bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polymorphism in interleukin-6 gene is associated with bone mineral density in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Lee J. S. , Suh K. T. , Eun I. S.
Published: July 2010

Low bone mass and osteopenia have been described in the axial and peripheral skeleton of patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Recently, many studies have shown that gene polymorphism is related to osteoporosis. However, no studies have linked the association between IL6 gene polymorphism and bone mass in AIS. This study examined the association between bone mass and IL6 gene polymorphism in 198 girls with AIS. The polymorphisms of IL6-597 G→A, IL6-572 G→C and IL6-174 G→A and the bone mineral density in the lumbar spine and femoral neck were analysed and compared with their levels in healthy controls. The mean bone mineral density at both sites in patients with AIS was decreased compared with controls (p = 0.0022 and p = 0.0013, respectively). Comparison of genotype frequencies between AIS and healthy controls revealed a statistically significant difference in IL6-572 G→C polymorphism (p = 0.0305). There was a significant association between the IL6-572 G→C polymorphism and bone mineral density in the lumbar spine, with the CC genotype significantly higher with the GC (p = 0.0124) or GG (p = 0.0066) genotypes.

These results suggest that the IL6-572 G→C polymorphism is associated with bone mineral density in the lumbar spine in Korean girls with AIS.
The measurement of patellar height
Authors: Phillips C. L. , Silver D. A. T. , Schranz P. J. , Mandalia V.
Published: July 2010

Many radiographic techniques have been described for measuring patellar height. They can be divided into two groups: those that relate the position of the patella to the femur (direct) and those that relate it to the tibia (indirect). This article looks at the methods that have been described, the logic behind their conception and the critical analyses that have been performed to test them.
Total knee replacement in patients with end-stage haemophilic arthropathy
Authors: Goddard N. J. , Mann H. A. , Lee C. A.
Published: July 2010

Haemophilia is an x-linked inherited bleeding disorder which can cause severe arthropathy. We have reviewed the results of 70 primary total knee replacements (TKR) performed in 57 haemophilic patients between 1983 and 2007. The functional results were assessed using the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee scoring system and Kaplan-Meier survivorship analysis. Six patients died. HSS scores were available for 60 TKRs at a mean follow-up of 9.2 years (2 to 23); 57 (95%) had good or excellent results. Deep infection was recorded in one patient. Kaplan-Meier analysis using infection and aseptic loosening as endpoints showed the survival rate at 20 years to be 94.0%.

A reduction in infection, spontaneous haemarthrosis and improvement in the quality of life were noted to justify surgery in our series of patients with a mean age of 43 (25 to 70). We have found that using the latest techniques of continuous infusion of clotting Factor have significantly helped to reduce the complication rates and have achieved results which match those of the non-haemophilic population undergoing TKR.
The effect of anteroposterior laxity on the range of movement and knee function following a cruciate-retaining total knee replacement
Authors: Seon J. K. , Park S. J. , Yoon T. R. , Lee K. B. , Moon E. S. , Song E. K.
Published: July 2010

The amount of anteroposterior laxity required for a good range of movement and knee function in a cruciate-retaining total knee replacement (TKR) continues to be debated. We undertook a retrospective study to evaluate the effects of anteroposterior laxity on the range of movement and knee function in 55 patients following the e-motion cruciate-retaining TKR with a minimum follow-up of two years. The knees were divided into stable (anteroposterior translation, ≤ 10 mm, 38 patients) and unstable (anteroposterior translation, > 10 mm, 17) groups based on the anteroposterior laxity, measured using stress radiographs. We compared the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) scores, the Western Ontario MacMasters University Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) index, weight-bearing flexion, non-weight-bearing flexion and the reduction of flexion under weight-bearing versus non-weight-bearing conditions, which we referred to as delta flexion, between the two groups at the final follow-up.

There were no differences between the stable and unstable groups with regard to the mean HHS and WOMAC total scores, as well as weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing flexion (p = 0.277, p = 0.082, p = 0.095 and p = 0.646, respectively). However, the stable group had a better WOMAC function score and less delta flexion than the unstable group (p = 0.011 and p = 0.005, respectively).

Our results suggest that stable knees with laxity ≤ 10 mm have a good functional outcome and less reduction of flexion under weight-bearing conditions than unstable knees with laxity > 10 mm following an e-motion cruciate-retaining TKR.
Optimal acetabular orientation for hip resurfacing
Authors: Grammatopoulos G. , Pandit H. , Glyn-Jones S. , McLardy-Smith P. , Gundle R. , Whitwell D. , Gill H. S. , Murray D. W.
Published: July 2010

Pseudotumours are a rare complication of hip resurfacing. They are thought to be a response to metal debris which may be caused by edge loading due to poor orientation of the acetabular component. Our aim was to determine the optimal acetabular orientation to minimise the risk of pseudotumour formation.

We matched 31 hip resurfacings revised for pseudotumour formation with 58 controls who had a satisfactory outcome from this procedure. The radiographic inclination and anteversion angles of the acetabular component were measured on anteroposterior radiographs of the pelvis using Einzel-Bild-Roentgen-Analyse software. The mean inclination angle (47°, 10° to 81°) and anteversion angle (14°, 4° to 34°) of the pseudotumour cases were the same (p = 0.8, p = 0.2) as the controls, 46° (29° to 60°) and 16° (4° to 30°) respectively, but the variation was greater. Assuming an accuracy of implantation of ± 10° about a target position, the optimal radiographic position was found to be approximately 45° of inclination and 20° of anteversion. The incidence of pseudotumours inside the zone was four times lower (p = 0.007) than outside the zone.

In order to minimise the risk of pseudotumour formation we recommend that surgeons implant the acetabular component at an inclination of 45° (± 10) and anteversion of 20° (± 10) on post-operative radiographs. Because of differences between the radiographic and the operative angles, this may be best achieved by aiming for an inclination of 40° and an anteversion of 25°.
The biomechanics of pedicle screw-based instrumentation
Authors: Cho W. , Cho S. K. , Wu C.
Published: July 2010

There are three basic concepts that are important to the biomechanics of pedicle screw-based instrumentation. First, the outer diameter of the screw determines pullout strength, while the inner diameter determines fatigue strength. Secondly, when inserting a pedicle screw, the dorsal cortex of the spine should not be violated and the screws on each side should converge and be of good length. Thirdly, fixation can be augmented in cases of severe osteoporosis or revision.

A trajectory parallel or caudal to the superior endplate can minimise breakage of the screw from repeated axial loading. Straight insertion of the pedicle screw in the mid-sagittal plane provides the strongest stability.

Rotational stability can be improved by adding transverse connectors. The indications for their use include anterior column instability, and the correction of rotational deformity.
The long-term functional and radiological outcome after open reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament
Authors: Sutherland A. G. , Cooper K. , Alexander L. A. , Nicol M. , Smith F. W. , Scotland T. R.
Published: July 2010

We identified a series of 128 patients who had unilateral open reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) by a single surgeon between 1993 and 2000. In all, 79 patients were reviewed clinically and radiologically eight to 15 years after surgery. Assessment included measurement of the Lysholm and Tegner scores, the ACL quality-of-life score and the Short Form-12 score, as well as the International Knee Documentation Committee clinical assessment, measurement of laxity by the KT-1000 arthrometer, a single-leg hop test and standardised radiography of both knees using the uninjured knee as a control.

Of the injured knees, 46 (57%) had definite radiological evidence of osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence grade 2 or 3), with a mean difference between the injured and non-injured knees of 1.2 grades. The median ACL quality-of-life score was 80 (interquartile range (IQR) 60 to 90), the Lysholm score 84 (IQR 74 to 95), the Short Form-12 physical component score 54 (IQR 49 to 56) and the mean Hop Index 0.94 (0.52 to 1.52). In total 58 patients were graded as normal, 20 as nearly normal and one as abnormal on the KT-1000 assessment and pivot-shift testing. Taking the worst-case scenario of assuming all non-attenders (n = 48), two septic failures and one identified unstable knee found at review to be failures, the failure rate was 40%. Only two of the patients reviewed stated that they would not have similar surgery again.

Open reconstruction of the ACL gives good, durable functional results, but with a high rate of radiologically evident osteoarthritis.
Displaced fracture of the femoral neck in children
Authors: Song K.-S.
Published: July 2010

We have investigated whether early anatomical open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) reduces the incidence of complications of fracture of the femoral neck in children, including avascular necrosis, compared with closed reduction and internal fixation (CRIF). We retrospectively reviewed 27 such fractures (15 type-II and 12 type-III displaced fractures) in children younger than 16 years of age seen in our hospital between February 1989 and March 2007. We divided the patients into three groups according to the quality of the reduction (anatomical, acceptable, and unacceptable) and the clinical results into two groups (satisfactory and unsatisfactory). Of the 15 fractures treated by ORIF, 14 (93.3%) had anatomical reduction and reduction was acceptable in one. Of the 12 treated by CRIF, three (25.0%) had anatomical reduction, eight had acceptable reduction (66.7%), and one (8.3%) unacceptable reduction. Of the 15 fractures treated by ORIF, 14 (93.3%) had a good result and one a fair result. Of the 12 treated by CRIF, seven (58.3%) had a good result, two (16.7%) a fair result and three (25.0%) a poor result. There were seven complications in five patients.

ORIF gives better reduction with fewer complications, including avascular necrosis, than does CRIF in fractures of the femoral neck in children.
Another Fatal Event with Intravenous Bupivacaine Report Bad Advertising FDA Advise-ERR: Safe Practice with the Potent Once-Daily Opioid Exalgo
Authors: Cohen Michael R. , Smetzer Judy L.
Published: July 2010

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them at your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) Medication Errors Reporting Program. Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.

Errors, close calls, or hazardous conditions may be reported directly to ISMP through the ISMP Web site ( www.ismp.org ), by calling 800-FAIL-SAFE, or via e-mail at ismpinfo@ismp.org . ISMP guarantees the confidentiality and security of the information received and respects reporters' wishes as to the level of detail included in publications.
Docetaxel and Carboplatin (DC) for Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Wu Kimberly , Solimando Dominic A. , Waddell J. Aubrey
Published: July 2010

The complexity of cancer chemotherapy requires pharmacists be familiar with the complicated regimens and highly toxic agents used. This column reviews various issues related to preparation, dispensing, and administration of antineoplastic therapy, and the agents, both commercially available and investigational, used to treat malignant diseases.
Aripiprazole: Restless Legs Syndrome
Authors: Generali Joyce A. , Cada Dennis J.
Published: July 2010

This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label Drug Facts, a quarterly publication available from Wolters Kluwer Health. Off-Label Drug Facts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific drug uses that are unapproved by the US Food and Drug Administration. This new guide to the literature enables the health care professional or clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. A summary of the most relevant data is provided, including background, study design, patient population, dosage information, therapy duration, results, safety, and therapeutic considerations. References direct the reader to the full literature for more comprehensive information before patient care decisions are made. Direct questions or comments regarding Off-Label Drug Uses to jgeneral@kumc.edu .
Creating a Pharmacist-Managed Anticoagulation Clinic: An Example of a Joint Endeavor between a Community Hospital and a College of Pharmacy
Authors: Crader Marsha F. , Chelette Candace T. , Steffenson Martin B.
Published: July 2010

Collaborative practice between pharmacists and physicians is an important component of the evolving role of the pharmacist providing outpatient anticoagulation clinical services. Multiple issues should be addressed before the implementation of such services, including ensuring state laws and regulatory agencies' requirements are met. When a collaborative agreement is formed, the support of hospital services is vital to develop an outpatient anticoagulation clinic. The authors wish to offer this legal and regulatory process that evolved over a 5-year time period as an overview of potential areas to address when beginning a pharmacist-managed anticoagulation clinic. Our clinic example was between a community hospital and college of pharmacy faculty practitioners, but many of the principles can be extrapolated to other pharmacist practitioners not associated with a college of pharmacy. Throughout the article, we will briefly share the rationale and benefits of collaborative practice, with the main focus being the planning and implementation of an anticoagulation service and key hospital departments involved in that process.
The Impact of Qualitative Respiratory Cultures on Mortality in Critically III Patients with Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Peppard Sarah R. , Scheetz Marc H. , Postelnick Michael J. , Darin Kristin M.
Published: July 2010

This retrospective cohort study evaluated differences in all-cause mortality associated with quantitative versus qualitative cultures in critically ill patients with suspected hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP). Patients were included if lower respiratory tract (LRT) cultures were obtained and were stratified by culture strategy: invasive (bronchial alveolar lavage [BAL] or nonbronchoscopic BAL) or noninvasive (endotracheal tube aspirate or sputum culture). Mortality data and secondary endpoints were compared between groups. A total of 113 patients met inclusion criteria (invasive = 72, noninvasive = 41). No significant difference in all-cause mortality was detected between the groups (37.5% and 31.7%, respectively; P = 0.54). Secondary endpoints were similar; however, patients in the invasive group had greater mean total antibiotic days of therapy compared to the noninvasive group (21.2 ± 13.5 days vs 15.5 ± 8.3 days, P = 0.01). The present study suggests that using invasive methods to obtain LRT cultures in critically ill patients with suspected HAP did not offer a detectable benefit in mortality or clinical outcomes when compared to noninvasive diagnostic methods.
New Drugs Approved by the FDA; New Dosage Forms and Indications Approved by the FDA; Agents Pending FDA Approval; Supplemental Applications Filed by Manufacturer; Significant Labeling Changes or “Dear Health Professional” Letters Related to Safety
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: July 2010

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drugs, new indications, dosage forms, and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this information; however, if there are any questions, please let us know at bakerdan@wsu.edu .
Using Health Care Failure Mode and Effects Analysis for High-Risk Medications
Authors: Doepker Bruce , Weber Robert J.
Published: July 2010

The Director's Forum series is edited by Robert Weber and Scott Mark and is designed to guide pharmacy leaders in establishing patient-centered services in hospitals and health systems. This month's article focuses on a health care failure mode and effects analysis (HC-FMEA) to analyze the prescribing of high-risk medications. HC-FMEA can provide the pharmacy director with a powerful approach to directly changing processes to improve medication safety.
Prostatic Acid Phosphatase Reduces Thermal Sensitivity and Chronic Pain Sensitization by Depleting Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-Bisphosphate
Authors: Sowa Nathaniel A. , Street Sarah E. , Vihko Pirkko , Zylka Mark J.
Published: August 2010

Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) is expressed in nociceptive dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, functions as an ectonucleotidase, and generates adenosine extracellularly. Here, we found that PAP inhibits noxious thermal sensitivity and sensitization that is associated with chronic pain through sustained activation of the adenosine A1receptor (A1R) and phospholipase C-mediated depletion of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2). In mice, intrathecal injection of PAP reduced PIP2levels in DRGs, inhibited thermosensation through TRPV1, and enduringly reduced thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia caused by inflammation, nerve injury, and pronociceptive receptor activation. This included inhibitory effects on lysophosphatidic acid, purinergic (ATP), bradykinin, and protease-activated (thrombin) receptors. Conversely, PIP2levels were significantly elevated in DRGs fromPap−/−mice, and this correlated with enhanced thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia inPap−/−mice. To directly test the importance of PIP2in nociception, we intrathecally injected PIP2into mice. This transiently (2 h) elevated PIP2levels in lumbar DRGs and transiently (2 h) enhanced thermosensation. Additionally, thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia were enduringly enhanced when PIP2levels were elevated coincident with injury/pronociceptive receptor stimulation. Nociceptive sensitization was not affected if PIP2levels were elevated in the absence of ongoing pronociceptive receptor stimulation. Together, our data suggest that PIP2levels in DRGs directly influence thermosensation and the magnitude of nociceptive sensitization. Moreover, our data suggest there is an underlying “phosphoinositide tone” that can be manipulated by an adenosine-generating ectonucleotidase. This tone regulates how effectively acute nociceptive insults promote the transition to chronic pain.
Negative Valence Widens Generalization of Learning
Authors: Schechtman Eitan , Laufer Offir , Paz Rony
Published: August 2010

Learning includes the ability to generalize to new situations and respond to similar, yet not identical stimuli. We use stimulus generalization in humans to show that tones that were negatively reinforced induce wider generalization curves than tones that were positively reinforced, and these in turn induce wider curves than neutral memory. Importantly, these wider generalization curves persist even if outcomes for all tones are made identical, indicating that the learning induced a perceptual change, and not merely a decision bias. Moreover, it persists after taking into account loss-aversion, suggesting it is a result of valence per se, and not intensity that reflects overweighting of the aversive stimuli. This effect of emotional valence on learning suggests different locations of plasticity and network mechanisms in the brain. Particularly, it suggests that brain areas that mediate reinforcement and emotions are involved during the learning process to induce a neural representation that can support this broader behavioral generalization. In addition, these findings highlight a model for anxiety and trauma disorders in which aversive experiences affect more than they should, sometimes even in seemingly irrational situations.
Shade level effects on yield and chemical composition of the leaf essential oil of Pothomorphe umbellata (L.) Miquel
Authors: Mattana Raquel Souza , Vieira Maria Aparecida Ribeiro , Marchese José Abramo , Ming Lin Chau , Marques Márcia Ortiz Mayo
Published: August 2010

Pothomorphe umbellata (L.) Miquel, is a medicinal species that belong to the Piperaceae family and commonly called "pariparoba" and "caapeba". It grows in regions rich in humus, humidity and under the shade of trees, which contribute for its best growth as it is considered a species sciophyte. The effect of shade on the yield and chemical composition of essential oil of Pothomorphe umbellata (Piperaceae) leaves was evaluated. Nine-month-old seedlings were planted in October 2002 and subjected to three shade levels (30%, 50%, 70%) and full sun; the experimental design was in randomized blocks, with four treatments and six replications, in split-plot in time scheme. Two harvests of aerial part were made (05/2003 and 05/2004). Essential oil was extracted by hydrodistillation and chemically analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The highest essential oil yield was observed in the second harvest and plants under 30% shade. Twenty-six chemical substances were identified, of which trans-nerolidol was predominant.
Inheritance of resistance to oat crown rust in recombinant inbred lines
Authors: Graichen Felipe André Sganzerla , Martinelli José Antônio , Federizzi Luiz Carlos , Pacheco Marcelo Teixeira , Chaves Márcia Soares , Wesp Caroline de Lima
Published: August 2010

Crown rust is the main disease affecting oats (Avena sativa L.), and genetic resistance has been the chief method utilized to control this disease. A population composed of 135 recombinant inbred lines, F5:6, generated by crossing the oat cultivar UFRGS 8 with the genotype Pc68/5*Starter, was assessed on the inheritance of resistance to crown rust (Puccinia coronata f. sp. avenae P. Syd. & Syd.). The evaluation of resistance in F5:6 seedlings was based on the type of infection resulting from inoculation with the race SQPT of P. coronata f. sp. avenae. The proportion of Resistant: Susceptible seedlings (R:S) was 62:64, which indicates that inheritance was governed by a single gene. The assessment of resistance inheritance in adult plants was performed in the field during the years 2004 and 2005. The distinction between resistant and susceptible classes was based on the final severity (FS) as well as the area under the disease progress curve, which was normalized and corrected (AUDPC*c). F5:6 and F5:7 were evaluated under field conditions in 2004 and 2005, demonstrating a ratio of approximately 1R:3S, which fits with a typical two genes inheritance model.
The differences in feeding-inhibitory responses to peripheral and central leptin between non-lactating and lactating rats
Authors: Suzuki Yoshihiro , Kurose Yohei , Takahashi Hideyuki , Asakuma Sadaki , Azuma Yoshiyuki , Kobayashi Shigeki
Published: July 2010

This study was conducted to examine the contributions of central and peripheral leptin to hyperphagia in lactation. Lactating rats were mated at 7–8 weeks of age and housed singly with their litters. In experiment 1, food intakes were significantly (P<0.01) greater (350% on average) in lactation than in non-lactation throughout a day. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leptin levels remained constant despite plasma leptin levels being significantly (P<0.05) greater in non-lactation than in lactation. In experiment 2, CSF leptin levels were not altered by i.v. injections of leptin (0.2 and 0.4 mg/kg body weight) despite that plasma leptin levels were dose dependently (P<0.01) increased. Moreover, i.v. administration of leptin significantly (P<0.05) decreased food intake in non-lactating rats but not in lactating rats. In experiment 3, nocturnal food intakes were temporarily (P<0.05) reduced in non-lactating and lactating rats. I.c.v. administration of a leptin antagonist (15 μg) blocked the reductions of food intakes. I.c.v. administration of leptin (10 μg) significantly (P<0.05) decreased cumulative food intakes during 24 h in both the physiological states. In conclusion, this study has presented new evidence that the hyperphagia of lactating rats could be partly due to depressed sensitivity of neurons contacting blood leptin. In contrast, the responsiveness of leptin receptors contacting CSF leptin may not differ between non-lactating and lactating rats. Furthermore, the levels of CSF leptin remained constant independent of those of blood leptin. Therefore, the expression of hypothalamic leptin receptors contacting CSF could be involved in the difference in food intake between non-lactating and lactating rats.
Lack of leptin activity in blood samples of Adélie penguin and bar-tailed godwit
Authors: Yosefi Sara , Hen Gideon , Rosenblum Charles I , Cerasale David J , Beaulieu Michaël , Criscuolo Francois , Friedman-Einat Miriam
Published: July 2010

Unsuccessful attempts to identify the leptin gene in birds are well documented, despite the characterization of its receptor (LEPR). Since leptin and LEPR have poor sequence conservation among vertebrates, we speculated that a functional assay should represent the best way to detect leptin in birds. Using a leptin bioassay that is based on activation of the chicken LEPR in cultured cells, blood samples from wild birds with extreme seasonal variation in voluntary food intake and fat deposition (Adélie penguins and bar-tailed godwits) were tested for leptin activity. In these experiments, blood samples collected during the pre-incubation and the chick-rearing periods of Adélie penguins, and during the migratory flight and refueling stages of bar-tailed godwits, were found to contain no detectable leptin activity, while the sensitivity of the assay to activation by human blood samples from donor subjects representing a variety of body mass indices and fat contents was clearly demonstrated. These results suggest that in birds, an alternative control mechanism to that of mammals operates in the communication between the body fat tissues and the central control on energy homeostasis.
Effect of Hygrophila spinosa T. on Reproductive Function of Male Albino Rats
Authors: Sahoo Atish Kumar , Gandhare Bhushan
Published: July 2010

Hygrophila spinosa T. Anderson, commonly known as Gokulakanta (Hygrophila) is a well known medicinal plant found in all over India. The different parts of the plant are used to treat various diseases in the folklore medicine as the seeds are given by hakims with sugar, milk or wine for the treatment of impotence, gonorrhea and spermatorrhoea. Active constituents such as steroids and glycosides which are under investigation, reported to possess spermatogenetic potential and the phytochemical screening has shown positive for steroids and glycosides. The present study have been carried out to investigate and evaluate the aphrodisiac activity and spermatogenetic potential of ethanolic extract of the seeds of H. spinosa (EEHS) on ethanol induced rat model for testicular injury. The EEHS at two dose levels 100 and 200 mg/kg b.w. administered orally for 60 days to the ethanol induced rats produced significant (P <0.01) reversal of biochemical change in serum (Total protein, cholesterol and testosterone level) and testicular intoxication and also shows significant (P <0.01) spermatogenic activity by increase in fertility. Both doses showed significant aphrodisiac activity by increase in mounting behavior and mating performance. From the observation, it could be predicted that aphrodisiac and spermatogenic effect of EEHS against infertility may be due to hormonal and neurohumoral changes, which play an important role in the sexual behavior and fertility disorders.
The masses of charged leptons and quarks from superposition self-interference of their Dirac fields
Authors: Rosen Gerald
Published: July 2010

Without Higgs field interaction, accurate pole mass values are obtained for the charged leptons and quarks from a Z3-symmetric linear superposition self-interference of the Dirac fields in the effective free-field Lagrangian. The charged lepton and quark pole masses evidence the discrete Z3 symmetry, the theoretical-experimental deviations δm/m are $$
\mathcal{O}
$$(10−5) for all three charged leptons, and the quark pole masses are in very satisfactory overall agreement with the experimental data.
Application of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for palladium determination
Authors: Amin Alaa , Hassan Wafaa , Ragab Gamal
Published: July 2010

A highly sensitive spectrophotometric method for palladium determination using piroxicam and tenoxicam as new chromogenic reagents has been developed. In the presence of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), palladium reacts with piroxicam (PX) or tenoxicam (TX) to form stable yellow orange complexes in an acetate buffer solution of pH 5.0 at 424 nm and 426 nm with molar absorptivity of 7.16 × 104 L mol−1 cm−1 and 1.20 × 105 L mol−1 cm−1, respectively. Sandell sensitivity, detection, and quantitation limits were also calculated. Optimum conditions were evaluated considering pH, reagent concentration, time, temperature, and surfactant concentration. The complex system conforms to Beer’s law over the range of 0.07–1.28 μg mL−1 palladium. The stoichiometric ratio and stability constant were also evaluated. Tolerance limits of many cations and anions were determined. Finally, the proposed method was applied successfully in the determination of palladium in jewellery, anode mud, synthetic mixtures, catalysts, and alloy samples.
ZnO nanoparticles in the synthesis of AB ring core of camptothecin
Authors: Roopan Selvaraj , Nawaz Khan Fazlur
Published: July 2010

For the first time, synthesis of AB ring core of camptothecin synthons such as (2-chloroquinolin-3-yl)methanols (Va-Vg) using zinc oxide nanoparticles is reported. The desired attractive products were obtained in high yields, short reaction time, using a simple work-up procedure with the purification of products by non-chromatographic methods.
Microwave assisted one pot synthesis of 7-substituted 2-(2-oxo-2H-chromen-3-yl)acetic acids as precursors of new anti-tumour compounds
Authors: Kováčová Silvia , Kováčiková Lucia , Lácová Margita , Boháč Andrej , Sališová Marta
Published: July 2010

Perkin condensation with subsequent intramolecular lactonisation as one pot syntheses of 2-(2-oxo-2H-chromen-3-yl)acetic acids VIIa-Xa has been studied. The required acids VIIa-Xa were prepared as precursors of recently discovered compounds possessing antineoplastic activities. Syntheses of VIIa-Xa were carried out using para substituted 2-hydroxybenzaldehydes II-VI, succinic acid anhydride, sodium succinate under thermal or microwave conditions. Significant shortening of the reaction time under microwave irradiation was observed (18–50 min instead of 1.5–5 h of heating). Microwave assisted reactions proceeded more smoothly to give higher yield of the required products VIIa-Xa (31–61 %) compared to those under classical thermal conditions e.g. 21.8 % for IXa (Hurenkamp et al., 2007). Seven reaction by-products were isolated and determined as 2H,2′H-3,3′-bichromene-2,2′-diones VIIb-Xb and (E)-3-(2-hydroxystyryl)-2H-chromen-2-ones VIIc-IXc.
Bio-Efficacy Of Some Plant Leaf Extracts Against Mustard Aphid, Lipaphis Erysimi Kalt. On Indian Mustard, Brassica Juncea
Authors: Ali Arshad , Rizvi Parvez , Khan Farmanur
Published: July 2010

Bio-Efficacy Of Some Plant Leaf Extracts Against Mustard Aphid,Lipaphis ErysimiKalt. On Indian Mustard,Brassica Juncea

The bio-efficacy of four plant leaf extractsviz., apple of sodom,Calotropis proceraAiton; Mexican poppy,Argemone mexicanaLinnaeus; Mexican marigold,Tagetes minutaLinnaeus and Indian neem,Azadirachta indicawere tested against mustard aphid,Lipaphis erysimion Indian mustard,Brassica juncea. The highest per cent aphid reduction during first, second and third spray were 28.79, 40.52 and 59.32 at 1 : 10 g/ml; 34.70, 44.49 and 66.14 at 1 : 5 g/ml and 53.88, 64.84 and 100.00 at 1 : 2.5 g/ml with Indian neem. However, Mexican marigold was also effective at highest concentration (1 : 2.5 g/ml) and reduced 96.38 per centL. erysimi. All the treatments of plant leaf extracts showed insecticidal activity, but Indian neem followed by Mexican marigold reduced the aphid population to a great extent.
Effect Of Microwave Radiation And Cold Storage On Tribolium Castaneum Herbst (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) And Sitophilus Oryzae L. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Gasemzadeh Somayyeh , Pourmirza Ali , Safaralizadeh Mohammad , Maroufpoor Mustafa
Published: July 2010

Effect Of Microwave Radiation And Cold Storage OnTribolium CastaneumHerbst (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) AndSitophilus OryzaeL. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

The combined impact of microwave radiation and cold storage onTribolium castaneumHerbst andSitophilus oryzaeL. adults either continuously or intermittently was evaluated. The insects were exposed to 2 450 MHz at power level of 100 W for exposure time 10 min, continuously and intermittently. In all experiments, the highest rate of mortality was achieved for exposure time 10 min intermittently and 72 h cold storage duration. Intermittent exposures were generally more effective in killing insects of both species compared with those of continuous irradiation. Combinations of microwave radiation and cold storage were found highly compatible and synergistic. The synergistic interaction indicates that microwave radiation can be used with cold storage for management ofT. castaneumandS. oryzaeadult developmental stage. This treatment could provide an effective and friendly environmental treatment technique in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program.
Bronze Bug Thaumastocoris Peregrinus Carpintero and Dellapé (Hemiptera: Thaumastocoridae) on Eucalyptus in Brazil and its Distribution
Authors: Wilcken Carlos , Soliman Everton , de Sá Luiz , Barbosa Leonardo , Ribeiro Dias Thaíse , Ferreira-Filho Pedro , Rodrigues Oliveira Ricardo
Published: July 2010

Bronze Bug Thaumastocoris Peregrinus Carpintero and Dellapé (Hemiptera: Thaumastocoridae) on Eucalyptus in Brazil and its Distribution

The bronze bugThaumastocoris peregrinusCarpintero & Dellapé (Hemiptera: Thaumastocoridae) was detected infestingEucalyptustrees in Brazil in 2008, in the states of Sao Paulo, Rio Grande do Sul and Minas Gerais and in 2009 was found in the state of Espírito Santo, Mato Grosso do Sul, Rio de Janeiro and Paraná. Details about geographical spread, means of introduction, impact inEucalyptusplantations and natural enemies observed in the field are discussed.
Estimating Classification Accuracy for Complex Decision Rules Based on Multiple Scores
Authors: Douglas Karen M. , Mislevy Robert J.
Published: July 2010

Important decisions about students are made by combining multiple measures using complex decision rules. Although methods for characterizing the accuracy of decisions based on a single measure have been suggested by numerous researchers, such methods are not useful for estimating the accuracy of decisions based on multiple measures. This study presents a simulation method useful for estimating classification accuracy for any measurement model and complex decision rule. The utility of the method is demonstrated by application to actual data from General Educational Development (GED) test takers. Findings in this study illustrate how multiple scores that are combined can have a large impact on the accuracy of the resulting decision. Furthermore, choice of measure of agreement is of central importance in describing decision accuracy.
Learning Geographic Information from a Map and Text: Learning Environment and Individual Differences
Authors: Lloyd Robert Earl , Bunch Rick L.
Published: August 2010

A map is frequently combined with a text to provide spatial and non-spatial information for learners. How a map and a text are combined and the characteristics of learners are keys for understanding successful learning. This study used a cognitive experiment to investigate spatial learning by explaining performance on a test of acquired knowledge with variables related to the learning environment and to individual differences of learners. Results indicate that having participants read a text beside a map produced the best performance. Participants were more successful at learning the information in the text and less successful at learning the information on the map. Performance was measured by accuracy, reaction time, and confidence measures; a standardized index for overall efficiency combined these measures. Performance was significantly related to individual difference variables measuring experience, verbal and spatial working memory capacity, 2D/4D digit ratio, and cognitive style. Sex and gender variables were not significantly related to variations in performance. In complex learning situations, as in processing a combined map and text, the expected verbal and spatial processing advantages of female and male learners may both produce positive results. In more complex cases, variables related to brain asymmetry, memory capacity, and cognitive style may provide more useful explanations of performance.
Mehr Mut zur Wildnis (Essay) | A more courageous attitude to wilderness (essay)
Authors: Borgula Adrian
Published: July 2010

Where nature protection is concerned, the expert assessment of an environment poses questions about its natural and cultural heritage and its potential, about how representative it may be, about biodiversity in all its facets and about its development or potential threats to its existence. Although the forest was the dominant habitat in the original natural European landscape, for a long time nature protection has devoted too little attention to it. There are diverse threats and deficiencies. However, in the Swiss forests positive developments are discernible. Thus nature protection is one of the basic functions of the forest, nature reserves are being created, the area of the forest is increasing, as are reserves of deadwood, and greater importance is being given to regeneration suited to the site. Nevertheless much remains to be done to really achieve the goal of biodiversity and sus-tainability. For this purpose segregative and integrative measures are required. Since diversity needs surface area, in the first place it must be possible to set aside as forest reserves a quarter of the total forest area, spread over the whole country and preferably as natural forest reserves, in order to start the process of a long-term restoration to the natural state. Here the conservation of natural self-regulating processes supersedes classical nature protection. With a series of further integrative measures, biodiversity must also be promoted over the whole remaining forest area and in the areas of transition to other habitats. An abundance of varied structures is the key to diversity of species. A more courageous attitude to wilderness and “untidiness” when dealing with the forest is to be recommended. Nature experiences in wilderness areas give the population the possibility of discovering diversity and natural processes and encourage respect for the innumerable other species and habitats.
Um welchen Schutz der Vielfalt geht es? (Essay) | Which diversity is to be protected? (Essay)
Authors: Broggi Mario F.
Published: July 2010

In order to operationalise the concept of biodiversity for biological variety, it has been applied at three levels: ecosystems, species and genetic diversity. In most cases the debate has been reduced to the aspect of the variety of species, ignoring the fact that the interactions are considerably more complex. In order to do justice to our responsibility for diversity, further efforts are needed, which could be subsumed under the heading “sustainable development”. At the moment, however, our ecological footprint is clearly too big. A strong focus must therefore be placed on such ecosystem services as fertility of the soil, carbon sequestration, maintenance of the hydrological balance, etc. That ultimately leads to economic arguments, which in turn will have massive impacts on current land use policies. Climate change and the increasing cultivation of biofuels are creating new effects, whose impacts on biodiversity were until recently unforeseeable. The underlying message must accordingly be that in the biodiversity debate we must focus on the landscape as such and an appropriate land use policy.
Est-il permis à un forestier de se préoccuper de biodiversité et de protection de la nature? (Essai) | Is it permissible for a forester to be concerned about biological diversity and nature protection? (Essay)
Authors: Givors Alain
Published: July 2010

The forest is an ecosystem in which numerous living organisms live together. The forester is obviously well placed to know about these environments and to protect them. Wood production is perfectly compatible with the conservation of an “ordinary” biological diversity. The concepts put into practice and made accessible to the general public by Pro Silva are visible proof of this in many European countries. As regards the benefits to society of this remarkable biodiversity and how they are taken into account, whether this be by choice or by obligation, it seems indispensable that any loss of earning or absence of revenue incurred should be taken in charge by this same society.
Gut versichert mit Biodiversität (Essay) | Biodiversity – the insurance policy (essay)
Authors: Limacher Sandra
Published: July 2010

Biodiversity is the variety of life on Earth that underpins ecosystem services. The creation of that diversity came slow and hard: 3 billion years of evolution. Many species may have ecological functions man has not yet discovered. Does this fact entitle the society to discard seemingly useless parts? With a view to the oncoming changes such as climate change, the article admonishes the readers that the question should no longer be “how much biodiversity the society can afford”, but rather “whether the society can afford, not to conserve and enhance biodiversity as natural capital”.
La gestion forestière écosystémique multifonctionnelle et son importance pour la biodiversité (essai) | Multifunctional forest ecosystem management and its importance for biodiversity (essay)
Authors: Schütz Jean-Philippe , de Turckheim Brice
Published: July 2010

The basic principle of Pro Silva silviculture is to be multifunctional and to seek to combine into a harmonious whole all the benefits provided by the forest. It is thus a management system constantly adapted to follow the evolution of different needs and requirements. On the occasion of the International Year of Biodiversity, it is here explained why this form of management meets in an optimal manner the interests of biodiversity without however pushing into the background the other functions, in particular carbon management. Intrinsically it corresponds to the principles of sustainable management, maintaining the balance between economic, social and ecological interests.
Die Natur und ihr Imitat (Essay) | The nature and its imitation (essay)
Authors: Wohlgemuth Thomas
Published: July 2010

This essay questions the increasing call for broad conservation strategies to sustain and support biodiversity in the Swiss forest. Three arguments build the basis for this discussion: 1) Forests, together with the alpine mountain zones, represent the most extensive ecosystems in Switzerland. As a consequence of the continuous expansion of the forest area, biodiversity of forest organisms is not generally at risk. 2) Endangered species are less frequent in mountain forests than in lowland forests. 3) Populations of different species groups have been subjected to large, natural fluctuations over the last 3000 years. The biodiverse forest model, which is aspired today, resembles more an intensively or even overused forest of former times than a natural or even pristine forest. I conclude that future forest management should focus on the preservation of natural processes rather than biodiversity. Since Switzerland lacks large contiguous zones of natural forests, existing incentives should be more effectively used to achieve this goal.
ANALYSIS OF TERRITORY PLANNING REGULATIONS CONCERNING MODERNIZATION OF RESIDENTIAL AREAS
Authors: Alchimovienė Jurgita , Gudienė Neringa
Published: July 2010

Territory planning instructions of residential areas (quarters) are analyzed in this article. In Lithuania there is no validated united normative database for territory planning, which could regulate renovation of residential quarters. Accordingly, it is an actual problem. Modernization of blocks of flats is widely analyzed and it causes a lot of discussions recently. Modernization could be fulfilled more efficiently in quarters or even residential areas. Consequently, territorial spatial planning of areas (quarters) is very important. This article covers analysis of terms of a residential area and a quarter, building intensity and building density, functional zones, regulations of territory management and use, greenery, social infrastructure. Also a quality of life, depreciation of buildings and a priority of renovation of residential areas is examined.
ANALYSIS OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT INFLUENCE ON NATIONAL ECONOMY
Authors: Brenkevičiūtė Raimonda
Published: July 2010

In the paper there were analyzed foreign direct investments (FDI) in the ten Central and East Europe countries which are included in the European Union (EU). IT is theoretically and virtually justified positive and negative FDI influence to country’s economic growth. Based on statistical data there were written up FDI dynamics in the world, Central and Eastern Europe countries. There were analyzed applications of FDI incentives. There were given the methodology which allows quantifying connection strength between GDP and FDI flows in the analyzing countries using correlation analysis. Results of analysis allow proving hypothesis (it is existing positive link between FDI and GDP inflows in the Central and East Europe countries) and enable to plan economic policy in aspect of foreign capital more exactly.
THE COMPETITIVE SITUATION OF CLOTHING AND TEXTILE INDUSTRY
Authors: Jansevičiūtė Daina
Published: July 2010

This paper is up for discussing the composed competitive situation of Lithuanian clothing and textile industry. Author concisely proposes aspects of competitive ability conception, explores the main statistical information illustrating importance of clothing and textile industry in all manufacturing and economics. Willing to accomplish a statistical data analysis of trade clothing and textile industry competitors and advantages which they have and which influence Lithuanian clothing and textile enterprises competitive situation in the local and foreign markets are presented. This article deals with discussion about Lithuanian clothing and textile industry possibilities to improve competitive situation and what main problems of industry could be solved in order to make this market more competitive.