bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life above ground: ecology of Anolis fuscoauratus in the Amazon rain forest, and comparisons with its nearest relatives
Authors: Vitt Laurie J , Avila-Pires Teresa Cristina S. , Zani Peter A , Sartorius Shawn S , Espósito Maria Cristina
Published: February 2003

The polychrotid lizard Anolis fuscoauratus was studied at six localities in the Ecuadorian and Brazilian Amazon from 1994 to 1999. Throughout the Amazon, A. fuscoauratus occurs in forested habitats, is arboreal on tree trunks, limbs, and branches as well as vines, has a body temperature (Tb) of 28.7 ± 0.2°C (mean ± SE) while active, maintains Tb slightly above ambient temperatures, avoids direct sunlight during most of the day, and feeds primarily on a combination of orthopterans (20.62% by volume), spiders (16.7%), homopterans (10.62%), and insect larvae (10.35%). Despite detectable geographic variation in adult body size and diets, general ecological attributes are similar among populations across the Amazon region even though the number of sympatric Anolis species as well as the total number of lizard species vary among sites. Overall ecological similarity likely reflects the fact that there is little evolutionary divergence among populations. Comparisons between A. fuscoauratus and its three closest relatives, A. humilis and A. limifrons of Central America and A. trachyderma of the Amazon, reveal some similarities. All four species maintain relatively low Tb while active. Anolis fuscoauratus and A. limifrons are ecologically and morpho logically similar but A. fuscoauratus is larger. Anolis humilis and A. trachyderma are more similar to each other ecologically than they are to their respective sympatric congeners. Anolis humilis is smaller than and morphologically dissimilar to A. trachyderma. The Amazonian and Central American species pairs do not comprise each other's closest relatives, indicating that similar ecomorphs have evolved independently in the Amazonian and Central American rain forests.
Spatial organization and demography of badgers (Meles meles) in Bialowieza Primeval Forest, Poland, and the influence of earthworms on badger densities in Europe
Authors: Kowalczyk Rafal , Zalewski Andrzej , Jedrzejewska Bogumila , Jedrzejewski Wlodzimierz
Published: February 2003

From 1996 to 2001 we studied the spatial organization and demography of Eurasian badgers, Meles meles, in Białowieża Primeval Forest in eastern Poland, one of the best preserved woodlands in temperate Europe. Badger density estimated on the basis of main sett distribution (0.54 sett/10 km2) and group size (3.9 individuals per sett, on average) was 2.11 badgers/10 km2. Average annual productivity of the population was 64% and the mortality rate of badgers >1 year old was 2238% per annum. The size of territories of badger groups (n = 7), estimated by radio telemetry, varied from 8.4 to 25.5 km2(mean 12.8 km2). Individual home ranges of badgers (n = 13) covered, on average, 9.3 km2, and varied seasonally and among animals of different age and sex classes (from 4.0 to 24.4 km2). Home ranges of adult badgers were significantly larger than those of subadults. Badgers occupied larger home ranges in summer, when earthworm availability was low. The size of both group territories and individual home ranges was influenced by the distribution of oaklimehornbeam (OLH) forests, habitats rich in earthworms. Based on our findings and a review of literature, we propose that the standing crop of biomass of earthworms (Lumbricus spp.), the main food of badgers in a large part of their geographic range, and mean annual temperature are crucial factors shaping the densities of badgers in the European temperate and boreal zones. We also suggest that abundance of food resources is the essential factor underlying the great variation in badger sociality (from pairs to large groups).
Peak flow variation in childhood asthma: relationship to symptoms, atopy, airways obstruction and hyperresponsiveness. Dutch CNSLD Study Group
Authors: Brand PL , Duiverman EJ , Postma DS , Waalkens HJ , Kerrebijn KF , van Essen-Zandvliet EE
Published: February 2003

Although home recording of peak expiratory flow (PEF) is considered useful in managing asthma, little is known about the relationship of PEF variation to other indicators of disease activity. We examined the relationship of PEF variation, expressed in various ways, to symptoms, atopy, level of lung function, and airways hyperresponsiveness in schoolchildren with asthma. One hundred and two asthmatic children (aged 7-14 yrs) recorded symptoms and PEF (twice daily) in a diary for 2 weeks after withdrawal of all anti-inflammatory maintenance medication. PEF variation was expressed as amplitude % mean, as standard deviation and coefficient of variation of all recordings, and as low % best (lowest PEF as percentage of the highest of all values). Atopy and level of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) % predicted were not significantly related to PEF variation. The provocative dose of histamine causing a 20% fall in FEV1 (PD20) and symptom scores were significantly, but weakly, related to PEF variation. The index, low % best, proved easy to calculate and effective in identifying a short-term episode of reduced PEF. We conclude that peak expiratory flow variation in children with stable, moderately severe asthma is significantly, but weakly, related to symptoms and airways hyperresponsiveness. These three phenomena, therefore, all provide different information on the actual disease state. Expressing peak expiratory flow variation as low % best is easy to perform and appears to be clinically relevant.
Exercise performance in children with asthma: is it different from that of healthy controls?
Authors: Santuz P , Baraldi E , Filippone M , Zacchello F
Published: February 2003

Exercise tolerance and possible limitation in work capacity of asthmatic children is still a matter of debate. The aim of this study was to compare ventilation and gas exchange response to exercise of asthmatic children with that of healthy controls. Exercise performance was evaluated in 80 children with mild-to-moderate asthma, aged 7-15 yrs, and in 80 healthy controls matched for age, height, weight and habitual level of physical activity. The children performed a maximal exercise test on a treadmill, during which oxygen uptake (V'O2), carbon dioxide output (V'CO2) and minute ventilation (V'E) were measured continuously. No premedication was given to the asthmatic children. Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) at rest was 93+/-11% of predicted in asthmatic children and 95+/-9% pred in controls. After the run, the mean fall in FEV1 was 13.9% (range 0-57%) and 1.6% (0-9%), respectively (p<0.001). The two groups achieved similar maximum oxygen uptake (V'O2,max) ((mean+/-SD) 40.3+/-8.4 and 42.6+/-9.6 mL x min(-1) x kg(-1) in asthmatics and controls, respectively; NS) and maximum minute ventilation output (V'E,max) (42.9+/-14.8 and 45.7+/-14.9 L x min(-1) respectively; NS). The kinetics of V'O2, V'CO2 and V'E during the test revealed no differences between the two populations. Moreover, anaerobic threshold and oxygen pulse were the same in the two groups. Asthmatics showed a ventilatory pattern with lower respiratory frequencies and greater tidal volumes during the run. These results suggest that asthmatic children can achieve a level of exercise performance similar to that of healthy children, provided that they have a comparable level of habitual physical activity. The only difference found concerned the ventilatory pattern of the asthmatic children, which was characterized by a reduced respiratory frequency and greater tidal volume at the same minute ventilation. The level of physical conditioning was found to be the main determinant of exercise tolerance for children with controlled asthma.
Psychosocial predictors of long-term success of in-patient pulmonary rehabilitation of patients with COPD
Authors: Buchi S , Villiger B , Sensky T , Schwarz F , Wolf C , Buddeberg C
Published: February 2003

Studies of the long-term outcome of pulmonary rehabilitation have measured quality of life (QOL) mainly as disease-specific functional impairment, but long-term effects on overall satisfaction with health or life have not yet been adequately evaluated. Furthermore, the influence of personality traits on the long-term outcome of pulmonary rehabilitation have not so far been examined. The following questions were studied: 1) What are the short- and long-term effects of a rehabilitation programme on lung function (forced expiratory volume in one second as percentage of predicted (FEV1 % pred)), on satisfaction with life (defined as quality of life), and on health satisfaction (HS)? 2) Are there physical or psychosocial predictors for the success of pulmonary therapy? In this prospective clinical study, baseline data (FEV1 % pred, arterial oxygen tension (Pa,O2), QOL, HS, dyspnoea, coping scales) were studied at entry (t1); follow-up on discharge (t2); and 1 yr after hospitalization (t3) in 54 consecutive patients (mean age 64 yrs) with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Complete data were obtained at follow-up on 32 subjects. FEV1 % pred improved from 42% (t1) to 52% (t2) (p<0.001) but dropped to 46% at t3 (t1-t3: p<0.05). QOL improved significantly during hospitalization but dropped to initial levels 1 yr after discharge. A significant increase in health satisfaction during hospitalization was maintained at follow-up. Improvements in lung function were greater in patients with higher QOL scores on entry; subjects with the greatest tendency to use wishful thinking as a coping strategy had less improvement. In conclusion, the effects of pulmonary rehabilitation on lung function and health satisfaction are positive and enduring. Quality of life and coping have an effect on the long-term outcome of pulmonary rehabilitation, probably as expressions of patients' personality traits.
Mechanisms of worsening gas exchange during acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Barbera JA , Roca J , Ferrer A , Felez MA , Diaz O , Roger N , Rodriguez-Roisin R
Published: February 2003

This study was undertaken to investigate the mechanisms that determine abnormal gas exchange during acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Thirteen COPD patients, hospitalized because of an exacerbation, were studied after admission and 38+/-10 (+/-SD) days after discharge, once they were clinically stable. Measurements included forced spirometry, arterial blood gas values, minute ventilation (V'E), cardiac output (Q'), oxygen consumption (V'O2), and ventilation/perfusion (V'A/Q') relationships, assessed by the inert gas technique. Exacerbations were characterized by very severe airflow obstruction (forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) 0.74+/-0.17 vs 0.91+/-0.19 L, during exacerbation and stable conditions, respectively; p=0.01), severe hypoxaemia (ratio between arterial oxygen tension and inspired oxygen fraction (Pa,O2/FI,O2) 32.7+/-7.7 vs 37.6+/-6.9 kPa (245+/-58 vs 282+/-52 mmHg); p=0.01) and hypercapnia (arterial carbon dioxide tension (Pa,CO2) 6.8+/-1.6 vs 5.9+/-0.8 kPa (51+/-12 vs 44+/-6 mmHg); p=0.04). V'A/Q' inequality increased during exacerbation (log SD Q', 1.10+/-0.29 vs 0.96+/-0.27; normal < or = 0.6; p=0.04) as a result of greater perfusion in poorly-ventilated alveoli. Shunt was almost negligible on both measurements. V'E remained essentially unchanged during exacerbation (10.5+/-2.2 vs 9.2+/-1.8 L x min(-1); p=0.1), whereas both Q' (6.1+/-2.4 vs 5.1+/-1.7 L x min(-1); p=0.05) and V'O2 (300+/-49 vs 248+/-59 mL x min(-1); p=0.03) increased significantly. Worsening of hypoxaemia was explained mainly by the increase both in V'A/Q' inequality and V'O2, whereas the increase in Q' partially counterbalanced the effect of greater V'O2 on mixed venous oxygen tension (PV,O2). We conclude that worsening of gas exchange during exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is primarily produced by increased ventilation/perfusion inequality, and that this effect is amplified by the decrease of mixed venous oxygen tension that results from greater oxygen consumption, presumably because of increased work of the respiratory muscles.
Upper abdominal surgery: does a lung function test exist to predict early severe postoperative respiratory complications?
Authors: Barisione G , Rovida S , Gazzaniga GM , Fontana L
Published: February 2003

We evaluated the capacity to predict severe respiratory complications (SRCs) following upper abdominal surgery (UAS) by using the results of a respiratory questionnaire and preoperative pulmonary function tests. Lung volumes, flows and transfer factor of the lung for carbon monoxide (TL,CO,sb) were assessed in 361 consecutive adult patients (248 males and 113 females). SRCs were diagnosed 24 h after UAS by clinical examination and chest radiography. Univariate and stepwise multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) of each single input variable, and to determine which indices best predicted outcome. These patients had a 1% mortality rate and 14% incidence of SRCs, with a male:female ratio of 0.86. The best predictors for SRCs by multiple analysis were: preoperative current hypersecretion of mucus (OR=133; p<0.0001); an increase in residual volume (RV) (OR=3.11; p=0.01); and, to a lesser extent, low percentage of predicted values both of forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1 % pred) and TL,CO,sb. The algorithm thus obtained (logit theta) was extremely sensitive (84%), specific (99%), and accurate (95%) for preoperative prediction of SRCs. We have found that preoperative current hypersecretion of mucus and pulmonary hyperinflation, and to a lesser extent percentage predicted values both of forced expiratory volume in one second and transfer factor of the lung for carbon monoxide, have a significant predictive capacity for severe respiratory complications following upper abdominal surgery.
Respiratory mechanics and morphometric changes during pneumoperitoneum in normal rats
Authors: Moreira LF , Gobbi CF , Feijoo M , Rocco PR , Zin WA
Published: February 2003

Pneumoperitoneum may give rise to several respiratory changes; nevertheless, no comprehensive analysis of respiratory mechanics has been performed under this condition. Respiratory mechanics and thoracoabdominal morphometry were evaluated in six sedated, anaesthetized, paralysed, and mechanically-ventilated rats before (control) and during pneumoperitoneum. After airway occlusion at end-inspiration, respiratory system, pulmonary, and chest wall resistive pressures (deltaP1,rs, deltaP1,L and deltaP1,cw, respectively) and viscoelastic/inhomogeneous pressures (deltaP2,rs, deltaP2,L and deltaP2,cw, respectively) were determined. Total pressure changes (deltaPtot) were calculated as the sum of deltaP1 and deltaP2, yielding the values of deltaPtot,rs, deltaPtot,L and deltaPtot,cw, respectively. Respiratory system, lung, and chest wall static (Est,rs, Est,L and Est,cw, respectively), and dynamic elastances (Edyn,rs, Edyn,L and Edyn,cw, respectively), and the corresponding changes in elastance (deltaE) (calculated as Edyn-Est) were also obtained. Chest wall configuration both at functional residual capacity (FRC) and end-inspiration (FRC + tidal volume (VT)) was also evaluated in another four rats. Pneumoperitoneum significantly increased deltaPtot,rs, deltaPtot,cw, deltaP2,rs, deltaP2,cw, deltaErs, deltaEcw, Est,rs, Est,L and Est,cw. Lateral and anteroposterior diameters increased significantly, with the exception of lateral diameters at the level of crista iliaca. Cephalocaudal diameter and FRC decreased. In conclusion, pneumoperitoneum augments elastances and increases the pressure dissipated against viscoelasticity/inhomogeneity of the respiratory system and chest wall. These changes are related to a cephalad displacement of the diaphragm plus changes in thoracoabdominal configuration.
Increased risk of tuberculosis transmission in families with microepidemics
Authors: Vidal R , Miravitlles M , Cayla JA , Torrella M , de Gracia J , Morell F
Published: February 2003

In the present study, we analysed: 1) prevalence of TB infection and incidence of disease among family contacts of a cohort of patients with TB; 2) differential characteristics of families with microepidemics and families with < or = 1 new case of TB; and 3) efficacy of chemoprophylaxis in this group of contacts. Three thousand and seventy one family contacts of 635 patients with TB were studied. The study consisted of tuberculin skin testing and chest radiography in all cases, and bacteriological studies when active disease was suspected. Contacts were classified as belonging to: families with microepidemics (FME) (those with > or = 2 new cases of TB); families with one new case; and families with with no new cases. Chemoprophylaxis was prescribed in contacts following standard recommendations; all were followed up for 12-18 months. Rates of TB infection and disease among families, as well as the incidence of TB disease between those compliant and noncompliant with chemoprophylaxis were compared. Among the 3,071 contacts, 1,264 (41%) were infected and 176 (6%) had TB. Twenty two families with FME (3%) yielded 55 new cases of TB. The prevalence of infection (excluding the TB cases) was 80% in families with FME, 52% in families with one new case, and 41% in families with no new case (odds ratio (OR) 3.7; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 2.1-6.5). Sputum smears were positive in 53% of cases in FME and 24% in non-FME families (OR 3.4; 95% CI 1.7-6.5). Bronchial sample cultures were positive in 84% of patients from FME families but in only 40% of those from non-FME families (OR 7.5; 95% CI 3.6-15.8). Chemoprophylaxis was prescribed in 356 contacts, of whom 296 complied and generated only one new case of TB, whilst there were 13 new cases among the 60 who did not comply (OR 81.6; 95% CI 26.7-248.7). This study showed the prevalence of infection and incidence of tuberculosis among family contacts of patients with newly diagnosed tuberculosis to be very high. A small number of families with microepidemics accounted for most new cases of tuberculosis, which were also more infectious. The extremely high risk of transmission in these families, together with the proven efficacy of chemoprophylaxis, justifies prescription of chemoprophylaxis to all their members, regardless of age.
Pneumothorax in HIV-infected patients: role of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia and pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Tumbarello M , Tacconelli E , Pirronti T , Cauda R , Ortona L
Published: February 2003

Patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) are at increased risk for pneumothorax, which usually occurs in the setting of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. The rationale of the present study was based on the hypothesis that the increased incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients could favour the development of pneumothorax in such patients. A case-control study was performed comprising 140 HIV-infected patients grouped as follows: 35 patients with pneumothorax and 105 matched controls without pneumothorax. Univariate analysis identified four risk factors for pneumothorax: 1) previous P. carinii pneumonia (p=0.01); 2) current P. carinii pneumonia (p=0.02); 3) pulmonary tuberculosis (p=0.01); and 4) cysts, pneumatoceles or bullae on chest radiographs (p<0.001). Multivariate analysis indicated that current P. carinii pneumonia (p=0.01) and pulmonary tuberculosis (p=0.04) were both independent risk factors for pneumothorax. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that, in addition to Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, pulmonary tuberculosis enhances the risk of pneumothorax in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome.
Induced sputum cell and fluid-phase indices of inflammation: comparison of treatment with dithiothreitol vs phosphate-buffered saline
Authors: Efthimiadis A , Pizzichini MM , Pizzichini E , Dolovich J , Hargreave FE
Published: February 2003

Treatment of sputum with dithiothreitol (DTT) gives reliable measurements of cellular and fluid-phase markers of airway inflammation. We investigated the extent to which DTT treatment influences these measurements as compared with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). Hypertonic saline-induced sputum, collected from 20 asthmatic subjects, was examined within 2 h. All portions which looked more solid (less fluid) than saliva were collected from the expectorate. The selected sputum was then divided into two portions: one treated with one volume of DTT and one volume of PBS, the other with two volumes of PBS. The filtrates were assessed blind for total and differential cell count, viability, and fluid-phase eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), fibrinogen, interleukin (IL)-5 and IL-8. Sputum treated with DTT compared with PBS had lower proportions of viable cells (median 66 versus 74%; p=0.003). In contrast, DTT-treated sputum had higher total cell counts (median 8.8 vs 2.8 x 10(6) mL(-1); p<0.001) and levels of ECP (median 1340 vs 584 mg x L(-1); p<0.001) The measurements were similar with respect to the proportion of eosinophils, neutrophils, lymphocytes, macrophages, and fluid-phase fibrinogen, IL-5 and IL-8. We conclude that dithiothreitol disperses cells more effectively and that this might account for the higher levels of eosinophil cationic protein. Dithiothreitol may affect cell viability, but the changes are not relevant with respect to cell counts. Additionally, dithiothreitol does not seem to influence the other measurements performed.
Instrumental variability of respiratory blood gases among different blood gas analysers in different laboratories
Authors: Kampelmacher MJ , van Kesteren RG , Winckers EK
Published: February 2003

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that differences in oxygen tension (PO2) and carbon dioxide tension (PCO2) values from measurements performed on different blood gas analysers in different laboratories are clinically insignificant. Samples of fresh whole human tonometered blood (PO2 8.1 kPa (60.8 mmHg); PCO2 5.3 kPa (39.9 mmHg)) were placed in airtight glass syringes and transported in ice-water slush. Blood gas analysis was performed within 3.5 h by 17 analysers (10 different models) in 10 hospitals on one day. The mean of the differences between the measured and target values was -0.01+/-0.19 and 0.21+/-0.13 kPa (-0.06+/-1.45 and 1.55+/-1.01 mmHg) for PO2 and PCO2, respectively. The mean of the differences between two samples on one analyser was 0.06+/-0.06 and 0.04+/-0.03 kPa (0.47+/-0.48 and 0.29+/-0.24 mmHg), respectively. For PO2 and PCO2 the interinstrument standard deviations (s(b)) were 0.18 and 0.13 kPa (1.38 and 0.99 mmHg), respectively, whereas the intra-instrument standard deviations (s) were 0.06 and 0.03 kPa (0.47 and 0.26 mmHg), respectively. Both for PO2 and PCO2 the ratios of s(b)2 and s2 were statistically significant (analysis of variance (ANOVA) p<0.001). The standard deviations of a random measurement on a random analyser were 0.19 and 0.14 kPa (1.46 and 1.02 mmHg) for PO2 and PCO2, respectively. We conclude that the variability in measurement of blood gas values among different blood gas analysers, although negligible, depends much more on inter- than intra-instrument variation, both for oxygen tension and carbon dioxide tension. Technical improvements and adequate quality control programmes, including tonometry, may explain why the variability in blood gas values depends mainly on errors in the pre-analytical phase.
Lung involvement in the multisystem syndrome CHARGE association
Authors: Sporik R , Dinwiddie R , Wallis C
Published: February 2003

The CHARGE association is a multisystem syndrome, with a wide range of phenotypic expression, causing mortality, especially in childhood. We performed a hospital audit, in order to quantify the pulmonary implications, in 28 boys and 19 girls aged 0.02-23 yrs, with a definite diagnosis of CHARGE. A review of the records of these children with CHARGE association revealed that aspiration was common during infancy, as a result of inco-ordination of swallowing and gastro-oesophageal reflux. Aspiration was suspected in 22 of the 47 cases (47%), recurrent chest infections occurred in 22 cases (47%), and lung involvement contributed to 7 out of 17 deaths (41%). We conclude that respiratory morbidity and mortality is common in CHARGE, and decreases with age. Early diagnosis and treatment affords the best prognosis.
Anti-Borrelia burgdorferi immunoglobulin seroprevalence in pulmonary sarcoidosis: a negative report
Authors: Martens H , Zollner B , Zissel G , Burdon D , Schlaak M , Muller-Quernheim J
Published: February 2003

The aetiology of sarcoidosis is still unknown. An infectious microorganism as causal agent for this disease could not be identified, but high titres of antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi were detected in Chinese studies implying a causality with this disease. These findings, however, could not be reproduced by other researchers. The aim of this study was, therefore, to evaluate the possible role of these spirochetes in the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis by serological examinations. Sixty sera of patients suffering from sarcoidosis were examined for anti-B. burgdorferi immunoglobulin by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). ELISAs for these antibodies show a high sensitivity, but a low specificity; therefore, a specific immunoblot was used to confirm positive results. Initially, 8% of the patients were reactive in the ELISA, and 20% of these could be confirmed by immunoblot. Therefore, the prevalence for B. burgdorferi antibodies in sarcoidosis patients was 1.6%. This result did not differ significantly from the prevalence of B. burgdorferi antibodies in 1,000 regular blood donors of the city of Hamburg (7% reactive in the ELISA, 38% confirmed via immunoblot, prevalence 2.7%). The hypothesis of causality between a B. burgdorferi infection and sarcoidosis cannot be confirmed by this data.
Genetic risk factors for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Sandford AJ , Weir TD , Pare PD
Published: February 2003

Cigarette smoking is the major risk factor for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, only a minority of cigarette smokers develop symptomatic disease. Studies of families and twins suggest that genetic factors also contribute to the development of COPD. We present a detailed literature review of the genes which have been investigated as potential risk factors for this disease. The only established genetic risk factor for COPD is homozygosity for the Z allele of the alpha1-antitrypsin gene. Heterozygotes for the Z allele may also be at increased risk. Other mutations affecting the structure of alpha1-antitrypsin or the regulation of gene expression have been identified as risk factors. Genes, including those for alpha1-antichymotrypsin, alpha2-macroglobulin, vitamin D-binding protein and blood group antigens, have also been associated with the development of COPD. Variants of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator gene have been identified as risk factors for disseminated bronchiectasis. The genetic basis to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease has begun to be elucidated and it is likely that several genes will be implicated in the pathogenesis of this disease. The knowledge gained from such studies may also prove relevant to other inflammatory diseases.
Relief of sleep apnoea after treatment of acromegaly: report of three cases and review of the literature
Authors: Buyse B , Michiels E , Bouillon R , Bobbaers H , Demedts M
Published: February 2003

Sleep apnoea syndrome (SAS) is common in acromegalic patients. Occasionally, the relief of apnoeas after treatment of the acromegaly has been documented. We report the cases of three patients with acromegaly and severe obstructive sleep apnoea, who demonstrated a manifest improvement (respiratory disturbance index (RDI) <20) after treatment with octreotide, indicating that this drug may be effective in this disturbance. In one case, SAS disappeared although the growth hormone level was not fully normalized. This raises the intriguing hypothesis that octreotide has an effect on respiratory control or on the upper airway, that is not directly related to its action on production of growth hormone.
Fatal acute pulmonary oedema after inhalation of fumes from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)
Authors: Lee CH , Guo YL , Tsai PJ , Chang HY , Chen CR , Chen CW , Hsiue TR
Published: February 2003

The cases of three patients with acute pulmonary oedema caused by inhalation of fumes from heated polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) in a plastic factory are described. One patient died from profound hypoxaemia and shock shortly after admission, and the other two patients survived after medical treatment. This is the first report of fatal pulmonary oedema in a worker exposed to PTFE heated in a plastic extruding operation. From this observation, it appears that inhalation exposure to pyrolytic products from polytetrafluoroethylene can cause fatal respiratory complications. Special precautions are warranted in this kind of operation to prevent workers from being exposed to these substances.
Paracingulate sulcus morphology in men with early-onset schizophrenia
Authors: Provost Jean-Bernard Le , Bartrés-Faz David , Paillère-Martinot Marie-Laure , Artiges Eric , Pappata Sabina , Recasens Christophe , Pérez-Gómez Mercedes , Bernardo Miquel , Baeza Imma , Bayle Frank , Martinot Jean-Luc
Published: February 2003

Background

Cingulate dysfunction has been reported in schizophrenia. Although the paracingulate sulcus (PCS) is known to be asymmetric in healthy people, little information is available about its morphology in schizophrenia.

Aims

To search for morphological anomalies of the PCS in men with early-onset schizophrenia.

Method

The PCS was examined in magnetic resonance images of the brains of men with schizophrenia and 100 healthy men.

Results

A significant asymmetry was found in the brains of healthy volunteers, whose sulci were more frequent and more marked in the left hemisphere. In contrast, the sulcus was as frequent in the right as in the left hemisphere in the patient group. Moreover, patients displayed significantly more rightward asymmetry, and overall less-asymmetrical patterns than the comparison group.

Conculsions

Since the PCS has developed at 36 weeks of gestation, these findings suggest an impaired maturation of the cingulate region during the third trimester.
Objectivity in psychoanalytic assessment of couple relationships
Authors: Lanman M. , Grier F. , Evans C.
Published: February 2003

Background

Clinicians claim that partners in a couple can be understood to share a mode of relating, at an unconscious level. Assessment of this depends on inference from observable data. This study tests the viability and reliability of a modification of the Personal Relatedness Profile (PRP) for this purpose.

Aims

To test the interrater reliability and construct validity of a joint PRP score for couples.

Method

Seven therapists independently rated couples' interactions using the 30-item PRP and segments of videotaped interviews with 19 couples.

Results

Interrater reliability was good and correlations between items clearly supported the underlying Kleinian bipolar model used (paranoid–schizoid/depressive positions).

Conclusions

Psychoanalytic couple psychotherapists agree in independent judgements of the nature of couple functioning, these judgements being based on envisaging couples in terms of an unconsciously shared state of mind.
Acute wards: problems and solutions
Authors: Rix Susannah , Shepherd Geoff
Published: February 2003

Aims and Method

To develop an evidence-based approach that supports the improvement of front-line delivery of adult acute in-patient services. Key factors of effective organisational change were identified from the literature. These were adopted as part of an ‘evidence-based service development’ programme. This approach was used by the Health Advisory Service in a project with an NHS Trust in south east England.

Results

Significant progress was made in improving the quality of local acute in-patient services.

Clinical Implications

Further development and evaluation of this approach should be undertaken, since it seems to offer significant opportunities to deliver real improvements in the quality of services.
The ‘Out-of-Programme Experience’
Authors: Stratford Joe
Published: February 2003

Mention an ‘Out-of-Programme Experience’ to colleagues and the result is often a somewhat bemused expression or some reference to the not-too-dissimilar-sounding, ‘Out-of-body-experience’. This has been the response on almost every occasion I have mentioned this, the official title for the 12 months I recently spent working as a senior registrar in old age psychiatry in Melbourne, Australia.
Evaluating the relationship of high-dose venlafaxine prescribing to treatment-resistant depression
Authors: Thomas Arwel , Taylor David
Published: February 2003

Aims and Method

Prescribing of venlafaxine in The South London and Maudsley NHS Trust was found to account for over 50% of the antidepressant costs, but only 15% of the prescriptions. There is evidence to suggest that higher doses of venlafaxine may be effective in treating treatment-refractory depression. We aimed to discover if higher doses of venlafaxine used in the trust were related to prior failure to respond to antidepressant treatment. Hospital in-patients being treated with venlafaxine during a 1-week period in October 2001 were identified and case notes were reviewed to determine patient demographic data and prior history of antidepressant therapy.

Results

There were 38 patients identified as being prescribed venlafaxine (18 of whom had a primary diagnosis of depression). Twenty-five were classed as non-treatment-resistant and 13 were classed as treatment-resistant. Doses of venlafaxine were statistically significantly higher in patients considered treatment-resistant (245 mg v. 180 mg daily, P=0.03). All other recorded patient characteristics were similar.

Clinical Implications

Higher doses of venlafaxine were prescribed to patients who were retrospectively defined as treatment-refractory. Further studies should address the reasons for this prescribing practice.
Compound strut and planar six-bar linkage suspension systems
Authors: MacLaurin E B
Published: February 2003

This paper reviews the properties and possible advantages of compound strut and related six-bar linkage suspension systems.
Effects of design and operating parameters on the static and dynamic performance of an electromagnetic valve actuator
Authors: Park S-H , Lee J , Yoo J , Kim D , Park K
Published: February 2003

The electromagnetic valve (EMV) actuation system is a new technology for improvement in fuel effciency and reduction in emissions in spark ignition (SI) engines. It can provide more flexibility in valve event control compared with conventional variable valve actuation devices. However, a more powerful and effcient actuator design is needed for this technology to be applied in mass production engines. This paper presents the effects of design and operating parameters on the static and dynamic performances of the actuator. Employing the finite element method (FEM), the flow pattern of the magnetic flux is analysed and the resultant magnetic forces of several cases of core and armature designs are calculated. A computer simulation model has been set up to identify the dynamic behaviour of the EMV system. The effects of external disturbances such as cylinder pressure, armature neutral position and current supply time are also analysed. To verify the accuracy of the simulation model, an experimental study is also carried out on a prototype actuator. It is found that there is relatively good agreement between the experimental data and the results from the simulation model. The newly designed actuator is successfully operated on the test bench up to about 6000 r/min, which is the range of rated speed of most production SI engines. Through the whole speed range, the actuator maintains good performance in valve timing and event control.
Hydrotalcite-Like Minerals (M2Al(OH)6(CO3)0.5.XH2O, Where M = Mg, Zn, Co, Ni) in the Environment: Synthesis, Characterization and Thermodynamic Stability
Authors: Johnson C. A. , Glasser F. P.
Published: February 2003

Hydrotalcite-like layered double hydroxides (LDH), of the formulation M2Al(OH)6(CO3)0.5.H2O, where M = Mg, Zn, Co, Ni, have been prepared, the products characterized and their solubility products measured at ionic strengths of 0.0065 and 0.0128 M and at 25°C. Steady-state solubility was reached after 100 days. The solubility products have been formulated according to the following reaction: <mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:c="http://cambridge.org/core/content" xmlns:core="http://cambridge.org/core" xmlns:m="http://cambridge.org/core/metadata" xmlns:cup="http://contentservices.cambridge.org" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns:mnf="http://cambridge.org/core/manifest">M2Al(OH)60.5CO3⋅H2O+6H+→2M2++Al3++0.5CO32−+H2O where
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:c="http://cambridge.org/core/content" xmlns:core="http://cambridge.org/core" xmlns:m="http://cambridge.org/core/metadata" xmlns:cup="http://contentservices.cambridge.org" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns:mnf="http://cambridge.org/core/manifest">KSO=[M2+]2[Al3+][CO32−]0.5[H]6

Average values of Kso for I = 0, estimated using the Davies equation, are 25.43, 20.80, 22.88 and 20.03 for Mg, Zn, Co and Ni, respectively. Model calculations reveal that the thermodynamic stability of the LDHs is greater than that of the corresponding divalent hydroxides for Zn, Co and Ni below a pH of ∼10, 9 and 8, respectively, and at least up to pH 12 for Mg.
Adsorption of Cu Ions onto a 1.10 Phenanthroline-Grafted Brazilian Bentonite
Authors: De León Alexis Tejedor , Nunes Denise Goulart , Rubio Jorge
Published: February 2003

The grafting, by chemical adsorption, of molecular 1.10-phenanthroline (OP) onto some Brazilian bentonite (montmorillonites) was studied to improve their adsorptive capacities to remove Cu ions from synthetic wastewater. The quantity of OP adsorbed was 112 mg g−1 of bentonite at pH 8.5 and no significant desorption was detectable in acidic or basic solutions. X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra show that a complex type-β is formed in which the OP molecules lay inclined in the clay interlayer. After the intercalation of OP, the adsorptive capacities of the natural bentonites increased by a factor of ten. Thus, adsorption of Cu ions, at optimal pH of 8.0±0.5, showed saturation values, which, calculated by the Langmuir model, yielded 110 mg of Cu ions g−1 of bentonite (3.5 meq g−1). The mechanisms of Cu uptake are ion-exchange adsorption onto untreated bentonite and ion exchange plus Cu2+ phenanthroline complexation (chemisorption) on the modified pillared clay. The desorption of Cu ions from OP clay revealed high uptake irreversibility and physical stability (of the adsorbent) either in strongly acidic or basic solutions. Thus, after acid treatment ∼90% of the adsorbed Cu ions continued to be bound onto the OP-modified bentonite surface.
Preparation of novel copoly(bis[4‐(3‐aminophenoxy)phenyl]sulfone/ 3,3′,4,4′‐benzophenonetetracarboxyl/ pyromellite)imide derivatives
Authors: Jeon Jong‐Young
Published: February 2003

Copolyimide derivatives were prepared from two carboxylic dianhydrides [3,3′,4,4′‐benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhydride (BTDA) and pyromellitic anhydride (PMDA)] and a single diamine (bis[4‐(3‐aminophenoxy)phenyl]sulfone [BAPS]) following one‐step polymerization. Copolymers could be arranged in sequence through different molar ratios of dianhydride compounds. These polymers were characterized by viscosity, thermal and mechanical properties, solubility, etc. To understand the behavior of the properties, according to the ratio of the dianhydride compound, a copolymer having various properties could be obtained. Further, it was proved that their properties could be determined from the compositions. The solubility of copolyimides with a large molecular weight was moderately improved. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 88: 853–859, 2003
Graft polymerization of different monomers onto carbamated starches derived from native and hydrolyzed starches
Authors: Mostafa Kh. M. , El‐Sanabary A. A.
Published: February 2003

Rice starch was hydrolyzed with hydrochloric acid so that starches would be obtained with different molecular sizes. The derived hydrolyzed starches were carbamated at various reaction times and were grafted with different monomers with a potassium permanganate/citric acid system as an initiator. The newly tailored starch‐derived products were evaluated as sizing agents. The extent of carbamation increased with increasing hydrolysis and increasing reaction time. The graft yields of different monomers on carbamated starches and carbamated hydrolyzed starches increased with increasing carbamation and increasing hydrolysis in the following order: acrylamide > acrylonitrile > acrylic acid. Cotton fabrics sized with grafted carbamated hydrolyzed starches acquired higher mechanical properties (tensile strength, elongation at break, and abrasion resistance) than hydrolyzed starches, carbamated starches, and carbamated hydrolyzed starches. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 88: 959–965, 2003
Physicochemical behavior of mixed surfactant systems: Petroleum sulfonate and lignosulfonate
Authors: Ng W. L. , Rana D. , Neale G. H. , Hornof V.
Published: February 2003

The physicochemical properties of mixed polymeric surfactant systems were studied with different techniques. A binary system consisting of lignosulfonate and petroleum sulfonate and a ternary system consisting of two different lignosulfonates and petroleum sulfonate were studied with respect to phase behavior, interfacial tension, specific conductivity, and pH measurements. In addition, the original lignosulfonates were subjected to ion exchange from sodium to calcium or vice versa, and the effects were investigated. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 88: 860–865, 2003
Inhibition effect of some polymers on the corrosion of cadmium in a hydrochloric acid solution
Authors: Khairou K. S. , El‐Sayed A.
Published: February 2003

The effects of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), sodium polyacrylate (NaPA), poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), pectin (P), and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) on the corrosion of cadmium in a 0.5M hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution were studied with both electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and Tafel plot techniques. Measurements were carried out at cathodic, open‐circuit, and anodic potentials. All the investigated polymers had inhibitory effects on both the cathodic (except for NaPA, P, and CMC) and anodic processes, with a predominant anodic inhibiting action. However, NaPA, P, and CMC exhibited a slight cathodic inhibiting action only at higher polymer concentrations. This behavior may be attributed to the very weak adsorbability of the polymers on the cathodic sites. Because PVA and PEG had hydroxy groups, there could be bridging between the polymer and the surface, resulting in an inhibiting effect in the HCl solution. However, PVA had much greater adsorbability on the surface than PEG at the anodic potential. The adsorption of most of the polymers obeyed a Temkin adsorption isotherm, and this indicated indicating that the main process of inhibition was adsorption. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 88: 866–871, 2003
Crystallization behaviors of polypropylene and functional polypropylene
Authors: Guan Yong , Wang Shuzhong , Zheng Anna , Xiao Huining
Published: February 2003

The crystallization behaviors of polypropylene (PP) homopolymer and its blends with 0–15% functional polypropylene (FPP), the backbones of which were grafted with guanidine and diamide polymer chains, were investigated with differential scanning calorimetry and wide‐angle X‐ray scattering. The crystallization kinetics were studied with spectral depolarization. The results revealed that the presence of FPP reduced the crystallinity and crystallite size of PP. Meanwhile, FPP increased the crystallization rate. Compared with that of the PP homopolymer, the crystallization temperature of PP/FPP blends was increased by more than 10°C. During isothermal crystallization, the relative crystallinity, developed as a function of time, was described by the Avrami equation. The half‐time of crystallization for PP/FPP blends was much shorter than that for the PP homopolymer. The half‐time of crystallization of PP/FPP blends depended much less on the crystallization temperature than that of the PP homopolymer. Therefore, FPP accelerated the crystallization rate of PP in a manner similar to that of a nucleator. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 88: 872–877, 2003
One‐pot curing system of epoxy resin imines initiated with water
Authors: Suzuki Kentarou , Matsu‐ura Nobuki , Horii Hisakazu , Sugita Yuko , Sanda Fumio , Endo Takeshi
Published: February 2003

The curing and adhesive properties of one‐component epoxy resins containing Epikote 828 and diimines, derived from N,N′‐di(1‐ethylpropylidene)‐m‐xylylenediamine, N,N′‐di(1‐ethylpropylidene)‐1,3‐diaminomethylcyclohexane (2), and N,N′‐di(1,3‐dimethylbutylidene)‐m‐xylylenediamine, which were used as water‐initiated hardeners, were examined. Diethyl ketone‐based imines with a lower electron density on the CN carbon were efficiently hydrolyzed and showed curing activity. 2, a novel diethyl ketone‐based diimine, served as an efficient latent hardener of the epoxy resin. A paste of the epoxy resin with 2 showed good storage stability at room temperature and good adhesive properties. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 88: 878–882, 2003
Dynamic mechanical analysis of particulate‐filled epoxy resin
Authors: Goyanes S. N. , König P. G. , Marconi J. D.
Published: February 2003

The dynamic mechanical properties of epoxy composites filled with different amounts of quartz powder were investigated. The storage modulus and loss tangent were measured at frequencies between 7.8 and 323 Hz from room temperature up to 460 K. The influence of the filler content on the temperature and frequency behavior of the dynamic mechanical properties is discussed and explained in terms of models presented in the literature. In particular, the dependence of the composite damping with the quartz content is explained with regard to damping due to particle–particle and polymer–particle interaction. Also, the glass‐transition temperature as a function of filler content was obtained and was related to the results obtained for the apparent activation energies of the α relaxation, which were estimated with the Williams, Landel, and Ferry equation. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 88: 883–892, 2003
Self‐assembling metal coatings from phosphated and siloxane‐modified polyurethane dispersions: An analysis of the coating–air interface
Authors: Mequanint K. , Sanderson R.
Published: February 2003

Polyurethane dispersion coatings containing phosphate and siloxane chains were evaluated for their self‐assembling properties for a single‐coating system. Dynamic contact angles (DCAs) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to study the coating–air interface. The siloxane chains were the predominant species on the surfaces of the coatings. The wetting properties of the coating–air interface were reversed when the coated panels were immersed in an ionic solution, and the decrease in hydrophobicity was linear with time. Results from XPS and DCA analyses were similar. The self‐assembling properties of the coatings could be useful in the development of hydrophobic coatings from hydrophilic polymers. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 88: 893–899, 2003