bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rituximab Plus Fludarabine and Cyclophosphamide Prolongs Progression-Free Survival Compared With Fludarabine and Cyclophosphamide Alone in Previously Treated Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Robak Tadeusz , Dmoszynska Anna , Solal-Céligny Philippe , Warzocha Krzysztof , Loscertales Javier , Catalano John , Afanasiev Boris V. , Larratt Loree , Geisler Christian H. , Montillo Marco , Zyuzgin Ilya , Ganly Peter S. , Dartigeas Caroline , Rosta András , Maurer Jörg , Mendila Myriam , Saville M. Wayne , Valente Nancy , Wenger Michael K. , Moiseev Sergey I.
Published: March 2010

Purpose

Rituximab, a monoclonal antibody that targets the CD20 cell surface antigen, has clinical activity in patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and other B-lymphocyte disorders when administered alone or in combination with chemotherapy. Promising results have previously been reported in nonrandomized studies in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). This trial was designed to compare chemoimmunotherapy with chemotherapy alone in patients with previously treated CLL.

Patients and Methods

This international, multicenter, randomized trial compared six cycles of rituximab plus fludarabine and cyclophosphamide (R-FC) with six cycles of fludarabine and cyclophosphamide alone (FC) in patients with previously treated CLL. A total of 552 patients with Binet stage A (1%), B (59%), or C (31%) disease entered the study and were randomly assigned to receive R-FC (n = 276) or FC (n = 276).

Results

After a median follow-up time of 25 months, rituximab significantly improved progression-free survival in patients with previously treated CLL (hazard ratio = 0.65; P < .001; median, 30.6 months for R-FC v 20.6 months for FC). Event-free survival, response rate, complete response rate, duration of response, and time to new CLL treatment or death were also significantly improved. Although the rates of adverse events, grade 3 or 4 events, and serious adverse events were slightly higher in the R-FC arm, R-FC was generally well tolerated, with no new safety findings and no detrimental effect on quality of life.

Conclusion

R-FC significantly improved the outcome of patients with previously treated CLL.
Methylglyoxal: A New Weapon against Staphylococcal Wound Infections?
Authors: Fidaleo Marco , Zuorro Antonio , Lavecchia Roberto
Published: March 2010

Methylglyoxal (MG), a phytochemical present in some New Zealand honeys, was found to possess bactericidal activity against S. aureus and a methicillin-resistant strain of S. epidermidis. The MIC and MBC values were 1.05 and 2.11 mM, respectively. Inclusion of MG in a hydrogel resulted in an active and stable preparation suitable for treating wound or burn infections.
Synthesis of Benzene-centered Trinuclear Phthalocyanines by Triple-click Chemistry
Authors: Das Banibrata , Umeda Masashi , Tokunaga Etsuko , Toru Takeshi , Shibata Norio
Published: March 2010

We disclose here the synthesis of novel benzene-centered trifluoroethoxy-coated trinuclear Pc 1 and its nonfluorinated analog 2 with flexible click spacers. UV–vis study reveals that trifluoroethoxy coating can result in the purely nonaggregated, windmill-like molecular structure of 1 without rigid spacers or any external source of help.
Dynamic splinting for pronation contracture following a spinal cord injury
Authors: Kimbler Tonya S , Willis F Buck
Published: March 2010

Background

This report discusses the success of using multiple protocols/modalities to reduce forearm contracture in a 34-year-old, African American man who had suffered a spinal cord injury (SCI) over 2 years before this treatment. The patient's initial maximal active range of motion (AROM) in supination was −85° left and −60° right, and his initial passive range of motion (PROM) was +12° left and +50° right.

Methods

Intervention included occupational therapy five times per week and the protocols employed included manual AROM and PROM training, isometric strength training, handwriting, self-feeding and grooming training. Electrical stimulation for shoulder flexion and elbow extension, and a unique new modality, the Supination Dynasplint®, was also used for 45 min on each arm, twice daily.

Results

After three months, the patient regained over 40° AROM of supination in each arm. This benefitted the patient's ability to use utensils for eating, improved his handwriting skills and he regained the ability to use a urinal at night while in bed.
Service development and evaluation of a new carpal tunnel syndrome education class
Authors: Dalton Sarah
Published: March 2010

Introduction

A carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) education class was developed to enhance both patient care and the treatment pathway. In order to determine the efficiency and efficacy of the management of patients with CTS within a class setting, the results were assessed and reviewed over a one-year period.

Methods

Patients referred to Guys and St Thomas' Hand Therapy Department over a one-year period with CTS were provided with an appointment for the CTS class. All attendees completed an initial assessment form and a 1:1 assessment by a physiotherapist. A computer-based presentation was delivered within the class and patients were provided with prefabricated wrist splints in a neutral position and an education leaflet. Eighty-nine patients were followed up by a telephone call at six weeks and completed a telephone outcome form. A discharge letter was completed and sent to the referrer advising of the patients' outcome with further treatment recommendations if appropriate.

Results

At six-week telephone follow-up, 42 (47%) patients required no further treatment, 37 (42%) patients were recommended for further investigation, and 10 (11%) patients either had or planned to have carpal tunnel decompression.

Discussion

The new CTS class provides an efficient and effective treatment pathway for patients with CTS. It enables a comprehensive assessment and treatment application within the same session and aids early identification of other pathologies that may require intervention or appropriate onward referral.
Limb salvage for soft-tissue sarcomas of the foot and ankle
Authors: Cribb G. L. , Loo S. C. S. , Dickinson I.
Published: March 2010

We evaluated the oncological and functional outcome of 27 patients who had limb salvage for a soft-tissue sarcoma of the foot or ankle between 1992 and 2007, with a mean follow-up of 7.5 years (1.05 to 16.2). There were 12 men and 15 women, with a mean age at presentation of 47 years (12 to 84). Referrals came from other hospitals for 16 patients who had previous biopsy or unplanned excision, and 11 presented de novo. There were 18 tumours located in the foot and nine around the ankle. Synovial sarcoma was the most frequent histological diagnosis. Excision was performed in all cases, with 16 patients requiring plastic surgical reconstruction with 13 free and three local flaps. Adjuvant treatment was undertaken in 20 patients, 18 with radiotherapy and two by chemotherapy. Limb salvage was successful in 26 of the 27 patients. There have been two local recurrences and two mesenchymal metastases. Four patients have died of their sarcoma and two of other causes.

Function was evaluated with the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score and a mean overall score of 89.40 (52.1 to 100) was obtained. A questionnaire revealed that all surviving patients are able to wear normal shoes and none require a walking aid.

Limb salvage can achieve good oncological and functional results with additional treatment.
Bone-marrow-derived mononuclear cells with a porous hydroxyapatite scaffold for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head
Authors: Yamasaki T. , Yasunaga Y. , Ishikawa M. , Hamaki T. , Ochi M.
Published: March 2010

We have investigated the effectiveness of the transplantation of bone-marrow-derived mononuclear cells (BMMNCs) with interconnected porous calcium hydroxyapatite (IP-CHA) on early bone repair for osteonecrosis of the femoral head. We studied 22 patients (30 hips) who had osteonecrosis with a minimum follow-up of one year after implantation of BMMNCs. The mean age at surgery was 41 years (18 to 64) and the mean period of follow-up was 29 months (19 to 48). In a control group, cell-free IP-CHA was implanted into a further eight patients (9 hips) with osteonecrosis of the femoral head and the outcomes were compared.

A reduction in the size of the osteonecrotic lesion was observed subsequent to hypertrophy of the bone in the transition zone in the BMMNC group. In three patients in the treatment group progression to extensive collapse was detected. In the control group subtle bone hypertrophy was observed, but severe collapse of the femoral head occurred in six of eight hips.

In this limited study the implantation of BMMNCs and IP-CHA appears to confer benefit in the repair of osteonecrosis and in the prevention of collapse.
The effect of vacuum mixing and pre-heating the femoral component on the mechanical properties of the cement mantle
Authors: Baleani M. , Bialoblocka-Juszczyk E. , Engels G. E. , Viceconti M.
Published: March 2010

We investigated the effect of pre-heating a femoral component on the porosity and strength of bone cement, with or without vacuum mixing used for total hip replacement.

Cement mantles were moulded in a manner simulating clinical practice for cemented hip replacement. During polymerisation, the temperature was monitored. Specimens of cement extracted from the mantles underwent bending or fatigue tests, and were examined for porosity.

Pre-heating the stem alone significantly increased the mean temperature values measured within the mantle (+14.2°C) (p < 0.001) and reduced the mean curing time (−1.5 min) (p < 0.001). The addition of vacuum mixing modulated the mean rise in the temperature of polymerisation to 11°C and reduced the mean duration of the process by one minute and 50 seconds (p = 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively). In all cases, the maximum temperature values measured in the mould simulating the femur were < 50°C. The mixing technique and pre-heating the stem slightly increased the static mechanical strength of bone cement. However, the fatigue life of the cement was improved by both vacuum mixing and pre-heating the stem, but was most marked (+ 280°C) when these methods were combined.

Pre-heating the stem appears to be an effective way of improving the quality of the cement mantle, which might enhance the long-term performance of bone cement, especially when combined with vacuum mixing.
An analysis of the Oxford hip and knee scores and their relationship to early joint revision in the New Zealand Joint Registry
Authors: Rothwell A. G. , Hooper G. J. , Hobbs A. , Frampton C. M.
Published: March 2010

We analysed data from the Oxford hip and knee questionnaires collected by the New Zealand Joint Registry at six months and five years after joint replacement, to determine if there was any relationship between the scores and the risk of early revision. Logistic regression of the six-month scores indicated that for every one-unit decrease in the Oxford score, the risk of revision within two years increased by 9.7% for total hip replacement (THR), 9.9% for total knee replacement (TKR) and 12.0% for unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR). Our findings showed that 70% of the revisions within two years for TKR and 67% for THR and UKR would have been captured by monitoring the lowest 22%, 28% and 28%, respectively, of the Oxford scores. When analysed using the Kalairajah classification a score of < 27 (poor) was associated with a risk of revision within two years of 7.6% for THR, 7.0% for TKR and 24.3% for UKR, compared with risks of 0.7%, 0.7% and 1.8%, respectively, for scores > 34 (good or excellent).

Our study confirms that the Oxford hip and knee scores at six months are useful predictors of early revision after THR and TKR and we recommend their use for the monitoring of the outcome and potential failure in these patients.
Mid-term survivorship analysis of a shoulder replacement with a keeled glenoid and a modern cementing technique
Authors: Kasten P. , Pape G. , Raiss P. , Bruckner T. , Rickert M. , Zeifang F. , Loew M.
Published: March 2010

We have investigated the mid-term outcome of total shoulder replacement using a keeled cemented glenoid component and a modern cementing technique with regard to the causes of failure and loosening of the components.

Between 1997 and 2003 we performed 96 total shoulder replacements on 88 patients, 24 men and 64 women with a mean age of 69.7 years (31 to 82). The minimum follow-up was five years and at the time of review 87 shoulders (77 patients) were examined at a mean follow-up of 89.1 months (60 to 127). Cumulative survival curves were generated with re-operations (accomplished and planned), survivorship of the proshesis, loosening of the glenoid (defined as tilt > 5° or subsidence > 5 mm), the presence of radiolucent lines and a Constant score of < 30 as the endpoints.

There were two re-operations not involving revision of the implants and the survival rate of the prosthesis was 100.0% for the follow-up period, with an absolute Constant score of > 30 as the endpoint the survival rate was 98%. Radiological glenoid loosening was 9% after five years, and 33% after nine years. There was an incidence of 8% of radiolucent lines in more than three of six zones in the immediate post-operative period, of 37.0% after the first year which increased to 87.0% after nine years. There was no correlation between the score of Boileau and the total Constant score at the latest follow-up, but there was correlation between glenoid loosening and pain (p = 0.001).

We found that total shoulder replacement had an excellent mid-term survivorship and clinical outcome. The surgical and cementing techniques were related to the decrease in radiolucent lines around the glenoid compared with earlier studies. One concern, however, was the fact that radiolucent lines increased over time and there was a rate of glenoid loosening of 9% after five years and 33% after nine years. This suggests that the design of the glenoid component, and the implantation and cementing techniques may need further improvement.
Tendinopathy and tears of the rotator cuff are associated with hypoxia and apoptosis
Authors: Benson R. T. , McDonnell S. M. , Knowles H. J. , Rees J. L. , Carr A. J. , Hulley P. A.
Published: March 2010

The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of tissue hypoxia and apoptosis at different stages of tendinopathy and tears of the rotator cuff.

We studied tissue from 24 patients with eight graded stages of either impingement (mild, moderate and severe) or tears of the rotator cuff (partial, small, medium, large and massive) and three controls. Biopsies were analysed using three immunohistochemical techniques, namely antibodies against HIF-1α (a transcription factor produced in a hypoxic environment), BNip3 (a HIF-1α regulated pro-apoptotic protein) and TUNEL (detecting DNA fragmentation in apoptosis).

The HIF-1α expression was greatest in mild impingement and in partial, small, medium and large tears. BNip3 expression increased significantly in partial, small, medium and large tears but was reduced in massive tears. Apoptosis was increased in small, medium, large and massive tears but not in partial tears.

These findings reveal evidence of hypoxic damage throughout the spectrum of pathology of the rotator cuff which may contribute to loss of cells by apoptosis. This provides a novel insight into the causes of degeneration of the rotator cuff and highlights possible options for treatment.
The implications of damage to the lateral femoral condyle on medial unicompartmental knee replacement
Authors: Kendrick B. J. L. , Rout R. , Bottomley N. J. , Pandit H. , Gill H. S. , Price A. J. , Dodd C. A. F. , Murray D. W.
Published: March 2010

With medial unicompartmental osteoarthritis (OA) there is occasionally a full-thickness ulcer of the cartilage on the medial side of the lateral femoral condyle. It is not clear whether this should be considered a contraindication to unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR). The aim of this study was to determine why these ulcers occur, and whether they compromise the outcome of UKR.

Case studies of knees with medial OA suggest that cartilage lesions on the medial side of the lateral condyle are caused by impingement on the lateral tibial spine as a result of the varus deformity and tibial subluxation. Following UKR the varus and the subluxation are corrected, so that impingement is prevented and the damaged part of the lateral femoral condyle is not transmitting load. An illustrative case report is presented.

Out of 769 knees with OA of the medial compartment treated with the Oxford UKR, 59 (7.7%) had partial-thickness cartilage loss and 20 (2.6%) had a full-thickness cartilage deficit on the medial side of the lateral condyle. The mean Oxford Knee Score (OKS) at the last follow-up at a mean of four years was 41.9 (13 to 48) in those with partial-thickness cartilage loss and 41.0 (20 to 48) in those with full-thickness loss. In those with normal or superficially damaged cartilage the mean was 39.5 (5 to 48) and 39.7 (8 to 48), respectively. There were no statistically significant differences between the pre-operative OKS, the final review OKS or of change in the score in the various groups.

We conclude that in medial compartment OA, damage to the medial side of the lateral femoral condyle is caused by impingement on the tibial spine and should not be considered a contraindication to an Oxford UKR, even if there is extensive full-thickness ulceration of the cartilage.
Indigenous technological capability and its impact on technological development process: the case of Iranian industrial firms
Authors: Hajihoseini Hojatolah , Akhavan Amir Naser , Abbasi Farhad
Published: March 2010

Iran's industrial sector would be expected to improve its performance on the development and utilization of technology to enhance its competitiveness and increase its market share. This study explores the impact of indigenous technological capability (ITC) on the technological development
process (TDP) in 129 Iranian industrial firms. This study investigates the extent of R&D capability and the ability to learn at the level of the firm as major factors that bear on the ability of firms to acquire, absorb and innovate technologies. Preliminary findings suggest the significance
of the relationship between ITC and TDP, and they show that some inter-firm factors act strongly as determinants of the success for TDP.
Enhancing the role of knowledge and innovation for development
Authors: Wamae Watu
Published: March 2010

The aim of this article is to improve our understanding of the nature, extent and importance of knowledge creation, development and commercialisation in developing countries. The article focuses on the process through which new knowledge is converted into beneficial socio-economic outcomes
in developing countries. It recognises that a wide range of science and technology capabilities and activities are critical in this process and identifies the different forms of technological capabilities that underpin the process. It is argued that there is a deficiency of non-research and
development-specific capabilities in developing countries and that this constitutes a major drawback to the innovation process. The article also discusses the critical role of demand in innovation processes and demonstrates how the demand of low-income earners in developing countries is driving
changes in the global investments in innovation. Innovation in developing countries is increasingly focusing on the market rather than on the technology.
Simultaneous determination of serum tryptophan metabolites in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus by high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection
Authors: Xiang Zhong-Yuan , Tang Ai-Guo , Ren Ya-Ping , Zhou Qian-Xuan , Luo Xi-Bo
Published: March 2010

Background: To provide a more comprehensive clinic marker of tryptophan (TRP) catabolism in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), we developed a simple and efficient method that simultaneously measured serum TRP, kynurenine (KYN), and kynurenic acid (KYNA) using high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC-FD).

Methods: A simple and specific high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was developed for simultaneously quantitative determination of TRP, KYN and KYNA with fluorescence detection (FD) using programmed wavelength and on-column fluorescence derivatization. Thirty patients with SLE and 80 healthy control subjects were analyzed for serum TRP metabolites using the assay we developed. The tryptophan breakdown index (TBI) and neuroprotective ratio (NPR) were calculated.

Results: The retention time of KYN, KYNA and TRP were 8.5 min, 13.7 min and 17.6 min, respectively. The linear range for TRP was 0.245 ~ 196 μmol/L, the limit of detection (LOD) was 0.001 μmol/L and average recovery was 103.71%. The linear range for KYN was 0.049 ~ 98 μmol/L, the LOD was 0.0245 μmol/L, and average recovery was 97.45%. The linear range for KYNA was 1.05 ~ 2093 nmol/L, the LOD was 0.05 nmol/L, and average recovery was 100.60%. Inter-day and intra-day relative standard deviations (SDs) were <5%. Phenylalanine, tyrosine, 5-hydroxytryptamine and creatinine did not interfere with the method. The results showed great differences in TRP, KYN and KYNA contents and TBI between patients with SLE and healthy controls, but little difference in NPR.

Conclusions: The method is simple, fast, accurate, and meets the requirements for simultaneous determination of TRP, KYN and KYNA in serum.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:513–7.
State of the art in therapeutic drug monitoring
Authors: Fernández Elena Llorente , Parés Laura , Ajuria Iratxe , Bandres Fernando , Castanyer Bartomeu , Campos Francesc , Farré Carme , Pou Leonor , Queraltó Josep Maria , To-Figueras Jordi
Published: March 2010

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is a multidisciplinary activity. Because laboratory reports are part of the patient's chart, some clinical information is required. In order to guarantee quality and safety, an increasing number of TDM departments have implemented a quality management system. The aim of the present article is to review the three phases of TDM: the pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical phases. In the pre-analytical phase, it is necessary to acquire a valid specimen collected at the specific time window. Analytical methods should be validated, assessing possible interfering substances. The objective of the post-analytical phase is the final report, which should include correct interpretation, as well as possible advice. Appropriate pharmacokinetic interpretation avoids unnecessary costs and leads to clinical benefits.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:437–46.
Biodiesel Synthesis via Recyclable Heterogeneous Catalyst: Titanium Niobate Nanosheet
Authors: Mercer Erin J. , Halaweish Fathi T.
Published: March 2010

A robust, heterogeneous, and recyclable catalyst to react upon broad range of feedstock for biodiesel processing so as to best utilize local oil/grease resources and whose optimal catalytic conditions are environmentally benign is sought to improve overall production of the alternative fuel. The application of titanium niobate nanosheets has been developed to transesterify soybean oil under environmentally favorable catalytic conditions. Experiments were conducted with a comprehensive study of the catalyst from its synthesis to analysis of the final biodiesel product. In the optimization of catalyst synthesis and its activation/reactivation, heating temperature and times and solvent washing were studied. The optimal catalyst was achieved with a 1:2:1 molar ratio of K2CO3:TiO2:Nb2O5 heated in a ThermoLyne® furnace at 500°C for 14 h. The application in biodiesel processing reached 99 % conversion in a flash reaction time of 5 min with a 1:2 methanol:soybean oil by weight and 6.5 wt % catalyst. Temperature was maintained at 66°C by a hot water jacket in a self-pressurized closed system. Initial reactions using used restaurant grease have shown 15 % conversion with optimization ongoing. Recycling and reactivating the catalyst have been studied and found to maintain efficiency in use. Transesterification was quantitatively analyzed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. An innovative method designed to adhere the titanium niobate nanosheets to silica beads is underway with the intention of industrial scale biodiesel application.
»Die Ausführung der Maßnahme hielt sich anscheinend nicht im Rahmen der gegebenen Weisung«. Die Suche nach Hergang, Tätern und Motiven des Massakers von Maillé am 15. August 1944
Authors: Lieb Peter
Published: March 2010

Am 25. August 1944 töteten deutsche Soldaten 124 Einwohner – darunter viele Frauen und Kinder – des Dorfes Maillé bei Tours und zerstörten das Dorf. Nach jenem von Oradour-sur-Glane war dies das schlimmste Massaker während der deutschen Besetzung Frankreichs im Zweiten Weltkrieg. Allerdings geriet Maillé – im Unterschied zu Oradour und vergleichbaren Verbrechen – für Jahrzehnte in Vergessenheit. Nach dem Krieg verurteilte ein französisches Militärgericht den ehemaligen deutschen Leutnant Gustav Schlüter zum Tode, doch Schuldfrage und Umstände wurden nicht wirklich geklärt. Erst zwei Ereignisse machten Maillé einer breiten Öffentlichkeit bekannt: 2005 eröffnete die Staatsanwaltschaft Dortmund den Fall Maillé neu, und 2008 weihte der französische Staatspräsident Sarkozy in Maillé eine Gedenkstätte ein.

Ungeachtet dessen blieben weiterhin viele Fragen ungeklärt. Unter Verwendung der spärlichen deutschen und französischen Quellen unternimmt der vorliegende Beitrag erstmals eine eingehendere Analyse des Verbrechens hauptsächlich aus deutscher historischer Perspektive. Er stellt dabei das Verbrechen in den Kontext der deutschen Partisanenbekämpfung im besetzten Frankreich. Demnach kamen die Täter aus zwei unterschiedlichen Einheiten. Während die Soldaten des beteiligten Wehrmachtverbandes eher maßvoll auftraten, ging eine ebenfalls beteiligte SS-Einheit mit größter Brutalität vor. Es steht nunmehr ziemlich sicher fest, dass letztere aus einem Zug des SS-Feldersatzbataillons 17 (der 17. SS-Panzer-Grenadier-Division »Götz von Berlichingen«) bestand, das in früheren Anti-Partisanen-Operationen kein derart brutales Verhalten gezeigt hatte. Zum anderen scheint der kommandierende Wehrmachtoffizier, Gustav Schlüter, das Massaker nicht geplant, vielmehr die Kontrolle über die Ereignisse verloren zu haben. Doch bleibt die Frage unbeantwortet, ob ein plötzliches Ereignis der Auslöser für das Blutbad gewesen sein könnte. Nach dem Krieg bemühte sich die französische Justiz ziemlich nachlässig um den Fall Maillé. Erstaunlicherweise gingen sie klaren Hinweisen über die Beteiligung einer SS-Einheit an dem Massaker nicht nach. Zusammengefasst bleibt festzuhalten, dass Maillé gut in das Muster der deutschen Partisanenbekämpfung in Frankreich von 1944 passt: Immer wenn Frauen und Kinder ermordet wurden, stammten die Schuldigen aus den Reihen der Waffen-SS.
A Case Study in Successful Management of a Data-Poor Fishery Using Simple Decision Rules: The Queensland Spanner Crab Fishery
Authors: Dichmont Catherine M. , Brown Ian W.
Published: March 2010

The Queensland spanner crab Ranina ranina is the target of a relatively data-poor, low-value fishery that has been managed for the last decade by using total allowable catches (TACs) in an individual transferable quota system. Despite the fact that this management system is usually applied to data-rich fisheries, it has been successfully used on this data-poor fishery. The key factor has been the use of harvest strategies that consisted only of simple decision rules that were appropriate given the size of the fishery and knowledge of the resource. These strategies were tested in a management strategy evaluation framework; however, it was not traditional in that (1) the operating model (or “true” resource to be managed) was not conditioned to data but rather was set to parameter ranges seen as appropriate for the resource and (2) the TAC was not set by using a stock assessment model, so the magnitude of the stock biomass was unknown. The important test was whether one could develop harvest strategies that were robust to this large uncertainty in knowledge by using only commercial catch rates. The management system had to be adaptive over time as more was learned about the biology of the species and how the harvest strategies affected the management of the fishery. This meant that the TAC was almost always set using the harvest strategies, but modifications to the decision rules were made on several occasions as more was learned about the fishery. The transparency and simplicity of the rules mean that the industry was empowered to make significant contributions to fine tuning the harvest strategies. As a result, the process does not rely solely on scientific advances but on the pooled knowledge of scientists, industry, and managers in a cooperative environment.
Prevalência de insegurança alimentar em Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, e estado nutricional de indivíduos que vivem nessa condição
Authors: Santos Janaína Vieira dos , Gigante Denise Petrucci , Domingues Marlos Rodrigues
Published: March 2010

Um estudo transversal de base populacional foi realizado em Pelotas, Sul do Brasil, para determinar a prevalência de insegurança alimentar, além de descrever o estado nutricional dos membros das famílias que vivem nessa condição. A amostra incluiu 1.450 domicílios da área urbana de Pelotas. Nessas famílias, foi aplicada uma versão curta da Escala de Segurança Alimentar (United States Department of Agriculture) - seis questões aplicadas ao responsável pela alimentação no domicílio referente aos 12 meses anteriores à entrevista. Se o domicílio foi classificado como inseguro, todos os membros foram pesados e medidos. A prevalência de insegurança alimentar para todas as famílias foi de 11% (IC95%: 9-13). Nas famílias que vivem em insegurança coexistem por um lado, o excesso de peso e obesidade entre as crianças e os adultos e, por outro, uma prevalência substancial de déficit de crescimento entre as crianças (21%). Conclui-se que esse estado de insegurança alimentar pode estar relacionado não somente à diminuição da quantidade de alimentos como à perda da qualidade nutritiva.
Uma geografia para a ciência faz diferença: um apelo da Saúde Pública
Authors: Guimarães Maria Cristina Soares
Published: March 2010

O artigo introduz uma perspectiva para analisar as relações entre o espaço e a prática científica, bem como a contribuição que a geografia da ciência pode trazer ao entendimento e desenvolvimento de estratégias em favor da Saúde Pública. Contribuições do campo dos estudos sociais da ciência, mais especificamente da Teoria Ator-Rede e seu conceito de translação, e da geografia de Milton Santos, formam o arcabouço teórico que permite explorar as dimensões espaciais da produção e da circulação do conhecimento científico. Argumenta-se como essa abordagem enriquece e problematiza as recentes orientações políticas em favor da translação de conhecimento, em âmbito internacional. Uma possível contribuição do campo da Ciência da Informação para favorecer o movimento do conhecimento é apontada, com vistas a auxiliar no desafio de minimizar o reconhecido desequilíbrio entre o que se sabe em teoria e o que aplica na prática (know-do gap) da saúde.
Risk factors for recurrent falls among Brazilian women and men: the Brazilian Osteoporosis Study (BRAZOS)
Authors: Pinheiro Marcelo de Medeiros , Ciconelli Rozana Mesquita , Martini Lígia Araújo , Ferraz Marcos Bosi
Published: March 2010

The objective of the study was to estimate the frequency of recurrent falls and identify the main associated risk factors. The BRAZOS is the first epidemiological study performed on a representative sample of the Brazilian population. Anthropometric data, living habits, previous fractures, falls, dietary intake, physical activity and quality of life were evaluated in 2,420 individuals aged 40 and older. Recurrent falls were reported by 15.5% of men and 25.6% of women. Among women, the risk factors significantly associated to recurrent falls were age, previous fracture, sedentary lifestyle, poor quality of life, diabetes mellitus and current use of benzodiazepine. In men, the risk factors were age, poor quality of life, intake of alcoholic beverages, diabetes mellitus, previous fracture and use of benzodiazepine. A greater intake of vitamin D had a protector effect on the risk of recurrent falls. These findings demonstrated the high prevalence of recurrent falls and emphasize that a multidisciplinary approach is necessary to minimize recurrent falls and their consequences, including osteoporotic fractures.
Morte neonatal precoce segundo complexidade hospitalar e rede SUS e não-SUS na Região Metropolitana de São Paulo, Brasil
Authors: Silva Zilda Pereira da , Almeida Márcia Furquim de , Ortiz Luís Patrício , Alencar Gizelton Pereira , Alencar Airlane Pereira , Schoeps Daniela , Minuci Elaine Garcia , Novaes Hillegonda Maria Dutilh
Published: March 2010

O objetivo foi analisar o perfil dos recém-nascidos, mães e mortalidade neonatal precoce, segundo complexidade do hospital e vínculo com o Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), na Região Metropolitana de São Paulo, Brasil. Estudo baseado em dados de nascidos vivos, óbitos e cadastro de hospitais. Para obter a tipologia de complexidade e o perfil da clientela, empregaram-se análise fatorial e de clusters. O SUS atende mais recém-nascidos de risco e mães com baixa escolaridade, pré-natal insuficiente e adolescentes. A probabilidade de morte neonatal precoce foi 5,6‰ nascidos vivos (65% maior no SUS), sem diferenças por nível de complexidade do hospital, exceto nos de altíssima (SUS) e média (não-SUS) complexidade. O diferencial de mortalidade neonatal precoce entre as duas redes é menor no grupo de recém-nascidos < 1.500g (22%), entretanto, a taxa é 131% mais elevada no SUS para os recém-nascidos > 2.500g. Há uma concentração de nascimentos de alto risco na rede SUS, contudo a diferença de mortalidade neonatal precoce entre a rede SUS e não-SUS é menor nesse grupo de recém-nascidos. Novos estudos são necessários para compreender melhor a elevada mortalidade de recém-nascidos > 2.500g no SUS.
Prevalência e fatores associados às geo-helmintíases em crianças residentes em municípios com baixo IDH no Norte e Nordeste brasileiros
Authors: Fonseca Eduardo Oyama Lins , Teixeira Maria Glória , Barreto Maurício L. , Carmo Eduardo Hage , Costa Maria da Conceição N.
Published: March 2010

Para determinar a prevalência de geo-helmintíases e identificar fatores associados a sua ocorrência, foram realizados inquéritos coprológicos em amostra de crianças entre 5 e 14 anos de idade, residentes em dez municípios brasileiros com baixo Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano. Aplicou-se questionário aos responsáveis, obtendo-se informações sócio-econômicas e ambientais e foi feita coleta de fezes. Estimaram-se prevalências de geohelmintos segundo variáveis de interesse e se avaliaram os fatores de risco mediante regressão logística multinível. Das 2.523 crianças estudadas, 36,5% eram portadoras de um ou mais geohelmintos (Ascaris lumbricoides 25,1%; ancilostomídeos 15,3%, Trichuris trichiura 12,2%). A proporção de geo-helmintíases para o conjunto na zona rural foi 45,7%; na urbana, 32,2%. Baixa renda familiar (OR = 1,75; 1,38-2,23), baixa escolaridade materna (OR = 1,69; 1,39-2,06), presença de lixo próximo ao domicílio (OR = 1,50; 1,22-1,84) e maior número de pessoas no domicílio (OR = 1,41; 1,17-1,71) mostraram-se associadas a tais infecções. Conclui-se que a ocorrência destas parasitoses está relacionada às condições sócio-econômicas e evidencia a importância de intervenções públicas direcionadas à melhoria das condições de vida para sua prevenção.
Determinants of preterm birth: Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, 2004 birth cohort
Authors: Silveira Mariângela F. , Victora Cesar G. , Barros Aluísio J. D. , Santos Iná S. , Matijasevich Alicia , Barros Fernando C.
Published: March 2010

Prematurity is a leading cause of neonatal mortality and a global health problem that affects high, middle and low-income countries. Several factors may increase the risk of preterm birth. In this article, we test the hypothesis that different risk factors determine preterm birth in different income groups by investigating whether risk factors for preterm deliveries in the 2004 Pelotas (Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil) birth cohort vary among those groups. A total of 4,142 women were included in the analysis. Preterm births were equally common among women who had spontaneous vaginal deliveries as for those with induced or operative births. In the multivariate analysis the factors that remained significantly associated with preterm birth were black skin color, low education, poverty, young maternal age, primiparity, previous preterm birth, inadequacy of prenatal care and reported hypertension. In the analyses repeated after stratification by family income terciles, there was no evidence of effect modification by income and no clear difference between the socioeconomic groups. No association between cesarean section and preterm delivery was found. Further studies are required to understand the causes of the epidemic of preterm births in Brazil.
The Plio-Pleistocene ancestor of wild dogs, Lycaon sekowei n. sp.
Authors: Hartstone-Rose Adam , Werdelin Lars , De Ruiter Darryl J. , Berger Lee R. , Churchill Steven E.
Published: March 2010

African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) occupy an ecological niche characterized by hypercarnivory and cursorial hunting. Previous interpretations drawn from a limited, mostly Eurasian fossil record suggest that the evolutionary shift to cursorial hunting preceded the emergence of hypercarnivory in the Lycaon lineage. Here we describe 1.9—1.0 ma fossils from two South African sites representing a putative ancestor of the wild dog. the holotype is a nearly complete maxilla from Coopers Cave, and another specimen tentatively assigned to the new taxon, from Gladysvale, is the most nearly complete mammalian skeleton ever described from the Sterkfontein Valley, Gauteng, South Africa. the canid represented by these fossils is larger and more robust than are any of the other fossil or extant sub-Saharan canids. Unlike other purported L. pictus ancestors, it has distinct accessory cusps on its premolars and anterior accessory cuspids on its lower premolars—a trait unique to Lycaon among living canids. However, another hallmark autapomorphy of L. pictus, the tetradactyl manus, is not found in the new species; the Gladysvale skeleton includes a large first metacarpal. Thus, the anatomy of this new early member of the Lycaon branch suggests that, contrary to previous hypotheses, dietary specialization appears to have preceded cursorial hunting in the evolution of the Lycaon lineage. We assign these specimens to the taxon Lycaon sekowei n. sp.
A meta‐analysis of resource pulse–consumer interactions
Authors: Yang Louie H. , Edwards Kyle F. , Byrnes Jarrett E. , Bastow Justin L. , Wright Amber N. , Spence Kenneth O.
Published: March 2010

Resource pulses are infrequent, large‐magnitude, and short‐duration events of increased resource availability. They include a diverse set of extreme events in a wide range of ecosystems, but identifying general patterns among the diversity of pulsed resource phenomena in nature remains an important challenge. Here we present a meta‐analysis of resource pulse–consumer interactions that addresses four key questions: (1) Which characteristics of pulsed resources best predict their effects on consumers? (2) Which characteristics of consumers best predict their responses to resource pulses? (3) How do the effects of resource pulses differ in different ecosystems? (4) What are the indirect effects of resource pulses in communities? To investigate these questions, we built a data set of diverse pulsed resource–consumer interactions from around the world, developed metrics to compare the effects of resource pulses across disparate systems, and conducted multilevel regression analyses to examine the manner in which variation in the characteristics of resource pulse–consumer interactions affects important aspects of consumer responses.

Resource pulse magnitude, resource trophic level, resource pulse duration, ecosystem type and subtype, consumer response mechanisms, and consumer body mass were found to be key explanatory factors predicting the magnitude, duration, and timing of consumer responses. Larger consumers showed more persistent responses to resource pulses, and reproductive responses were more persistent than aggregative responses. Aquatic systems showed shorter temporal lags between peaks of resource availability and consumer response compared to terrestrial systems, and temporal lags were also shorter for smaller consumers compared to larger consumers. The magnitude of consumer responses relative to their resource pulses was generally smaller for the direct consumers of primary resource pulses, compared to consumers at greater trophic distances from the initial resource pulse. In specific systems, this data set showed both attenuating and amplifying indirect effects. We consider the mechanistic processes behind these patterns and their implications for the ecology of resource pulses.
Antarctic penguin response to habitat change as Earth's troposphere reaches 2°C above preindustrial levels
Authors: Ainley David , Russell Joellen , Jenouvrier Stephanie , Woehler Eric , Lyver Philip O'B. , Fraser William R. , Kooyman Gerald L.
Published: March 2010

We assess the response of pack ice penguins, Emperor (Aptenodytes forsteri) and Adélie (Pygoscelis adeliae), to habitat variability and, then, by modeling habitat alterations, the qualitative changes to their populations, size and distribution, as Earth's average tropospheric temperature reaches 2°C above preindustrial levels (ca. 1860), the benchmark set by the European Union in efforts to reduce greenhouse gases. First, we assessed models used in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) on penguin performance duplicating existing conditions in the Southern Ocean. We chose four models appropriate for gauging changes to penguin habitat: GFDL‐CM2.1, GFDL‐CM2.0, MIROC3.2(hi‐res), and MRI‐CGCM2.3.2a. Second, we analyzed the composited model ENSEMBLE to estimate the point of 2°C warming (2025–2052) and the projected changes to sea ice coverage (extent, persistence, and concentration), sea ice thickness, wind speeds, precipitation, and air temperatures. Third, we considered studies of ancient colonies and sediment cores and some recent modeling, which indicate the (space/time) large/centennial‐scale penguin response to habitat limits of all ice or no ice. Then we considered results of statistical modeling at the temporal interannual‐decadal scale in regard to penguin response over a continuum of rather complex, meso‐ to large‐scale habitat conditions, some of which have opposing and others interacting effects. The ENSEMBLE meso/decadal‐scale output projects a marked narrowing of penguins' zoogeographic range at the 2°C point. Colonies north of 70° S are projected to decrease or disappear: ∼50% of Emperor colonies (40% of breeding population) and ∼75% of Adélie colonies (70% of breeding population), but limited growth might occur south of 73° S. Net change would result largely from positive responses to increase in polynya persistence at high latitudes, overcome by decreases in pack ice cover at lower latitudes and, particularly for Emperors, ice thickness. Adélie Penguins might colonize new breeding habitat where concentrated pack ice diverges and/or disintegrating ice shelves expose coastline. Limiting increase will be decreased persistence of pack ice north of the Antarctic Circle, as this species requires daylight in its wintering areas. Adélies would be affected negatively by increasing snowfall, predicted to increase in certain areas owing to intrusions of warm, moist marine air due to changes in the Polar Jet Stream.
Recent advances in understanding migration systems of New World land birds
Authors: Faaborg John , Holmes Richard T. , Anders Angela D. , Bildstein Keith L. , Dugger Katie M. , Gauthreaux Sidney A. , Heglund Patricia , Hobson Keith A. , Jahn Alex E. , Johnson Douglas H. , Latta Steven C. , Levey Douglas J. , Marra Peter P. , Merkord Christopher L. , Nol Erica , Rothstein Stephen I. , Sherry Thomas W. , Sillett T. Scott , Thompson Frank R. , Warnock Nils
Published: March 2010

Our understanding of migratory birds' year‐round ecology and evolution remains patchy despite recent fundamental advances. Periodic reviews focus future research and inform conservation and management; here, we take advantage of our combined experiences working on Western Hemisphere avian migration systems to highlight recent lessons and critical gaps in knowledge. Among topics discussed are: (1) The pipeline from pure to applied researchers leaves room for improvement. (2) Population limitation and regulation includes both seasonal and between‐season interactions. (3) The study of movements of small‐bodied species remains a major research frontier. (4) We must increase our understanding of population connectivity. (5) With few exceptions, population regulation has barely been investigated. (6) We have increasingly integrated landscape configuration of habitats, large‐scale habitat disturbances, and habitat quality impacts into models of seasonal and overall demographic success. (7) The post‐breeding season (late summer for latitudinal migrants) is increasingly appreciated for its impacts on demography. (8) We recognize the diverse ways that avian brood parasites, nest predators, and food availability affect demography. (9) Source–sink and meta‐population models help us understand migratory avian distributions among fragmented habitats. (10) Advances in modeling have improved estimates of annual survival and fecundity, but for few species. (11) Populations can be limited by ecological conditions in winter, but habitat needs are poorly known for most species at this time. (12) Migration tends to occupy broad spatial fronts that may change seasonally or when migrants cross major barriers. (13) En route conditions can limit migrant populations; linking migration habitat quality indicators to fitness or population consequences presents a major challenge. (14) A variety of intra‐tropical Neotropical migration patterns are recognizable, but almost nothing is known about these systems beyond descriptions of a few typical species' movements. (15) Global climate change scenarios predict range and phenology shifts of Neotropical migrant bird populations that must be considered in conservation plans. Future studies will depend on new technologies and the integration of modeling with sophisticated, large‐spatial‐scale measurement and parameter estimation; whether the pace of research and management involving migratory birds can match the growth of environmental threats remains to be seen.