bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yield and quality of early potato cultivars in relation to the use of glufosinate‐ammonium as desiccant
Authors: Gonnella Maria , Ayala Osman , Paradiso Annalisa , Buono Vito , De Gara Laura , Santamaria Pietro , Serio Francesco
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND: Glufosinate‐ammonium (GA) is used for chemical vine killing of potato crop before harvest. Over two years we tested the effect of GA, applied at 0.48 kg ha−1 of active ingredient, on desiccation of haulms, yield and some qualitative traits of tubers of three cultivars of early potatoes, a typical crop of southern Italy and large areas of the Mediterranean countries.

RESULTS: Seven days after treatment desiccation reached 90% of leaves for all cultivars. At harvest, the highest desiccation percentage of haulms was 85% in Spunta. The desiccant did not affect yield in either year during which the analysis was carried out, but it increased the percentage of tubers in the range of 35–70 mm in diameter. In the first year, the treatment decreased dry matter and vitamin C content and increased free sugar concentration in tubers. In the second year, no negative effects on the nutritional traits were observed. Strong differences were found on yield and quality between the two years as a result of the different climatic conditions.

CONCLUSION: In the two experiments GA had no influence on yield, but increased the percentage of potato tubers in the 35–70 mm range. From a qualitative standpoint in 2004 the chemical vine‐killing treatment had some negative effects (decreased dry matter and vitamin C content, increased free sugar concentrations), whereas no such negative effects were observed in 2005. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
The impact of processing on phytic acid, in vitro soluble iron and Phy/Fe molar ratio of faba bean (Vicia faba L.)
Authors: Luo Yuwei , Gu Zhenxin , Han Yongbin , Chen Zhigang
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND: Faba bean is one of the important legumes in Asian countries. It is also a major source of micronutrients in many rural areas. Unfortunately, the bioavailability of iron from faba bean is low because it is present as an insoluble complex with food components such as phytic acid. The influence of soaking, germination and fermentation with the expectation of increasing the bioavailability of iron was investigated.

RESULTS: Fermentation treatments were most effective in decreasing phytic acid (48–84%), followed by soaking at 10 °C after preheating (36–51%). Steeping faba beans for 24 h at 25 °C had the least effect on the removal of phytic acid (9–24%). With increased germination time at 30 °C, phytic acid progressively decreased from 9 to 69%. Most wet processing procedures, except soaking after wet preheating, caused losses of dry matter and iron (8–15%). In vitro iron solubility, as a percentage of total iron in soaked faba bean after dry preheating, was significantly higher than in raw faba bean (P < 0.05). Fermentation and germination did not have significant effects on the solubility of iron.

CONCLUSION: The expected improvement of iron bioavailability levels due to lower phytic acid was not confirmed by increasing levels of in vitro soluble iron. Soaking, germination and fermentation can decrease phytic acid in faba bean. However, results from in vitro solubility measurement of iron showed little improvement of iron bioavailability in fermented and germinated faba beans over untreated raw faba beans (P < 0.05). It seems that componets of dietary fibre other than phytic acid are more important in binding iron. Probably, a complex association between dietary fibre and iron is the reason for the poor bioavailability of iron in faba bean. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of gamma irradiation on the physico‐chemical and sensory properties of raw shelled peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) and pistachio nuts (Pistacia vera L.)
Authors: Mexis Stamatios F , Kontominas Michael G
Published: February 2009

Backround The present study evaluated the quality of raw peanuts and pistachio nuts as a function of irradiation dose in order to determine dose levels causing minimal undesirable changes to these products. Physico‐chemical (colour, peroxide value, hexanal content, fatty acid composition, volatile compounds) and sensory (colour, texture, odour, taste) properties of raw peanuts and pistachio nuts were determined after irradiation at doses up to 7 kGy.

Results Results showed an eight‐ and seven‐fold increase in peroxide value and a twelve and five‐fold increase in hexanal content after irradiation at a dose of 7 kGy for peanuts and pistachio nuts, respectively. An increase was also observed in saturated fatty acids (20.51–28.28% and 15.24–24.87%) with a parallel decrease in unsaturated fatty acids (79.49–71.72% and 84.76–75.13%) for peanuts and pistachio nuts, respectively. Likewise, volatile compounds such as aldehydes, alkanes, ketones and alcohols comprising secondary oxidation products of peanut and pistachio nut lipids increased after irradiation. Pistachio nut colour parameter a* and to a lesser extent parameters, L* and b* decreased after irradiation leading to a slight but noticeable darkening in product colour while colour parameter L*, b* and a* of raw peanut remained unchanged by irradiation up to 7 kGy.

Conclusion Based on sensory evaluation, peanuts and pistachio nuts become unacceptable for consumption when irradiated at doses higher than 3 kGy. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Contents of carotenoids, ascorbic acid, minerals and total glucosinolates in leafy brassica pakchoi (Brassica rapa L. chinensis) as affected by season and variety
Authors: Hanson Peter , Yang Ray‐yu , Chang Lien‐chung , Ledesma Lance , Ledesma Dolores
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND: Pakchoi (Brassica rapa L. chinensis) is economically and nutritionally important in East and Southeast Asia. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of season and variety on its phytonutrient content (carotenoids, minerals, ascorbic acid and total glucosinolates).

RESULTS: Thirty‐five varieties were evaluated in one dry season and one wet season field trial at AVRDC–The World Vegetable Center, Taiwan. Mean carotenoid content was about 36% greater in the dry season than in the wet season trial. In contrast, ascorbic acid and total glucosinolate contents were 48 and 72% higher respectively in the wet season than in the dry season trial. Dry matter, calcium and iron contents were also 69, 69 and 21% greater respectively in the wet season than in the dry season trial. Significant differences among entries were found for most phytonutrients; the ranges of variety means were fourfold for total carotenoids, fivefold for iron and total glucosinolates and twofold for calcium.

CONCLUSION: Season strongly influences the phytonutrient content of pakchoi grown in the tropics. Significant differences among entries were found for all phytonutrients, and there is potential to increase levels of individual phytonutrients through plant breeding. However, breeding would need to target varieties for either the dry or the wet season. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Multi‐periodic eigensolutions to the Dirac operator and applications to the generalized Helmholtz equation on flat cylinders and on the n‐torus
Authors: Constales Denis , Kraußhar Rolf Sören
Published: February 2009

In this paper, we study the solutions to the generalized Helmholtz equation with complex parameter on some conformally flat cylinders and on the n‐torus. Using the Clifford algebra calculus, the solutions can be expressed as multi‐periodic eigensolutions to the Dirac operator associated with a complex parameter λ∈ℂ. Physically, these can be interpreted as the solutions to the time‐harmonic Maxwell equations on these manifolds. We study their fundamental properties and give an explicit representation theorem of all these solutions and develop some integral representation formulas. In particular, we set up Green‐type formulas for the cylindrical and toroidal Helmholtz operator. As a concrete application, we explicitly solve the Dirichlet problem for the cylindrical Helmholtz operator on the half cylinder. Finally, we introduce hypercomplex integral operators on these manifolds, which allow us to represent the solutions to the inhomogeneous Helmholtz equation with given boundary data on cylinders and on the n‐torus. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cyclic shakedown of piles subjected to two‐dimensional lateral loading
Authors: Levy Nina H. , Einav Itai , Hull Tim
Published: February 2009

Pile foundations are frequently subjected to cyclic lateral loads. Wave and wind loads on offshore structures will be applied in different directions and times during the design life of a structure. Therefore, the magnitude and direction of these loads in conjunction with the dead loads should be considered. This paper investigates a loading scenario where a monotonic lateral load is applied to a pile, followed by two‐way cycling in a direction perpendicular to the initial loading. This configuration is indicative of the complexity of loading that may be considered and is referred to in the paper as ‘T‐shaped’ loading. The energy‐based numerical model employed considers two‐dimensional lateral loading in an elasto‐plastic soil, with coupled behaviour between the two perpendicular directions by local yield surfaces along the length of the pile. The behaviour of the soil–pile system subjected to different loading combinations has been divided into four categories of shakedown previously proposed for cyclic loading of structures and soils. A design chart has been created to illustrate the type of pile behaviour for a given two‐dimensional loading scenario. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Limit analysis of plates using the EFG method and second‐order cone programming
Authors: Le Canh V. , Gilbert Matthew , Askes Harm
Published: February 2009

The meshless element‐free Galerkin (EFG) method is extended to allow computation of the limit load of plates. A kinematic formulation that involves approximating the displacement field using the moving least‐squares technique is developed. Only one displacement variable is required for each EFG node, ensuring that the total number of variables in the resulting optimization problem is kept to a minimum, with far fewer variables being required compared with finite element formulations using compatible elements. A stabilized conforming nodal integration scheme is extended to plastic plate bending problems. The evaluation of integrals at nodal points using curvature smoothing stabilization both keeps the size of the optimization problem small and also results in stable and accurate solutions. Difficulties imposing essential boundary conditions are overcome by enforcing displacements at the nodes directly. The formulation can be expressed as the problem of minimizing a sum of Euclidean norms subject to a set of equality constraints. This non‐smooth minimization problem can be transformed into a form suitable for solution using second‐order cone programming. The procedure is applied to several benchmark beam and plate problems and is found in practice to generate good upper‐bound solutions for benchmark problems. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A case study of a five‐year‐old child with pervasive developmental disorder‐not otherwise specified using sound‐based interventions
Authors: Nwora Amy J , Gee Bryan M
Published: February 2009

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of The Listening Program (TLP) in treating a child with pervasive developmental disorder‐not otherwise specified (PDD‐NOS). Using a single‐subject case study design, one child with PDD‐NOS was administered a 20‐week TLP intervention focused on improving sensory processing and language function. Data collection included pre‐ and post‐evaluations using video footage, and Sensory Profile and Listening Checklist questionnaires. Results of the study indicated improved behaviour and sensory tolerance in the post‐intervention video footage, including active participation in singing and movements to song. Sensory Profile and Listening Checklist questionnaires indicated significant improvements in sensory processing, receptive/expressive listening and language, motor skills, and behavioural/social adjustment at the post‐intervention assessment. Although small in scope, this study highlights the need for continued research by occupational therapists into sound‐based interventions. Particularly, occupational therapists need to perform larger‐scale studies utilizing TLP to verify the efficacy of this alternative treatment method. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using non‐contact therapeutic touch to manage post‐surgical pain in the elderly
Authors: McCormack Guy L
Published: February 2009

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of non‐contact therapeutic touch on post‐surgical pain in an elderly population receiving occupational therapy in an acute care hospital unit in the United States. Ninety participants were randomly assigned to three groups (experimental, control and placebo) using a three‐group experimental pre‐test–post‐test design and a randomized clinical trial. The experimental group received the non‐contact touch intervention, the control group received routine care and the placebo group received the sound of a metronome set at a steady slow pace. Objective measures included the Memorial Pain Scale, the Tellegen Absorption Scale, the Health Attribution Scale and measures of pulse rate and pupil size, which were performed as repeated measures. In the experimental group, 22 out of 30 (73%) demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in pain intensity scores from pre‐test to post‐test (t [7] = 7.24, p < 0.01) and were better able to participate in occupations. Further research is recommended to replicate this study. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A review of curanderismo and healing practices among Mexicans and Mexican Americans
Authors: Tafur Maritza Montiel , Crowe Terry K. , Torres Eliseo
Published: February 2009

Occupational therapists working with Mexican and Mexican American populations may encounter traditional healing practices associated with curanderismo within a variety of practice settings. Curanderismo is a term referring to the practice of traditional healing in Latin American (Hispanic) cultures. This article reviews from the literature the different types of traditional healers (curanderos/as), the remedies recommended by traditional healers and common traditional illnesses treated. Traditional healing practices among Mexican and Mexican Americans may be as high as 50–75% in some parts of the United States. Further research is needed to investigate the effectiveness of curanderismo and its impact on quality of life, activities of daily living and overall social participation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Case study of Bell's palsy applying complementary treatment within an occupational therapy model
Authors: Haltiwanger Emily , Huber Theresa , Chang Joe C. , Gonzales‐Stuart Armando
Published: February 2009

For 7% of people with Bell's palsy, facial impairment is permanent. The case study patient was a 48‐year‐old female who had no recovery from paralysis 12 weeks after onset. Goals were to restore facial sensory‐motor functions, functional abilities and reduce depression. Facial paralysis was assessed by clinical observations, the Facial Disability Index and Beck Depression Index. Complementary interventions of aromatherapy, reflexology and electro‐acupuncture were used with common physical agent modalities in an intensive home activity and exercise programme. The patient had 100% return of function and resolution of depression after 10 days of intervention. The limitation of this study is that it was a retrospective case study and the investigators reconstructed the case from clinical notes. Further research using a prospective approach is recommended to replicate this study. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, characterization, and degradation of poly(ethylene‐b‐ε‐caprolactone) diblock copolymer
Authors: Báez José E. , Ramírez‐Hernández Aurelio , Marcos‐Fernández Ángel
Published: February 2009

Poly(ethylene‐b‐ε‐caprolactone) (PE‐b‐PCL) diblock copolymers were synthesized by ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of ε‐caprolactone (CL) with α‐hydroxyl‐ω‐methyl polyethylene (PE‐OH) as a macroinitiator and ammonium decamolybdate (NH4)8[Mo10O34] as a catalyst. Polymerization was conducted in bulk (130–150°C) with high yield (87–97%). Block copolymers with different compositions were obtained and characterized by 1H and 13C NMR, MALDI‐TOF, SAXS, and DSC. End‐group analysis by NMR and MALDI‐TOF indicates the formation of α‐hydroxyl‐ω‐methyl PE‐b‐PCL. The PE‐b‐PCL degradation was studied using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and alkaline hydrolysis. The PCL block was hydrolyzed by NaOH (4M), without any effect on the PE segment. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epigenetic silencing in non‐neoplastic epithelia identifies E‐cadherin (CDH1) as a target for chemoprevention of lobular neoplasia
Authors: Zou Donghui , Yoon Han‐Seung , Perez David , Weeks Robert J , Guilford Parry , Humar Bostjan
Published: February 2009

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) of the breast is believed to develop from in situ lesions, atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH), and lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS). Down‐regulation of the cell–cell adhesion protein E‐cadherin is a defining feature of lobular breast cancer (LBC) and already occurs in ALH and LCIS. Apart from mutational mechanisms, epigenetic silencing of the E‐cadherin gene (CDH1) is thought to be involved in E‐cadherin down‐regulation and has been observed at a high frequency in ILC. Whether CDH1 promoter methylation is already present in in situ lesions and thus contributes to the initiation of LBC is not established. We thus examined microdissected archived tissue from 20 LBCs by methylation‐specific PCR to determine the CDH1 methylation status of lobular lesions. Nineteen of the 20 LBCs had a hypermethylated CDH1 promoter, including 13/14 ILCs and 13/13 ALHs or LCIS. Bisulphite sequencing indicated that methylation was complete within the investigated promoter fragment. Intriguingly, CDH1 methylation was likewise present in 8/8 adjacent non‐neoplastic epithelia, but not in 6/6 mammary epithelia from healthy subjects. E‐cadherin protein and mRNA were down‐regulated in in situ lesions relative to adjacent epithelia. Together, these results indicate that CDH1 promoter methylation occurs in LBC prior to E‐cadherin down‐regulation and neoplastic formation. We thus propose that epigenetic silencing represents the first of the two hits required to silence both CDH1 alleles for LBC to develop. Because promoter methylation is in principle reversible, our findings suggest that chemoprevention of LBC by epigenetic drugs should be feasible. Furthermore, the presence of CDH1 methylation in pre‐neoplastic epithelia suggests the existence of mammary regions with increased disease susceptibility, providing an explanation for the often multifocal presentation of LBC. Copyright © 2009 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of polymer chain end groups in plasma modification for surface metallization of polymeric materials
Authors: Inagaki Norihiro
Published: February 2009

How to improve adhesion between poly(oxybenzoate‐co‐oxynaphthoate) (Vecstar OC and FA films) and copper metal by Ar, O2, N2 and NH3 plasma modification was investigated. The mechanism of adhesion improvement is discussed from the viewpoint of chemical and physical interactions at the interface between the Vecstar film and copper metal layer. The adhesion between Vecstar OC film and copper metal was improved by chemical rather than physical interactions. Polymer chain end groups that occur at Vecstar OC film surfaces contribute effectively to adhesion. This improvement in adhesion is due to interactions between copper metal and OC groups formed by plasma modification. Aggregation of the OC groups to the copper metal/Vecstar OC film interface is a key factor for good adhesion. From this aspect, heat treatment of plasma‐modified Vecstar OC films on glass plates is effective in the aggregation, and the peel strength for the copper metal/Vecstar OC film system reached 1.21 N (5 mm)−1. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Coping strategies of retinoblastoma survivors in relation to behavioural problems
Authors: van Dijk J. , Grootenhuis M. A. , Imhof S. M. , Cohen‐Kettenis P. T. , Moll A. C. , Huisman J.
Published: February 2009

Objective: To assess coping strategies of long‐term retinoblastoma (RB) survivors and explore determinants of behavioural functioning, including medical, socio‐demographic and coping variables.

Methods: This population‐based cross‐sectional study included 117 RB survivors (12–35 years), registered in the Dutch national RB register. Survivors were asked to fill in coping, social support and behavioural questionnaires, and situational characteristics were obtained from medical archives and from an interview. Prevalence rates of coping strategies were computed based on self‐reports. One‐sample t‐tests were applied to analyse differences in the use of coping strategies compared with healthy reference samples. Multiple regression analyses were performed to identify various determinants for behavioural problems within the RB sample.

Results: RB survivors differed from their healthy reference group in one coping style, i.e. they showed significantly less emotion‐oriented coping behaviour. Adolescents who came from a single‐parent family and/or experienced lower social support and used more emotion‐oriented coping reported more total problem behaviour. More internalizing problems were reported for adolescents who experienced less social support and less acceptance of the disease. For adults, more life events, emotion‐oriented coping and lower social support explained more total problem behaviour, especially internalizing problems.

Conclusion: RB survivors showed less emotion‐oriented coping behaviour compared with the reference group. Behavioural problems are best determined by emotion‐oriented coping, social support, life events other than RB and acceptance of the disease, and not by medical variables. Therefore, these variables should be taken into consideration during interventions for this group. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nitric oxide is involved in chitosan‐induced systemic resistance in pearl millet against downy mildew disease
Authors: Manjunatha Girigowda , Niranjan‐Raj Sathyanaraya , Prashanth Geetha N , Deepak Shantharaj , Amruthesh Kestur N , Shetty Hunthrike S
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND: The nature and durability of resistance offered by chitosan and the involvement of nitric oxide (NO) in chitosan‐induced defence reactions in pearl millet against downy mildew disease were investigated.

RESULTS: It had previously been reported that chitosan seed priming protected pearl millet plants against downy mildew disease. Further elucidation of the mechanism of resistance showed that chitosan seed priming protects the plants systemically. A minimum 4 day time gap is required between the chitosan treatment and pathogen inoculation for maximum resistance development, and it was found to be durable. Chitosan seed priming elevated NO accumulation in pearl millet seedlings, beginning from 2 h post‐inoculation, and it was found to be involved in the activation of early defence reactions such as hypersensitive reaction, callose deposition and PR‐1 protein expression. Pretreatment with NO scavenger C‐PTIO and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor L‐NAME before pathogen inoculation reduced the disease‐protecting ability of chitosan, and defence reactions were also downregulated, which indicated a possible role for NO in chitosan‐induced resistance.

CONCLUSION: Protection offered by chitosan against pearl millet downy mildew disease is systemic in nature and durable. Chitosan‐induced resistance is activated via NO signalling, as defence reactions induced by chitosan were downregulated under NO deficient conditions. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Is seed conditioning essential for Orobanche germination?
Authors: Plakhine Dina , Ziadna Hammam , Joel Daniel M
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND: Parasitic Orobanchaceae germinate only after receiving a chemical stimulus from roots of potential host plants. A preparatory phase of several days that follows seed imbibition, termed conditioning, is known to be required; thereafter the seeds can respond to germination stimulants. The aim of this study was to examine whether conditioning is essential for stimulant receptivity.

RESULTS: Non‐conditioned seeds of both Orobanche cumana Wallr. and O. aegyptiaca Pers. [syn. Phelipanche aegyptiaca (Pers.) Pomel] were able to germinate in response to chemical stimulation by GR24 even without prior conditioning. Stimulated seeds reached maximal germination rates about 2 weeks after the onset of imbibition, no matter whether the seeds had or had not been conditioned before stimulation. Whereas the lag time between stimulation and germination response of non‐conditioned seeds was longer than for conditioned seeds, the total time between imbibition and germination was shorter for the non‐conditioned seeds. Unlike the above two species, O. crenata Forsk. was found to require conditioning prior to stimulation.

CONCLUSIONS: Seeds of O. cumana and O. aegyptiaca are already receptive before conditioning. Thus, conditioning is not involved in stimulant receptivity. A hypothesis is put forward, suggesting that conditioning includes (a) a parasite‐specific early phase that allows the imbibed seeds to overcome the stress caused by failing to receive an immediate germination stimulus, and (b) a non‐specific later phase that is identical to the pregermination phase between seed imbibition and actual germination that is typical for all higher plants. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Molecular genetics of race‐specific resistance of cowpea to Striga gesnerioides (Willd.)
Authors: Li Jianxiong , Lis Karolina E , Timko Michael P
Published: February 2009

Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp., is an important warm‐season legume grown primarily in the semi‐arid tropics. The majority of cowpea is grown by subsistence farmers in West and Central sub‐Saharan Africa, where its grain and leaves are valued as human food and its stover is used for animal forage. Like all crop plants, cowpea is subject to yield losses resulting from a variety of biotic and abiotic stresses. Among the important biotic constraints to cowpea production is parasitism by the root hemiparasitic weeds Striga gesnerioides (Willd.) [witchweed] and Alectra vogelii (Benth.). At least seven races of S. gesnerioides have been identified within the cowpea‐growing regions of West Africa, based on host differential response and genetic diversity analysis. Several race‐specific resistance genes have been identified and located to one of two linkage groups (LG1 and LG6) of the current cowpea genetic map. Molecular markers associated with race‐specific resistance genes have been identified, and several sequence‐confirmed amplified regions (SCARs) have been developed for use in marker‐assisted selection and breeding strategies for rapid cowpea improvement. The mechanism of race‐specific resistance in the cowpea‐Striga interaction has also been examined, with several genes involved in phytohormone and general disease resistance signaling transduction observed to be differentially expressed in resistant and susceptible phenotypes. Results suggest that PR5 expression may be a useful marker of Striga infection, and that salicylic acid signaling appears to play a role in the cowpea–Striga interaction. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Causes and recommended management of acute diarrhoea
Authors: Pasha Yasmin , Banks Matthew , Farthing Michael
Published: February 2009

Although usually mild and self‐limiting, acute diarrhoea in some patients will require early medical intervention or even hospitalisation. In our Drug review, the authors discuss the aetiology and recommended management of acute diarrhoea, followed by a review of the prescription data and sources of further information. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
What role for betahistine in the treatment of Méniére's disease?
Authors: Phillips John , Prinsley Peter
Published: February 2009

The authors discuss the diagnostic criteria for Méniére's disease and the evidence base and cost implications for initiating betahistine, a potentially life‐long treatment. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Recommended management of atopic eczema in children
Authors: Abbott Rachel
Published: February 2009

Our series Prescribing in children gives practical advice for successful management of childhood problems in general practice. Here, the author describes the management of the common problem of atopic eczema. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Single‐scattering properties of aggregates of plates
Authors: Um Junshik , McFarquhar Greg M.
Published: February 2009

During the 2006 Tropical Warm Pool International Cloud Experiment (TWP‐ICE) sponsored by the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement programme, the Scaled Composites Proteus aircraft executed spiral profiles and flew horizontal legs through aging anvils, fresh anvils, and cirrus of unknown origin in the vicinity of Darwin, Australia. Pristine ice crystals including both plates and bullet rosettes, their aggregates, and unclassifiable ice crystals were observed by a Cloud Particle Imager. The widths of observed plates ranged between 80 µm and 200 µm. When a fresh dissipating anvil was observed on 2 February, aggregates of plates contributed 46.2% of the total area of measured ice crystals with maximum dimensions greater than 200 µm, while it was only 7.2% and 1.0% for 27 and 29 January, respectively, when aged cirrus was sampled. Because aggregates of plates have been observed to make large contributions to projected ice crystal area near convection during TWP‐ICE and other projects, their single‐scattering properties that have not been previously examined are investigated here.

The dependence of the scattering phase function P11, asymmetry parameter g, and single‐scattering albedo ω0 on three parameters (the area ratio AR, normalized projected area An, and a newly defined aggregation index AI which varies between 0 and 1 with ice crystals with more compact shape having lower AI) defining the three‐dimensional shapes of aggregates of plates were calculated using a geometric ray‐tracing code at wavelengths λ of 0.55, 1.38 and 2.13 µm. The scattering properties depended on the crystal morphology with, for example, the g of an aggregate of plates with a high AI of 0.818 differing by + 6.89% (+6.44%; + 4.55%) from that with a lower AI of 0.378 at λ of 0.55 µm (1.38 µm; 2.13 µm), but by only + 0.29% (+0.25%; − 0.03%) from those of the component plates. The ω0 at absorbing λ increased with AI, 1 − AR, and An. Adding ray distortion to the aggregates caused a decrease in forward scattering and an increase in lateral and backward scattering, decreasing g, an effect that weakened with λ due to absorption. The aggregates of plates with low AI were more influenced by ray distortion compared to those with high AI. The dependence of scattering properties on crystal morphology noted here should be considered when computing bulk scattering properties of ice clouds to determine its importance for climate and remote‐sensing studies. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Separation and characterization of clindamycin phosphate and related impurities in injection by liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Wang Shao‐Min , Bu Shan‐Shan , Liu Hong‐Min , Li Hua‐Yu , Liu Wei , Wang Yu‐Dong
Published: February 2009

A simple high‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometric (HPLC/ESI‐MS/MS) method has been developed for the rapid identification of clindamycin phosphate and its degradation products or related impurities in clindamycin phosphate injection. Detection was performed by quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (Q‐TOFMS) via an ESI source in positive mode. Clindamycin phosphate and its related substances lincomycin, 7‐epilincomycin‐2‐phosphate, lincomycin‐2‐phosphate, clindamycin B, clindamycin B‐2‐phosphate, and clindamycin were identified simultaneously by HPLC/ESI‐MS/MS results. Based on the MS/MS spectra of their quasi‐molecular ions, the fragmentation pathways of clindamycin phosphate and its related substances were compared and proposed, which are specific and useful for the identification of the lincosamide antibiotics and related impurities. The method was rapid, sensitive and specific and can be used to identify clindamycin phosphate and its related impurities in clindamycin phosphate injection without control compounds. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Isotopomeric analysis of N2O dissolved in a river in the Tokyo metropolitan area
Authors: Toyoda Sakae , Iwai Hiroyuki , Koba Keisuke , Yoshida Naohiro
Published: February 2009

River water has been suggested as a potential source of nitrous oxide (N2O), which is a greenhouse gas that is accumulating rapidly in the troposphere and which is a precursor to stratospheric NOx that depletes ozone. Previous studies on freshwater N2O sources have specifically examined estuaries where sedimentary N2O production might be important and a few points near anthropogenic nitrogen sources such as agricultural or municipal wastewater areas. Here we present the first observation of a temporal and horizontal distribution of N2O and its isotopomers between the midstream and estuary of an urban river. Surface water was supersaturated (100–6800%) with N2O at all stations during the study period. The average or maximum saturation value was greater than described in most previous reports. High N2O concentrations were observed near sewage plants and the unique signature of isotopomer ratios implied direct N2O addition from the plants. The isotopomer ratios also suggested N2O production/consumption at the sediment‐water interface. Fluxes and isotopomer ratios of N2O, from the river to the atmosphere, estimated from our observations, indicated that the urban river is indeed a source of atmospheric N2O and that its production could be distinguished from other natural or anthropogenic sources using isotopomer ratios. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rate limited stabilization: Sub‐optimal encoder–decoder schemes
Authors: Lopez Hurtado I. , Abdallah C. T.
Published: February 2009

We extend in this paper results from packet‐based control theory and present sufficient conditions on the rate of a packet network to guarantee asymptotic stabilizability of unstable discrete LTI systems with less inputs than states. We use a truncation‐based encoder/decoder scheme and two types of network control systems are considered in the absence of communication delays, then for one of the two types, the case of a constant time delay is discussed. For one of the network types, we also propose a zoom‐in‐type dynamic quantizer scheme with lower data rate but a more complex encoding scheme than the truncation‐based one. The new dynamic quantizer requires a lower data rate to achieve stabilization, and while it does not achieve the minimum data rate given by the Data Rate Theorem, it uses an encoding algorithm that is simpler than others reported in the literature. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Signal reconstruction in the presence of finite‐rate measurements: finite‐horizon control applications
Authors: Sarma Sridevi V. , Dahleh Munther A.
Published: February 2009

In this paper, we study finite‐length signal reconstruction over a finite‐rate noiseless channel. We allow the class of signals to belong to a bounded ellipsoid and derive a universal lower bound on a worst‐case reconstruction error. We then compute upper bounds on the error that arise from different coding schemes and under different causality assumptions. When the encoder and decoder are noncausal, we derive an upper bound that either achieves the universal lower bound or is comparable to it. When the decoder and encoder are both causal operators, we show that within a very broad class of causal coding schemes, memoryless coding prevails as optimal, imposing a hard limitation on reconstruction. Finally, we map our general reconstruction problem into two important control problems in which the plant and controller are local to each other, but are together driven by a remote reference signal that is transmitted through a finite‐rate noiseless channel. The first problem is to minimize a finite‐horizon weighted tracking error between the remote system output and a reference command. The second problem is to navigate the state of the remote system from a nonzero initial condition to as close to the origin as possible in finite‐time. Our analysis enables us to quantify the tradeoff between time horizon and performance accuracy, which is not well studied in the area of control with limited information as most works address infinite‐horizon control objectives (e.g. stability, disturbance rejection). Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Systematically missing confounders in individual participant data meta‐analysis of observational cohort studies
Authors:   The Fibrinogen Studies Collaboration
Published: February 2009

One difficulty in performing meta‐analyses of observational cohort studies is that the availability of confounders may vary between cohorts, so that some cohorts provide fully adjusted analyses while others only provide partially adjusted analyses. Commonly, analyses of the association between an exposure and disease either are restricted to cohorts with full confounder information, or use all cohorts but do not fully adjust for confounding. We propose using a bivariate random‐effects meta‐analysis model to use information from all available cohorts while still adjusting for all the potential confounders. Our method uses both the fully adjusted and the partially adjusted estimated effects in the cohorts with full confounder information, together with an estimate of their within‐cohort correlation. The method is applied to estimate the association between fibrinogen level and coronary heart disease incidence using data from 154 012 participants in 31 cohorts.†One hundred and ninety‐nine participants from the original 154 211 withdrew their consent and have been removed from this analysis. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Propensity score estimation with missing values using a multiple imputation missingness pattern (MIMP) approach
Authors: Qu Yongming , Lipkovich Ilya
Published: February 2009

Propensity scores have been used widely as a bias reduction method to estimate the treatment effect in nonrandomized studies. Since many covariates are generally included in the model for estimating the propensity scores, the proportion of subjects with at least one missing covariate could be large. While many methods have been proposed for propensity score‐based estimation in the presence of missing covariates, little has been published comparing the performance of these methods. In this article we propose a novel method called multiple imputation missingness pattern (MIMP) and compare it with the naive estimator (ignoring propensity score) and three commonly used methods of handling missing covariates in propensity score‐based estimation (separate estimation of propensity scores within each pattern of missing data, multiple imputation and discarding missing data) under different mechanisms of missing data and degree of correlation among covariates. Simulation shows that all adjusted estimators are much less biased than the naive estimator. Under certain conditions MIMP provides benefits (smaller bias and mean‐squared error) compared with existing alternatives. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A comparative study on e‐learning technologies and products: from the East to the West
Authors: Liu Yanping , Wang Hong
Published: February 2009

Among the many technologies that support knowledge management, electronic learning or e‐learning has become as popular as business intelligence. Along with the rapid development of modern communications and information technology and the increasing demand for building and maintaining business continuity capabilities, e‐learning has emerged into a viable solution for continuous, on‐demand training and organizational learning. It becomes critical for organizations to design and develop an effective e‐learning system by using well‐researched theories and technologies that fit their organizational environment. As we discovered in our study, a successful e‐learning system is supported by many critical success factors (CSFs), and technology is the key factor among the CSFs. We also conducted a comparative study on e‐learning theories, technologies and products from the perspectives of both western practitioners and Chinese counterparts. Due to the rapid economic development in China and its fast adoption of communications and information technology, the ways Chinese practitioners are developing e‐learning theories, technologies and products have inevitably become a focal point in the world of information technology. Through the analysis of the current e‐learning technologies and products, we outline the trends of developing e‐learning systems and emphasize the importance of proper theories in guiding e‐learning systems development. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Erratum to ‘empirical approximation for Lα production cross sections’[X‐ray Spectrumetry 37, 188–192, 2008]
Authors: Šmith Ž. , Tancek A.
Published: February 2009

The original article to which this Erratum refers was published in X‐ray Spectrumetry, 37, 188–192, 2008
Omission of Nasogastric Tube Application in Postoperative Care of Esophagectomy
Authors: Daryaei Parviz , Vaghef Davari Farzad , Mir Mohammadreza , Harirchi Iraj , Salmasian Hojjat
Published: February 2009

Introduction

Surgeons routinely use nasogastric (NG) tubes in most esophageal resection surgeries. Considering the numerous complications caused by using the tube and the uncertainty about its usefulness and the scarcity of studies conducted on the subject, particularly in patients with esophageal cancer, the necessity of using the tube in these types of cases is investigated in the present study.

Methods

In this clinical trial, patients with esophageal cancer were randomized into groups with NG tube and without NG tube after surgery; the latter were prescribed Metoclopramide, as well. The variables recorded for each patient included the first day of gas passage, defecation and bowel sounds (BSs) auscultation, as well as the duration of postoperative hospitalization, nausea and vomiting, abdominal distension, pulmonary complications, wound complications, anastomosis leak, and the need for placing/replacing the NG tube.

Results

The incidence of anastomosis leak was significantly higher in the NG‐tube group (6 vs. 0; P = 0.016). Other complications were not different in the two groups. The mean time of gas passage, defecation, BS auscultation, and the duration of postoperative hospitalization did not have meaningful differences in the two groups. The need for placing/replacing the NG tube was the same for both groups.

Conclusions

The routine application of NG tubes after surgery is not recommended for all patients. We suggest that NG tubes should be used according to the specific problems of each patient.
Video‐Assisted Minimally Invasive Parathyroidectomy: Benefits and Long‐Term Results
Authors: Lombardi Celestino P. , Raffaelli Marco , Traini Emanuela , De Crea Carmela , Corsello Salvatore M. , Bellantone Rocco
Published: February 2009

Background

In recent years several endoscopic and video‐assisted techniques for parathyroidectomy have been described. The role of these techniques, with respect to time‐honored conventional surgery, has been largely debated. This paper was designed to review the evidence, and make the recommendations, for the video‐assisted/endoscopic approach to parathyroidectomy.

Methods

A database search was conducted in PubMed from which abstracts were screened matching our definition. Publications were further assessed and assigned their respective level of evidence. Additional data were obtained on the basis of our personal experience.

Results

Thirty‐eight mainly retrospective studies have been published. Only four small, prospective, randomized trials, providing level II evidence, and one retrospective case‐control comparative study, providing level IV evidence, have been found. Minimally invasive video‐assisted parathyroidectomy (MIVAP) has emerged as one of the leading techniques. To date several randomized studies have shown that MIVAP is an efficacious and feasible procedure with the same complications rate as conventional surgery. Moreover, MIVAP seems to have significant advantages in terms of cosmetic result, postoperative pain and recovery, and patient satisfaction.

Conclusions

From an evidence‐based point of view, MIVAP should be considered a valid and validated option for the treatment of sporadic primary hyperparathyroidism sustained by a well‐localized, single adenoma. Its role for the treatment of multiglandular diseases (familial hyperparathyroidism, secondary hyperparathyroidism) needs to be better clarified.
Mortality Impact of Hypothermia After Cavitary Explorations in Trauma
Authors: Inaba Kenji , Teixeira Pedro G. R. , Rhee Peter , Brown Carlos , Salim Ali , DuBose Joseph , Chan Linda S. , Demetriades Demetrios
Published: February 2009

Background

Admission hypothermia (core temperature ≤ 35°C) is an independent risk factor for mortality after trauma. The predictive value of perioperative core temperatures during acute trauma surgery, however, although widely employed as a criterion for initiating damage control, is unknown. We hypothesized that for trauma patients undergoing laparotomy or thoracotomy, early postoperative hypothermia is a predictor of mortality.

Methods

After institutional review board (IRB) approval, all critically ill trauma patients undergoing cavitary surgery (laparotomy or thoracotomy) at a level 1 trauma center from 01/1998 to 07/2006 were identified from the trauma registry. Immediate postoperative core temperature (Tc) was used to classify patients as hypothermic (Tc ≤ 35°C) or normothermic (Tc > 35°C). The profoundly hypothermic subgroup of patients with a Tc < 33°C was also analyzed.

Results

During the study period, 2,489 patients required cavitary surgery, 1,252 of whom (50%) were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). On arrival in the ICU 15% of the patients had a Tc ≤ 35°C and were more likely to be ≥ 55 years old (12% versus 7%; p = 0.04); in addition, they were hypotensive on admission (25% versus 13%; p < 0.001), had a lower admission Glasgow Coma Score (GCS; 11 ± 5 versus 14 ± 3; p < 0.001), a higher Injury Severity Score (ISS; 29 ± 15 versus 22 ± 12; p < 0.001), higher head and chest Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS), and greater intraoperative blood loss (2.6 ± 2.4 l versus 1.7 ± 1.8 l; p < 0.001). When compared to patients who were normothermic at the end of their operation, hypothermic patients had a significantly higher mortality (35% versus 8%; p < 0.001). With decreasing Tc, there was a stepwise increase in mortality. Compared to patients with a Tc > 35°C, the relative risk of death for patients with a Tc between 35°C and 33°C was 4.0, and that for patients with a Tc ≤ 33°C it was 7.1. After adjusting for multiple differences between groups, postoperative hypothermia remained an independent predictor of mortality (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 3.2; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.9–5.3; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Postoperative hypothermia is common in critically injured patients requiring cavitary surgery and is an independent predictor of mortality. The impact of measures to maintain or restore normothermia in the operating room warrants further investigation.