botton Gianluigi A. , Ménard David , Pignolet Alain
Published: August 2007

Epitaxial thin films of Bi2FeCrO6 (BFCO) have been synthesized by pulsed laser deposition on SrRuO3 on (100)- and (111)-oriented SrTiO3 substrates. Detailed x-ray diffraction and cross-section transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed a double perovskite crystal structure of the BFCO epitaxial films very similar to that of BiFeO3 along with a particularly noteworthy Fe3+/Cr3+ cation ordering along the [111] direction. The films contain no detectable magnetic iron oxide impurities and have the correct cationic average stoichiometry throughout their thickness. They however exhibit a slight modulation in the Fe and Cr compositions forming complementary stripe patterns, suggesting minor local excess or depletion of Fe and Cr. The epitaxial BFCO films exhibit good ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties, in addition to magnetic properties at room temperature, as well as an unexpected crystallographic orientation dependence of their room-temperature magnetic properties. Our results qualitatively confirm the predictions made using the ab initio calculations: the double perovskite structure of BFCO films exhibit a Fe3+/Cr3+ cation ordering and good multiferroic properties, along with the unpredicted existence of magnetic ordering at room temperature.
Accommodation of large plastic strains and defect accumulation in nanocrystalline Ni grains
Authors: Wu X.L. , Ma E.
Published: August 2007

A transmission electron microscopy (TEM) study has been carried out to uncover how dislocations and twins accommodate large plastic strains and accumulate in very small nanocrystalline Ni grains during low-temperature deformation. We illustrate dislocation patterns that suggest preferential deformation and nonuniform defect storage inside the nanocrystalline grain. Dislocations are present in individual and dipole configurations. Most dislocations are of the 60° type and pile up on (111) slip planes. Various deformation responses, in the forms of dislocations and twinning, may simultaneously occur inside a nanocrystalline grain. Evidence for twin boundary migration has been obtained. The rearrangement and organization of dislocations, sometimes interacting with the twins, lead to the formation of subgrain boundaries, subdividing the nanograin into mosaic domain structures. The observation of strain (deformation)-induced refinement contrasts with the recently reported stress-assisted grain growth in nanocrystalline metals and has implications for understanding the stability and deformation behavior of these highly nonequilibrium materials.
Multiferroic properties of Dy modified BiFeO3 thin films in comparison with Tb modified BiFeO3 thin films
Authors: Palkar V.R. , Anisha R. , Pinto R. , Bhattacharya S.
Published: August 2007

Coexistence of ferroelectric and ferromagnetic order parameters was observed at room temperature in Bi0.6Dy0.3La0.1FeO3 thin films grown on Pt/TiO2/SiO2/Si substrates using a pulsed laser deposition technique similar to that for Bi0.6Tb0.3La0.1FeO3. The coexistence of ferroelectric and magnetic domains in specific spatial area of the thin film was also confirmed by scanning probe imaging. As expected, the magnetization values obtained for Bi0.6Dy0.3La0.1FeO3 bulk and thin films were higher than those of Bi0.6Tb0.3La0.1FeO3 bulk and polycrystalline thin films because the magnetic moment of Dy is higher than that of Tb. However, preferentially oriented thin films of Bi0.6Tb0.3La0.1FeO3 exhibit much higher magnetization values. It is speculated that structural alignment caused by stress developed during deposition of these films could be responsible for enhancement in magnetization.
Making lipid membranes even tougher
Authors: Prashar Jognandan , Sharp Phillip , Scarffe Mathew , Cornell Bruce
Published: August 2007

Biosensors based on lipid membranes promise an inexpensive and versatile platform for application in many fields of molecular sensing. An extensive review of the applications for tethered membranes was reported in the July 2006 MRS Bulletin [A.N. Parikh and J.T. Groves, Materials science of supported lipid membranes. MRS Bull.31(8), 507 (2006)]. The commercial use to which tethered lipid membranes have been applied has been limited by their stability under long-term storage. This report describes a novel membrane construct that is stable at room temperature for months, eliminates the mobile lipid phase present in lipid bilayers, and is robust against detergents under conditions that would destroy a lipid bilayer.
Processing effect on the luminescence and raman spectra of Gd1−xVO4:Eux3+ phosphors
Authors: Kim Minkee , Kang Shinhoo
Published: August 2007

Nano-sized Eu3+-activated Gd1−xVO4 phosphors were prepared via hydrothermal reaction coupled with the coprecipitation method at a low temperature (230 °C). The coprecipitation provided chemical homogeneity. However, it resulted in a low crystallinity and reduced emission and excitation characteristics. Raman study showed that Gd–O bond lengths changed in powders, depending on the level of crystallinity. The particle morphology was controlled using ethylenediaminetetra-acetic acid during the hydrothermal reaction. Particle shapes in the nano-size range affected the vibration of atoms in the lattice, changing photoluminescence properties.
Effect of elevated substrate temperature on growth, properties, and structure of indium tin oxide films prepared by reactive magnetron sputtering
Authors: Rogozin A. , Vinnichenko M. , Shevchenko N. , Vazquez L. , Mücklich A. , Kreissig U. , Yankov R.A. , Kolitsch A. , Möller W.
Published: August 2007

The paper correlates the growth and structure formation with the properties of indium-tin-oxide (ITO) films fabricated by pulsed reactive magnetron deposition onto amorphous substrates held at elevated temperatures ranging from room temperature to 510 °C. The evolution of the microstructure is consistent with the well-known structure zone model. The temperature dependence of the film texture is described with consideration of the interplay between the shadowing and surface-diffusion processes. It is shown that deposition at elevated temperatures lowers the crystallization threshold and is more effective in reducing resistivity than the postdeposition vacuum annealing at comparable temperatures. The films grown at a substrate temperature of 400 and 510 °C have the lowest resistivity of 1.2 × 10−4 Ω cm, the highest free electron density of 1.2 to 1.0 × 1021 cm−3, and mobility of 35–42 cm2 V−1 s−1 and exhibit the strongest (222) texture with the largest grain size.
Hardness and deformation microstructures of nano-polycrystalline diamonds synthesized from various carbons under high pressure and high temperature
Authors: Sumiya H. , Irifune T.
Published: August 2007

Mechanical properties of high-purity nano-polycrystalline diamonds synthesized by direct conversion from graphite and various non-graphitic carbons under static high pressures and high temperatures were investigated by microindentation testing with a Knoop indenter and observation of microstructures around the indentations. Results of indentation hardness tests using a superhard synthetic diamond Knoop indenter showed that the polycrystalline diamond synthesized from graphite at ⩾15 GPa and 2300–2500 °C (consisting of fine grains 10–30 nm in size and layered crystals) has very high Knoop hardness (Hk ⩾ 110 GPa), whereas the hardness of polycrystalline diamonds synthesized from non-graphitic carbons at ⩾15 GPa and below 2000 °C (consisting only of single-nano grains 5–10 nm in size) are significantly lower (Hk = 70 to 90 GPa). Microstructure observations beneath the indentations of these nano-polycrystalline diamonds suggest that the existence of a lamellar structure and the bonding strength of the grain boundary play important roles in controlling the hardness of the polycrystalline diamond.
Retrospective Sampling Strategies Using Video Recordings to Estimate Fish Passage at Fishways
Authors: Davies Trevor D. , Kehler Daniel G. , Meade Ken R.
Published: August 2007

Reliable estimates of population size are critical for fisheries management and for testing ecological hypotheses but can be expensive and time consuming to obtain. Sampling methodologies have been developed to obviate complete enumeration, but their effectiveness can be limited by logistical constraints. A posteriori sampling from digital video recordings, however, permits the application of otherwise impractical sampling schemes. We evaluated the time savings of estimating total run size by a posteriori sampling of video recordings (assisted by motion detection software) in comparison with on-site counting methods. The evaluation was based on 9 years of complete counts enumerated either on site or by a posteriori counts from video recordings of alewives Alosa pseudoharengus migrating through a fishway in Nova Scotia. We compared results obtained using analytical estimation methods with results from simulation-based methods and found them to be the same for simple random sampling and daily stratified random sampling. We tested the application of using motion detection software to automatically omit sample units with zero counts from sampling strategies; large reductions in sampling requirements were obtained for data sets with large proportions of zero counts. We also evaluated the effect of sample unit size on sampling effort requirements; use of short but frequent sample units allowed for large reductions in sampling effort. Use of motion detection software in combination with shorter sample units achieved highly significant aggregate reductions in sampling effort. For example, at the shortest tested sample unit size of 1 min, it was possible to reduce sampling requirements to 4 min/d based on daily stratified random sampling to achieve an estimate of the true population within 20% and with 95% confidence. Finally, we evaluated linear interpolation to estimate fish passage for missed days; although average bias was small, bias was substantial when a peak run day was missed.
Genetic Identification of Hatchery Stocks of Brown Trout Using Mitochondrial DNA Polymorphism
Authors: Tiano Todd J. , Willis Catherine M. , Noble Amy A. , Luttenton Mark R. , Nikitin Alexey G.
Published: August 2007

Molecular genetics techniques provide an accurate and cost-effective way to identify hatchery strains and to measure genetic variation in fish populations. In this study, we sought to identify genetic differences at the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) level in two of the three hatchery strains of Michigan brown trout Salmo trutta by using restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) of segments of mtDNA amplified by polymerase chain reaction. We show that the RFLP approach can provide valuable information about the genetic composition of Michigan brown trout strains and a method of population analysis that can be used to enhance short- and long-term fisheries management studies.
Evaluation of Video Technology for Monitoring of Multispecies Longline Catches
Authors: Ames Robert T. , Leaman Bruce M. , Ames Kelly L.
Published: August 2007

At-sea catch monitoring of the Alaskan longline fishery for Pacific halibut Hippoglossus stenolepis is insufficient. The International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) conducted studies in 2002 and 2004 comparing catch composition data from electronic monitoring (EM) systems to those of at-sea observers. The EM systems use automated data loggers linked to digital video cameras, a transducer on shipboard hydraulic systems, and a global positioning system receiver. The goal of both studies was to determine whether EM technologies could provide precise and verifiable catch composition data on commercial longline vessels to supplement and complement the data collected by fisheries observers. The EM video analyst's catch data were similar to the observers' data in the 2002 study; however, the video analyst recorded fewer fish for 7 of the 17 species categories investigated. In 2004, the IPHC employed EM technology in another study incorporating recommendations from the 2002 study, including improved camera configurations. The video analyst's data showed increased agreement with the observer data. However, the observers recorded slightly fewer individuals of some species categories, opposite the findings of the 2002 study. This change suggests that incorporating the technology recommendations enhanced the video analyst's accuracy relative to the observer data. Our analysis also highlights the fact that data provided by human observers have their own suite of errors and that the comparisons between EM and observers have no absolute standard of reference. The findings indicate that EM technology can effectively address the lack of catch composition data in the Pacific halibut and other hook-and-line fisheries in Alaska.
A Method for Determining Stomach Fullness for Planktivorous Fishes
Authors: Phelps Quinton E. , Willis David W. , Powell Kipp A. , Chipps Steven R.
Published: August 2007

Mean stomach fullness provides a useful index for quantifying fish diets. However, estimating stomach fullness for planktivorous fishes can be time-consuming and prone to error because of small prey and unidentifiable remains. In this study we developed a predictive equation for estimating the stomach volume of yellow perch Perca flavescens as a function of total length (TL). We then used an optical plankton counter (OPC) to estimate the biovolume of invertebrate prey consumed. The OPC quickly estimated the digital size and abundance of zooplankton prey, which can then be converted to estimates of prey biovolume. Stomach volume (V (mm3)) for yellow perch (113–279 mm TL) was significantly related to body size (L (mm)) and was estimated as V = 3 × 10−7 · L2.96. Using the OPC, yellow perch stomach contents (99% Daphnia pulex) were converted to prey biovolume (mm3) and then divided by stomach volume (mm3) to estimate stomach fullness (%). This approach provided reasonable estimates of stomach fullness ranging from 3% to 85% (mean = 21%). Although the initial cost for the OPC equipment is relatively high, this method provided substantial time and labor savings compared with traditional approaches for quantifying zooplankton abundance and biomass (e.g., microscopic identification and enumeration and length–mass conversions). Similarly, the OPC can be used to estimate the abundance and biomass of freshwater zooplankton, thus reducing the time and costs associated with traditional plankton analyses. The approach is limited, however, in cases where very small prey (<250 μm) are a dominant proportion of the sample because of the potential errors involved in detecting and estimating the biovolumes of small particles.
Development and Evaluation of Standard Weight Equations for Bridgelip Suckers and Largescale Suckers
Authors: Richter Tracy J.
Published: August 2007

Fisheries assessment tools originally created for use with game fish populations are now helping to assess individual nongame species and to evaluate fish communities. Length and weight measurements of individuals within a species can be summarized into condition indices that give insight into the health and condition of the individual and the aquatic community. Such data (weight (g) and total length (TL, mm)) were obtained for 105 populations of bridgelip suckers Catostomus columbianus and 135 populations of largescale suckers C. macrocheilus from three northwestern states. These data were used to develop standard weight (Ws) equations via the regression-line percentile (RLP) and empirical percentile (EmP) methods. Length constraints were 130–460 mm TL for bridgelip suckers and 170–640 mm TL for largescale suckers. The data set was limited by TL constraints and split into development and validation sets. The RLP method yielded the following Ws equations: log10Ws = −5.01699 + 3.02648·log10TL for bridgelip suckers and log10Ws = −4.94684 + 2.99720·log10TL for largescale suckers. Equations based on the EmP method were log10Ws = −5.09721 + 3.04947·log10TL for bridgelip suckers and log10Ws = −5.2586 + 3.12136·log10TL for largescale suckers. For both species, the relative weights produced from RLP and EmP equations differed by less than 10%. However, differences were inconsistent over the length range, indicating a length-related bias. Based on this assessment, use of EmP Ws equations for bridgelip suckers and largescale suckers is recommended. Further, the EmP method should be used to establish new Ws equations.
Brown Trout Seasonal Movement Patterns and Habitat Use in an Urbanized South Dakota Stream
Authors: James Daniel A. , Erickson Jack W. , Barton Bruce A.
Published: August 2007

Fifty-six brown trout Salmo trutta were implanted with transmitters in an urbanized portion of Rapid Creek within the city limits of Rapid City, South Dakota, to determine habitat use and seasonal movement behavior by radiotelemetry. Fish locations were determined twice weekly during daylight hours from September 2000 to September 2001 by triangulating the signal from shore. During the year-long tracking period, 1,153 individual fish locations were recorded. Gross movement distance averaged 506 m and ranged from 22 to 2,554 m. The net movement averaged 49.4 m downstream and ranged from 774 m downstream to 188 m upstream. The movement for individual fish averaged 23 m and ranged from 2 to 150 m. Gross movement was greatest in fall and then spring, whereas the greatest net movement (downstream) occurred in spring. Fish moved a greater distance during the fall spawning period than they did during summer, spring, or winter. Runs and pools were used more frequently than riffles in fall and winter, but runs were used much more than either pools or riffles in spring. No difference in habitat use was evident during the summer. Fish occurrence in riffles was greater in the fall than in all other seasons. Overall, brown trout in this highly urbanized section of stream had similar movement patterns and general habitat distribution during daylight hours as their counterparts in nonurbanized streams described previously in published literature.
Contribution of Stocked Yearling Walleyes to the Fishery in Oneida Lake, New York
Authors: VanDeValk Anthony J. , Brooking Thomas E. , Jackson James R. , Rudstam Lars G.
Published: August 2007

Absolute estimates of stocked fish contributions to fisheries are important in determining the utility of stocking programs. Accounts of stocked fish contribution to fisheries are rare; such studies require (1) stocked fish to be uniquely marked so that they are identifiable when the cohort recruits to the fishery and (2) absolute abundance estimates to be available both from stocked fish and fish produced from other sources. Our objective was to assess the absolute contribution of walleyes Sander vitreus stocked as yearlings to the age-4 population in Oneida Lake, New York. Stocked yearlings contributed 1,778 fish to the age-4 population, which was estimated at 127,000. Estimated survival from stocking (age 1) to age 4 was 1.7% (range = 0.2–3.2%) and was similar to reports of the absolute contribution of fingerling stocking programs. Our results support findings from other studies indicating that attempts to strengthen walleye year-classes by stocking have had limited success; however, our data are based on only one year-class. Documented variability in stocking success on other systems warrants further investigation.
Hatch Dates, Growth, Survival, and Overwinter Mortality of Age‐0 Alewives in Lake Michigan: Implications for Habitat‐Specific Recruitment Success
Authors: Höök Tomas O. , Rutherford Edward S. , Mason Doran M. , Carter Glenn S.
Published: August 2007

AlewivesAlosa pseudoharengusare key components of Laurentian Great Lakes ecosystems and spawn in multiple habitat types. Exploration of alewife early life history dynamics within these different habitats should help identify important recruitment processes. During 2001‐2003, we quantified physical (temperature, transparency) and biotic (chlorophylla, zooplankton densities) habitat factors and collected age‐0 alewives (using ichthyoplankton nets and trawls) in a nearshore region of Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake, Michigan (a drowned river mouth lake connected to Lake Michigan). We characterized alewife hatch dates, individual condition, growth, mortality, and size‐dependent overwinter survival to infer differences in habitat‐specific recruitment success. Temperature, turbidity, chlorophyll‐aconcentrations, and densities of zooplankton prey were consistently higher in Muskegon Lake than in nearshore Lake Michigan. On average, young alewives in Muskegon Lake hatched earlier, grew faster, were in better condition (based on a biphasic length‐weight relationship), and had greater survival than alewives in Lake Michigan. By the end of the growing season, young alewives in Muskegon Lake obtained a larger size than those residing in nearshore Lake Michigan, suggesting that they were more likely to survive through winter (a period of intense size‐selective mortality) and ultimately recruit to the adult population.
Temperature and Competition between Bull Trout and Brook Trout: A Test of the Elevation Refuge Hypothesis
Authors: McMahon Thomas E. , Zale Alexander V. , Barrows Frederic T. , Selong Jason H. , Danehy Robert J.
Published: August 2007

We tested the elevation refuge hypothesis that colder temperatures impart a competitive advantage to bull trout Salvelinus confluentus and thus account for increased biotic resistance to invasion and displacement by brook trout S. fontinalis in headwater streams. Growth, survival, and behavior were compared in allopatry and sympatry at temperatures of 8‐20°C in the laboratory. In allopatry, age‐0 bull trout and brook trout grew at similar rates at temperatures of 8.0‐14.3°C, but brook trout grew significantly faster at higher temperatures. In sympatry, bull trout grew significantly less than brook trout at all test temperatures, with growth differences increasing linearly with increased temperature. Age‐1 brook trout had significantly higher feeding and aggression rates than did similar‐sized bull trout at 8°C and 16°C. The modeled growth of age‐0 bull trout and brook trout based on tributary temperature data from a high‐elevation site (mean summer temperature, 10°C) and a low‐elevation site (14°C) was similar for both species in allopatry. However, brook trout achieved much greater size than bull trout in sympatry, particularly at the warm site, where the predicted size of brook trout was 21.7 mm (23%) greater in length and 4.9 g (60%) greater in weight. Brook trout therefore had a marked size and growth advantage over bull trout at warm temperatures, but bull trout do not appear to gain a similar advantage over brook trout at low temperatures. Thus, factors in addition to water temperature are relevant to protecting remaining bull trout populations from displacement by brook trout in headwater streams.
Tracking Nursery Habitat Use in the York River Estuary, Virginia, by Young American Shad Using Stable Isotopes
Authors: Hoffman J. C. , Bronk D. A. , Olney J. E.
Published: August 2007

We developed and applied a stable isotope turnover model to estimate how long age‐0 American shad Alosa sapidissima reside within tidal freshwater and brackish‐water habitats in the York River estuary, Virginia. The residence time was estimated by modeling the changing stable isotope ratio (either the carbon [δ13C] or sulfur [δ34S] stable isotope ratio) of an age‐0 American shad as it migrates seaward from its present habitat to a new habitat and determining the minimum time required to acquire the isotopic signature of its new habitat. A sensitivity analysis of our turnover model indicates that the results are robust at relatively fast turnover rates, such as those experienced by young fish, but that at slow turnover rates the model can yield biologically meaningful differences with relatively small changes in variables. The average ± SE isotopic ratios for the dorsal muscle tissue of age‐0 fish increased along the estuary, from −31.8 ± 0.3‰ for δ13C and −5.2 ± 0.7‰ for δ34S at the farthest upriver region to −21.8 ± 1.2‰ for δ13C and 10.3 ± 1.7‰ for δ34S in the lower estuary, and were significantly different among regions. To account for these distinct signatures along the estuary, the turnover model predicts that age‐0 fish remain in discrete regions (∼10 river kilometers) of the tidal freshwater portion of the river for at least 15‐45 d and in the lower estuary for at least 32‐66 d. Juveniles, therefore, are spatially segregated, and probably migrate slowly downstream during the summer and early fall, accumulating in the lower freshwater and oligohaline portions of the estuary before their oceanic migration.
Fulvestrant (Faslodex®)—How to Make a Good Drug Better
Authors: Robertson John F. R.
Published: August 2007

Fulvestrant (Faslodex®; AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, Wilmington, DE) is an estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist with a novel mode of action; it binds, blocks, and increases degradation of ER. Fulvestrant (at the approved dose [250 mg/month]) is at least as effective as anastrozole (1 mg/day) in the treatment of postmenopausal women with hormone receptor–positive advanced breast cancer (HR+ ABC) progressing or recurring on antiestrogen therapy, and is also an active first-line treatment. Although fulvestrant (250 mg/month) is clearly effective, it takes 3–6 months to achieve steady-state plasma levels. Steady-state concentrations are approximately twofold higher than those achieved with a single dose; reaching this earlier, for example, via a loading-dose (LD) regimen (250 mg/month plus 500 mg on day 0 and 250 mg on day 14 of month 1), may allow responses to be achieved more quickly and limit the possibility of early relapse.

Fulvestrant high-dose (HD) regimens (500 mg/month) offer the possibility of greater antitumor activity, because (a) ER downregulation is a dose-dependent process (an approximately 70% reduction is observed with a single 250 mg dose of fulvestrant) and (b) evidence correlates greater ER downregulation with superior efficacy. A fulvestrant HD regimen offers the potential of achieving near 100% ER downregulation. There is also potential to increase fulvestrant–ER binding by reducing plasma estrogen levels, for example, with concomitant aromatase inhibitor treatment.

Several ongoing trials use LD, HD, and combination regimens; results from these studies are awaited with interest. Meanwhile, fulvestrant (250 mg/month) remains a valuable additional endocrine treatment for postmenopausal women with HR+ ABC recurring or progressing on antiestrogen therapy.
First-Line Treatment Options for Patients with HER-2–Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer: The Impact of Modern Adjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Verma Sunil , Clemons Mark
Published: August 2007

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Describe how changes in adjuvant treatment are having a major influence on treatment options in the first-line setting for metastatic breast cancer.Select the most appropriate first-line treatment for a patient with metastatic breast cancer based on previous adjuvant therapy.Discuss how as treatment options become more complex, there may no longer be a single “gold standard” therapy, and a variety of factors must be considered when selecting therapy.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ at CME.TheOncologist.com