bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Pubic Symphysiodesis in Dysplastic Puppies
Authors: Dueland R. Tass , Adams William M. , Fialkowski James P. , Patricelli Alison J. , Mathews Kyle G. , Nordheim Erik V.
Published: August 2002

Objective—To determine the long‐term effects of juvenile pubic symphysiodesis (JPS) in dysplastic puppies.

Study Design—Prospective, randomized, clinical trial.

Animals—Seven dysplastic Chesapeake Bay retrievers and 2 beagle‐crosses (BX1 and 2).

Methods—Five puppies had JPS performed with electrocauterization at 12, 16, 20, 22, and 24 weeks of age, respectively. Two puppies served as controls. BX1 and BX2 were used to obtain biopsies of the symphysis. Hips were evaluated for: pelvic development (transverse computerized tomography for acetabular angle [AA] and dorsal acetabular rim angle [DARA]); laxity [hip extended and stress radiography [distraction index (DI)]); Ortolani maneuver with reduction angles; acetabular coverage (Norberg angles); and function (coxofemoral range of motion, hip pain, and gait analysis by force‐plate technique at 44 and 137 weeks of age).

Results—The pubis fused prematurely in every puppy that was operated on with the JPS technique. Greater acetabular responses were related to younger ages at surgery. The final mean AA in dogs that had JPS was 25° greater than preoperative values; 40% increased over control. The DARA final mean was 10°, 52% less than preoperative values and 46% less than control. The final mean DI in dogs having JPS was 0.28, 47% improved over preoperative values and 58% better than control. Mean pelvic dimensions in dogs that had JPS were 18% less than control. Gait analyses were normal for all dogs at 137 weeks. No urinary or bowel complications occurred.

Conclusions—Significant ventrolateral acetabular rotation, increased hip coverage, diminished hip laxity, normal pain‐free gait, and insignificantly reduced pelvic size occurred after JPS.

Clinical Significance—Dysplastic hips in young dogs were significantly improved by JPS.
Polymerase chain reaction analysis of the surgical margins of equine sarcoids for bovine papilloma virus DNA
Authors: Martens Ann , De Moor Antoine , Demeulemeester Jill , Peelman Luc
Published: August 2002

Objective— To examine apparently normal skin around equine sarcoids for evidence of bovine papilloma virus (BPV) DNA, and to relate this finding to the observed recurrence after surgery.

Study Design— Prospective study.

Animals or Sample Population— Forty‐one equine sarcoids from 19 horses.

Materials and Methods— The tumors were surgically excised at a measured distance of 8, 12, or 16 mm. Samples from the tumor and of the entire surrounding skin were taken at 4, 8, 12, and 16 mm from the tumor border and analyzed for the presence of BPV DNA using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. The samples were grouped per examined sarcoid, and a tumor was considered positive at a certain distance as soon as at least one of the samples at that distance was positive. The clinical outcome was recorded for each sarcoid after a minimal follow‐up of 6 months.

Results— All sarcoids were positive for BPV1 or BPV2. The tumor margin was positive at 4, 8, 12, and 16 mm in, respectively, 95%, 73%, 39%, and 33% of the examined sarcoids. Local recurrence was observed in 3 sarcoids on 3 different horses. From survival analysis, there was a greater likelihood for local recurrence when sarcoids had a surgical margin that was positive for BPV DNA.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance— BPV DNA is often detected in visibly normal skin around sarcoids, and there is a significantly greater probability for local recurrence when the surgical margins are positive for the presence of BPV DNA.
Comparison of Multistage Versus One‐Stage Destabilization of a Type II External Fixator Used to Stabilize an Oblique Tibial Osteotomy in Dogs
Authors: Auger Jerome , Dupuis Jacques , Boudreault Francis , Pare Philippe , Beauregard Guy , Breton Luc
Published: August 2002

Objective—To compare the biomechanical effects of multistage versus one‐stage destabilization of a type II external skeletal fixator (ESF) used to stabilize an oblique unstable tibial osteotomy in dogs.

Study Design—In vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo experimental study.

Animal Population—Twelve healthy adult dogs.

Methods—The biomechanical characteristics of the type II ESF used in this study were determined. This fixator was applied to both tibiae of two groups of 6 dogs to stabilize a 2‐mm‐wide oblique osteotomy. One fixator on each dog remained unchanged throughout the 11‐week study (control group). The fixator on the opposite limb was destabilized late and acutely in one group of dogs (single‐stage) and early and progressively in the other (multistage). Clinical examination, radiographic examination, and force‐plate analysis were used to evaluate the results. All dogs were euthanatized at 11 weeks. All tibiae were scanned to determine the cross‐sectional area of the callus in the center of the osteotomy and subjected to biomechanical tests to determine mean pull‐out strength of pins and callus strength and stiffness.

Results—Stiffness of the type II ESF used in this study was 578 N/mm in axial compression, 0.767 Nm/deg in torsion, 261 N/mm in medio‐lateral bending, and 25 N/mm in cranio‐caudal bending. Peak vertical forces of the hindlimbs were significantly lower at 2.5 and 5 weeks than before surgery. Peak vertical forces of the hindlimbs did not change before and after destabilization. No significant differences could be detected between the two destabilization sequences or between all control tibiae and pooled destabilized tibiae with regards to radiographic evaluation of the healing osteotomy, cross‐sectional periosteal callus area, mean pull‐out strength of transfixation pins, callus strength, and callus stiffness.

Conclusions and clinical relevance—Bone healing of unstable osteotomies stabilized with a type II ESF is not significantly enhanced by staged destabilization of the fixation as performed in this study.
Comparison of Fine‐Needle Aspiration and Surgical‐Tissue Biopsy in the Diagnosis of Canine Brain Tumors
Authors: Platt Simon R. , Alleman A. Rick , Lanz Otto I. , Chrisman Cheryl L.
Published: August 2002

Objective—To compare the diagnoses obtained using fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) and surgical‐tissue biopsy of focal cerebral masses with the histologic diagnoses obtained via necropsy.

Study Design—A prospective case series.

Sample Population—Ten client‐owned adult dogs of various breeds. All dogs had clinical signs of cerebral disease and had a focal brain mass identified using magnetic resonance imaging; all were eventually euthanatized.

Methods—Immediately after euthanasia, the brains were removed en bloc from the cranial cavity. FNAs were obtained from each mass using a 22‐gauge hypodermic needle and a 12‐mL syringe. Cytologic preparations were made from each aspirate. A 14‐gauge Tru‐cut biopsy needle was used to obtain a core tissue sample from each mass. The biopsy specimens were fixed in 10% buffered formalin and submitted for histologic evaluation. The brains were similarly fixed and stained. Six‐micrometer‐thick transverse sections of the brain were examined microscopically.

Results—Neoplasia was confirmed in all dogs histologically in the 6‐μm transverse sections. Four meningiomas, 2 astrocytomas, 2 oligodendrogliomas, 1 pituitary adenocarcinoma, and 1 neurofibrosarcoma were identified. FNA correctly identified all of the masses as neoplastic. Cytologic diagnoses correlated with the histologic interpretation in 5 of the masses (50%). Tru‐cut biopsy specimens identified all 10 masses as neoplastic; in 9 of the 10 (90%), the diagnosis correlated with the histologic diagnosis.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—FNA is a sensitive method that can be used to determine the presence of neoplasia in the brain, but is not as definitive as the Tru‐cut biopsy in determining the specific type of cerebral neoplasm.
The Effect of Plate Luting on Reduction Accuracy and Biomechanics of Acetabular Osteotomies Stabilized With 2.7‐mm Reconstruction Plates
Authors: Anderson Gregory M. , Cross Alan R. , Lewis Daniel D. , Lanz Otto I.
Published: August 2002

Objective—To compare the accuracy of reduction and biomechanical characteristics of acetabular osteotomies repaired with luted and nonluted reconstruction plates.

Study Design—In vitro study.

Animals—Pelves removed from 12 adult greyhounds.

Methods—Acetabular osteotomies were created and repaired with a 6‐hole, 2.7‐mm reconstruction plates in 24 cadaver hemipelves. Ten hemipelves each were assigned to group I and group II. An impression cast of each acetabulum in group I was made before luting (preluting cast). Group I plates were then elevated, luted, and replaced. A second cast of each acetabulum in group I was then made (postluting cast). Step, gap, and total areas of articular osteotomy incongruence were determined from the casts. Group I (luted plate repairs) and group II (nonluted plate repairs) hemipelves were loaded ventral‐to‐dorsal using a materials‐testing machine. Stiffness, yield load, and maximal load sustained were determined.

Results—Mean gap and total area of articular osteotomy incongruence for group I preluted plate repairs (7.1 mm2and 8.6 mm2, respectively) were significantly greater than for group I postluted plate repairs (4.1 mm2and 5.1 mm2, respectively). Mean stiffness and maximal load for group I (681 N/mm and 2,555 N, respectively) were significantly greater than for group II (360 N/mm and 1,730 N, respectively). Mean step area and mean load at yield values were not significantly different between groups.

Conclusions—Luted plate repairs of osteotomized acetabulae result in improved reduction and are stiffer and stronger than nonluted plate repairs.

Clinical Significance—Plate luting may improve the accuracy of reduction of acetabular fractures where anatomic reduction is required. Plate luting may also increase the stiffness and strength of fracture repairs and arthrodeses.
Effect of Tibial Plateau Leveling on Stability of the Canine Cranial Cruciate–Deficient Stifle Joint: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Reif Ullrich , Hulse Donald A. , Hauptman Joe G.
Published: August 2002

Objective—To evaluate the effect of tibial plateau leveling on joint motion in canine stifle joints in which the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) had been severed.

Study design—In vitro cadaver study.

Animals—Six canine cadaver hind legs.

Methods—Radiographs of the stifle joints were made to evaluate the tibial plateau angle with respect to the long axis of the tibia. The specimens were mounted in a custom‐made testing device to measure cranio‐caudal translation of the tibia with respect to the femur. An axial load was applied to the tibia, and its position was recorded in the normal stifle, after transection of the CCL, and after tibial plateau leveling. Further, the amount of caudal tibial thrust was measured in the tibial plateau leveled specimen while series of eight linearly increasing axial tibial loads were applied.

Results—Transection of the CCL resulted in cranial tibial translation when axial tibial load was applied. After tibial plateau leveling, axial loading resulted in caudal translation of the tibia. Increasing axial tibial load caused a linear increase in caudal tibial thrust in all tibial plateau–leveled specimens.

Conclusions—After tibial plateau leveling, axial tibial load generates caudal tibial thrust, which increases if additional axial load is applied.

Clinical relevance—Tibial plateau leveling osteotomy may prevent cranial translation during weight bearing in dogs with CCL rupture by converting axial load into caudal tibial thrust. The amount of caudal tibial thrust seems to be proportional to the amount of weight bearing.
Effect of a Supplemental Plate on the Stiffness of a Type I External Fixator
Authors: Norris Jana L. , Kraus Karl H. , O'Leary James P.
Published: August 2002

Objective— To assess the effect of a supplemental plate on the stiffness of a six‐pin unilateral external skeletal fixator.

Study design— Mechanical testing performed on models.

Methods— Wooden (birch) dowels were used to create five models of a fracture. A commercially available external fixation system was applied to the model with a uniform unilateral six‐pin fixator design. The models were mechanically tested with and without a supplemental plate attached to the 2 clamps adjacent to the fracture gap. Testing was conducted in axial loading, medial to lateral bending, and cranial to caudal bending.

Results— Results showed a 4.42–fold increase in stiffness in axial load, a 4.23–fold increase in stiffness in medial to lateral bending, and a 1.94‐fold increase in stiffness in cranial to caudal bending with the addition of the plate.

Conclusions— The addition of a supplemental plate increases the mechanical stiffness of unilateral fixators. This was especially true in axial load and medial to lateral bending.

Clinical relevance— A supplemental plate can be used with unilateral fixators to increase stiffness of the fixator. Conversely, the plate can be removed to decrease stiffness without the removal of fixation pins.
Postoperative Pain Control in Cats: Clinical Trials with Medetomidine and Butorphanol
Authors: Ansah Osei B. , Vainio Outi , Hellsten Carmela , Raekallio Marja
Published: August 2002

Objective—To evaluate the analgesic effects of medetomidine (MED) and butorphanol (BTO) in cats after ovariohysterectomy.

Study design—A placebo‐controlled, blinded monocenter clinical study.

Animals—Healthy adult female client‐owned cats.

Methods—Sixty‐four cats weighing 3.15 ± 0.6 kg, presented to the University of Helsinki's Small Animal Teaching Hospital for routine elective ovariohysterectomy, received MED at 15 μg/kg (n = 18), BTO at 0.1 mg/kg (n = 23), or saline (PL) (n = 23) intramuscularly immediately after ovariohysterectomy. Level of pain perception, degree of restlessness, and extent of sedation were scored subjectively before and at 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes after test‐drug administration.

Results—BTO provided the best pain relief, followed by MED. Saline provided the least pain relief. Both MED and BTO effectively and identically prevented postoperative restlessness. MED and BTO produced an identical degree of sedation that was better than the PL.

Conclusions—Both MED (at 15 μg/kg) and BTO (at 0.1 mg/kg) prevent postoperative pain in cats after ovariohysterectomy.

Clinical relevance—MED and BTO are useful for preventing postoperative pain in cats.
Preliminary Observations on Expression of Transforming Growth Factors β1 and β3 in Equine Full‐Thickness Skin Wounds Healing Normally or with Exuberant Granulation Tissue
Authors: Theoret Christine L. , Barber Spencer M. , Moyana Terence N. , Gordon John R.
Published: August 2002

Objective—To determine whether transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 and ‐β3 expression differs between equine limb wounds healing normally and those healing with experimentally induced exuberant granulation tissue (EGT).

Study design—Six wounds were created on the lateral aspect of both metacarpi of each horse; one forelimb was untreated, and the other was bandaged to stimulate the development of EGT. Sequential wound biopsies allowed comparison of growth factor expression between the two types of wound.

Animals—Four horses (2 to 4 years of age; 350 to 420 kg).

Methods—Wounds were assessed grossly, histologically, and by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for TGF‐β1 and −β3 expression at 12 and 24 hours and 2, 5, 10, and 14 days postoperatively.

Results—Bandaged wounds developed EGT. In all wounds, TGF–β1 peaked early and remained elevated at 14 days. Peak TGF–β1 concentration was higher in wounds with EGT, but not significantly so. Expression of TGF–β3 differed from TGF–β1, with peak TGF–β3 concentrations being delayed. Concentrations of TGF–β3 were higher in wounds healing normally, but this difference was not significant.

Conclusions—During both normal and exuberant wound repair, the expression of TGF–β1 occurred earlier than TGF–β3 expression. Wounds healing with EGT tended to have higher concentrations of fibrogenic TGF‐β1 and lower concentrations of antifibrotic TGF‐β3 than wounds healing normally, although these differences were not statistically significant.

Clinical relevance—This study suggests that the production of EGT in bandaged wounds may be related to increased expression of fibrogenic TGF‐β1 and decreased expression of antifibrotic TGF‐β3. Further investigation of the roles of TGF‐β1 and ‐β3 may be important in understanding the molecular control of EGT in horses.
Comparison of Insertion Time and Pullout Strength Between Self‐Tapping and Non–Self‐Tapping AO 4.5‐mm Cortical Bone Screws in Adult Equine Third Metacarpal Bone
Authors: Andrea C. Renee , Stover Susan M. , Galuppo Larry D. , Taylor Ken T. , Rakestraw Peter C.
Published: August 2002

Objective—To compare screw insertion characteristics and pullout mechanical properties between self‐tapping (ST) and non–self‐tapping (NST) AO 4.5‐mm cortical bone screws in adult equine third metacarpal bone (MC3).

Study design—In vitro biomechanical experiment.

Animals or sample population—Seven pairs of adult equine MC3.

Methods—Bicortical holes were drilled transversely in proximal metaphyseal, diaphyseal, and distal metaphyseal locations of paired MC3. NST screws were inserted in pre‐tapped holes in 3 sites of one bone pair, and ST screws were inserted in non‐tapped holes of contralateral MC3. Tapping and screw insertion times and maximum torques were measured. Screw pullout mechanical properties were determined.

Results—Screw insertion time was longer for ST screws. Total time for tapping and insertion (total insertion time) was over twice as long for NST screws. Statistically significant differences were not observed between screws for any pullout mechanical property. From pullout tests, diaphyseal locations had significantly stiffer and stronger structure than metaphyseal locations. Pullout failure more commonly occurred because of screw breakage than bone failure. Bone failure and bone comminution were more commonly associated with ST screws. Bone failure sites had pullout failure loads that were 90% of screw failure sites.

Conclusions—NST and ST 4.5‐mm‐diameter cortical bone screws have similar pullout mechanical properties from adult equine MC3. ST screws require less than half the total insertion time of NST screws.

Clinical relevance—Use of ST 4.5‐mm‐diameter cortical bone screws should be considered for repair of adult equine MC3 fractures; however, bone failures at screw sites should be monitored.
News from the rain forest: Niklas Luhmann and the social integration of environmental communication
Authors: Palmer Allen W.
Published: August 2002

The destruction of the Amazon rain forest is an issue defined primarily through the accounts of environmental journalists who find themselves caught between broad social and cultural forces. Environmentalism is a revolutionary paradigm which runs against traditional modernist tenets of science, but those domains are finding some areas of common ground. This project traces the significance of the tropical rain forest in terms of the social theory of Niklas Luhmann, who described ecological communication in terms of social differentiation and integration. Three separate domains of environmental discourse about the Amazon rain forest are identified in mass media: science, economics and politics. Originally, science defined the rain forest in terms of its taxonomy, then its biodiversity; in economics, the forest was understood in terms of the value of natural resources; and in the political sphere, the forest is defined variously in terms of the struggle over control of its development and/or exploitation. Labour activist Chico Mendes, who was killed in the struggle over the Brazilian forest, has been described as an eco-martyr, emphasizing his role in the struggle between opposing interests. Environmental discourse has strained to isolate causal responsibility for problems, but Luhmann reasons that cause-effect linkages are not always useful in clarifying complex issues. What emerge in the discursive traffic about the tropical rain forest are ideal conditions for the coalition and fragmentation of moral positions, and the cultivation of public anxiety, which the mass media fails to diffuse.
Exemplary lives: biographies of scientists on the screen
Authors: Elena Alberto
Published: August 2002

Cinema has emerged in the twentieth century as one of the most powerful vehicles for the popularization of science. Medical melodramas, science-fiction films and biopics can be used to advantage by historians and sociologists of science alike in order to reconstruct the always elusive public opinion. As a subgenre of historical films, biopics constitute a vigorous attempt to communicate to the lay public the ethos conventionally associated with scientific endeavour. Much more than a simple illustration of the lives of great scientists, biopics are one of the best indicators of public attitudes towards science and technology in contemporary society.
Science for imperial efficiency and social change: reflections on the British Science Guild, 1905-1936
Authors: MacLeod Roy
Published: August 2002

On 30 October 1905, the Lord Mayor of London blessed the inaugural meeting of a society created for the purpose of winning the British people to `the necessity of applying the methods of science to all branches of endeavour, and thus to further the progress and increase the welfare of the Empire'. Now nearly forgotten, the British Science Guild he opened that day was to be among the most visible `ginger groups' in British science during the first half of the century. Foreshadowing a world of parliamentary lobbies, public interest groups, and `think tanks', the Guild was created to `foster public appreciation of the role of science and the advantage of applying the methods of scientific enquiry, the study of cause and effect, in affairs of every kind'. For just twenty years, under the banner of `imperial efficiency', it campaigned for the application of scientific expertise to national and imperial policy, before it was ultimately forced to wind up its affairs, and combine with the British Association for the Advancement of Science. Its tempestuous history was not without achievements. Yet, those achievements were insufficient to change public opinion on the scale it attempted. Today, the history of the Guild holds important lessons for the `public understanding of science'. This essay reconstructs that history, and shows how the Guild's irenic vision of science blossomed, withered and failed. In retrospect, it may be argued, the Guild and its programme reflected the limited success won by the public advocacy of certain scientistic values, and the limits within which the British public was willing to accept those values as public authority.
Introducing the `gay gene': media and scientific representations
Authors: Miller David
Published: August 2002

In 1993 a paper in the prestigious scientific journal Science announced the discovery of a linkage between genetics and male homosexuality. The linkage was promptly dubbed the `gay gene' by the media, and the paper was widely reported. This article examines the reporting of the `gay gene' in the British press and television news, and compares it with commentary in scientific journals. The article focuses on the representation of homosexuality and the representation of science. It considers the charges levelled at the media by some critics and finds many of them wanting. Finally, it concludes with some comments about the public understanding of science and the need for the scientific understanding of the media and the public.
The popularization of plate tectonics: presenting the concepts of dynamics and time
Authors: Jacobi Daniel , Bergeron Andrée , Malvesy Thierry
Published: August 2002

There have been many attempts to describe and represent the theory of plate tectonics to laypeople. In the context of a study conducted at the request of a museum, we have tried to determine how the concepts of both geological time and the movements of the plates have been reformulated. After having systematically studied in detail publications aimed at more or less educated readers, we have selected a corpus of twelve articles from nine different magazines or journals. Among the different means of expression used by the popularizers, rhetorical figures constitute a significant resource. Procedures based on analogy (metaphor, comparison, analogical reasoning) were brought together in a single category without differentiating between the figures. This paper proposes a critical inventory of the most prominent figures constructed on the principle of analogy and used to explain tectonic concepts to different categories of reader. This work should help museum curators to choose how they reformulate these concepts.
Conjuring science in the case of cold fusion
Authors: Toumey Christopher P.
Published: August 2002

Most media accounts of cold fusion described that experience as a conflict among scientists, e.g., chemists versus physicists. It is worth seeing, however, how nonscientists perceived the scientific issues and supporting evidence surrounding cold fusion. From Clifford Geertz's anthropology of meanings-and-symbols, plus Jean Baudrillard's sociology of hyperreality, I derive a general theory that common public symbols of science can be separated from the intellectual substance of science, and then attributed to beliefs and ideologies that do not necessarily have anything to do with science. The result is to make nonscientific matters seem scientific. In the case of cold fusion, a naive hope about abundant cheap energy displaced the science behind the cold fusion hypothesis. That hope was then sustained by a certain visual image of the cold fusion hypothesis; by selective science journalism; and, by a simplistic sociology of science, thereby making it seem that naive hope was substantiated by science.
Scientific literacy and the jury: reconsidering jury `competence'
Authors: Edmond Gary , Mercer David
Published: August 2002

This article explores contemporary debates about the competence of juries to assess scientific and technical evidence. Most existing approaches measure jury competence against an unproblematized yardstick of `the correct scientific understanding'. We will develop an alternative, more sociologically and epistemologically nuanced view of the jury comprehension of science which significantly reframes these issues for both proponents and opponents of the jury. In particular, by using examples surrounding the recent US litigation involving birth defects allegedly caused by use of the drug Bendectin, we will challenge the common claim that inconsistencies in jury findings provide support for restricting the role of the jury in matters involving science and technology based on alleged jury `incompetence'. We conclude by noting that jury competence is a politically charged ascription.
The measurement of civic scientific literacy
Authors: Miller Jon D.
Published: August 2002

Building on two decades of national surveys in the United States and two Eurobarometer studies, the history, rationale, and structure of a measure of civic scientific literacy are described. Estimates of the proportion of adults who are very well informed or moderately well informed on the index of civic scientific literacy appear in the literature more frequently, and this paper provides the first comprehensive description and analysis of the civic scientific literacy measure. It is hoped that this analysis and discussion will encourage the inclusion and replication of the measure in a wider range of studies of the public understanding of and attitudes toward science and technology.
Users and navigation patterns of a science World Wide Web site for the public
Authors: Eveland William P. , Dunwoody Sharon
Published: August 2002

We report here initial findings of a multi-year study of public use of a World Wide Web site for science information. “The Why Files” strives to provide “the science behind the news” in story narratives that contain opportunities for both linear and non-linear navigation. We report results of two studies, one using survey data and another using computer-collected audit trails. The survey revealed that the typical user was male and well-educated, a pattern that reflects both Web users generally and the science-attentive segment of the public particularly. Audit trail data indicated that the site reached as many as 25,000 different individuals during a two-week measurement cycle. The typical pattern of site use was linear, with individuals making heavier use of in-text navigation features than of graphic ones such as page-turning buttons and page numbers. Additional information in glossaries, bibliographies, or via links to other Web sites went largely unused.
Newspaper reporting of hazards in the UK and Sweden
Authors: Rowe Gene , Frewer Lynn , Sjöberg Lennart
Published: August 2002

Public understanding of risks is likely to be informed by the media. We report a cross-national study looking at how newspapers in Sweden and the United Kingdom characterize a variety of risks, focusing on two months around the 10thanniversary of the Chernobyl accident. Approximately four times as many reports about risks were found in Sweden as in the U.K., possibly reflecting a Swedish safety culture. The Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) crisis dominated reporting in both countries, especially in the U.K. The proportion and pattern of reports on Chernobyl was similar across countries. However, in Sweden, there was an increase in reports about other nuclear hazards after the anniversary, suggesting that generalization of media concern may have occurred. Generally, BSE was discussed using a greater number of characterizations in the U.K., while Chernobyl was reported using more characterizations in Sweden. Reports about hazards tended to be alarmist rather than reassuring, and rarely used statistics to express degrees of risk.
Making systematic sense of public discontents with expert knowledge: two analytical approaches and a case study
Authors: Yearley Steven
Published: August 2002

Several recent strands of work within science studies, risk analysis, the public understanding of science, and environmental policy analysis have focused on the significance of lay knowledge and expertise. In case after case, it has been suggested that “expert” accounts of physical reality have conflicted with local people's knowledge and that rather than local knowledge being routinely inferior and defective, it has commonly proven more sensitive to local “realities.” These cases have become favored sites for studying public discontents with expert knowledge. Though the primary style of analysis in this emerging tradition has consisted of the case study, two conceptual schema for clarifying this topic have recently been proposed by Funtowicz and Ravetz and by Wynne. This paper uses a case study in the local understanding of an air-quality model to undertake a conceptual and empirical assessment of these contrasting analytical frameworks.
Mass communication and public understanding of environmental problems: the case of global warming
Authors: Stamm Keith R. , Clark Fiona , Eblacas Paula Reynolds
Published: August 2002

Public understanding of global warming, also known as global climate change, is treated here as an example of a mass communication problem that has yet to be adequately solved. A survey of metropolitan area residents found that although people are aware of this problem in a general sense, understanding of particular causes, possible consequences, and solutions is more limited. Both mass media and interpersonal communication appear to make a positive contribution to understanding, as well as to perpetuating some popular misconceptions.
The 48th ASMS Conference on Mass Spectrometry and Allied Topics
Authors: Brancia Francesco
Published: August 2002

The general theme of the meeting was the application of mass spectrometry to pharmaceutical and biotechnological research. The majority of the oral presentations and posters were concerned with the development and application of all mass spectrometric techniques related to proteomics.
The Role of Teacher as Mentor
Authors: Zachary Lois J.
Published: August 2002

Teachers who choose to mentor students are often unprepared for the role. This chapter describes key dimensions of effective mentoring.
Hybrids of poly(ethylene oxide‐b‐amide‐6) and ZrO2 sol–gel: Preparation, characterization, and application in processes of membranes separation
Authors: Zoppi Rita Aparecida , Soares Claudia Garcia Azevedo
Published: August 2002

Hybrids consisting of poly(ethylene oxide‐b‐amide‐6), PEBAXTM, and zirconium oxide were prepared from hydrolysis and condensation of zirconium tetraisopropoxide in solution containing the dissolved organic polymer. These hybrids were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, infrared spectroscopy, and electron microscopy. Results show that the incorporation of the inorganic phase seems to promote the degradation of the organic polymer. Composite membranes consisting of a porous support of poly(vinylidene fluoride), PVDF, and a filter layer of PEBAX/ZrO2 were prepared and characterized by electron microscopy. Permeation tests of water or aqueous solutions containing poly(ethylene glycol) of different molar masses were carried out to determine the permeation rate and the membrane cutoff respectively. To determine the phosphate retention, permeation tests using a KH2PO4 aqueous solution were carried out. Independent of composition of the filter layer, values of phosphate retention were nearly equivalent to 80%. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 21: 2–16, 2002; DOI 10.1002/adv.10011
Rotational molding of two‐layered polyethylene foams
Authors: Liu Shih‐Jung , Yang Ching‐Hsiung
Published: August 2002

Rotational molding of polyethylene foams has increasingly become an important process in industry because of its resultant thicker walls, low sound transfer, high stiffness, and good thermal insulation. This report assesses the rotomoldability of two‐layer polyethylene foamed parts. The polymeric material used in this study was linear low‐density polyethylene and the foaming material was an endothemic chemical blowing agent. Two different molding methods, by powder and by pellet, were used to mold the multilayer foamed parts. Rotational molding experiments were carried out in a laboratory scale uniaxial machine, capable of measuring internal mold temperature in the cycle. Characterization of molded part properties was performed after molding. Optical microscopy was also employed to determine the bubble distribution in foamed parts. The final goal of this study was to investigate how the blowing agent and processing conditions can influence the process of rotational molding and the final product quality. It was found that the rotational molding of two‐layer polyethylene foams produced parts of better impact properties, as well as fine outside surfaces. In addition, rotational molding of foamed parts by pellets saves the cost of powder grinding, but is counteracted by uneven inner surfaces. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 20: 108–115, 2001
Anti‐D (WinRho SD™) treatment of children with chronic autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura stimulates transient cytokine/chemokine production
Authors: Semple J.W. , Allen D. , Rutherford M. , Woloski M. , David M. , Wakefield C. , Butchart S. , Freedman J. , Blanchette V. ,   the Canadian Children's Platelet Study Group (CCPSG)
Published: August 2002

Intravenous anti‐D is often used in the treatment of autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura (AITP), but little is known about its mechanisms of action. To investigate anti‐D's potential in vivo mechanism(s) of action, a small group (N = 7) of children with chronic AITP was studied. The children initially received either 25 or 50 μg/kg of WinRho‐SD in a four‐cycle cross‐over trial, and peripheral blood samples from the first and third cycles were assessed for cytokine levels at pre‐treatment, 3 hr, 1 day, and 8 days post‐treatment. Results showed that platelet counts significantly increased in all the children by day 8 post‐treatment. Analysis of serum by ELISA showed that there was a significant but transient rise in both pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokine/chemokine levels (e.g., IL1RA, IL6, GM‐CSF, MCP‐1α, TNF‐α and MCP‐1) by 3 hr post‐treatment in both cycles which returned to baseline levels by 8 days post‐treatment. These results suggest that anti‐D administration may initially activate the RES in the form of cytokine/chemokine secretion, which is subsequently followed by an increase in platelet counts. It is possible that the induced cytokine/chemokine storm may have an effect on several physiological processes such as those mediating either adverse effects or potentially RES phagocytic activity. Am. J. Hematol. 69:225‐227, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Correlation of hematopoietic progenitor cell count determined by the SE‐9000™ automated hematology analyzer with CD34+ cell count by flow cytometry in leukapheresis products
Authors: Park Keon Uk , Kim Sang Hee , Suh Cheolwon , Kim Shin , Lee Sun Jong , Park Jung Sun , Cho Hwa Jung , Kim Kang Wook , Lee Keehyun , Kim Hyo Jung , Park Jinny , Joo Min Young , Kim Jeong Gyoon , Kim Taewon , Lee Je Hwan , Kim Sung Bae , Kim Sang We , Lee Kyoo Hyung , Lee Jung Shin , Kim Woo Kun , Park Chan Jeong , Chi Hyun Sook
Published: August 2002

The yield of stem cell collection after mobilization is crucial for autologous peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) transplantation. Quantitative determinations of CD34+ cells using flow cytometry or stem cell culture have been used, but these methods require much time, technical experience, and expensive reagents. The automated hematology analyzer (Sysmex SE‐9000™, TOA, Japan) equipped with the Immature Information (IMI) channel for immature myeloid cells can detect IMI+ cells within 90 sec. Detection is made possible by the combination of a special reagent system and direct current/radiofrequency biosensors. We studied the relation of IMI+ cells and variable cell counts with CD34+ cell yield in autologous stem cell harvest. In a series of 32 patients (median age, 44 years; M:F = 11:21), 184 leukaphereses were performed after mobilization regimens with chemotherapy and G‐CSF or G‐CSF alone. Full blood cell counts were enumerated on peripheral blood (PB) samples taken prior to each leukapheresis. Mononuclear cell (MNC) and IMI+ cell counts by automated hematology analyzer and flow cytometry based CD34+ cell yield were measured on the harvested product. The relationship among PB white blood cells (WBC), PB monocytes, IMI+ cells, MNC, and CD34+ cell yield in a single leukapheresis was estimated by Pearson correlation analysis. PB WBC count showed no correlation with CD34+ cell yield in a single leukapheresis (r = 0.02, P = 0.81). PB monocyte count showed a weak correlation (r = 0.21, P = 0.01) and MNC in harvest also showed a weak correlation (r = 0.36, P = 0.0001) with CD34+ cell yield. In contrast, CD34+ cell yield correlated well with IMI+ cell count (r = 0.68, P = 0.0001), and data could be fitted by a linear regression equation, y = 0.330 + 0.974x. IMI+ cell assay by the automated hematology analyzer correlated well with the CD34+ cell yield in a mobilized autologous stem cell harvest. The IMI+ cell count might be used as a simple and efficient indicator of blood stem cell mobilization and collection. Am. J. Hematol. 67:42–47, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Equations for predicting height for elderly Mexican Americans are not applicable for elderly Mexicans
Authors: Mendoza‐Nún̈ez Victor Manuel , Sánchez‐Rodríguez Martha A , Cervantes‐Sandoval Armando , Correa‐Muñoz Elsa , Vargas‐Guadarrama Luis Alberto
Published: August 2002

Common indices for the assessment of nutritional status take height into account. Elderly individuals are frequently unable to assume the position needed for this measurement. Therefore, equations have been developed for predicting height in elderly American Whites, American Blacks, and Mexican Americans using knee height as a predictor. These equations may not be applicable for the elderly in other populations. A sample of 736 individuals was studied (186 males, 550 females) with a mean age of 74.7 ± 8 years. Height and knee height (without shoes) were measured in millimeters. Multiple regression and cross‐validation was performed. The correlation between knee height and standing height was similar in women (r = 0.86; P < 0.0001) and men (r = 0.83; P < 0.0001). The equations obtained were as follows: men (height in cm) = 52.6 + (2.17 × knee height in cm) and women (height in cm) = 73.7 + (1.99 × knee height in cm) − (0.23 × age in years). Cross‐validation showed that the pure error was less than the root mean square error (RMSE) in both sexes. Mean heights, based on the equations of Chumlea et al. (1998) for Mexican Americans significantly differ from the reference values for females and males. Therefore, the equations developed by Chumlea et al. (1998) for elderly Mexican Americans do not appear to be applicable for elderly Mexicans. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 14:351–355, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lay perceptions of genetic risks attributable to inbreeding in pakistan
Authors: Hussain Rafat
Published: August 2002

Pakistan along with many other West and South Asian countries has a very high prevalence of consanguineous, especially close cousin, marriages. Although there is substantial empirical information on offspring morbidity and mortality attributable to parental consanguinity, population‐based information on how communities in general, and women in particular, perceive the health risks associated with consanguineous unions is limited. This paper considers community perceptions of health effects associated with consanguineous marriages using qualitative data from 15 focus group discussions and 294 in‐depth interviews. The study was conducted in four low‐income, multi‐ethnic, and multi‐religious communities in Karachi, the principal commercial center of Pakistan. The results show a general lack of awareness of the possible adverse health effects of consanguineous marriage. In cases where a link between consanguinity and ill health was acknowledged, it often centered on the familial origins of non‐communicable disorders such as diabetes and hypertension or infectious diseases such as tuberculosis. Belief in fate and the “evil eye” was widespread across all ethnic and religious groups. Many respondents did not agree with medical explanations of a genetic mode of disease inheritance, even in cases where there was an affected child in the family. The absence of a uniform manifestation of disease among all children of a couple who were identified as carriers of a specific mutation added to the confusion among participants. The study highlights the need for further quantification of risks associated with consanguinity and a need for provision of appropriate information to primary‐care clinicians and also to communities. The likely impact of increasing morbidity attributable to inbreeding on the health care system in resource poor settings is also discussed. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 14:264–274, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Respiratory symptoms among crab processing workers in Alaska: Epidemiological and environmental assessment*
Authors: Ortega Hector G. , Daroowalla Feroza , Petsonk Edward L. , Lewis Daniel , Berardinelli Steve , Jones William , Kreiss Kathleen , Weissman David N.
Published: August 2002

Background

Crab processing workers may develop respiratory symptoms and specific IgE responses, but the risk factors have not been fully described.

Methods

In 1998, 107 workers at a crab processing facility completed a survey both at the beginning and end of the processing season. The surveys included standardized symptom questionnaires, spirometry, and serological testing, as well as measurement of workplace airborne crab allergens and microscopic analysis of aerosolized materials.

Results

Over the crab processing season, asthma‐like symptoms developed in 26% of study participants and bronchitic symptoms in 19%. Only 9% of those with new asthma‐like symptoms were IgE‐sensitized to crab at the end of the season. Among the crab processing jobs, butchering and degilling workers had the highest incidence of respiratory symptoms.

Conclusions

Both personal and process‐related factors appear to affect the development of respiratory symptoms in crab processing workers. In this study, crab specific IgE was not detected in most of the workers with new symptoms. Am. J. Ind. Med. 39:598–607, 2001. Published 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Natural rubber latex‐related occupational asthma: Association with interventions and glove changes over time*
Authors: Liss Gary M. , Tarlo Susan M.
Published: August 2002

Background

Exposure to natural rubber latex (NRL) has been recognized as a cause of occupational asthma (OA), especially among health care workers (HCWs) associated with use of gloves. Little or no population‐based data are available which chart the changes over time in the number of cases of OA as this problem was increasingly recognized and then interventions instituted.

Methods

We obtained the numbers of allowed asthma claims with exposure to latex by year in the province of Ontario, Canada from the Ontario Workplace Safety and Insurance Board; details of the cases from the largest teaching hospital were reviewed. Interventions included: (1) in 1996, the Board recommended in its focus for accommodation of sensitized workers, the reduction of aerosols of latex proteins and that hospital facilities use powder‐free, low‐protein or nonlatex gloves; and (2) hospitals instituted latex policies and glove changes at various dates. For example, at the largest teaching hospital, interventions included education and voluntary medical surveillance in 1994; substitution of low protein, “powder‐free” NRL gloves for non‐sterile powdered gloves in 1995; and replacement of powdered sterile NRL gloves by lower protein, “powder‐free” NRL gloves in 1997.

Results

Through 1999, there were 60 allowed claims for asthma in Ontario with exposure to latex; of these 49 (82%) were among HCWs. The number of claims among HCWs changed from 0 to 2 per year up to 1990; increased to 7 to 11 per year between 1991–1994; and declined to 3 per year in 1995–1996 and 1 to 2 per year in 1997–1999. Of the ten institutions having two or more OA latex claims, all claims occurred in 1996 or earlier at 8 (80%). At the largest hospital, there were five accepted claims with year of diagnosis in 1993 (1 case), 1994 (3 cases), and 1995 (1 case).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that, despite the effect of increasing recognition, the introduction of gloves with reduced powder and/or protein, as well as other interventions have been associated temporally with declines in the number of cases of latex OA. Am. J. Ind. Med. 40:347–353, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Malignant pleural mesothelioma in bakers and pastry cooks
Authors: Ascoli Valeria , Calisti Roberto , Carnovale‐Scalzo Caterina , Nardi Francesco
Published: August 2002

Background

The occurrence of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) among bakers and pastry cooks has never been documented.

Case reports

We detected eight cases of MPM in bakers, pastry cooks, and biscuit cooks engaged in making, baking/cooking, and selling pastry/bread in two hospital‐based series (Rome and Orbassano/Turin, Italy; period 1990–1997; 222 cases). Field‐investigations revealed asbestos‐containing material (ACM) in ovens for baking bread, that were manufactured prior to the 1980s.

Conclusions

It is suggested that there is a possible new association of the risk of having worked as a baker or pastry cook and MPM. Presumptive source of exposure to asbestos was the use of asbestos‐insulated ovens. Am. J. Ind. Med. 40:371–373, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.