bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of thermal stress indexes for dairy cows in tropical regions
Authors: Silva Roberto Gomes da , Morais Débora Andréa Evangelista Façanha , Guilhermino Magda Maria
Published: September 2007

Data from 359 Holstein and 54 Jersey cows (total of 1359 observations) collected in commercial herds in the northeast of Brazil were used to evaluate six environmental stress indexes. The selection criterion was the correlation between the index value with the rectal temperature (RT) and the respiratory rate (RR) of cows. Both Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) and Black Globe-Humidity Index (BGHI) had the lowest correlations with animal RT and RR. The selected indexes were the Equivalent Temperature Index (r = 0.293 and 0.520 with RT and RR, respectively) and the Heat Load Index (0.286 and 0.542, respectively).
Deposição de ácido linoléico conjugado (CLA) em tilápias-do-nilo
Authors: Santos Lilian Dena dos , Furuya Wilson Massamitu , Matsushita Makoto , Silva Lilian Carolina Rosa da , Silva Tarcila Souza de Castro , Botaro Daniele , Sales Priscila Pinsetta
Published: September 2007

Objetivou-se avaliar a deposição de ácido linoléico conjugado (CLA) em filés de tilápia-do-nilo (Oreochromis niloticus). Foram utilizados peixes com 121,08 ± 8,48 g, distribuídos em quatro caixas de cimento amianto (1,0 m³ cada uma) e arraçoados até saciedade aparente, duas vezes ao dia, durante 49 dias. Como alimento, utilizou-se ração comercial extrusada com 28% de PB e 3.000 kcal de energia digestível/kg, acrescida de 2% do produto comercial Luta-CLAâ (BASF Brasil). No início do experimento, cinco peixes foram coletados aleatoriamente como amostra controle (sem CLA). A cada sete dias, dois peixes de cada caixa foram coletados, pesados e filetados para determinação da taxa de deposição de CLA nos filés. As amostras de filés foram estocadas a -24ºC para análise do teor de lipídios totais e do perfil de ácidos graxos. A taxa de deposição de CLA foi determinada pela função de Gompertz (y = a . exp{-b . exp[-kt]}). O meio-tempo (T) para deposição de 50% do CLA foi estimado pela equação T = ln2/k, em que: T representa o meio-tempo; ln, o logaritmo Neperiano e k, a unidade de tempo que fornece a "velocidade" de deposição do CLA no tecido muscular da tilápia-do-nilo. A deposição máxima de CLA nos lipídios totais do filé de tilápias-do-nilo estimada pela função de Gompertz foi de 1,61 g/100 g de lipídios do filé. O meio-tempo de deposição de CLA nos lipídios do filé ocorre com 6,86 dias.
Efeitos da seleção para peso pós-desmame sobre características de carcaça e rendimento de cortes cárneos comerciais de bovinos
Authors: Bonilha Sarah Figueiredo Martins , Packer Irineu Umberto , Figueiredo Leopoldo Andrade de , Alleoni Guilherme Fernando , Resende Flávio Dutra de , Razook Alexander George
Published: September 2007

Foram avaliados os efeitos da seleção para peso pós-desmame sobre características de carcaça e rendimento de cortes cárneos comerciais de 44 bovinos machos não-castrados selecionados ou não para peso aos 378 dias, nascidos em 1999, Foram utilizados animais dos grupos genéticos Nelore Seleção (NeS), Nelore Controle (NeC) e Caracu Seleção (Ca). Os animais foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em duas categorias experimentais: grupo de alimentação restrita (AR) e grupo de alimentação ad libitum (AL). Em ambas as categorias, foram alocados oito animais dos grupos genéticos NeS e Ca e seis animais do grupo NeC. O período experimental foi determinado pelo tempo de acabamento dos animais, ou seja, quando atingiram, no mínimo, 4 mm de espessura de gordura subcutânea, avaliada por ultra-som, sobre o músculo Longissimus dorsi, na posição entre a 12ª e 13ª costelas. Em cada grupo genético, à medida que o acabamento preconizado para cada animal da categoria AL foi atingido, o animal da categoria AR mais semelhante quanto ao peso e à condição corporal no início do experimento foi também abatido. O efeito do grupo genético foi significativo para a maioria das características estudadas, porém, não houve interação significativa entre grupos genéticos e regimes alimentares. Os animais Ca e NeS tiveram maiores pesos de abate, sendo que animais Ca necessitaram de mais tempo de confinamento para atingirem o ponto de acabamento preconizado. O maior peso de abate desses animais também influenciou outras características correlacionadas, como pesos de carcaça, traseiro, dianteiro e ponta-de-agulha. A seleção para peso aumentou os pesos de abate, de carcaça e dos cortes primários. Os animais NeS apresentaram carne menos macia, mas ainda dentro dos padrões de maciez considerados satisfatórios (força de cisalhamento abaixo de 5 kgf).
Valores genéticos para as produções de leite do dia do controle e da lactação na raça Holandesa com diferentes modelos estatísticos
Authors: Melo Cláudio Manoel Rodrigues de , Packer Irineu Umberto , Costa Claudio Napolis , Machado Paulo Fernando , Patrício Mateus
Published: September 2007

Foram utilizados 263.390 registros de produção de leite do dia do controle (PDC) de 32.448 primeiras lactações de vacas da raça Holandesa paridas no período de 1991 a 2001 para predizer valores genéticos usando diferentes modelos estatísticos e a metodologia REML. Valores genéticos estimados utilizando-se três modelos de regressão aleatória (MRA) foram comparados àqueles estimados utilizando-se um modelo de repetibilidade (MRF) e um modelo para produção até 305 dias (P305). Nos modelos de regressão aleatória, duas curvas foram utilizadas para descrever a trajetória da lactação: a polinomial logarítmica (AS) e a exponencial (W), sob duas formas: padrão e com uma modificação para reduzir a amplitude das covariáveis e contornar problemas de convergência (W*). As covariâncias requeridas foram estimadas em análises prévias utilizando-se as mesmas funções de covariância e mesmos modelos. Os desvios-padrão (DP) das estimativas de valores genéticos (EVG) para touros foram similares para os MRA com as curvas AS, W* e MRF. Os desvios-padrão das estimativas de valores genéticos para vacas e touros foram maiores nos modelos para ajuste das PDC que naquele para ajuste da P305. A magnitude das diferenças dos desvios-padrão entre modelos dependeu do número de controle, no caso de vacas, e do número de filhas, no caso de touros. Os desvios-padrão para o modelo W foram maiores, contudo, problemas de convergência ocorreram na fase de estimação dos componentes de covariância, o que exige cautela na interpretação dos resultados deste modelo. As correlações das estimativas de valores genéticos de touros preditas com os modelos testados aumentaram com o aumento no número de progênies e variaram de 0,66 (P305-W) a 0,92 (P305-AS, P305-W*). A tendência genética foi maior para os MRA e menor para MRF em comparação a P305. Os MRA possibilitam mais informações sobre as EVG que MRF por possibilitarem avaliação genética para persistência da produção de leite na lactação. Os resultados indicam o MRA com a curva de AS como o melhor modelo de ajuste das PDC alternativamente ao ajuste da P305 para avaliação genética dos animais da raça Holandesa no Brasil.
Estudo de simulação de modelos lineares mistos com distribuição normal contaminada no melhoramento genético animal
Authors: Pereira Idalmo Garcia , Oliveira Henrique Nunes de , Rosa Guilherme Jordão de Magalhães
Published: September 2007

Objetivou-se com esse trabalho comparar estimativas de componentes de variâncias obtidas por meio de modelos lineares mistos Gaussianos e Robustos, via Amostrador de Gibbs, em dados simulados. Foram simulados 50 arquivos de dados com 1.000 animais cada um, distribuídos em cinco gerações, em dois níveis de efeito fixo e três valores fenotípicos distintos para uma característica hipotética, com diferentes níveis de contaminação. Exceto para os dados sem contaminação, quando os modelos foram iguais, o modelo Robusto apresentou melhores estimativas da variância residual. As estimativas de herdabilidade foram semelhantes em todos os modelos, mas as análises de regressão mostraram que os valores genéticos preditos com uso do modelo Robusto foram mais próximos dos valores genéticos verdadeiros. Esses resultados sugerem que o modelo linear normal contaminado oferece uma alternativa flexível para estimação robusta em melhoramento genético animal.
Exigências de triptofano e padrão de recuperação do desempenho de poedeiras comerciais após alimentação com rações deficientes em triptofano
Authors: Deponti Bruno José , Faria Douglas Emygdio de , Faria Filho Daniel Emygdio de , Rombola Luiz Gustavo , Araujo Lúcio Francelino , Junqueira Otto Mack
Published: September 2007

Este experimento foi conduzido para avaliar as exigências de triptofano e o padrão de recuperação do desempenho de poedeiras alimentadas com rações deficientes em triptofano. Foram utilizadas 160 poedeiras comerciais da linhagem Hisex White distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado com cinco níveis de triptofano nas dietas (0,13; 0,15; 0,17; 0,19 e 0,21%), com oito repetições de quatro aves. As poedeiras permaneceram por duas semanas em adaptação (51 a 52 semanas), por seis semanas para avaliação da exigência de triptofano (53 a 58 semanas) e por quatro semanas para determinação do padrão de recuperação do desempenho (59 a 62 semanas). A produção e a massa de ovos foram prejudicadas quando as poedeiras foram alimentadas com rações contendo 0,13% de triptofano, no entanto, o desempenho foi recuperado após uma semana de alimentação com ração contendo 0,21% desse aminoácido. A qualidade interna dos ovos não foi influenciada pelos níveis de triptofano estudados (ingestão de 137,1 a 228,0 mg triptofano/dia). As exigências de triptofano foram estabelecidas entre 161 e 188 mg/dia, dependendo da característica avaliada (produção ou massa de ovos) e do modelo de regressão aplicado (polinomial, exponencial ou segmentado).
Utilização da raspa integral de mandioca na alimentação de coelhos
Authors: Michelan Andrea Cristiane , Scapinello Cláudio , Furlan Antonio Claudio , Martins Elias Nunes , Faria Haroldo Garcia de , Andreazzi Márcia Aparecida
Published: September 2007

Dois experimentos foram conduzidos com o objetivo de avaliar a utilização da raspa integral de mandioca (RIM) para coelhos em crescimento. No ensaio de digestibilidade, foram utilizados 22 coelhos com 50 dias de idade, distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com dois tratamentos e 11 repetições. Foram utilizadas duas rações, uma ração-referência e uma teste, na qual a RIM substituiu 25% da MS da ração-referência. Os teores digestíveis de MS, PB, FDN, FDA, energia e amido (% MS) foram, respectivamente, de 83,84; 1,89; 8,34 e 3,31%; 3.447 kcal/kg e 55,35%. No ensaio de desempenho, foram utilizados 180 coelhos no período de 35 a 70 dias de idade. Os coelhos foram distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado com seis tratamentos (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 e 100% de RIM em substituição à energia digestível do milho) e 15 repetições de dois animais por unidade experimental. No período de 35 a 50 dias de idade, houve efeito quadrático do fornecimento de RIM na dieta sobre a conversão alimentar. No período de 35 a 70 dias de idade, houve também efeito quadrático sobre o PV aos 70 dias, o ganho de peso diário, a conversão alimentar e o custo de ração/kg de ganho de PV. Efeito quadrático também foi observado para o peso da carcaça. Nos períodos de 35 a 50 e de 35 a 70 dias de idade, a conversão alimentar dos animais alimentados com as dietas com 20 e 100% de substituição do milho pela raspa de mandioca foi melhor em comparação à dos demais animais. A raspa integral de mandioca pode ser incorporada a rações para coelhos em crescimento em até 27,32% em substituição a 100% da energia digestível do milho.
Níveis de metionina + cistina total para frangos de corte de 22 a 42 dias de idade mantidos em ambiente termoneutro
Authors: Oliveira Neto Adhemar Rodrigues de , Oliveira Rita Flávia Miranda de , Donzele Juarez Lopes , Barreto Sergio Luiz de Toledo , Vaz Roberta Gomes Marçal Vieira , Gasparino Eliane
Published: September 2007

O experimento foi realizado para determinar a exigência de metionina + cistina (met + cis) para frangos de corte dos 22 aos 42 dias de idade mantidos em ambiente termoneutro (23,5ºC). Foram utilizados 240 frangos de corte machos Avian Farms, com peso médio inicial de 827 g, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com cinco níveis de met + cist (0,659; 0,704; 0,750; 0,796 e 0,841%), seis repetições e oito aves por unidade experimental. O aumento do nível de met + cis influenciou positivamente a conversão alimentar (CA), o consumo de met + cis, o peso absoluto da coxa e o peso relativo da sobrecoxa. Não foi verificado efeito dos níveis de met + cis sobre o peso final, o ganho de peso, o consumo de ração, os pesos absoluto e relativo do peito, da carcaça e da gordura abdominal, o peso absoluto da sobrecoxa e o peso relativo da coxa, assim como para os pesos absolutos e relativos dos órgãos (coração, fígado, moela, proventrículo, pulmão e intestinos). O nível de 0,727% de met + cis total (0,661% met + cis digestível), correspondente à relação met + cis/lis total de 70% (72% para lis digestível), proporcionou melhor conversão alimentar em frangos de corte mantidos em ambiente termoneutro.
Avaliação de métodos de amostragem qualitativa em pastagens tropicais manejadas em sistema rotacionado
Authors: Lista Fábio Nunes , Silva José Fernando Coelho da , Vásquez Hernán Maldonado , Detmann Edenio , Domingues Felipe Nogueira , Ferolla Fernando Silveira
Published: September 2007

Objetivou-se avaliar comparativamente a composição química, a digestibilidade in vitro e a degradabilidade dos carboidratos de amostras de capim-elefante (Pennisetum purpureum Schum, cv. Napier) e capim-mombaça (Panicum maximum, Jacq. cv. Mombaça) obtidas por extrusa esofágica e por simulação manual de pastejo. O capim-elefante apresentou os maiores teores de MS, PB e nitrogênio não-protéico. A composição do capim-mombaça sofreu variações conforme aumentaram os dias de pastejo, principalmente quanto aos teores de MS e nitrogênio. A fração potencialmente degradável dos carboidratos diferiu entre as metodologias de avaliação. Não foram observadas diferenças entre as forrageiras quanto à cinética de degradação dos carboidratos.
The Effect of Multiple‐Dose, Oral Rifaximin on the Pharmacokinetics of Intravenous and Oral Midazolam in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Pentikis Helen S. , Connolly Margaret , Trapnell Carol B. , Forbes William P. , Bettenhausen Doug K.
Published: September 2007

Study Objective. To evaluate the potential of rifaximin, an oral nonabsorbed (< 0.4%) structural analog of rifampin, to induce human hepatic and/or intestinal cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A enzymes, with use of a known CYP3A probe, midazolam.

Design. Prospective, randomized, open‐label, two‐period, crossover study.

Setting. Clinical research center.

Subjects. Twenty‐seven healthy adult volunteers.

Intervention. During the first treatment period, subjects received a single dose of either intravenous midazolam 2 mg over 30 minutes or oral midazolam 6 mg on day 0. From days 3–10, they received rifaximin 200 mg every 8 hours. On days 6 (after the 9th dose of rifaximin) and 10 (after the 21st dose of rifaximin), subjects received a concomitant single dose of intravenous or oral midazolam. After a 15‐day washout period, subjects were crossed over to the other formulation of midazolam, and the treatment schedule was repeated, with the second treatment period starting on day 26 and single‐dose administration of midazolam on days 26, 32, and 36. Serial plasma samples were collected for pharmacokinetic analyses.

Measurements and Main Results. The pharmacokinetic parameters of single‐dose intravenous or oral midazolam were determined alone and after coadministration of rifaximin for 3 and 7 days. Rifaximin coadministration did not alter the measured pharmacokinetic parameters for midazolam or its major metabolite, 1′‐hydroxymidazolam. The 90% confidence intervals for the maximum concentration and area under the concentration‐time curve from time zero extrapolated to infinity (bioavailability) were all within 80–125% for intravenous and oral midazolam. Therefore, no drug interaction was observed between rifaximin and midazolam. Coadministration of midazolam and rifaximin was well tolerated.

Conclusion. Overall, 3–7 days of rifaximin 200 mg 3 times/day did not alter single‐dose midazolam pharmacokinetics. Rifaximin also does not appear to induce intestinal or hepatic CYP3A activity.
Blood Management: A Primer for Clinicians
Authors: Boucher Bradley A. , Hannon Timothy J.
Published: September 2007

Blood transfusions are common in the hospital setting. Despite the large commitment of resources to the delivery of blood components, many clinicians have only a vague understanding of the complexities associated with blood management and transfusion therapy. The purpose of this primer is to broaden the awareness of health care practitioners in terms of the risks versus benefits of blood transfusions, their economics, and alternative treatments. By developing and implementing comprehensive blood management programs, hospitals can promote safe and clinically effective blood utilization practices. The cornerstones of blood management programs are the implementation of evidence‐based transfusion guidelines to reduce variability in transfusion practice, and the employment of multidisciplinary teams to study, implement, and monitor local blood management strategies. Pharmacists can play a key role in blood management programs by providing technical expertise as well as oversight and monitoring of pharmaceutical agents used to reduce the need for allogeneic blood.
Interference with Smoking‐Cessation Effects of Varenicline After Administration of Immediate‐Release Amphetamine‐Dextroamphetamine
Authors: Whitley Heather P. , Moorman Krystal L.
Published: September 2007

An 18‐year‐old man with attention‐deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was prescribed varenicline for smoking cessation. He quit smoking after 1 week of therapy and remained smoke free for the next 17 days. During that time, he had also been taking amphetamine‐dextroamphetamine (Adderall) on work days for his ADHD. Because his supply of amphetamine‐dextroamphetamine was diminishing, he took only half (30 mg every morning) of his prescribed dosage from days 4–12 of varenicline therapy. He further reduced his dosage to 15 mg every morning on days 13 and 14 of varenicline therapy, and his supply of amphetamine‐dextroamphetamine was depleted on day 15. On day 23 of varenicline therapy, he received and filled a new prescription for amphetamine‐dextroamphetamine and resumed his prescribed dosage (30 mg twice/day). He began smoking again within 48 hours. Rechallenge with varenicline while the patient continued to receive amphetamine‐dextroamphetamine yielded similar results. Data suggest that addition of amphetamine to varenicline may negate the partial agonism of varenicline, resulting in elimination of the smoking‐cessation aid's benefits. Other potential mechanisms for the drug interaction may also exist. Thus, varenicline may not aid smoking cessation in patients undergoing treatment with amphetamine and amphetamine‐like drugs.
Pulmonary Sarcoidosis Associated with Etanercept Therapy
Authors: Farah Raymond E. , Shay Moshe D.
Published: September 2007

We present a case of probable pulmonary sarcoidosis associated with the use of etanercept for psoriatic arthritis. Other cases of etanercept‐induced granulomas and skin sarcoidosis were recently published in the medical literature, but we found only one case that involved lung sarcoidosis during etanercept therapy. We describe a 40‐year‐old man who was receiving etanercept for severe psoriatic arthritis and was admitted to the hospital with dyspnea and subfebrile illness several months after the start of treatment. His diagnosis was consistent exclusively with sarcoidosis. The patient's symptoms improved when etanercept was discontinued, but they did not resolve completely. Treatment with prednisone 40 mg led to complete improvement of his pulmonary disease. Etanercept therapy can induce or exacerbate sarcoidosis. The disease disappears when etanercept is discontinued, although treatment with corticosteroids is sometimes required, as in our patient. Use of the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale revealed a probable likelihood (score of 6) that the adverse reaction was related to etanercept. The association of etanercept with sarcoidosis is still a rare finding. This case highlights the importance of monitoring and possibly discontinuing the drug when sarcoidosis is suspected. Patients should be monitored during and after etanercept therapy for manifestations suggesting sarcoidosis, and we recommend patients receive baseline chest radiography at the start of therapy with follow‐up of respiratory symptoms.
Is the Frequency of Carisoprodol Withdrawal Syndrome Increasing?
Authors: Reeves Roy R. , Hammer Jeffrey S. , Pendarvis Richard O.
Published: September 2007

Carisoprodol is a commonly used centrally acting muscle relaxant. A number of case reports have suggested that the drug may have abuse potential, presumably because it is metabolized to the anxiolytic drug, meprobamate, which is a controlled substance at the federal level. Two recent case reports described symptoms of withdrawal after the cessation of carisoprodol. We present two additional cases that support the concept of a withdrawal syndrome with this drug. Symptoms of carisoprodol withdrawal include anxiety, tremulousness, insomnia, jitteriness, muscle twitching, and hallucinations. These symptoms are most likely caused by withdrawal from the meprobamate that accumulates after large amounts of carisoprodol are ingested. Although carisoprodol is not a controlled substance at the federal level, clinicians should be aware of its significant potential for abuse.
Prevalence, Consequences, and Solutions
Authors: Maki Dennis G. , Safdar Nasia , Ebert Steven C.
Published: September 2007

Since the early development of antibiotics, antimicrobial resistance has continued to emerge as a formidable adversary in the fight against infectious disease. Once an issue confined to hospitals, antibiotic resistance has now invaded communities, targeting not only the immunocompromised patient, but also those who are immunocompetent. To stem this crisis, researchers have developed more powerful and more costly antibiotics, which have only complicated the resistance problem. Education of the patient and the prescriber, as well as antimicrobial stewardship programs, are necessary to avert a global antibiotic resistance catastrophe.
Invited Paper: Surface‐emitting‐diode lasers and laser arrays for displays
Authors: Mooradian Aram , Carey Glen , Carico Renata , Dato Rene , Dudley James , Giaretta Giorgio , Hallstein Sascha , Hofler Jurgen , Hu Frank , Jansen Mitch , Kocot Christopher , Krueger Joachim , Lim Sui , McKinnon Neil , Niven Greg , Okuno Yae , Tandon Ashish , Umbrasas Arvydas
Published: September 2007

Abstract— High‐power red, green, and blue laser light sources made from vertically emitting arrays of intracavity doubled IR lasers is reported. The emitted infrared light from a monolithic array of large‐aperture vertical cavity lasers is converted into visible light using a PPLN doubling crystal in an external cavity. A volume Bragg grating provides simultaneous feedback for all emitters in the array and sets the laser wavelength. Increased diffraction losses for higher‐order modes result in quasi‐Gaussian beams with excellent conversion efficiency. Green 532‐nm lasers with more than 5.8‐W visible power have been demonstrated at a base temperature of 40°C. Blue 465‐nm lasers with 4.4‐W power at 40°C are unmatched in performance and wavelength when compared to competing GaN‐based edge emitters. Typical wall‐plug efficiencies are higher than 8%. We have measured single‐emitter operating lifetimes to be more than 28,000 hours. Red lasers based on highly strained InGaAs achieve record laser powers of 2.0W at 618 nm in the same form factor as the green and blue lasers. Red single‐emitter lifetimes of more than 10,000 hours have been attained. The technology described in this paper delivers on a full suite of cost efficient and reliable red, green, and blue lasers that meet the demands of the display markets.
Invited Paper: Super Hi‐Vision projection display for next‐generation TV
Authors: Kanazawa Masaru , Kusakabe Yuichi , Nojiri Yuji , Haino Yasuyuki , Sato Masahito , Doi Keiichirou
Published: September 2007

Abstract— For future broadcasting, NHK is studying new video services offering very‐high‐picture quality achieved through Super Hi‐Vision. Toward that aim, a projection display that has a resolution equivalent to 7680 × 4320 pixels by using four 4096 × 2160 D‐ILA™ panels has been developed. The display requires precise convergence adjustment because it consists of two projection units, so an automatic adjustment system was developed. Although the pixel number of the digital camera used is less than that of the display, a 0.2‐pixel accuracy was obtained. This report introduces theaters that use this display as an example of applying the Super Hi‐Vision video system.
The Missing Theory II: Further Musings on the Development of a New Zeitgeist for Clinical Psychology
Authors: Wynne Louis
Published: September 2007

Clinical adult psychology can be rejuvenated and liberated from its dependence on psychiatry by pursuing a new zeitgeist free of operationist thinking and the hypothetico-deductive analysis of its data. Such a new zeitgeist would emphasize the paramount importance of language in human behavior, as well as the cogency of an existential-theatrical approach that has its roots in the works of the 16th-century humanists rather than, as now, in the works of Newton and Descartes 100 years later.
The ADHD Epidemic in America
Authors: Stolzer J. M.
Published: September 2007

Over the last decade, ADHD diagnoses have reached epidemic proportions in the United States. Behaviors that were once considered normal range are now currently defined as pathological by those with a vested interest in promoting the widespread use of psychotropic drugs in child and adolescent populations. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most commonly diagnosed “mental illness” in children in the United States today, and approximately 99% of children diagnosed as ADHD are prescribed daily doses of methylphenidate in order to control undesirable behaviors. This article openly challenges the scientific validity and reliability of current ADHD assessment tools and questions the ethics involved in prescribing dangerous and addictive drugs to children. In addition, particular attention will be given to familial, political, economical, biological, ethological, historical, and evolutionary correlates as they relate to the myth of ADHD in America. The goal of this article is to offer a theoretically sound alternative to the current medical model and to challenge the existing ADHD paradigm that pathologizes historically documented, normal-range child behavioral patterns.
Psychiatry, Psychology, and Human Sterilization Then and Now: “Therapeutic” or in the Social Interest?
Authors: Dolan Deborah V.
Published: September 2007

Practitioners of psychiatry and psychology have played an important role in the sterilization of tens of thousands of Americans throughout the past century. This article examines a number of questions relating to the origin and continuation of sterilization as a treatment and preventive. What social and medical beliefs lead to the use of sterilization as a treatment and preventive for both the individual and society? What ills are being treated and prevented? Who becomes a candidate for sterilization? To what degree are ethical concerns raised, and what is the response to these concerns? And finally, Who is the client—the individual, potential children, or society?—and how do practitioners distinguish the interest of the individuals from that of their potential children and society?
Biocontrol of postharvest decay using a new strain of Pseudomonas syringae CPA-5 in different cultivars of pome fruits
Authors: NUNES C. , USALL J. , TEIXIDÓ N.
Published: September 2007

Epiphytic micro-organisms isolated from fruits and leaves surfaces of apples from different orchards were screened for antagonistic activity against Penicillium expansum. From all micro-organisms tested the new strain CPA-5 of Pseudomonas syringae, isolated from organic orchard, was selected. This strain was very effective against Botrytis cinerea, P. expansum and Rhizopus stolonifer at various antagonist and pathogen concentrations on Golden Delicious apple, and Blanquilla, Rocha and Conference pear. Under cold storage conditions and in semi-commercial trials P. syringae (CPA-5) significantly reduced development of P. expansum and B. cinerea on Golden Delicious apple, and Blanquilla and Rocha pears. Control of P. expansum equal to the fungicide imazalil was obtained with CPA-5 at 108cfu ml1 on Gold Delicious apple and Rocha pear. The populations of P. syringae CPA-5 increased more than 100-fold during the first 50 days, and then remained stable on apple, and slightly decreased on pears. This indicates the high capacity of this antagonist to colonize wound surfaces of pome fruits under cold storage conditions.;
Assessment of source water pathogen contamination
Authors: Dechesne Magali , Soyeux Emmanuel
Published: September 2007

During the last decade, the source to tap risk-based approach to pathogens in drinking water has been largely promoted. This paper addresses the issue of source water pathogen contamination, which is the first step of quantitative microbial risk assessment. It is focused on a selection of pathogens considered to be a major risk to human health. Source water quality is highly variable and understanding the reasons for this variability is important as it will influence the requirements for treatment, treatment efficiency and the resulting health risk associated with the finished water.

A framework for source water microbial quality assessment based on catchment surveys and monitoring programmes was set and tested on ten water sources. The monitoring programmes included faecal indicators and pathogens, during both baseline and hazardous event conditions. Concentrations varied greatly within and between systems. Faecal indicators were shown to be poor surrogates for pathogen presence and concentrations. There was no recurring evidence that the pathogens correlated together and links between microbial parameters appeared to be very site specific. Such variability between systems shows the importance of running local monitoring programs for use in risk assessment. Finally, pathogen detection methods are not yet optimal due to their sensitivity and to the lack of knowledge on viability and infectivity of pathogens. A great effort needs to be made in the future to ensure better quality data as this may have large implications in the statistical risk assessment calculations.
How can the UK statutory Cryptosporidium monitoring be used for Quantitative Risk Assessment of Cryptosporidium in drinking water?
Authors: Smeets P. W. M. H. , van Dijk J. C. , Stanfield G. , Rietveld L. C. , Medema G. J.
Published: September 2007

Quantitative Microbiological Risk Assessment (QMRA) is increasingly being used to complement traditional verification of drinking water safety through the absence of indicator bacteria. However, the full benefit of QMRA is often not achieved because of a lack of appropriate data on the fate and behaviour of pathogens. In the UK, statutory monitoring for Cryptosporidium has provided a unique dataset of pathogens directly measured in large volumes of treated drinking water. Using this data a QMRA was performed to determine the benefits and limitations of such state-of-the-art monitoring for risk assessment. Estimates of the risk of infection at the 216 assessed treatment sites ranged from 10−6.5 to 10−2.5 person−1 d−1. In addition, Cryptosporidium monitoring data in source water was collected at eight treatment sites to determine how Cryptosporidium removal could be quantified for QMRA purposes. Cryptosporidium removal varied from 1.8 to 5.2 log units and appeared to be related to source water Cryptosporidium concentration. Application of general removal credits can either over- or underestimate Cryptosporidium removal by full-scale sedimentation and filtration. State-of-the-art pathogen monitoring can identify poorly performing systems, although it is ineffective to verify drinking water safety to the level of 10-4 infections person−1 yr−1.
Estimation of the consumption of cold tap water for microbiological risk assessment: an overview of studies and statistical analysis of data
Authors: Mons M. N. , van der Wielen J. M. L. , Blokker E. J. M. , Sinclair M. I. , Hulshof K. F. A. M. , Dangendorf F. , Hunter P. R. , Medema G. J.
Published: September 2007

The volume of cold tap water consumed is an essential element in quantitative microbial risk assessment. This paper presents a review of tap water consumption studies. Study designs were evaluated and statistical distributions were fitted to water consumption data from The Netherlands, Great Britain, Germany and Australia. We conclude that the diary is to be preferred for collecting water consumption data. If a diary is not feasible, a 24 h recall would be the best alternative, preferably repeated at least once. From the studies evaluated, the mean daily consumption varies from 0.10 L to 1.55 L. No conclusions could be drawn regarding the effects of season, age and gender on tap water consumption. Physical activity, yearly income and perceived health status were reported to influence water consumption.

Comparison of the different statistical probability distribution functions of the datasets demonstrated that the Poisson distribution performed better than the lognormal distribution as suggested by Roseberry and Burmaster.

For quantitative microbiological risk assessment (QMRA) it is recommended to use country-specific consumption data and statistical distributions, if available. If no country specific data are available we recommend to use the Australian distribution data from the Melbourne diary study (Poisson, λ=3.49 glasses/d) as a conservative estimate.
Water pricing and full cost recovery of water services: economic incentive or instrument of public finance?
Authors: Massarutto Antonio
Published: September 2007

Neoclassical economists have advocated the use of pricing instruments as a fundamental tool for achieving sustainability of water systems and an efficient allocation of water resources. This idea has been accepted in worldwide agreed definitions of sustainability, where “full-cost recovery” is considered as a basic requirement. In this paper, we argue that water pricing (aiming at allocative objectives) and cost recovery can often be at odds, while prevalence of one or the other objective also depends on whether the main issue at stake is financing infrastructure development and maintenance, or rather allocating scarce water resources. Therefore, the two issues should be dealt with separately and require different approaches to pricing.
Uncertainty analysis at large scales: limitations and subjectivity of current practices - a water quality case study
Authors: Bijlsma R.M. , Groenendijk P. , Blind M.W. , Hoekstra A.Y.
Published: September 2007

Uncertainty analysis for large-scale model studies is a challenging activity that requires a different approach to uncertainty analysis at a smaller scale. However, in river basin studies, the practice of uncertainty analysis at a large scale is mostly derived from practice at a small scale. The limitations and inherent subjectivity of some current practices and assumptions are identified, based on the results of a quantitative uncertainty analysis exploring the effects of input data and parameter uncertainty on surface water nutrient concentration. We show that: (i) although the results from small- scale sensitivity analysis are often applied at larger scales, this is not always valid; (ii) the current restriction of the uncertainty assessment to uncertainty types with a strong evidence base gives structurally conservative estimates; (iii) uncertainty due to bias is usually not assessed, but it may easily outweigh the effects of variability; (iv) the uncertainty bandwidth may increase for higher aggregation levels, although the opposite is the standard assumption.
Comparative uncertainty analysis of copper loads in stormwater systems using GLUE and grey-box modeling
Authors: Lindblom E. , Madsen H. , Mikkelsen P.S.
Published: September 2007

In this paper two attempts to assess the uncertainty involved with model predictions of copper loads from stormwater systems are made. In the first attempt, the GLUE methodology is applied to derive model parameter sets that result in model outputs encompassing a significant number of the measurements. In the second attempt the conceptual model is reformulated to a grey-box model followed by parameter estimation. Given data from an extensive measurement campaign, the two methods suggest that the output of the stormwater pollution model is associated with significant uncertainty. With the proposed model and input data, the GLUE analysis show that the total sampled copper mass can be predicted within a range of ±50% of the median value (385 g), whereas the grey-box analysis showed a prediction uncertainty of less than ±30%. Future work will clarify the pros and cons of the two methods and furthermore explore to what extent the estimation can be improved by modifying the underlying accumulation-washout model.
Application of multivariable statistical techniques in plant-wide WWTP control strategies analysis
Authors: Flores X. , Comas J. , Roda I.R. , Jiménez L. , Gernaey K.V.
Published: September 2007

The main objective of this paper is to present the application of selected multivariable statistical techniques in plant-wide wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) control strategies analysis. In this study, cluster analysis (CA), principal component analysis/factor analysis (PCA/FA) and discriminant analysis (DA) are applied to the evaluation matrix data set obtained by simulation of several control strategies applied to the plant-wide IWA Benchmark Simulation Model No 2 (BSM2). These techniques allow i) to determine natural groups or clusters of control strategies with a similar behaviour, ii) to find and interpret hidden, complex and casual relation features in the data set and iii) to identify important discriminant variables within the groups found by the cluster analysis. This study illustrates the usefulness of multivariable statistical techniques for both analysis and interpretation of the complex multicriteria data sets and allows an improved use of information for effective evaluation of control strategies.
Solving the inverse problem for aggregation in activated sludge flocculation using a population balance framework
Authors: Nopens I. , Nere N. , Vanrolleghem P.A. , Ramkrishna D.
Published: September 2007

Many systems contain populations of individuals. Often, they are regarded as a lumped phase, which might, for some applications, lead to inadequate model predictive power. An alternative framework, Population Balance Models, has been used here to describe such a system, activated sludge flocculation in which particle size is the property one wants to model. An important problem to solve in population balance modelling is to determine the model structure that adequately describes experimentally obtained data on for instance, the time evolution of the floc size distribution. In this contribution, an alternative method based on solving the inverse problem is used to recover the model structure from the data. In this respect, the presence of similarity in the data simplifies the problem significantly. Similarity was found and the inverse problem could be solved. A forward simulation then confirmed the quality of the model structure to describe the experimental data.
Comparison of two wavelet-based tools for data mining of urban water networks time series
Authors: Villez K. , Pelletier G. , Rosén C. , Anctil F. , Duchesne C. , Vanrolleghem P.A.
Published: September 2007

In this paper, two approaches to data mining of time series have been tested and compared. Both methods are based on the wavelet decomposition of data series and allow the localization of important characteristics of a time series in both the time and frequency domain. The first method is a common method based on the analysis of wavelet power spectra. The second approach is new to the applied field of urban water networks and provides a qualitative description of the data series based on the cubic spline wavelet decomposition of the data. It is shown that wavelet power spectra indicate important and basic characteristics of the data but fail to provide detailed information of the underlying phenomena. In contrast, the second method allows the extraction of more and more detailed information that is important in a context of process monitoring and diagnosis
Model-based optimisation of the biological performance of a sidestream MBR
Authors: Nopens I. , Sin G. , Jiang T. , d'Antonio L. , Stama S. , Zhao J. , Vanrolleghem P.A.
Published: September 2007

A model-based optimisation of the operation in view of the biological performance in terms of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) removal of a pilot-scale side-stream MBR has been performed by means of a two-tier scenario analysis. The methodology uses two different scenario analyses to simulate the effect of three degrees of freedom in the MBR system: (1) DO set-point in the aerobic reactor, (2) sludge residence time and (3) internal recirculation rate. The scenarios are simulated using a calibrated ASM2d MBR model. Effluent quality, in terms of nitrate, ammonia and phosphate, is used to select the best scenario. It proved to be a compromise between nitrogen and phosphorus removal as these are linked. A 42% reduction in ammonium and a 32% reduction in nitrate concentration were achieved. Phosphate removal is partly sacrificed (39% increase) compared to the standard operation.
Risk factors for Thoroughbred racehorse fatality in flat starts in Victoria, Australia (1989–2004)
Authors: BODEN L. A. , ANDERSON G. A. , CHARLES J. A. , MORGAN K. L. , MORTON J. M. , PARKIN T. D. H. , CLARKE A. F. , SLOCOMBE R. F.
Published: September 2007

Reasons for performing study: Research into risk factors specific for fatality in flat racing should be focused at a regional level as the risk factors may differ among countries and even regions within countries.

Objective: To identify risk factors for fatality of Thoroughbred racehorses in flat starts on all racecourses in Victoria, Australia between 1989 and 2004.

Methods: Fatalities comprised all horses that died during or immediately after a flat race or official flat trial, and all horses that were subjected to euthanasia within 24 h of an event in which an injury was sustained. The retrospective study involved 283 case starts and 3307 control starts. Univariable and multivariable backward stepwise logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for fatality at any one start.

Results: In the final multivariable model, horse gender, prior racing history, race length, racing year, racecourse location and track rating were associated with fatality.

Conclusions: This study identified specific risk factors for fatality. The findings are consistent with the hypothesis that horses accumulating high speed exercise are predisposed to catastrophic injury. The study has also highlighted the need to investigate further the adverse effects of different track ratings on the incidence of injury and subsequent fatality.

Relevance: The results will facilitate the development of effective strategies to improve overall safety of horses and jockeys in flat racing in Victoria, Australia.
Clinical use of the locking compression plate (LCP) in horses: a retrospective study of 31 cases (2004–2006)
Authors: LEVINE D. G. , RICHARDSON D. W.
Published: September 2007

Reasons for performing study: Fracture repair and arthrodesis in horses require rigid fixation in order to achieve early post operative comfort. The locking compression plate (LCP) was designed to allow greater stability and less periosteal disruption than conventional plates.

Objective: To describe a series of clinical cases in which the LCP was used for fracture stabilisation or arthrodesis.

Methods: Medical records, radiographs and follow‐up for 31 horses having fracture stabilisation or arthrodesis with the LCP were reviewed. Reasons for treatment included fracture of the olecranon (n = 2), metatarsal III (n = 2), ilial shaft (n = 1), femur (n = 2), radius (n = 2), medial condylar (n = 5) and complex lateral condylar (n = 1); or arthrodesis of the metacarpophalangeal joint (n = 8), proximal interphalangeal joint (n = 8) and carpus (n = 2).

Results: Of the 31 horses, 27 were discharged from the hospital. Complications included incisional infection (32%), implant infection (19%), implant loosening/breakage (22%), contralateral limb laminitis (16%), colic (3%) and diarrhoea (3%). Follow‐up was available on all horses with at least 6 weeks of follow‐up ranging up to 25 months. Of the 31 horses, 25 are sound for intended purpose, one is lame and 5 were subjected to euthanasia for complications associated with the original injury.

Conclusions: The LCP is an acceptable means of fracture stabilisation and arthrodesis in the horse.

Potential relevance: The LCP should be considered for difficult fracture configurations and arthrodeses, especially when increased stability of the fixation is needed.
Preparation and characterization of cobalt–bismuth nano- and micro-particles
Authors: Odeh I. M. , Mahmoud S. , Vassilev G. P.
Published: September 2007

An attempt at the preparation and characterization of Co – Bi nano- and micro-particles is presented. Firstly, predetermined compositions were obtained by simultaneous precipitation from solutions containing Bi(NO3)3 · 5 H2O and Co(NO3)3 · × H2O. The precipitates were heated under oxygen flow and in air, and thereafter reduced to metals under hydrogen flow at 673 K. Correlation between the predetermined and the actual compositions of the products was found. Characterization of the precipitates was carried out employing X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The dimensions of the particles vary from nano- to micro- scale sizes. It was found that face centered cubic cobalt (i. e. fcc-Co modification, that is metastable up to 695 K) is the predominant cobalt phase while the hexagonal close packed cobalt (hcp-Co) is only present in small amounts. Thermodynamic calculations have shown that the molar specific surface energy of the fcc-Co should be around 0.5 J m−2 less than that of the hcp-Co (3.2 J m−2), in order to make the small fcc-Co particles more stable than those of hcp-Co.
Thermodynamic modelling in the ZrO2–La2O3–Y2O3–Al2O3system
Authors: Fabrichnaya O. , Zinkevich M. , Aldinger F.
Published: September 2007

The thermodynamic database for the ZrO2– La2O3– Y2O3– Al2O3system has been derived using previous descriptions for the six binary systems and the ternary ZrO2– La2O3– Al2O3system. The parameters of the Y2O3– Al2O3system were adjusted due to changes in the Y2O3thermody-namic parameters. The thermodynamic parameters of the La2O3– Y2O3system were slightly changed to get consistency between calculations and new experimental results for the ZrO2– La2O3– Y2O3ternary system. Diverse kinds of phase diagrams of the ZrO2– La2O3– Y2O3and La2O3– Y2O3– Al2O3ternary systems have been calculated. The present thermodynamic description of the quaternary system is consistent with available experimental results for lower-order systems. It was used to calculate isoplethal sections for compositions related to thermal barrier coating (TBC) and its interaction with thermally grown oxide Al2O3. TheT0-lines have been calculated for diffusionless transformations between fluorite, tetragonal, monoclinic and pyrochlore phases in the ZrO2– LaO1.5system as well as driving forces for partitioning of non-equilibrium phase into equilibrium phase assemblages. These data could be applied for determination of desirable ranges of material composition for TBC.