bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy–a user's perspective
Authors: Ghosh S. , Eastwood M.A.
Published: March 2008

Sixteen patients receiving percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) feeding following a period of nasogastric (NG) feeding were investigated to assess acceptance and identify problems by means of a questionnaire. PEG was considered to be superior to NG feeding in terms of tolerance and cosmetic acceptance by 81% and 88% of participants respectively (P< 0.001). Pain was an infrequent problem. Interruptions to feeding were consideed to be more common with NG feeding by 50% of participants; 38% considered interruptions equally common with both PEG and NG, and 12% considered interruptions more common with PEG feeding (P= NS). The time for care was equivalent for both methods. Seventy‐five percent considered PEG to have made a valuable contribution to enteral feeding. Leakage was however considered to be more frequent in PEG feeding by 81% of participants (compared to 12% who considered leakage to be more common with NG feeding; P< 0.001) and leakage was more frequent at die junctions in the catheter rather than from the stoma. Thirty‐one percent of patients with PEG had needed systemic antibiotics for stomal infections. All patients with both PEG and NG feeding needed professional help. Sixty‐two percent needed professional help more frequently with PEG than with NG feeding (compared to 19% who considered that the NG tube needed professional help more frequently; P<0.05). We conclude that leakage and infections are major problems in PEG enteral feeding.
Nutrient content of retail cuts of beef, pork and lamb–preliminary results
Authors: Lee Susan M. , Buss David H. , Holcombe Gillian D. , Hatton Denise
Published: March 2008

>A major programme has been undertaken to analyse the nutrient composition of a wide range of retail cuts of carcass meats, both in the raw and cooked states. Selected preliminary results for fat, moisture, protein and energy are presented here, together with comparisons with values reported in The Composition of Foods. These results show that, in general, the fat content of carcass meat has fallen since the 1970s, with changes being most marked in pork.
The dietitian's role in the management of malnutrition in chronic renal failure
Authors: Hartley G. H. , Gilmour E. R. , Goodship T. H. J.
Published: March 2008

A questionnaire‐based survey of the practice of renal dietitians in the UK has been undertaken. The questionnaire was designed to examine three areas: nutritional practice, nutritional assessment and nutritional support. There was a response rate of 86% (61/71). Staffing levels ranged from 0 to 3.0 (median 1.0) whole time equivalents (WTE). The ratio of dialysis patients to dietitians ranged from 39 to 244 per WTE (median 134). Nutrition was perceived to be of low priority in four units, of medium priority in 25 and of high priority in 32. Dietary prescription was specified in three ways: by medical staff (33/61), as per unit policy (16/61) and as decided by the dietitian (54/61). Dietary protein prescription ranged from 0.5 to 1.0 g/kg/day (mean 0.71) in pre‐dialysis patients, from 1.0 to 1.4 g/kg/day (mean 1.08) in haemodialysis (HD) patients and from 1.0 to 1.5 g/kg/day (mean 1.3) in CAPD. The prevalence of malnutrition in all three groups of patients was estimated to be less than 30% by the majority of dietitians.

Weight and height (56/61), body mass index (53/61) and serum albumin (58/61) were used most frequently to assess nutritional status. Urea kinetic modelling was used infrequently (HD 21, CAPD 4, pre‐dialysis 1). Nutritional audit was performed in only 14 units. This study suggests that the identification and treatment of malnutrition in UK renal units is of a low priority at present. This needs to be reversed and dietitian's should be responsible for this role.
Healthy changes? Observations on a decade of dietary change in a sample of Glaswegian South Asian migrant women
Authors: Anderson Annie S. , Lean M. E. J.
Published: March 2008

Dietary intake amongst South Asian people (i.e. those from the Indian sub‐continent including Pakistan and Bangladesh) living in the UK is of particular interest because of the high rates of coronary heart disease in this ethnic minority. However, few studies have described in detail the social context within which food is consumed in this group and the nutritional composition of that food. In this study the BMIs, food habits and nutrient intake of a group of South Asian women were examined prospectively, using the 7 day weighed food record method and compared with data collected 10 years previously in the same women. Results showed that changes in food selection and nutrient intake were consistent with current dietary recommendations for health.
Does higher quality information improve the attendance rate or treatment outcome of obese patients?
Authors: Macqueen Catherine , Frost Gary
Published: March 2008

A clinical audit was carried out to assess the effects of providing a pre‐treatment information pack on attendance rates and weight loss in obese patients referred to the dietitians. No improvement in either attendance rates or treatment outcome was seen during the period when this pack was provided, compared to a similar period when only an appointment date was given.
Management of patients with food intolerance in irritable bowel syndrome: the development and use of an exclusion diet
Authors: Parker T. J. , Naylor S. J. , Riordan A. M. , Hunter J. O.
Published: March 2008

Food intolerance is an important cause of abdominal symptoms. As no objective tests are available to identify the foods concerned, diets are essential for the management of these patients. The fewer foods allowed in the diet, the greater is die chance of success. Our original studies of 182 patients between 1979 and 1982, using a diet of lamb, rice and pears, had resulted in a 67% success rate. The foods most commonly involved were wheat (60%), cows' milk (44%) and corn (44%). A less restrictive exclusion diet was developed from the results of this work, avoiding all those foods to which 20% or more of the patients had been intolerant. Of 253 patients (79%), 200 were able to complete 2 weeks on this diet and 100 (50%) were successful in controlling their symptoms. The exclusion diet was modified in the light of this experience and in a subsequent study of 129 patients, 96 (75%) were able to comply for 2 weeks, but only 39 (41%) improved on the basic diet. However, examination of the food diaries of these patients enabled the identification of less frequent food intolerances in 21 (22%) giving an overall success rate of 60 (63%). In this way, equally good results can be obtained using a nutritionally adequate exclusion diet and avoiding the difficulties of following a more rigorous elimination regime.
The relationship between individual beliefs and portion weights of fat spreads
Authors: Wise A. , McPherson K.
Published: March 2008

Subjects were approached in a supermarket and asked to identify, from a circular table, which of 10 possible amounts of margarine spread on bread they would consume at home. They were also asked 14 questions about their beliefs relating to fat and spreading behaviour. Some of the variability in portion weight was related to their beliefs; many of these beliefs also differed between the sexes.
Comparisons between recalled and observed dietary intake in anorectics and bulimics: a validation study
Authors: Wallin Gisela van der Ster , Lennernäs Maria A.‐C. , Andersson Michael
Published: March 2008

A validation study was performed in order to compare the observed versus the self‐reported food consumption in anorectics (n= 9), anorectic bulimics (n= 6) and bulimics (n= 10). The observed meals (breakfast, lunch and/or dinner) were served in a hospital setting. Foods on plates were unobtrusively weighed before and after serving to each subject, and the foods consumed were compared with data from a 24‐hour recall the subsequent day. Data analyses via a nutrient database comprised amounts of food items from seven food groups as well as energy, macro nutrients, vitamin C, calcium and iron. Analyses of recalled intakes showed consistently high correlations with observed intakes, suggesting that the 24‐hour recall gives valid results, and could thus be suitable for this category of patients. This notion contrasts with previous statements, although no validation studies have been undertaken in order to support this view.
Nutritional management in a child on chronic peritoneal dialysis: a team approach
Authors: Norman Lisa J. , Coleman Janet E. , Watson Alan R.
Published: March 2008

The nutritional management of a child on chronic peritoneal dialysis (CPD) requires considerable dietetic input as frequent adjustments are necessary to account for growth and changes in biochemical parameters. The progress is described of a 6‐year‐old boy with chronic renal failure (CRF) from birth due to renal dysplasia. In contrast to the relative ease of overnight dialysis, feeding problems have been the major source of stress for the family. Management involves constant support using a multidisciplinary team approach. A recent renal transplant has resolved many of the problems.
Subclinical nutritional deficiency in treated coeliac disease and nutritional content of the gluten free diet
Authors: McFarlane Xola A. , Marsham Judith , Reeves Diana , Bhalla Ashok K. , Robertson Duncan A. F.
Published: March 2008

Patients with coeliac disease are started on a gluten free diet at the time of diagnosis, but after a varying period of follow‐up are often discharged from outpatient and dietary follow‐up. We have studied the nutritional status and dietary intake of 54 patients with treated coeliac disease diagnosed in adult life.

Each patient was paired with a healthy age and sex matched control. There was no difference in height in patients compared to controls, but a greater proportion of patients (15%) than controls (4%) had weight below the UK population lower 5th percentile (x2 test P<0.05). Triceps skinfold thickness was 102% of age and sex matched mean reference values, but mid‐arm circumference and arm muscle circumference were below reference mean values (93.1% and 91.5% of reference values, respectively). Haemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, red cell folate and 25 hydroxyvitamin D were all in the normal range.

A strict gluten free diet was followed by 78% of patients; 22% had occasional gluten intake. Seventy‐four per cent considered that they had reduced their intake of bread since commencing a gluten free diet. In 48% of patients, average daily intake of energy was less than the estimated average requirement, and in more than one‐third of patients the intake of iron, copper, magnesium, retinol and folic acid was less than the relevant reference nutrient intake (RNI). In more than 10% of patients, average daily intake of calcium, zinc or vitamin B6 was less than the RNI. Vitamin D intake was lower than the RNI in four of five patients older than 65 years.
Associations between plasma lipid concentrations and dietary, lifestyle and physical factors in the Oxford Vegetarian Study
Authors: Appleby P. N. , Thorogood M. , McPherson K. , Mann J. I.
Published: March 2008

Blood lipids data were available for 3773 subjects from a cohort study of 11 000 individuals, 6000 of whom do not eat meat. The effects of dietary, lifestyle and physical factors on concentrations of total and HDL cholesterol were investigated. Meat, cheese and dietary fibre, with smoking habit and height were found to be significantly related to total cholesterol in men. For women, meat, cheese, dietary fibre and tomatoes, and type of spreading fat were all significantly related to total cholesterol. Current alcohol consumption and body mass index were significantly related to HDL cholesterol concentration for men. The same factors, plus type of spreading fat, were related to HDL cholesterol levels in women. The findings provide further evidence of the hypolipidaemic effect of vegetarian or near vegetarian diets with a high fibre content and limited use of meat and cheese. The exclusion of meat from the diet might result in a 15–25% reduction in CHD risk.
The format for the National Food Guide: performance and preference studies
Authors: Hunt P. , Gatenby S. , Rayner M.
Published: March 2008

This paper gives the main findings of research designed to inform decisions about the format of a food selection guide, subsequently published as the National Food Guide. The research involved 2074 members of the public and 230 professionals involved in nutrition education. Different formats for the guide were assessed for performance (how well the information was understood and recalled) and preference with a quota sample of C2 and D socioeconomic groups. Preferences were also assessed with a sample of various professionals involved in nutrition education. The investigations involved different versions of the guide which varied in shape, background colour, presentational style (whether the foods depicted were many or few, photographic or drawn) and in the wording of the food group headings. The key findings were that exposure to a guide can have a significant effect on people's understanding of guide concepts and that some aspects of the design enhanced that effect. In particular, guides which were in the shape of a tilted plate were better at conveying nutritional concepts than those which were pyramid‐shaped. Members of the public and nutrition educators both preferred a plate shape but, whereas the public preferred a tilted plate to a flat plate, the nutrition educators thought that a flat plate would be more appealing to their clients than a tilted plate.
Claims and errors in food and nutrition advertisements broadcast by two Spanish television channels
Authors: Ortega R. M. , Andres P. , Jiménez L. M. , Ortega A.
Published: March 2008

This investigation analyses the messages delivered in food/nutrition advertisements broadcast by Spanish TV (n= 489). The study period covered the 6 peak hours of each day during the first week of October 1993. Advertisements were coded for product type and advertising claims. The messages most frequently used to promote the sale of a product were taste (58%), followed by quality (27%), novelty (26%), healthiness (23%), nutritional value (19%) and natural composition (11%). Advertisements promoting cereals, soft bread, dairy products, baby food, instant cocoa, supplements, fats and oils dealt more with nutritional value, vitamin, mineral or fibre content, and with the product's health‐giving qualities or value in aiding growth and performance. Ninety‐four per cent of advertisement presenters/protagonists were slim or very slim. Thirty‐eight per cent of advertisements contained images of foodstuffs not found in the advertised product at all. Generally these were foodstuffs whose consumption is recommended or normally considered healthy by most people. Milk, fruit, bread, greens, juices and vegetables appeared often. The advertisements made an important number of claims with respect to nutrition. In some cases these messages were incorrect and could contribute to the dissemination of distorted or incorrect ideas. These results could help nutrition educators address the problems of misleading advertising and help identify the types of messages received by people when watching television.
Risk of hypertension amongst Swedish male snuff users: a prospective study
Authors: Hergens M.‐P. , Lambe M. , Pershagen G. , Ye W.
Published: April 2008

Background.  The scientific evidence on whether long‐term use of snuff is associated with high blood pressure is limited, inconsistent and based only on cross‐sectional data.

Objective.  We aimed at studying the risk of hypertension in relation to long‐term use of snuff based on longitudinal data.

Design.  Repeated health check‐ups were offered to all employees in the Swedish construction industry between 1978 and 1993. Blood pressure was measured at the health check‐up and information on tobacco use and other risk factors was collected through questionnaires.

Setting.  In total, 120 930 never smoking men with information on blood pressure and snuff use at baseline were included. The association of high blood pressure and snuff use at baseline was estimated by logistic regression. Further, 42 055 men were identified as normotensive at baseline and had at least one subsequent health check‐up. Through repeated blood pressure measurements and linkage to the Swedish National Inpatient Register, information on hypertension was obtained. Relative risk estimates were derived from Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Results.  Almost 30% of all men had used snuff. The adjusted odds ratio of high blood pressure amongst snuff users at baseline was 1.23 (95% CI 1.15–1.33) compared to never snuff users. The relative risk of high blood pressure during follow‐up was 1.39 (95% CI 1.08–1.79) amongst snuff users and 1.36 (95% CI 1.07–1.72) for hypertension as recorded in the Inpatient Register.

Conclusion.  Use of Swedish moist snuff appears to be associated with a moderately increased risk of hypertension.
Characterization of bovine lymphocytes stimulated in vitro by Dictyocaulus viviparus homogenate
Authors: HAGBERG M. , LUNDÉN A. , HÖGLUND J. , MORRISON D. A. , WALLER K. PERSSON , WATTRANG E.
Published: April 2008

Adult Dictyocaulus viviparus homogenate induced proliferation of lymphocytes from naïve cattle. We characterized the responding cells by carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester (CFSE) loading, for detection of proliferation, and antibody labelling for cell surface molecules. Lymphocytes expressing CD4, CD8 and γ/δ TCR, rather than Ig expressing cells, proliferated after in vitro stimulation with D. viviparus homogenate. Of γ/δ TCR expressing cells, both CD8, WC1·1 and WC1·2 co‐expressing cells proliferated. Moreover, γ/δ T cells expressing MHC class II proliferated to a higher extent than those negative for MHC class II. Of CD4 and CD8 expressing lymphocytes, both those co‐expressing CD45R and CD45R0 proliferated. Among CD4 expressing lymphocytes, those that were CD45R0 positive had a larger proportion of proliferated cells than did CD45R positive cells. Compared to stimulation with Con A, the proportion of dividing cells after D. viviparus stimulation was smaller although the cells had divided more times. Furthermore, we also compared in vitro responses of peripheral blood mononuclear cells collected before and after two subsequent infections with D. viviparus, but no clear acquired responses could be detected. Overall, this suggests that most T lymphocytes are stimulated by the D. viviparus homogenate rather than any particular lymphocyte subpopulation.
Cellular immune responses to recombinant Plasmodium vivax tryptophan‐rich antigen (PvTRAg) among individuals exposed to vivax malaria
Authors: ALAM M. T. , BORA H. , MITTRA P. , SINGH N. , SHARMA Y. D.
Published: April 2008

Plasmodium vivax, the most widespread species of human malaria parasite responsible for 70–80 million cases each year requires a vaccine. In recent years, many potential vaccine candidate antigens have been identified from P. vivax including PvTRAg. We describe here cellular immune response to recombinant PvTRAg expressed in Escherichia coli. The in vitro stimulation of PBMCs derived from P. vivax‐exposed individuals (n = 16) showed strong proliferative response (SI > 2·2) to PvTRAg as compared to PBMCs from normal healthy controls (n = 8). Although both Th1 (IFN‐γ, TNF‐α and IL‐12) and Th2 (IL‐4 and IL‐10) cytokines were secreted by the PBMCs of the P. vivax‐exposed individuals in response to PvTRAg, the overall response was more inclined towards Th2. In conclusion, recombinant PvTRAg was found to elicit strong cellular immune response among the P. vivax‐exposed individuals.
Methacholine vs adenosine on intra and extrathoracic airway hyperresponsiveness in patients with cough variant asthma
Authors: Ribeiro M. , Pereira C. A. C. , Nery L. E. , Beppu O. S. , Silva C. O. S.
Published: April 2008

Background:  Airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) can be studied by bronchoprovocation test (BPT) using direct (methacholine – MCh) or indirect (adenosine 5′‐monophosphate – AMP) stimuli. These two substances have not been compared in cough variant asthma (CVA).

Objective:  We designed a randomized, single‐blind, cross‐over study to compare AMP and MCh in the detection of CVA. Additionally, we examined whether assessment of extrathoracic airway hyperresponsiveness (EAHR) during MCh and AMP helped in the evaluation of CVA.

Methods:  Patients with CVA with previous positive MCh BPT performed challenges with AMP and MCh. The variables were: (i) a provocative dose producing a 20% fall in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) value (PD20MCh); (ii) a provocative dose producing a 25% fall in the maximal mid‐inspiratory flow (FIF50) from baseline (PD25MCh) for MCh; (iii) a provocative concentration producing a 20% fall in FEV1 value (PC20AMP) and (iv) a provocative concentration producing a 25% fall in the FIF50 from baseline (PC25AMP) for AMP.

Results:  All 113 patients with CVA responded to PD20MCh and 96% and 69% responded to PC20AMP, if we used PC20 ≤ 200 mg/ml or PC20 ≤ 100 mg/ml, respectively, with an excellent correlation between these two tests (r = 0.87 and 0.76, respectively). Extrathoracic AHR associated with AHR was found in 10% in MCh challenge and in 11% with AMP challenge and no patients had EAHR alone.

Conclusion:  Adenosine challenges correlate well with MCh in patients with CVA. A minority (c. 10%) of CVA patients have EAHR as measured by these tests, while most had AHR as assessed with each of the challenge agents.
Tubes for pretransfusion testing should be collected by blood bank staff and hand labelled until the implementation of new technology for improved sample labelling. Results of a prospective study
Authors: Gonzalez‐Porras J. R. , Graciani I. F. , Alvarez M. , Pinto J. , Conde M. P. , Nieto M. J. , Corral M.
Published: April 2008

Background and Objectives The greatest risk in transfusion medicine is actually human error, resulting in the use of the incorrect blood component. The aim of our study was to identify and evaluate the risk factors involved in the collection and labelling of pretransfusion blood samples.

Material and Methods  We prospectively evaluated 6446 samples submitted to the blood bank for pretransfusion testing. Inappropriate samples were classified as ‘mislabelled’ or ‘miscollected’. After 4 months of study, an educational approach was taken.

Results  The frequency of inappropriately labelled samples was 6·45%. Such samples were associated with the use of addressograph labels (vs. hand‐written labels) [23·4% vs. 1·4%, P < 0·0001], collection by clinical staff (vs. blood bank staff) [8·8% vs. 2·1%, P = 0·001] and emergency situations (vs. routine sampling) [10·1% vs. 6·1%, P = 0·005]. Following educational intervention, the percentage of inappropriately labelled samples decreased from 7·3% (pre‐educational) to 5·8% (post‐educational), P = 0·005.

Conclusion  Ongoing monitoring and analysis of labelling and collection should be mandatory in order to improve the safety of transfusion.
The Obstructed Kidney
Authors: Anderson C. G.
Published: March 2008

Ureteric obstruction raises the pressure in the collecting system to a point at which glomerular filtration ceases. Diodrast can still be cleared from the blood in the peri‐tubular capillaries by the tubule cells. The raised tubular pressure is transmitted to the peritubular capillaries, and so to the efferent arterioles, distending the glomerular enden‐chyme. The small arterial vessels of the renal cortex have thus become engorged, and diffusion from the peri‐tubular vessels will increase the interstitial fluid. The substance of the kidney has thus increased, raising the pressure within the renal capsule with the combined effect of producing pain and reducing renal artery blood flow.

The local circulation described by Hinman will allow concentrated contrast to pass from the collecting tubules into the minor calyces adjacent to the papillae.

When the obstruction ceases, the supernormal pressures within the renal capsule can return to normal by an immediate emptying of all surplus dye‐laden fluid–vascular, interstitial, cellular and intra luminal–into the ureter. This restores the renal size to normal and wipes out the nephrogram as the molecules of dye are flushed out into the collecting system and into the renal pelvis.
Hepatography
Authors: Smythe Allen D.
Published: March 2008

A brief review of methods of hepatography has been given.

There is no satisfactory routine method of hepatography due to lack of a suitable contrast medium. Efforts are being made in this regard and routine hepatography would become a more common examination should such a medium be found. It is stressed that thorotrast should only be used in patients with a life expectancy of less than five years.

The demonstration of liver tumours by injections into the hepatic artery or portal vein will become more frequent as cancer investigation and research proceed. This opportunity for radiological participation in clinical teamwork should not be missed.
Gliomas of the Central Nervous System
Authors: Bradley J. M.
Published: March 2008

Two hundred and eighty‐six gliomas of the central nervous system are reviewed. The results of different treatments are noted and the natural history of different neoplasms discussed.
The “New” Method of Examination of the Colon
Authors: Merritt A. A.
Published: March 2008

Minor modifications of the technique of barium‐air contrast colonic studies, as originated by Welin, are described in detail. The application of this technique in private radiological practice, in rooms remote from a hospital, is shown to be feasible providing that a room for bowel washouts and a toilet adjacent to the screening room are available.

The preparation of the patient in the X‐ray department is stressed.

It is considered that the cost of the examination is far outweighed by its greater accuracy. The longer time spent in the examination is negligible considering the accuracy of the diagnoses obtained.

Typical conditions have been demonstrated.

The early stages of ulcerative colitis are demonstrated better by this method than by the conventional examination.

It would appear that polyps are far less common in Western Australia than in Sweden.
Oesophageal Dyskinesia
Authors: Wright J. T.
Published: March 2008

Various types Of abnormal movements of the oesophagus have been discussed. It has been shown that there is a gentle gradation between tertiary wave formation, idiopathic diffuse spasm and achalasia, such that it becomes difficult at times to put each case into its proper compartment. The question of lower oesophageal rings has been discussed, and an attempt made to sort out some confusions which have arisen.
Pulmonary Mycetoma
Authors: Tellesson W. G.
Published: March 2008

Attention is drawn to the not uncommon condition of pulmonary mycetoma (asper‐gilloma). From a personal series of seven cases, two histories are quoted, one being a patient with bilateral lesions.

Some aspects of the aetiology of the primary lesion and of the mycological features are discussed, and reasons advanced in explanation of an apparent increase in incidence.

The radiographic features are described, with reference to differential diagnosis, and tomography is recommended as the most valuable procedure in case of doubt.

Once recognized, it is suggested that active intervention is rarely necessary and often unwise.
The Calcaneo‐Navicular Bar
Authors: Beale G.
Published: March 2008

The calcaneonavicular bar is discussed and illustrative cases of some of its forms are presented.
The Risk of Diagnostic Radiology*
Authors: Hoy R. J.
Published: March 2008

The somatic hazards of diagnostic radiation as at present employed would appear to be negligible and the genetic hazards insignificant.

The hazards of public fear of diagnostic radiation would appear to be considerably greater.

Reduction of annual genetic dose to a fraction of that estimated by the Adrian Committee should be possible.
Do Regional Trade Agreements Increase Members' Agricultural Trade?
Authors: Grant Jason H. , Lambert Dayton M.
Published: April 2008

The gravity model is used extensively to investigate the trade flow effects of Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs). A notable feature common to previous research is the use of aggregate trade data. These studies typically report conflicting, and even negative results of the effect of RTAs on members' trade. Using recent developments in the gravity equation suggested by Baier and Bergstrand (2007) and Anderson and van Wincoop (2003), this article demonstrates that RTA effects on members' trade depend fundamentally on whether the analysis focuses on agricultural or nonagricultural sectors, on the particular agreement analyzed, and on the length of the phase‐in period that characterizes almost all RTAs.
Welfare Impacts of Alternative Public Policies for Agricultural Pollution Control in an Open Economy: A General Equilibrium Framework
Authors: Taheripour Farzad , Khanna Madhu , Nelson Carl H.
Published: April 2008

A general equilibrium approach is used to evaluate the welfare impacts of alternative policies for reducing agricultural pollution in an open economy with preexisting distortions caused by income taxes and agricultural subsidies. The policies examined here include the removal of distortionary agricultural subsidies. We find that even though these distortions are small compared to others in the economy, removing them and imposing nitrogen reduction subsidies and/or output taxes can enhance welfare and reduce nitrogen pollution; thereby leading to a substantial double dividend. The relative efficiency of the alternative policies examined here depends on the level of the nitrogen reduction target.
Effect of levetiracetam on cortical excitability: a transcranial magnetic stimulation study
Authors: Solinas C. , Lee Y. C. , Reutens D. C.
Published: April 2008

Background and purpose:  We studied the effect of levetiracetam (LEV), an anticonvulsant with a novel mechanism of action, on cortical excitability, measured using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). For this purpose, 38 healthy volunteers were assessed in two TMS sessions, before and after an oral dose of 3000 mg LEV.

Methods:  Resting motor threshold (RMT), intracortical facilitation (ICF) and intracortical inhibition (ICI), cortical silent period (CSP) threshold and duration and motor‐evoked potential (MEP) amplitude were calculated.

Results:  After treatment with LEV, RMT was increased (mean ± SD: 63 ± 14% of the maximum stimulator output) compared with baseline (58 ± 11%). CSP threshold was decreased after LEV (54 ± 10%; baseline, 57 ± 11%). CSP duration was increased after LEV (116 ± 37 ms; baseline: 102 ± 33 ms). LEV did not affect ICF or ICI or mean MEP amplitude significantly.

Conclusions:  Our results indicate that LEV modulates some aspects of cortical excitability. Whereas the increase in the RMT most probably reflects the effect of LEV on ion channel activity, effects on the CSP might represent a modulation of GABA receptors at cortical and spinal level.
Refinement of the SPG9 locus on chromosome 10q23.3‐24.2 and exclusion of candidate genes
Authors: Panza E. , Pippucci T. , Cusano R. , Lo Nigro C. , Pradella L. , Contardi S. , Rouleau G. A. , Stevanin G. , Ravazzolo R. , Liguori R. , Montagna P. , Romeo G. , Seri M.
Published: April 2008

Background and purpose:  The hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs) are a heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative disorders, characterized by a progressive spasticity of the lower limbs. So far, 33 different loci (SPGs) have been mapped and the 15 genes responsible have been identified. We mapped a locus responsible for a form of spastic paraplegia, complicated by bilateral cataracts, gastroesophageal reflux with persisting vomiting and amyotrophy to chromosome 10q23.3–q24.2, in an Italian family. The critical region was in a 12 cm chromosomal interval between markers D10S564 and D10S603 (SPG9, MIM601162). In the same region, two other forms of HSP have been recently mapped: SPG27 and SPG33. In the latter case, the gene responsible has been identified.

Materials and methods:  To better characterize this region, we genotyped individuals from SPG9‐linked families using additional markers and reduced the candidate region to a 4.8 Mb, excluding several genes by positional cloning.

Results:  The refined SPG9 locus is positioned completely within SPG27 and does not include the SPG33 gene.

Discussion:  Fifty‐two transcripts are present in the refined critical region and 25 strong candidates have been excluded as disease causing genes by direct sequencing. Six of them were also excluded as responsible for SPG27.
Functional electrical stimulation in neurological disorders
Authors: Sujith O. K.
Published: April 2008

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) refers to electrical stimulation of muscles in order to improve the impaired motor function. This is achieved by activating skeletal muscles with constant frequency trains of stimulations. This method has been found useful in various neurological disorders like hemiplegia, foot drop and paraplegia including spinal cord injuries. The first half of this review focuses on the broad clinical applications of functional electrical stimulation, its mechanism of action and the complications of this mode of therapy. Advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by marked slowing of gait and frequent freezing episodes. Medical and surgical treatments are often ineffective in managing freezing episodes. The second half of this review discusses briefly the gait abnormalities in PD and the available treatment options. The possible role of FES in improving gait in parkinsonism and the importance of future research in this direction are highlighted.
Long‐term increase in the fecundity of hen harriers in Wales is explained by reduced human interference and warmer weather
Authors: Whitfield D. P. , Fielding A. H. , Whitehead S.
Published: March 2008

The conservation status of the hen harrierCircus cyaneusin Britain, and its pivotal role in the raptor–grouse moor conflict, has rendered research on the factors influencing its population dynamics of crucial importance. Using over 20 years of data, we examine influences on the reproductive output of the small, but recently expanding, population of Welsh hen harriers. Productivity (fledglings per breeding attempt) has steadily increased with time, being the highest in recent years. Available evidence suggested that food availability could not account for these recent increases. Human interference (apparently, largely or entirely in the form of nest destruction by grouse moor gamekeepers) had a large influence on productivity, despite being restricted to a minority of the breeding population. This negative effect, and a positive effect of May temperature, was most influential on variation in breeding productivity. This study quantifies, for the first time, that cessation of persecution can result in a marked improvement in hen harrier reproductive output. Nest predation by red foxesVulpes vulpeshad no effect on variation in breeding productivity and there was no evidence that control of fox numbers by gamekeepers compensated for their depression of productivity through destroying harrier nests. Our analyses also indicated that gamekeepers probably destroyed an unknown number of nests before they were discovered. We argue that a low proportion of territorial females that apparently breed, in cases when clutch size and fledged brood size are high, may be an indication of persecution. The recent increase in the breeding productivity of Welsh harriers has probably been influential in the recent recovery of the Welsh harrier population and has apparently been due to a combination of cessation of human interference and warmer temperatures.
Anti‐inflammatory effect of retinoic acid on prostaglandin synthesis in cultured cortical astrocytes
Authors: Kampmann Eric , Johann Sonja , Van Neerven Sabien , Beyer Cordian , Mey Jörg
Published: April 2008

Prostanoids are important mediators of inflammation and pain signaling. Although it is now well accepted that astrocytes participate in inflammatory reactions in the CNS, the molecular regulation of this activity is still largely unknown. Specifically, the regulation of prostanoid synthesis by this type of glia remains to be resolved. Recent evidence suggests that the transcriptional regulator retinoic acid (RA) is involved in regulation of the immune response. We have investigated the expression pattern of the enzymes that catalyze prostanoid and leukotriene synthesis in cultured cortical astrocytes, their stimulation by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and their regulation by RA. The data indicate that astrocytes are an important source of prostaglandins (PGs) and that RA reduces their inflammatory biosynthesis. LPS treatment induced the expression of enzymes for the production of arachidonic acid and PGs but caused down‐regulation of a PG degrading enzyme and of leukotriene synthesizing enzymes that compete with PG synthesis. Consequently, the secretion of the PGE2 was highly increased after LPS exposure. RA counteracted the inflammatory regulation of cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2 mRNA and protein in astrocytes and thereby reduced the synthesis of PGE2 by approximately 60%. In the absence of LPS, RA enhanced the expression of COX‐1 mRNA. In conclusion, RA might be effective in suppressing inflammatory processes in the brain by inhibiting PG synthesis.
Field Observations on some Northern Nigerian Birds
Authors: Serle William
Published: April 2008

These observations were made during a fifteen months' tour in Nigeria. From May 1937 till February 1938 the writer was stationed at Kafanchan, 9° 40 N., 8° 20 E., in Plateau Province, with a touring area which included the Jemaa and Southern Divisions of Plateau Province and the Nasarawa Division of BenueProvince; thereafter from March till August he was engaged on sleeping sickness work, which involved extensive travelling in Plateau, Benue, and Niger Provinces.
The Breeding of the Marabou Stork in East Africa
Authors: North Captain M. E. W.
Published: April 2008

A summary of breeding records for Kenya Colony, Uganda, Tanganyika Territory and Italian Somaliland is given in the following table.

The table shows that the main breeding area is the great lowland plain that stretches from the Tana River north‐eastwards into Italian Somaliland. The actual nesting quarters seem to centre around the lower middle courses of two rivers—the Tana and the Juba—and the finish of a third—the Waso. A fourth river, the Webi Shebelli, deserves investigation.

The breeding season over the whole of this area begins in October‐November (i. e., during the short rains). Conversely, the scanty records from the highlands of Kenya Colony and Uganda, and from the semi‐high country of Tanganyika Territory, show that the season here may begin in July, at the end of the long rains.

Most colonies are beside rivers, but others are several miles from water.

Either tall forest trees or thorn acacias are chosen. With forest trees, birds normally build in the highest branches, but lower forks are sometimes employed. With acacias it is the flat tops that are utilized.

A clutch of three eggs, now in the Coryndon Museum, Nairobi, measures 76·5–71 × 53·5–50 mm.

Either one or two young are normally reared. The plumages of a half‐grown nestling and of a newly‐fledged juvenile are described, possibly for the first time.
Notes on the Birds of Safaga
Authors: Bulman Captain J. F. H.
Published: April 2008

A list of birds observed close to the shore at Safaga during the late spring, summer and autumn of 1942 has been compiled.

The skins of two species believed not to have been obtained previously on Egyptian territory have been preserved. These belong to Ardea goliath and Butorides striatus.

A live chick belonging to a pair of Kentish Plovers, Charadrius alexandrinun, was observed on Safaga Island on 13 May.

Four European Swallows were observed to spend the summer at Safaga.

A detailed account of migration during the autumn of 1942 has been given. This was of small density and appeared to follow the line of the coast.
Fishes and other Aquatic Animals Preying on Birds: Additional Matter
Authors: Glegg William E.
Published: April 2008

The above list includes 22 species of birds, which have been identified and five types of attackers which have been fully identified. Of the former only the Mallard and Moorhen appeared in the original list, and of the latter Nile Crocodile and Pike. I have to thank Messrs. F. J. F. Barrington, J. E. Dandy, H. Perry and the editor of “The Angler's News” for assistance.
THE BREEDING PLUMAGE OF SOME WESTERN PALÆARCTIC WADING BIRDS
Authors: Harrison Jeffery
Published: April 2008

There is a tendency for the more northern breeding waders to have darker and more elaborate spring plumage.

Over the breeding range considered, three geographical zones have been distinguished, in which the coloration of waders of different species shows similarities (“ecological isomorphism”).

The dark underparts of northern breeding waders are may be concerned with heat absorption or protection, and must be considered with Bergman's Rule and Hesse's Quotient.
THE BREEDING BIOLOGY AND BEHAVIOUR OF THE CONTINENTAL GOLDFINCH CARDUELIS CARDUELIS CARDUELIS.
Authors: Conder P. J.
Published: April 2008

The breeding biology of the Continental Goldfinch was studied intensively during 1943 at Eichstatt, in Bavaria. The habitat, status and relations to other animal species are described.

 The call‐notes and their interpretation are discussed.

 The Eichstatt Goldfinches established their territories at the same time as they selected their nest‐sites. The territories functioned as mating and nesting stations, and were only occupied when the nest was in use. Throughout the breeding season paired birds continued to flock in small numbers.

 Display postures have been separated into three categories: territorial, aggressive, and sexual “contact” displays. Where one posture is used in different situations, confusion is avoided by differences in the time factor and the external and internal situations.

 Heights and positions of nests are summarized. Nest‐site selection and building are described.

 The first egg was usually laid within one or two days of the end of intensive nest‐building. Partial incubation began with the first egg, and complete incubation probably began with the last but one. Three females incubated their egg for 12 day±½ day, 11¾ days ±½day, 11½ days ½ day respectively. The same females incubated their eggs 96%, 93%, and 87% of the observed time. The female was usually fed on the nest by the male. During periods on the nest the females were active in attention to the nest, eggs, self, and the sex partner when present.

 Nestlings of three pairs hatched in 26½, 21, and 9 hours. The females ate the shells. The young remained in the nest 16 days 2 hours ± 15 hours, 15 days 20 hours ± 20 hours respectively. The third nest was blown out of the tree. While on the nest the females were very active. Some of this activity shows a lack of “concentration”. While feeding the nestlings the male fed the female and she then regurgitated the food, sometimes in a large number of small beakfuls. Later the nestlings were fed direct by either adult. The hourly average rate of defecation rose during the first three days, and after the seventh day decreased. The behaviour of the nestlings is described. After leaving the nest their powers of flight increased rapidly.
ROOK AND JACKDAW MIGRATIONS OBSERVED IN GERMANY, 1942–1945
Authors: Waterhouse M. J.
Published: April 2008

Observations were made on Rook and Jackdaw migrations by a number of British ornithologists in Germany during the years 1942‐45, chiefly at Dössel, Westphalia; Sagan, Silesia; and Eichstätt, Bavaria.

The two species were found to migrate jointly, flocks being either mixed or of Rooks alone. Rooks outnumbered Jackdaws by about nine to one, except in the opening days at both seasons.

Comparative statements are given of the dates, duration and peaks of some spring and autumn passages, and of recorded numbers. Two main waves of migrants were usually apparent.

Two principal kinds of passage were noticed–“high passage”, in which flocks flew above 600 ft. and in good formation, and “low passage”, in which birds straggled below 100 ft., often in long “processional streams”. The highest flocks flew at 3000 ft. at least. Both kinds of passage were interrupted by halts on the ground, and the diving method of descent for this purpose and the methods of departure after halts are characteristic. The most interesting behaviour was “gyration”, in which the birds flew round and round collectively in slowly ascending spirals before setting course. The several activities of descent, take‐off and direct passage fluctuated considerably throughout daylight, and the pattern of these fluctuations in spring at Dossel corresponded approximately with the pattern in autumn at Eichstatt. Marked intensity of descent in early morning suggests the possibility of night flying, of which, however, there was no direct evidence. The call of migrants was distinct from that of residents.

It is suggested that “gyration” enables birds which have temporarily lost sense of direction to recover it.
WEIGHTS OF ROBINS.–PART 1. NESTLINGS
Authors: Lees John
Published: April 2008

Broods of nestling Robins were weighed at Avoch, Ross‐shire, in 1946 and 1947.

The average weight of eggs near hatching was 2–41 grams and of new‐born chicks 1 ′72 grams.

Nestlings increased steadily to 17‐8 grams at day 10, with small increases or decreases thereafter till fledging at days 12–15.

Irregularities and lateness in reaching normal weight are considered to be due to bad weather affecting food supply in North Scotland in 1946 and 1947.

Late‐season broods fledged at higher weight per nestling than early broods.

Broods of four and five young had the highest average weight per nestling.

A few observations were made of the behaviour of parents in regard to incubation, nest routes, food, and the attempted removal of rings.
PARENT—YOUNG RECOGNITION IN THE COOT FULICA ATRA
Authors: Alley Ronald , Boyd Hugh
Published: April 2008

Parent Coot treat all young conspicuously unlike their own as territorial intruders.

Parents with young less than two weeks old will tolerate, feed and brood young similar in appearance to their own. Three cases of permanent adoption are recorded.

Parents with young much over a fortnight old will not tolerate any strange chicks, however similar. This appears to prove that they recognize their own young individually.

The reactions of the young are controlled by releasers. Two are cited, viz. releasers of the following, and alarm, reactions.

Chicks up to at least eight hours old will follow men, accept food from (hem, and respond to calls made by them.

This tameness disappears by the second day (except in the case of hand‐reared young). Imprinting is by then complete.

At first young will follow and beg from any adult Coot.

At 8–11 days young learn to avoid adults in an attitude of attack.

Individual recognition of adults develops at about three weeks.
NOTES ON THE BIRDS OF SOUTH‐WESTERN NIGERIA.
Authors: Serle Dr. William
Published: April 2008

Notes are based on a collection of 700 skins. Extensions of range include Trachylaemus p. togoensis, Prodotiscus i. flavodorscdis, Campethera n. nivosa, Bleda canicapilla, Phyllastreplms i. icterinus, Pedilorhynchus c. aximensis, Sylvia bnrin, Apalis c. caniceps, Macrosphenus concolor, and Spermophaga h. togoensis recorded from Nigeria and Apus c. strenbelii from West Africa for the first time.

Taxonomic points include reasons for regarding Centropus epomidis as a colour phase of Centropus senegalensis and Sylvietta flavixentris nigeriae as a synonym of Sylvietta flainventris.

Dates of breeding are given for many species, and nests and eggs arc described. Indicator indicator was found in the nest of Hirundo setnirufa.

The chick of Porphyrio alleni is described.