bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aging and regulated protein degradation: who has the UPPer hand?
Authors: Vernace Vita A. , Schmidt‐Glenewinkel Thomas , Figueiredo‐Pereira Maria E.
Published: August 2007

In all cells, protein degradation is a constant, ongoing process that is critical for cell survival and repair. The ubiquitin/proteasome pathway (UPP) is the major proteolytic pathway that degrades intracellular proteins in a regulated manner. It plays critical roles in many cellular processes and diseases. Disruption of the UPP is particularly relevant to pathophysiological conditions that provoke the accumulation of aberrant proteins, such as in aging as well as in a variety of neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. For unknown reasons, most of these neurodegenerative disorders that include familial and sporadic cases exhibit a late onset. It is possible that these neurodegenerative conditions exhibit a late onset because proteasome activity decreases with aging. Aging‐dependent impairment in proteolysis mediated by the proteasome may have profound ramifications for cell viability. It can lead to the accumulation of modified, potentially toxic proteins in cells and can cause cell injury or premature cell death by apoptosis or necrosis. While it is accepted that aging affects UPP function, the question is why does aging cause a decline in regulated protein degradation by the UPP? Herein, we review some of the properties of the UPP and mechanisms mediating its age‐dependent impairment. We also discuss the relevance of these findings leading to a model that proposes that UPP dysfunction may be one of the milestones of aging.
Five Years On: Public Sector Service Use Related to Mental Health in Young People with ADHD or Hyperkinetic Disorder Five Years After Diagnosis
Authors: Ford Tamsin , Fowler Tom , Langley Kate , Whittinger Naureen , Thapar Anita
Published: August 2007

Background:  Little is known about ongoing service use among young people with ADHD, but this information is important to the development of services to support these young people.

Methods:  A cohort of young people with ADHD or hyperkinetic disorder (n = 115) was followed up five to seven years after diagnosis. Details are presented of their use of public sector services over the 12 months preceding reassessment, compared to young people with ADHD from a large epidemiological study.

Results:  Most children remained in contact with CAMHS, with high rates of contact with schools, educational professionals and the criminal justice system. Nearly all had taken medication at some point, while many still were using it. There were low reported rates of psychological and group interventions within the last twelve months, but this does not rule out earlier access to such treatments.

Conclusions:  Children with ADHD utilise long‐term support from public sector services, and cross agency strategies or clinics may help to optimise functioning.
Schools: Central to Providing Comprehensive CAMH Services in the Future?
Authors: Salmon Gill , Kirby Amanda
Published: August 2007

It is now widely agreed that meeting the mental health needs of children and young people is a task only possible if all children's services work together. Recent epidemiological data indicate that schools are a key entry point to mental health services for children and young people, and have an important role in the assessment and management of children with neurodevelopmental disorders. This paper explores the rationale for collaborative working between health and educational professionals, examines some examples of good practice, explores factors contributing to their success or failure and considers future developments.
EXPLORING THE LINK BETWEEN INFORMATION QUALITY AND SYSTEMATIC RISK
Authors: Cai Charlie X. , Faff Robert W. , Hillier David , Mohamed Suleiman
Published: August 2007

We examine the effect of information quality around earnings announcements and insider trading events on equity systematic risk. Our results indicate that observed systematic risk significantly increases after these events. Consistent with the insights provided by our framework, the change in systematic risk is increasing in the ratio of event‐related to pre‐event information quality. Our results have implications for all empirical work attempting to model security returns around firm and macroeconomic announcements.
SYMMETRIC VERSUS ASYMMETRIC CONDITIONAL COVARIANCE FORECASTS: DOES IT PAY TO SWITCH?
Authors: Thorp Susan , Milunovich George
Published: August 2007

Volatilities and correlations for equity markets rise more after negative returns shocks than after positive shocks. Allowing for these asymmetries in covariance forecasts decreases mean‐variance portfolio risk and improves investor welfare. We compute optimal weights for international equity portfolios using predictions from asymmetric covariance forecasting models and a spectrum of expected returns. Investors who are moderately risk averse, have longer rebalancing horizons, and hold U.S. equities benefit most and may be willing to pay around 100 basis points annually to switch from symmetric to asymmetric forecasts. Accounting for asymmetry in both variances and correlations significantly lowers realized portfolio risk.
THE INFLUENCE OF FIRM‐ AND CEO‐SPECIFIC CHARACTERISTICS ON THE USE OF NONLINEAR DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
Authors: Huang Pinghsun , Ryan Harley E. , Wiggins Roy A.
Published: August 2007

We examine why firms use nonlinear derivatives (e.g., options). Our results suggest that option characteristics in investment opportunities and debt, the payoff structure of incentive compensation, and free cash‐flow agency problems influence the firm's choice. Investment opportunities, internally generated cash flow, business risk, and option compensation positively influence the use of nonlinear currency derivatives. Option feature in bonds positively influence the use of nonlinear interest rate derivatives, whereas bonus and stock compensation, and CEO tenure have a negative influence. In sum, nonlinear cash flow characteristics in investment opportunity, debt, and executive compensation all relate positively to nonlinear derivative usage.
A review and analyses of plumb‐line calibration
Authors: Lerma José L. , Cabrelles Miriam
Published: August 2007

Radial and decentring distortion parameters have long been reported as fundamental elements in camera calibration, especially in digital close range photogrammetry. This paper reports on an investigation for the determination of both radial and decentring distortion parameters using analytical plumb‐line calibration. Straight line patterns, ranging from 1, 2, 4, 10 and up to 20 lines, not strictly plumb, are examined on a set of distorted imagery. Additionally, not only the number of straight lines but also the linear image distribution is analysed. For that purpose, linear features have been distributed in different positions and orientations over the whole of the imagery. Furthermore, the relationship between the parameters mentioned and the location of the principal point is also analysed, and shows how sensitive they are to deviations from the centre of the sensor.

The motivation for this paper is the measurement of the minimum number of linear features for proper calibration of non‐metric digital cameras. Both radial and decentring distortion parameters are examined. Finally, some line patterns are recommended for making the plumb‐line calibration technique a reliable, easy and fast procedure. Photogrammetrists could use it as a first step in the procedure of camera calibration; users who are not experts in photogrammetry could employ it as a final step.
Technical terminology for the photogrammetric community
Authors: Newby Paul R. T.
Published: August 2007

The editorial team of The Photogrammetric Record has long felt the need for standardised photogrammetric terminology, in order both to eliminate inconsistency within individual authors’ work and to maintain consistency within the publication over time. To this end a guidance document was produced in 2000–2001 for internal use only. After a succession of revisions this is now published for the first time. It is hoped that, as well as helping authors to prepare papers for submission to the Record, the present list may become widely accepted or, failing that, may lead to correspondence, revision and ultimately a consensus which will be to the benefit of photogrammetrists and those who publish their work worldwide.
Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy in a Patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Acute Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Sanchez‐Ross Monica , Snyder Renée , Colome‐Grimmer María I. , Blumberg Mark , Huttenbach Yve , Raimer Sharon
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  Nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy is a recently recognized skin disorder similar in appearance to scleromyxedema but without the systemic involvement. We describe a 14‐year‐old girl with new‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus and acute lupus nephritis who developed on the lower extremities confluent hyperpigmented, woody, indurated plaques that contained groups of coalescing erythematous papules. Nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy was diagnosed histologically. Possible etiologies are discussed.
Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma with Osteoclast‐like Giant Cells in an Infant
Authors: Stinehelfer Susan E. , Woosley John T. , Wolfgang Losken H. , Morrell Dean S.
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  Benign fibrous histiocytoma is a common soft tissue tumor that usually occurs in adults and is relatively rare in childhood. This report describes a 7‐month‐old Caucasian boy with an enlarging firm congenital nodule on his occipital scalp. Histologic analysis revealed a benign fibrous histiocytoma with osteoclast‐like giant cells. Benign fibrous histiocytoma with osteoclast‐like giant cells is a rare histologic variant.
Behçet Disease in a Child—Emphasis on Cutaneous Manifestations
Authors: Oliveira de Carvalho Vânia , Abagge Kerstin Taniguchi , Giraldi Susana , Kamoi Tsukiyo Obu , Assahide Marina Kinoshita , Neto José Fillus , Marinoni Leide Parolin
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  The diagnosis of Behçet disease is based upon clinical criteria because of the lack of pathognomonic laboratory findings. Recurrent episodes of oral and genital ulcerations, skin lesions, and ocular manifestations are seen. The disease may also involve the central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract and, less frequently, the large vessels. In general, manifestations occur in the third or fourth decade of life and are not common in children. Therefore few data concerning this age group have been found in the literature. In this study we report a child with Behçet disease beginning at 1 year of age whose cutaneous manifestations were exuberant acne‐like and folliculitis‐like lesions, which were crucial for diagnostic confirmation.
Cervico‐Thoracic Lipoma Associated with Occult Syringohydromyelia
Authors: Rodríguez‐Cano L. , Bartralot R. , García‐Patos V. , Mollet J. , Malagelada A. , Castells A.
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  Cutaneous lesions in the midline may be hallmarks of an occult spinal dysraphism. They rarely may occur in the cervical and thoracic regions. We report a 9‐year‐old girl with a cervico‐thoracic lipoma associated with an underlying syringohydromyelia. Early detection of potentially complicated conditions can prevent the occurrence of irreversible neurologic damage.
Cosmetic Improvement in Various Acute Skin Defects Treated With Tissue‐engineered Skin
Authors: Nie Xin , Zhang Jie Yong , Cai Ke Jia , Yang Ming Hong , Xiao An Hou , Da Hu Hai , Liu Lin Ya , Wang Han Jia , Wen Ning , Jin Yan
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  Acute skin defects often cause many adverse events such as abnormal pigmentation and scar formation, the satisfactory healing of which remains a significant clinical challenge. Over the past several decades, a number of skin equivalents have been available for clinical purposes to promote wound closure. However, the true values of skin equivalent—tissue‐engineered skin (TE‐skin) composed of neonatal fibroblasts and keratinocytes—in improving the quality of wound healing are not yet elucidated. A total of 158 patients were enrolled, 129 of which were used in this study. In these patients, acute skin defects were treated with TE‐skin as experimental group, and treated with Vaseline primary dressing as control group. The differences in average healing times between the two groups were determined with statistical analysis according to different depths of skin defects. Wound quality, including pigmentation, cicatrization, and pliability, was assessed by investigators from different clinical centers over a 6‐month period. The cosmetic outcome of the wound was further evaluated with histological method. In the study, the average time of wound closure in the experimental group was significantly shortened by 6.5 to 20 days according to different depths of skin defects. The cosmetic quality of reconstructed skin was satisfactory, with the patients enjoying better pliability, less abnormal pigmentation, and cicatrization. Safety analysis demonstrated that the wounds treated with TE‐skin did not show clinical or laboratory evidence of rejection during the trial. These results indicate that TE‐skin is a suitable and clinically effective treatment for various acute skin defects. Furthermore, the TE‐skin appears to produce more satisfactory cosmetic results when compared with the conventional therapy.
Visual Field Severity Indices Demonstrate Dose‐Dependent Visual Loss from Vigabatrin Therapy
Authors: Conway Miriam , Cubbidge Robert P. , Hosking Sarah L.
Published: August 2007

Summary

Purpose: The aims of this study were to develop an algorithm to accurately quantify Vigabatrin (VGB)‐induced central visual field loss and to investigate the relationship between visual field loss and maximum daily dose, cumulative dose and duration of dose.

Methods: The sample comprised 31 patients (mean age 37.9 years; SD 14.4 years) diagnosed with epilepsy and exposed to VGB. Each participant underwent standard automated static visual field examination of the central visual field. Central visual field loss was determined using continuous scales quantifying severity in terms of area and depth of defect and additionally by symmetry of defect between the two eyes. A simultaneous multiple regression model was used to explore the relationship between these visual field parameters and the drug predictor variables.

Results: The regression model indicated that maximum VGB dose was the only factor to be significantly correlated with individual eye severity (right eye: p = 0.020; left eye: p = 0.012) and symmetry of visual field defect (p = 0.024).

Conclusions: Maximum daily dose was the single most reliable indicator of those patients likely to exhibit visual field defects due to VGB. These findings suggest that high maximum dose is more likely to result in visual field defects than high cumulative doses or those of long duration.
Estimating the Cost of Epilepsy in Europe: A Review with Economic Modeling
Authors: Pugliatti Maura , Beghi Ettore , Forsgren Lars , Ekman Mattias , Sobocki Patrik
Published: August 2007

Summary

Purpose:Based on available epidemiologic, health economic, and international population statistics literature, the cost of epilepsy in Europe was estimated.

Methods:Europe was defined as the 25 European Union member countries, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland. Guidelines for epidemiological studies on epilepsy were used for a case definition. A bottom‐up prevalence‐based cost‐of‐illness approach, the societal perspective for including the cost items, and the human capital approach as valuation principle for indirect costs were used. The cost estimates were based on selected studies with common methodology and valuation principles.

Results:The estimated prevalence of epilepsy in Europe in 2004 was 4.3–7.8 per 1,000. The estimated total cost of the disease in Europe was €15.5 billion in 2004, indirect cost being the single most dominant cost category (€8.6 billion). Direct health care costs were €2.8 billion, outpatient care comprising the largest part (€1.3 billion). Direct nonmedical cost was €4.2 billion. That of antiepileptic drugs was €400 million. The total cost per case was €2,000–11,500 and the estimated cost per European inhabitant was €33.

Conclusions:Epilepsy is a relevant socioeconomic burden at individual, family, health services, and societal level in Europe. The greater proportion of such burden is outside the formal health care sector, antiepileptic drugs representing a smaller proportion. Lack of economic data from several European countries and other methodological limitations make this report an initial estimate of the cost of epilepsy in Europe. Prospective incidence cost‐of‐illness studies from well‐defined populations and common methodology are encouraged.
Surrogate Alcohol: What Do We Know and Where Do We Go?
Authors: Lachenmeier Dirk W. , Rehm Jürgen , Gmel Gerhard
Published: August 2007

Background:  Consumption of surrogate alcohols (i.e., nonbeverage alcohols and illegally produced alcohols) was shown to impact on different causes of death, not only poisoning or liver disease, and appears to be a major public health problem in Russia and elsewhere.

Methods:  A computer‐assisted literature review on chemical composition and health consequences of “surrogate alcohol” was conducted and more than 70 references were identified. A wider definition of the term “surrogate alcohol” was derived, including both nonbeverage alcohols and illegally produced alcohols that contain nonbeverage alcohols.

Results:  Surrogate alcohol may contain substances that cause severe health consequences including death. Known toxic constituents include lead, which may lead to chronic toxicity, and methanol, which leads to acute poisoning. On the other hand, the role of higher alcohols (e.g., propanol, isobutanol, and isoamyl alcohol) in the etiology of surrogate‐associated diseases is currently unclear. Whether other constituents of surrogates have contributed to the high all‐cause mortality over and above the effect of ethanol in recent studies also remains unclear.

Conclusions:  Given the high public health importance associated with the consumption of surrogate alcohols, further knowledge on its chemical composition is required as well as research on its links to various disease endpoints should be undertaken with priority. Some interventions to reduce the harm resulting from surrogate alcohol could be undertaken already at this point. For example, the use of methanol or methanol‐containing wood alcohol should be abolished in denatured alcohol. Other possible surrogates (e.g., automobile products) should be treated with bittering agents to avoid consumption.
Investigation of a Thermoplastic Polymeric Carrier for Bone Tissue Engineering Using Allogeneic Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Granular Scaffolds
Authors: Mylonas Dimitrios , Vidal Miguel D. , De Kok Ingeborg J. , Moriarity John D. , Cooper Lyndon F.
Published: August 2007

Purpose:  The purpose of this project was to compare alveolar bone repair by allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells using bioglass or synthetic hydroxyapatite (HA)/tricalcium phosphate (TCP) granular scaffolds delivered in a thermoplastic polymeric carrier.

Materials and Methods:  Canine mesenchymal stem cells were obtained from iliac crest bone marrow of beagle dogs and expanded without differentiation. Cells were resuspended at a final concentration of 5 × 106 cells/ml in a thermoplastic polymeric carrier (30% w/v Pluronic F‐127) and mixed with an equal volume of synthetic HA/TCP or bioglass scaffold and placed into surgically created 5 mm cylindrical defects in the edentulous premolar region of beagle dogs. After 4 weeks or 7 weeks, tissue healing was evaluated by standard histomorphometric methods (Bioquant Nova, Bioquant Image Analysis Corporation, Nashville, TN) by measurement of bone formation within five random sites from each biopsy.

Results:  After 4 weeks, sites treated with or without mesenchymal stem cells contained 58.25 ±18.43% or 43.35 ± 17.68% bone area (p= 0.049), respectively. After 7 weeks, sites treated with or without mesenchymal stem cells contained 62.73 ± 19.10% or 60.39 ± 21.32% bone area. Bone formation occurred without inflammation in defects treated using Pluronic F‐127 carrier with and without mesenchymal stem cells. There was no difference in percent bone area when bioglass or HA/TCP scaffolds were compared at either time point.

Conclusions:
 The thermoplastic polymeric carrier did not limit alveolar bone repair in the canine mandible. The combination of a thermoplastic, viscous carrier with a granular scaffold allowed for the delivery of allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells in a clinically manageable form that enhanced bone formation at early stages of alveolar repair.
Comparison of Three Techniques for Ovarian Pedicle Hemostasis During Laparoscopic‐Assisted Ovariohysterectomy
Authors: MAYHEW PHILIPP D. , BROWN DOROTHY CIMINO
Published: August 2007

Objective—To describe the safety, surgical time, and complications associated with 3 techniques for achieving hemostasis during laparoscopic‐assisted ovariohysterectomy (LAOVH).

Study Design—Prospective, randomized clinical trial.

Animals—Female dogs (n=30).

Methods—Dogs were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 methods for achieving ovarian pedicle hemostasis during LAOVH: extracorporeal modified Roeder knot application (suture group), metal clip application using a multifire 10 mm laparoscopic clip applier (clip group), or use of a novel 5 mm bipolar vessel‐sealing device (vessel‐sealing group). In all dogs a 3 median portal technique was used.

Results—Controlling for the dogs' bodyweights, there was a significant association between surgical time and which method for hemostasis was used. This association was different when comparing the first 5 procedures using each method to the second 5. For a 20 kg dog, the surgical time (95% CI) for the first 5 procedures was 80 (69–91), 68 (57–79), and 33 (21–45) minutes for the suture, clip, and vessel‐sealing groups, respectively. For the second 5 procedures surgical time was 71 (60–81), 50 (39–60), and 40 (29–51) minutes. Pedicle hemorrhage occurred in all dogs in the clip group, 3 dogs in the suture group, and none of the dogs in the vessel‐sealing group although in all cases was considered hemodynamically inconsequential. All dogs recovered uneventfully.

Conclusions—All methods of hemostasis were safe for pedicle sectioning. A learning curve exists for clip and suture methods.

Clinical Relevance—Use of a vessel‐sealing device significantly shortens surgical time and provides excellent hemostasis during LAOVH.
Bilateral Thyroarytenoid Cartilage Lateralization and Vocal Fold Excision with Mucosoplasty for Treatment of Idiopathic Laryngeal Paralysis: 67 Dogs (1998–2005)
Authors: SCHOFIELD DINA M. , NORRIS JANA , SADANAGA KENNETH K.
Published: August 2007

Objective— To evaluate combined bilateral thyroarytenoid cartilage lateralization, vocal fold excision, and mucosoplasty technique (BTAL) through ventral median laryngotomy for treatment of laryngeal paralysis in dogs.

Design— Retrospective study.

Animals— Dogs (n=67) with laryngeal paralysis.

Methods— Medical records were reviewed for dogs with idiopathic laryngeal paralysis that had BTAL between January 1998 and March 2005. Retrieved data included signalment, history, physical and laryngoscopic examination findings, clinicopathologic tests, and results of recheck examination findings.

Results— BTAL was performed by a single surgeon. Short‐term (<6 months) follow‐up information was available for 67 dogs and long‐term (>12 months) for 40 dogs. Major postoperative complications were surgical failures (13; 7 short term, 6 long term) and aspiration pneumonia (1). Mean recurrence of clinical signs was at 19 weeks (range, 2–30 weeks). Minor complications occurred in 22 (33%) dogs including occasional coughing or gagging, stridorous breathing during exercise, panting, noisy or heavy breathing, and aspiration pneumonia (3 dogs) that did not require hospitalization. All owners reported an improved quality of life and had no regrets with surgical outcome.

Conclusions— BTAL is seemingly an effective procedure for treatment of laryngeal paralysis.

Clinical Relevance— BTAL is associated with a low incidence of aspiration pneumonia; however, there is substantial risk of recurrence of clinical signs associated with narrowing of the glottis. Consequently, unilateral arytenoid lateralization currently represents the accepted approach to the treatment of laryngeal paralysis.
Effects of Suture Tension During Unilateral Cricoarytenoid Lateralization on Canine Laryngeal Resistance In Vitro
Authors: GREENBERG MARC J. , BUREAU STEPHANE , MONNET ERIC
Published: August 2007

Objective—To evaluate the effect of abduction suture tension for unilateral arytenoid lateralization on laryngeal resistance.

Study Design—Experimental study.

Animals—Canine cadaver larynges (n=16).

Methods—Laryngeal resistance was calculated in all specimens with the epiglottis in open and closed positions. Left cricoarytenoid lateralization was performed under low or high suture tension, and laryngeal resistance was re‐calculated. The effects of suture tension on laryngeal resistance were evaluated by repeated measures ANOVA.

Results—Cricoarytenoid lateralization under low or high suture tension significantly reduced laryngeal resistance with the epiglottis in an open or closed position. There was no difference in laryngeal resistance with an open epiglottis between the low‐tension (1.00±0.0001 cm H2O/L/s) and high‐tension (1.10±0.35 cm H2O/L/s) groups (P=.33). The low‐tension group (22.80±14.20 cm H2O/L/s) had significantly greater laryngeal resistance than the high‐tension group (8.45±4.00 cm H2O/L/s) with a closed epiglottis (P=.016). There was no difference in laryngeal resistance with a closed epiglottis for the low‐tension group before (34.30±36.50 cm H2O/L/s) and after (22.80±14.20 cm H2O/L/s;P=.42) arytenoid lateralization.

Conclusions—Cricoarytenoid lateralization under low suture tension significantly reduced laryngeal resistance with an open epiglottis, but resulted in a significantly greater resistance with a closed epiglottis than cricoarytenoid lateralization under high suture tension.

Clinical Relevance—Clinically, use of a low‐tension suture for cricoarytenoid lateralization may provide an adequate decrease in open‐epiglottis laryngeal resistance to alleviate clinical signs, while maintaining enough closed‐epiglottis laryngeal resistance to reduce the risk of postoperative aspiration pneumonia.
Tibial Tuberosity Advancement for Stabilization of the Canine Cranial Cruciate Ligament‐Deficient Stifle Joint: Surgical Technique, Early Results, and Complications in 101 Dogs
Authors: LAFAVER SARAH , MILLER NATHAN A. , STUBBS W. PRESTON , TAYLOR ROBERT A. , BOUDRIEAU RANDY J.
Published: August 2007

Objective— To describe the surgical technique, early results and complications of tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) for treatment for cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL)‐deficient stifle joints in dogs.

Study Design— Retrospective clinical study.

Animals— Dogs (n=101) with CrCL‐deficient stifles (114).

Methods— Medical records of 101 dogs that had TTA were reviewed. Complications were recorded and separated into either major or minor complications based on the need for additional surgery. In‐hospital re‐evaluation of limb function and time to radiographic healing were reviewed. Further follow‐up was obtained by telephone interview of owners.

Results— Complications occurred in 31.5% of the dogs (12.3% major, 19.3% minor). Major complications included subsequent meniscal tear, tibial fracture, implant failure, infection, lick granuloma, incisional trauma, and medial patellar luxation; all major complications were treated with successful outcomes. All but 2 minor complications resolved. The mean time to documented radiographic healing was 11.3 weeks. Final in‐hospital re‐evaluation of limb function (mean, 13.5 weeks), was recorded for 93 dogs with lameness categorized as none (74.5%), mild (23.5%), moderate (2%), and severe (1%). All but 2 owners interviewed were satisfied with outcome and 83.1% reported a marked improvement or a return to pre‐injury status.

Conclusions— TTA is a procedure comparable with alternate methods of CrCL repair with expected good to excellent functional outcome.

Clinical Relevance— TTA procedure can be successfully used to obtain the dynamic stability of a CrCL‐deficient stifle joint in dogs.
High prevalence of cytomegalovirus DNA in plasma samples of blood donors in connection with seroconversion
Authors: Ziemann Malte , Krueger Sabine , Maier Andrea B. , Unmack Alexander , Goerg Siegfried , Hennig Holger
Published: August 2007

BACKGROUND: Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is considered to latently infect blood cells. Transfusion‐transmitted infection (TT‐CMV) of immunocompromised patients occurs despite the use of CMV‐seronegative or leukoreduced units.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The prevalence of CMV DNA in plasma was investigated in 82 blood donors who had previously been seronegative for CMV and showed anti‐CMV immunoglobulin G for the first time, 598 blood donors who were seropositive for at least 1 year, and 150 seronegative blood donors. In a second part of the study, the overall prevalence of CMV DNA in blood donations was assessed based on 31,745 donations.

RESULTS: CMV DNA was repeatedly detected in plasma samples of 44 percent of newly seropositive donors (12%‐62%, depending on the interval to the last seronegative donation). All steadily seropositive or seronegative donors were negative for the presence of CMV DNA. Detection of CMV DNA in connection with seroconversion was accompanied by significantly increased neopterin, increased alanine aminotransferase, and reduced white blood cell counts, but the sensitivity of these surrogate markers was only 71 percent. The overall prevalence of CMV DNA in blood products due to primary CMV infection of donors was at least 0.13 percent.

CONCLUSION: Viremia of newly seropositive donors may be an important reason for the residual risk of TT‐CMV despite leukoreduction. Furthermore, transfusion of WBC‐reduced blood components from seronegative donors could imply a greater risk of TT‐CMV than transfusion of WBC‐reduced blood from donors who have been seropositive for at least 1 year, because window‐phase donations but no reactivation could be detected in this study.
Pasteurella multocida bacteremia in asymptomatic plateletpheresis donors: a tale of two cats
Authors: Bryant Barbara J. , Conry‐Cantilena Cathy , Ahlgren Alice , Felice Anthony , Stroncek David F. , Gibble Joan , Leitman Susan F.
Published: August 2007

BACKGROUND: Bacterial contamination of platelet (PLT) concentrates occurs in 1 in 1000 to 1 in 3000 components and has been a leading cause of transfusion‐associated morbidity and mortality. Two cases of Pasteurella multocida bacteremia in asymptomatic plateletpheresis donors are reported. Clinical outcomes were profoundly different, emphasizing the importance of robust methods to detect bacterial contamination.

CASE REPORTS: The first case occurred before the implementation of bacterial testing of PLTs. A plateletpheresis component was collected from a 70‐year‐old man and transfused to an 88‐year‐old man, who developed rigors, tachycardia, and hypotension within 15 minutes of the start of the transfusion. Cardiopulmonary arrest ensued and he expired 6 hours after transfusion. Blood cultures collected after transfusion and cultures of the PLT component were positive for the presence of P. multocida. Investigation revealed that a feral cat had bitten the donor 100 minutes before his donation. He had not reported the event to the donor room staff. The second case involved a 74‐year‐old woman who developed a flulike syndrome 2 days after plateletpheresis donation. P. multocida was isolated in routine bacterial culture of her PLT component. The donor had several feral cats, and although there was no history of bite or scratch, one cat liked to lick her hands, which were chapped from gardening.

CONCLUSION: Occult bacteremia with P. multocida transmitted by feral cats was the source of PLT contamination in two cases over 3 years. Bacterial testing of PLTs is critical in the prevention of transfusion‐acquired sepsis and allows the identification and treatment of asymptomatic bacteremic donors.
Improving blood donor recruitment and retention: integrating theoretical advances from social and behavioral science research agendas
Authors: Ferguson Eamonn , France Christopher R. , Abraham Charles , Ditto Blaine , Sheeran Paschal
Published: August 2007

BACKGROUND: Increasing blood donor recruitment and retention is of key importance to transfusion services. Research within the social and behavioral science traditions has adopted separate but complementary approaches to addressing these issues. This article aims to review both of these types of literature, examine theoretical developments, identify commonalities, and offer a means to integrate these within a single intervention approach.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The social and behavioral science literature on blood donor recruitment and retention focusing on theory, interventions, and integration is reviewed.

RESULTS: The role of emotional regulation (anticipated anxiety and vasovagal reactions) is central to both the behavioral and the social science approaches to enhancing donor motivation, yet although intentions are the best predictor of donor behavior, interventions targeting enactment of intentions have not been used to increase donation. Implementation intentions (that is, if‐then plans formed in advance of acting) provide a useful technique to integrate findings from social and behavioral sciences to increase donor recruitment and retention.

CONCLUSION: After reviewing the literature, implementation intention formation is proposed as a technique to integrate the key findings and theories from the behavioral and social science literature on blood donor recruitment and retention.
A multi–Chinese blood center study testing serologic‐negative donor samples for hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus with nucleic acid testing
Authors: Shan Hua , Ren Fu‐rong , Zhao Hai‐yan , Zhang Yuan‐zhi , Wen Guo‐xing , Yao Fu‐zhu , Gao Guo‐jing , Yan Li‐xing , Jiang Chao‐fu , Bai Xu‐hua , Tiemuer Mei‐hei‐li , Tu Yuan‐quan , Zhu Fa‐ming , Zheng You‐rong , Cui Li , Liu Chang‐li , Gong Xiao‐yan , Lv Qiu‐shuang , Zheng Peng , Ziermann Rainer , Ness Paul , Wang Jing‐xing
Published: August 2007

BACKGROUND: A multi–blood center study was conducted to evaluate a human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) multiplex nucleic acid testing (NAT) donor screening test and to determine the residual risk for HIV‐1 and HCV infection.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A commercially available HIV‐1 and HCV assay (Procleix, Chiron Corp.) was used for simultaneous detection of HIV‐1 RNA and HCV RNA on 89,647 unlinked donor samples. NAT was performed with pools of 16 samples that had passed all routine screening tests. Single‐donor NAT was performed for samples that had been disqualified by any reactive screening test result(s). Anti‐HCV (Ortho third‐generation HCV enzyme immunoassay [EIA]), alanine aminotransferase, and HCV NAT (Roche COBAS Amplicor HCV test) confirmatory tests were used for HCV EIA–nonreactive, HCV NAT–reactive samples.

RESULTS: Three HCV NAT yield cases and no HIV‐1 yield cases were detected. The yield rate for HCV NAT was 3.4 per 105 (95 percent confidence interval [CI], 0.7‐9.8). The estimated incidence rate for HCV is 24.2 per 100,000 person‐years (95% CI, 3.4‐88.0). If minipool NAT is added to routine donor screening, the residual risk for HCV is estimated to be reduced to 1 in 20.4 × 104 (95% CI, 1 in 5.2 × 104‐1 in 165.5 × 104).

CONCLUSION: The residual risk for transfusion‐transmitted HCV infection is still relatively high in China. Incorporating NAT technology into blood donor screening would be estimated to reduce the residual risk of HCV infections eightfold over current EIA screening.
Modeling red cell procurement with both double‐red‐cell and whole‐blood collection and the impact of European travel deferral on units available for transfusion
Authors: Madden Erin , Murphy Edward L. , Custer Brian
Published: August 2007

BACKGROUND: In 1997 the FDA approved the first double‐red‐blood‐cell (2RBC) collection device. Soon after, travel deferral for variant Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (vCJD) risk was adopted. To show the importance of including 2RBCs in predictive models of the blood supply, an existing whole‐blood (WB) model was updated to include 2RBC collection and then run to simulate the effect of vCJD deferral on total RBC availability.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The model simulates donation of allogeneic WB and 2RBCs, with donors stratified into eight age and sex groups. The model was updated with 2003 donation and economic data from 16 blood centers.

RESULTS: The distribution of donations by demographic group differed both within and between WB and 2RBCs. Overall, 2RBC donation made up 24 percent of transfusable RBC units, at a lower per‐unit acquisition cost from both the blood bank and the societal perspectives. Component fees from hospitals would alter this interpretation. The model predicts that vCJD travel deferral led to a 3.3 percent (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.3‐4.1) decrease in the total number of RBC units, which was more than offset by 2RBC collection, resulting in a 10.4 percent (95% CI, 9.8%‐11.1%) net increase in RBC units. Modeled 2RBC results match operational records, whereas vCJD deferral is overestimated.

CONCLUSION: Shifting to 2RBC collection led to a substantial gain in available RBCs: even with policies that adversely affect the quantity of RBCs in the supply, 2RBC collection results in a net gain. The economics of 2RBC collection are not as clear, however.
Efficacy and Safety of Absorbable Metallic Stents with Adjunct Intracoronary Beta Radiation in Porcine Coronary Arteries
Authors: WAKSMAN RON , PAKALA RAJBABU , OKABE TERUO , HELLINGA DAVID , CHAN ROSANNA , TIO MIN O. , WITTCHOW ERIC , HARTWIG SONJA , WALDMANN KARL‐HEINZ , HARDER CLAUS
Published: August 2007

Background:
Absorbable metallic stents (AMS) utilizing Mg alloy carry advantages over permanent metallic stents because of their potential to eliminate stent thrombosis, chronic inflammation, or artifacts with noninvasive imaging. These stents, however, are associated with a modest degree of late recoil and intimal hyperplasia. The aim of the study was to test whether adjunct vascular brachytherapy (VBT) compared to AMS alone can overcome these limitations.

Methods:
Juvenile domestic pig coronary arteries underwent implantation of either AMS (n = 11) with prior adjunct VBT utilizing Sr/Y‐90 β source seeds, with a dose of 24 Gy at 2 mm from the source, or AMS alone (n = 11). At 28 days following intravascular ultrasound, vessels were harvested and analyzed by histomorphometry.

Results:
Intravascular ultrasound analysis indicated that at follow‐up, though statistically not significant, lumen and stent areas in the segments deployed with AMS following radiation were larger than those deployed with AMS alone (3.94 ± 1.38 and 3.53 ± 1.75 vs. 2.99 ± 1.05 and 3.58 ± 1.48). Extrastent plaque and intrastent plaque areas in the same segments were smaller (2.76 ± 0.82 and 0.24 ± 0.47 vs. 3.25 ± 1.94 and 0.58 ± 0.81). Morphometric data indicate that vessels in the VBT + AMS group showed characteristics of delayed healing and re‐endothelialization. Neointimal area was significantly lower in the VBT + AMS group (0.49 ± 0.34) compared to AMS (1.3 ± 0.62, P = 0.001). Lumen area of the VBT + AMS was larger when compared with AMS alone (2.49 ± 0.82 vs. 1.75 ± 0.51, P = 0.02).

Conclusion:
VBT as an adjunct to AMS further reduces the intimal hyperplasia and improves the lumen area when compared to AMS alone but does not have any impact on late recoil.
The Minimum Capture Proportion for Reliable Estimation in Capture–Recapture Models
Authors: Xi Liqun , Watson Ray , Yip Paul S. F.
Published: August 2007

Summary We derive estimates of the minimum capture proportion required to obtain a reliable estimate of the population size for several continuous and discrete‐time capture–recapture models. The models considered are , and in the notation of Otis et al., (1978, Wildlife Monograph62, 1–135). Numerical results with simulation studies are given, and two real examples for the model are also considered. Potential applications of these results are suggested.
Characteristics of High‐Q Microwave Dielectric Ceramics Nd(Co1/2Ti1/2)O3 With CuO Addition
Authors: Huang Cheng‐Liang , Tseng Ching‐Fang
Published: August 2007

We report the microwave dielectric properties and the microstructures of Nd(Co1/2Ti1/2)O3 ceramics prepared by the conventional solid‐state route. The prepared Nd(Co1/2Ti1/2)O3 exhibits a mixture of Co and Ti showing a 1:1 order in the B site. Lowering the sintering temperature (as low as 1260°C) and promoting the densification of Nd(Co1/2Ti1/2)O3 ceramics could be effectively achieved by adding CuO (up to 0.75 wt%). At 1350°C, Nd(Co1/2Ti1/2)O3 ceramics with 0.5 wt% CuO addition possess a dielectric constant (ɛr) of 27.6, a Q×f value of 165 000 GHz (at 9 GHz), and a temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf) of −20 ppm/°C. By comparing with pure Nd(Co1/2Ti1/2)O3 ceramics, incorporating additional CuO helps to render a dielectric material with a higher dielectric constant, a smaller τf value, and a 20% dielectric loss reduction, which makes it a very promising candidate for applications requiring low microwave dielectric loss.
Electrical Properties of Superlattice‐Structured Bi4Ti3O12–PbBi4Ti4O15 Single Crystals
Authors: Ikezaki M. , Noguchi Y. , Miyayama M.
Published: August 2007

Single crystals of superlattice‐structured ferroelectrics composed of Bi4Ti3O12 and PbBi4Ti4O15 were grown and the properties of polarization hysteresis and leakage current along the a‐axis were investigated. Oxidation treatment led to a marked increase in leakage current at room temperature, showing that electron hole acts as a detrimental carrier for electrical conduction. A well‐developed polarization hysteresis with a remanent polarization of 41 μC/cm2 was observed, which is suggested to originate from the peculiar ferroelectric displacement of Bi in the Bi2O2 layers.
Hydrothermal Synthesis and Photoluminescence Properties of La2−xEuxSn2O7 (x=0–2.0) Nanocrystals
Authors: Zhu Hongliang , Yang Deren , Zhu Luming , Li Dongsheng , Chen Peihong , Yu Guixia
Published: August 2007

This work presents the hydrothermal synthesis and photoluminescence (PL) properties of La2−xEuxSn2O7 (x=0–2.0) nanocrystals. The complex stannates with different La/Eu ratios ranging between La2Sn2O7 and Eu2Sn2O7 have been synthesized and characterized with respect to crystal structure, particle size and crystal morphology, and PL properties using x‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and PL spectroscopy. XRD and TEM results reveal that all the products are single‐phase cubic pyrochlore‐type La2−xEuxSn2O7 nanocrystals with a diameter of 20 nm. Furthermore, PL spectra of the La2−xEuxSn2O7 (x=0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2.0) nanocrystals showed three intense and prevailing emission peaks located at 587, 593, and 598 nm belonging to the

magnetic dipole transition.
Structural and Dielectric Characteristics in a Ca(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–CaZrO3 System
Authors: Lee Chun‐Te , Huang Chi‐Yuen , Lin Yi‐Chang , Yang Jacky , Lee Ying‐Chieh
Published: August 2007

This study investigates the effect of CaZrO3 (CZ) substitution on the evolution of an ordered structure in a Ca(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 (CMN) system using Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray diffractometry, and transmission electron microscopy. It indicates that a (1−x) CMN−(x)CZ solid solution has the 1:2 and 1:1 ordered structure distorted by the antiphase, the inphase tilting of oxygen octahedra, and the antiparallel shift of A‐site cation. A distinct correlation is noted between the transition of the ordered structure and microwave dielectric properties. The differences in ɛr and τf are attributed exclusively to the differences in the type of cation arrangement. The structure with the 1:2 ordering exhibits a lower relative permittivity and a more negative τf than the structure with the 1:1 ordering. The increased fraction of compressed Nb–O bond in the 1:2 ordered structure associated with a large NbO6 octahedral distortion is correlated with a decrease in relative permittivity and change of τf toward more negative values. Simultaneously, the substitution of the Zr4+ ion causes a linear increase in polarizability, and it also results in an increase in the relative permittivity.
Preparation of ZnS Nanofibers Via Electrospinning
Authors: Lin Dandan , Wu Hui , Zhang Rui , Pan Wei
Published: August 2007

Using an electrospinning technique coupled with a thermal treatment approach, ZnS nanofibers have been prepared by sulfurizing the electrospun ZnO nanofibers (as a template) at 500°C in an H2S atmosphere. The ZnS nanofibers, with a zinc‐blende structure, were found to be rough and uneven, which was considered to be correlated with the processing conditions. Band gap characteristic peaks mainly centered at 390 and 445 nm have been observed, corresponding to the purple and blue emission, respectively. The method demonstrated here could be a general approach of fabricating other one‐dimensional‐nanostructured sulfides for potential applications in nanoscale devices.
Recommendations for Toxicological Investigation of Drug Impaired Driving*
Authors: Farrell Laurel J. , Kerrigan Sarah , Logan Barry K.
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  Investigation of a suspected alcohol or drug impaired driving (DUID) case ideally contains several key elements, including a trained officer documenting observations of driving and subject behavior, and collection of a biological specimen for comprehensive toxicology testing. There is currently no common standard of practice among forensic toxicology laboratories in the United States as to which drugs should be tested for, and at what analytical cutoff. Having some uniformity of practice among laboratories would ensure that drugs most frequently associated with driving impairment were consistently evaluated, that appropriate methods were used to screen and confirm the presence of drugs, and that more accurate data were collected on the extent of drug use among drivers. A survey of United States laboratories actively involved in providing analytical support to the Drug Evaluation and Classification Program identified marijuana, benzodiazepines, cocaine, prescription and illicit opiates, muscle relaxants, amphetamines, CNS depressants, and sleep aids used as hypnotics, as being the most frequently encountered drugs in these cases. This manuscript presents recommendations as to what specific members of these drug classes should at a minimum be tested for in the investigation of suspected DUID cases. Additionally we include recommendations for analytical cutoffs for screening and confirmation of drugs in blood and urine. Adopting these guidelines would ensure that the most common drugs would be detected, that laboratories could compare epidemiological findings between jurisdictions, and that aggregate national statistics on alcohol and drug use in drivers involved in fatal injury collisions were representative of the true rates of drug use in the driving population.