bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Verapamil buffering effect on the abrupt elevation in blood pressure, linkage with microcirculatory blood flow
Authors: Gmitrov J.
Published: June 2008

1 We studied the effects of verapamil on sudden elevation in blood pressure, microcirculation and arterial baroreflex sensitivity (BRS).

2 Thirty experiments (10 controls and 20 with verapamil) were performed in rabbits sedated using pentobarbital infusion (5 mg kg−1 h−1).

3 BRS, mean femoral artery blood pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR) and ear lobe skin microcirculatory blood flow, estimated using microphotoelectric plethysmography (MPPG), were simultaneously measured during 30 min of verapamil infusion (20 μg kg−1 min−1). BRS was assessed from HR and MAP responses to intravenous phenylephrine (Ph) and by power spectral analysis using transfer function (TF) from MAP to the HR (BRSPh,TF).

4 Verapamil significantly increased microcirculatory blood flow, and decreased BRSPh,TF and phenylephrine‐induced abrupt elevation in MAP (MAPAE).

5 A significant inverse correlation was found between verapamil‐induced changes in MAPAE, BRS and in microcirculatory blood flow, measured before phenylephrine blood pressure ramps (ΔMAPAE with ΔBRSTF, r = −0.47, P < 0.036; ΔMAPAE with ΔMPPG, r = −0.49, P < 0.025).

6 These results suggest involvement of the arterial baroreflex and vascular blood pressure‐buffering mechanisms, their enhancement by verapamil, and thus a potential benefit of verapamil in cardiovascular conditions where patients present with abrupt high elevations in blood pressure.
Effect of acute unilateral renal denervation on renal hemodynamics in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Abdulla M. H. , Sattar M. A. , Salman I. M. , Abdullah N. A. , Ameer O. Z. , Khan Md. A. H. , Johns E. J.
Published: June 2008

1 This study was undertaken to characterize the renal responses to acute unilateral renal denervation in anaesthetized spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) by examining the effect of acute unilateral renal denervation on the renal hemodynamic responses to a set of vasoactive agents and renal nerve stimulation.

2 Twenty‐four male SHR rats underwent acute unilateral renal denervation and the denervation was confirmed by significant drop (P < 0.05) in renal vasoconstrictor response to renal nerve stimulation along with marked diuresis and natriuresis following denervation. After 7 days treatment with losartan, the overnight fasted rats were anaesthetized (sodium pentobarbitone, 60 mg kg−1 i.p.) and renal vasoconstrictor experiments were performed. The changes in the renal vasoconstrictor responses were determined in terms of reductions in renal blood flow caused by renal nerve stimulation or intrarenal administration of noradrenaline, phenylephrine, methoxamine and angiotensin II.

3 The data showed that there was significantly (all P < 0.05) increased renal vascular responsiveness to the vasoactive agents in denervated rats compared to those with intact renal nerves. In losartan‐treated denervated SHR rats, there were significant (all P < 0.05) reductions in the renal vasoconstrictor responses to neural stimuli and vasoactive agents as compared with that of untreated denervated SHR rats.

4 The data obtained in denervated rats suggested an enhanced sensitivity of the α1‐adrenoceptors to adrenergic agonists and possible increase of AT1 receptors functionality in the renal vasculature of these rats. These data also suggested a possible interaction between sympathetic nervous system and renin‐angiotensin system in terms of a crosstalk relationship between renal AT1 and α1‐adrenoceptor subtypes.
Performance analysis of wireless mobile networks with queueing priority and guard channels
Authors: Feng Wei , Kowada Masashi
Published: June 2008

The blocking probability of originating calls and forced termination probability of handoff calls are important criteria in performance evaluation of integrated wireless mobile communication networks. In this paper, we model call traffic in a single cell in an integrated voice/data wireless mobile network by a finite buffer queueing system with queueing priority and guard channels. We categorize calls into three types of service classes: originating voice calls, handoff voice calls and data calls. The arrival streams of calls are mutually independent Poisson processes, and channel holding times are exponentially distributed with different means. We describe the behavior of the system by a three‐dimensional continuous‐time Markov process and present the explicit expression for steady‐state distribution of queue lengths using a recursive approach. Furthermore, we calculate the blocking, forced termination probabilities and derive the Laplace–Stieltjes transform of the stationary distribution of actual waiting times and their arbitrary kth moment. Finally, we give some numerical results and discuss the optimization problem for the number of guard channels.
Vertical pricing competition in supply chains: the effect of production experience and coordination
Authors: Kogan Konstantin , Tapiero Charles
Published: June 2008

We consider a two‐echelon supply chain consisting of a single supplier (producer) and a retailer. The supplier determines the wholesale price with a production cost decreasing with experience. The retailer orders products from the supplier to meet demands. Negative effects of a vertical competition in static supply chain models are typically attributed to a double marginalization. Using an intertemporal supply chain problem, defined by a differential game, we show that in addition to the “cost” of double marginalization, the margin gained from reducing production costs affects the supply chain performance as well. In our analysis, performance is shown to deteriorate even more than the deterioration observed in static problems with no learning (experience). To improve the performance, we provide a time‐variant version to the well‐known, pure, two‐part tariff strategy, which in its dynamic framework may coordinate the supply chain only partially. Efficient coordination in a supply chain is shown to be possible if a mixed two‐part tariff strategy is employed, however.
Non‐equivalence of canine tissue and intraluminal PCO2 responses at different sites during hemorrhage and during resuscitation
Authors: Wall Piper L. , Davis Daniel J. , Buising Charisse M. , Henderson LaRhee L.
Published: June 2008

Objective: The purpose of this study was to measure and compare the hemorrhage and resuscitation partial pressure of CO2 (PCO2) responses at a variety of sites, predominantly intraluminal gastrointestinal, in the same dog and among different dogs.

Design: Observational study.

Setting: Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care accredited research laboratory.

Animals: Pound source mongrel dogs being used in 4 separate hemorrhage and resuscitation studies, the objectives of which were unaffected by the PCO2 monitoring.

Interventions: Fiber‐optic PCO2 monitoring systems were used to simultaneously monitor subcutaneous (n=8), sublingual (n=8) PCO2, and intraluminal esophageal (n=10), gastric (n=27), duodenal (n=16), jejunal (n=8), and ileal (n=7) PCO2 of 28 dogs used in 4 hemorrhage and resuscitation studies.

Measurements and main results: The tissue or intraluminal PCO2 at all sites increased in response to hemorrhage. The rate and magnitude of esophageal, gastric, duodenal, jejeunal, and ileal intraluminal PCO2 varied widely between dogs for the same site and between sites in the same dog. Different gastrointestinal sites also responded differently to resuscitation. The rate and magnitude of changes in subcutaneous and sublingual PCO2 values were lower than those in the other tissues examined. The mean and maximum coefficients of variation for each site were as follows: subcutaneous 9%, 31%; sublingual 10%, 23%; esophageal 15%, 40%; gastric 26%, 90%; duodenal 25%, 70%; jejunal 25%, 95%; and ileal 34%, 87%.

Conclusions: At different tissue sites, PCO2 values do not respond equivalently to either hemorrhage or resuscitation. One site cannot, therefore, be reliably used to indicate the energy status of an alternate site.
Cardiac troponins
Authors: Wells Scott M. , Sleeper Meg
Published: June 2008

Objective: To review the use of cardiac troponins as biomarkers for myocardial injury in human and veterinary medicine.

Data sources: Data sources included scientific reviews and original research publications.

Human data synthesis: Cardiac troponins have been extensively studied in human medicine. Finding an elevated cardiac troponin level carries important diagnostic and prognostic information for humans with cardiovascular disease. Troponin assays are used primarily to diagnose acute myocardial infarction in patients with ischemic symptoms such as chest pain. However, elevated blood levels may be found with any cause of myocardial injury.

Veterinary data synthesis: Several studies have shown that cardiac troponins are sensitive and specific for myocardial damage in veterinary patients and may have utility in diagnosis and prognosis for certain disease states. Human assays may be used in most animals due to significant homology in the troponin proteins between species.

Conclusions: Cardiac troponins are sensitive and specific markers of myocardial injury although they do not give any information regarding the mechanism of injury. They have redefined how acute myocardial infarction is diagnosed in humans. Their use in the clinical management of veterinary patients is limited at this time. Further prospective studies are warranted.
Freehand ultrasound‐guided femoral arterial catheterization in dogs
Authors: Ringold Steven A. , Kelmer Efrat
Published: June 2008

Objective: To demonstrate that ultrasound‐guided femoral artery catheterization is feasible and practical in dogs.

Case series summary: Four female mixed breed dogs weighing 14–23 kg were used following a terminal junior surgery laboratory and had been anesthetized before the ultrasound study. Dogs were positioned in lateral recumbency with the upper limb abducted and immobilized. The dependent limb was extended and shaved and isopropyl alcohol was applied. An ultrasound transducer was oriented transverse to the axis of the limb and, following ultrasonographic identification, the femoral artery was cannulated and a catheter was placed using the Seldinger technique. Ultrasound‐guided catheterization was successful in 9 of 10 attempts; cannulization was successful in 10 of 10 attempts. Procedure time improved from 10 minutes to 1 minute during practice. Each of the 2 investigators was able to simultaneously ultrasound and cannulate the vessel. The major complication was hematoma formation, which occurred regardless of success.

Information provided: Ultrasound‐guided femoral artery catheterization is feasible and relatively easy to master in medium‐size, anesthetized dogs.
Treatment of a dog with severe baclofen intoxication using hemodialysis and mechanical ventilation
Authors: Torre Danna M. , Labato Mary A. , Rossi Tracey , Foley Catherine , O'Toole Therese E.
Published: June 2008

Objective: This case report describes the successful management of a dog with coma and respiratory depression due to severe baclofen intoxication.

Case summary: A Doberman Pinscher mixed breed dog ingested 500  mg (20 mg/kg) of baclofen. Signs of severe intoxication included coma and profound respiratory muscle weakness. The dog was supported with positive pressure ventilation and treated with one session of hemodialysis. Weaning from the ventilator was achieved within 4 hours of hemodialysis, and recovery from coma occurred over the following 12–36 hours. The dog regained full neurologic function and was normal at discharge following 3 days of hospitalization.

New or unique information provide: Severe central nervous system depression and respiratory depression due to baclofen intoxication can be life threatening. In addition to other supportive care, hemodialysis may hasten recovery and ventilatory support may be essential to achieve a positive outcome. With successful treatment, toxicity can be decreased and the associated life‐threatening central nervous system and ventilatory depression can resolve. Prognosis for return of normal function is excellent.
Use of the advanced micro‐osmometer model 3300 for determination of a normal osmolality and evaluation of different formulas for calculated osmolarity and osmole gap in adult dogs
Authors: Barr James W. , Pesillo‐Crosby S. Anna
Published: June 2008

Objective: To determine a reference interval of whole blood and plasma osmolalities for dogs using the Advanced Micro Osmometer Model 3300, to compare calculated osmolarity to measured osmolality, to determine a reference osmole gap, and to determine the best formula for calculated osmolaity.

Design: Prospective, observational.

Setting: Tertiary referral and teaching hospital.

Animals: One hundred healthy adult dogs.

Interventions: None.

Measurements: Serum and whole blood biochemistry and osmolality assessments.

Results: The mean and median of the measured whole blood osmolality were 323 and 320 mOsm/kg, respectively, with a standard deviation of 13.2 mOsm/kg. The mean and median of the measured plasma osmolality were 313 and 310 mOsm/kg, respectively, with a standard deviation of 13.2 mOsm/kg. The formula that was closest to predicting the measured whole blood and plasma osmolality was ((1.86(Na+K))+(BUN/2.8)+(Glucose/18))/0.93 followed closely by the traditional formula of (2(Na+K))+(BUN/2.8)+(Glucose/18). The mean calculated osmolarities using these formulas were 314.1 and 313.25 mOsm/L, respectively. The mean osmole gap using these formulas was 3.49 and 4.41 mOsm, respectively, for whole blood and −2.01 and −1.1 mOsm, respectively, for plasma.

Conclusion: The Advanced Micro Osmometer Model 3300 was successful in measuring the osmolality in relative agreement with the current published reference intervals for osmolality. Measured osmolality correlated well with traditional calculated osmolarity.
Incidence of prolonged prothrombin time in dogs following gastrointestinal decontamination for acute anticoagulant rodenticide ingestion
Authors: Pachtinger Garret E. , Otto Cynthia M. , Syring Rebecca S.
Published: June 2008

Objective:To determine the effect of gastrointestinal (GI) decontamination on the incidence of prolonged prothrombin time (PT) in dogs after anticoagulant rodenticide ingestion.

Design:Retrospective study.

Setting:Urban emergency room.

Animals:One hundred and fifty‐one client‐owned dogs.

Measurements:Dogs presented to the emergency room within 6 hours of ingestion of an anticoagulant rodenticide and had a PT measured within 2–6 days of toxicant ingestion before initiating vitamin K therapy were included. Dogs were categorized as treated or untreated based on the institution of vitamin K therapy following PT testing. The signalment, body weight, type of rodenticide ingested, time elapsed between ingestion and initial presentation, method(s) of GI decontamination, and the times elapsed between both toxicant ingestion and initial hospital presentation until determination of PT were recorded. The PT results were recorded as well as any treatment received following the recheck examination. Any reported incidents of bleeding or untoward effects between exposure and reexamination were recorded.

Main results:Of 151 dogs, only 11 dogs (8.3%) developed prolonged PT requiring vitamin K supplementation. None of the 11 dogs with prolonged PTs exhibited signs of bleeding or required transfusion therapy. No differences in age, weight, or time elapsed between treated and untreated patients were found.

Conclusions:The incidence of prolonged PT is low in dogs receiving GI decontamination within 6 hours of anticoagulant rodenticide ingestion. Delaying vitamin K therapy until a PT has been assessed 48–72 hours after initial exposure appears to be safe and sensitive in dogs following anticoagulant rodenticide ingestion.
The Contemporary Art of Collaboration
Authors: Horn Sheridan
Published: June 2008

Predetermined assessment criteria and target levels threaten to constrain and limit teachers’ desire to provide a balanced and innovative curriculum for their pupils. Through the collaborative production of annual installations, the fine art department at Trinity Catholic School has attempted to confound the effects of a comprehensive school's limitations. These installations allow hundreds of participants of all ages to collaborate in a partnership ethos exploring contemporary issues and modes of practice and enable both pupils and teachers to engage with art as a creative process.

The installation is used as a gallery resource centre both in‐house and by the local community. The recent installation entitled ‘Laboratories’, analysing links between art and science, becomes a case study to examine the avoidance of limitations imposed by exam‐driven targets. Instead an environment was fostered that actively promoted a ‘learning for all’ philosophy including teachers and mature students.
Delirium and use of sedation agents in intensive care
Authors: Bourne Richard S.
Published: June 2008

Aim:  The aim of the review was to consider the relationship between delirium and aspects of sedative and analgesic drug use in mechanically ventilated intensive care patients. The basis for routine delirium screening and the implications for nurses are discussed along with a brief outline of the treatment of delirium.

Background and context:  Delirium is common in intensive care patients and like other markers of organ failure is associated with worse outcomes. The risk of developing delirium is dependent on the patients’ individual vulnerability and on the burden of precipitating factors they are exposed to. Detection of delirium in intensive care patients is often difficult and requires the regular use of a validated screening tool. Intensive care patients are exposed to multiple delirium risk factors, and sedative and analgesic agents present an important subgroup, which we can attempt to control. Sedative and analgesic drug choice, their mode of administration, monitoring and titration have consequences for delirium development.

Method:  Literature review.

Conclusions:  Sedative and analgesic drugs have an important role in the prevention and treatment of delirium in intensive care patients. Routine delirium screening should be included as part of sedation monitoring practice. When detected, treatment is focused on the prompt correction of precipitating factors, non‐pharmacological interventions and appropriate drug therapy for symptom control.
Density of Familial Alcoholism and Its Effects on Alcohol Use and Problems in College Students
Authors: Capone Christy , Wood Mark D.
Published: June 2008

Background:  Previous studies of family history of alcoholism (FHA) in college students have typically relied on dichotomous indices of paternal drinking. This study examined the prevalence of FHA and its effects on alcohol use and problems using a density measure in a sample (n = 408) of college students.

Methods:  Undergraduate students completed an anonymous survey in exchange for course credit. Data was collected between 2005 and 2006.

Results:  Using a density measure of FHA, we observed an overall prevalence rate of 65.9% and a rate of 29.1% for FHA in both first and second‐degree relatives. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to investigate relations among FHA, alcohol use/problems and previously identified etiological risk factors for alcohol use disorders (AUD). Results indicated a significant positive association between FHA and alcohol‐related problems and this relationship was mediated by age of onset of drinking, behavioral undercontrol and current cigarette use. Behavioral undercontrol also mediated the relationship between gender and alcohol problems. Additionally, FHA was associated with an earlier age of onset of drinking and this was related to greater alcohol use.

Conclusions:  Assessing density of FHA in future trajectory research may capture a greater number of students at risk for acute alcohol‐related problems and/or future development of AUDs. Future preventive interventions with this population, which should begin well before the college years, may benefit from considering personality factors and incorporating smoking cessation to help identify at‐risk students and assist those who wish to cut down on their alcohol use but find that smoking acts as a trigger for increased drinking.
Global Health Impacts and Costs Due to Mercury Emissions
Authors: Spadaro Joseph V. , Rabl Ari
Published: June 2008

Since much of the emission is in the form of metallic Hg whose atmospheric residence time is long enough to cause nearly uniform mixing in the hemisphere, much of the impact is global. This article presents a first estimate of global average neurotoxic impacts and costs by defining a comprehensive transfer factor for ingestion of methyl‐Hg as ratio of global average dose rate and global emission rate. For the dose‐response function (DRF) we use recent estimates of IQ decrement as function of Hg concentration in blood, as well as correlations between blood concentration and Hg ingestion. The cost of an IQ point is taken as $18,000 in the United States and applied in other countries in proportion to per capita GDP, adjusted for purchase power parity. The mean estimate of the global average of the marginal damage cost per emitted kg of Hg is about $1,500/kg, if one assumes a dose threshold of 6.7 μg/day of methyl‐Hg per person, and $3,400/kg without threshold. The average global lifetime impact and cost per person at current emission levels are 0.02 IQ points lost and $78 with and 0.087 IQ points and $344 without threshold. These results are global averages; for any particular source and emission site the impacts can be quite different. An assessment of the overall uncertainties indicates that the damage cost could be a factor 4 smaller or larger than the median estimate (the uncertainty distribution is approximately log normal and the ratio median/mean is approximately 0.4).
Model Averaging in Microbial Risk Assessment Using Fractional Polynomials
Authors: Namata Harriet , Aerts Marc , Faes Christel , Teunis Peter
Published: June 2008

The alleviation of food‐borne diseases caused by microbial pathogen remains a great concern in order to ensure the well‐being of the general public. The relation between the ingested dose of organisms and the associated infection risk can be studied using dose‐response models. Traditionally, a model selected according to a goodness‐of‐fit criterion has been used for making inferences. In this article, we propose a modified set of fractional polynomials as competitive dose‐response models in risk assessment. The article not only shows instances where it is not obvious to single out one best model but also illustrates that model averaging can best circumvent this dilemma. The set of candidate models is chosen based on biological plausibility and rationale and the risk at a dose common to all these models estimated using the selected models and by averaging over all models using Akaike's weights. In addition to including parameter estimation inaccuracy, like in the case of a single selected model, model averaging accounts for the uncertainty arising from other competitive models. This leads to a better and more honest estimation of standard errors and construction of confidence intervals for risk estimates. The approach is illustrated for risk estimation at low dose levels based on Salmonella typhi and Campylobacter jejuni data sets in humans. Simulation studies indicate that model averaging has reduced bias, better precision, and also attains coverage probabilities that are closer to the 95% nominal level compared to best‐fitting models according to Akaike information criterion.
Workgroup Temperance of Alcohol and Safety Climate Moderate the Cognitive Effects of Workplace Substance‐Abuse Prevention1
Authors: Reynolds G. Shawn , Lehman Wayne E. K.
Published: June 2008

This research examined the independent and combined influence of workgroup drinking norms and safety climate on the cognitive outcomes of prevention. Employees from 72 workgroups (n = 347) were randomly assigned to attend 1 of 2 training conditions or a control group that did not receive training until after follow‐up questionnaires. Results from hierarchical regression analyses showed there was a significant effect of the interaction between safety climate, drinking norms, and training on beliefs that policy and the employee assistance program are effective. Informational training was least effective for employees from relatively temperate workgroups. Team awareness was less effective for employees from tolerant groups. Employees might benefit more from interventions tailored to individual and workgroup cultural factors.
Differential expression of influx and efflux transport proteins in human antigen presenting cells
Authors: Skazik Claudia , Heise Ruth , Bostanci Öznur , Paul Nora , Denecke Bernd , Joussen Sylvia , Kiehl Klaudia , Merk Hans F. , Zwadlo‐Klarwasser Gabriele , Baron Jens Malte
Published: June 2008

Abstract:  Human macrophages (MΦ) express cytochrome P450 enzymes verifying their capacity to metabolize a variety of endogenous and exogenous substances. Here we analysed the mRNA and protein expression of transport proteins involved in the uptake or export of drugs, hormones and arachidonic acid metabolites in dendritic cells (DC) and MΦ compared to their precursors – blood monocytes – using cDNA microarray, RT‐PCR, Western‐blot and immunostaining techniques. The transport proteins studied included members of the solute carrier organic anion transporter family (SLCO) and the multidrug resistance associated proteins (MRP) 1–6 belonging to the ATP‐binding cassette subfamily C (ABCC). We found that only mRNA for SLCO‐2B1, ‐3A1, and ‐4A1 were present in monocytes, MΦ and DC. Most interestingly the expression of SLCO‐2B1 was markedly enhanced in MΦ as compared to monocytes and DC. The presence of mRNA for ABCC1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 in all three cell types was demonstrated. On protein level ABCC1/MRP1 which has been identified as leukotriene C4 transporter was found to be the most abundant transporter in MΦ and DC. Blocking the ABCC1/MRP1 activity with the specific inhibitor MK571 resulted in a phenotypic change in DC but not in MΦ. Our data show that human blood monocytes and monocyte derived MΦ as well as DC express a specific profile of transporters involved in uptake and export of exogenous molecules like allergens or drugs, but also of endogenous substances in particular of inflammatory lipid mediators like leukotrienes and prostaglandins.
Two Approaches to Measuring Women's Work in Developing Countries: A Comparison of Survey Data from Egypt
Authors: Langsten Ray , Salen Rania
Published: June 2008

Keyword and activities list approaches to measuring women's work are compared. The two approaches were applied to the same population of women in Egypt in two consecutive surveys. The widely used keyword approach underestimates women's work rates, disproportionately excluding poor and poorly educated women, particularly those working in nonformal jobs. The activities list approach captures these missed economic activities and also the multiple jobs women hold simultaneously. Survey measurement of women's work must be improved to fully account for women's contributions to economic life and to better understand the relationship of work to such other important variables and processes as reproductive change, child welfare, and economic development.
Lies, Damned Lies and Befuddlement
Authors: Giles Chris
Published: June 2008

Why does a lawyer putting up his hourly rate increase our national productivity? Why does £83 billion of our GDP apparently come from rents that are never actually paid, or even demanded? This article, by Chris Giles, was the award-winner in the Print category of the 2007 RSS Statistical Excellence in Journalism competition. It first appeared in the Financial Times on July 27th, 2007.
Low‐Income Rural Mothers’ Perceptions of Parent Confidence: The Role of Family Health Problems and Partner Status*
Authors: Ontai Lenna , Sano Yoshie , Hatton Holly , Conger Katherine J.
Published: June 2008

Abstract:Parenting confidence can be undermined by the presence of frequent or persistent health problems, particularly for people living in rural communities that have limited access to adequate health care. However, little is known about how minor health problems in the family impact parenting. The current study examined single and coresident mothers’ parent confidence in relation to family health problems and parental support in a sample of 303 low‐income, rural mothers with young children from 14 states. Results show that the presence of family health problems was negatively associated with parent confidence. For coresident mothers, there was an indirect relationship through perceived parental support.
“Whose Child Is This?”: Determining Legal Status for Lesbian Parents Who Used Assisted Reproductive Technologies*
Authors: Hare Jan , Skinner Denise
Published: June 2008

Abstract: Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have helped heterosexuals, lesbians, and gays fulfill desires to become parents. In this article, we identify assumptions upon which parentage rights in the United States are based. Examining recent legal decisions in California concerning 3 families headed by lesbian parents who used ARTs, we find that existing law inadequately addresses the circumstances of same‐gender parents. Using the concepts of child‐centered analysis and moral parenthood, we build policy recommendations that can serve as guidelines for states in developing comprehensive legislation. These recommendations ensure equity in court decision making for same‐gender couples and their children.
Child Support: Who Bears the Burden?*
Authors: Stirling Kate , Aldrich Tom
Published: June 2008

Abstract: Using a more comprehensive accounting than previous studies, we examined the economic impact of child support orders on residential mothers and children compared to nonresidential fathers and how that impact differed across income levels. With the inclusion of child support and other expenses associated with raising children, the well‐being of mothers and children fell by 37% compared to a decline of 16% for nonresident fathers, relative to their standard of living while intact. We also found significant differences in the child support obligation rate across income levels with low‐ and middle‐income fathers facing much greater child support obligations than high‐income fathers. Additionally, although the poverty rates of low‐income fathers were high at 28%, those for low‐income mothers and children were almost 3‐fold higher at 73%.
The Influence of Family Factors on the Executive Functioning of Adult Children of Alcoholics in College*
Authors: Schroeder Valarie M. , Kelley Michelle L.
Published: June 2008

Abstract: This study examined executive functioning in college aged adult children of alcoholics (ACOAs; n = 84) and non‐ACOAs (188). We examined whether characteristics of the family environment and family responsibility in one’s family of origin were associated with executive functioning above the contribution of ACOA status. ACOAs reported more difficulty regulating behavior related to executive functioning but comparable metacognitive abilities to non‐ACOAs. Family environment contributed to behavioral and metacognitive regulation above the contribution of group (ACOA/non‐ACOA). These findings suggest that ACOAs may be at greater risk for experiencing difficulty in higher order processes related to behavioral regulation. For both ACOA and non‐ACOA college students, one’s family of origin environment appears related to higher order processes, suggesting the need for interventions aimed at improving executive functioning for vulnerable students.
Pharmacokinetic–Pharmacodynamic Relationships of Cognitive and Psychomotor Effects of Intravenous Buprenorphine Infusion in Human Volunteers
Authors: Jensen Mette L. , Sjøgren Per , Upton Richard N. , Foster David J. R. , Bonde Peter , Graae Christian , Skram Ulrik , Stevner Lene , Christrup Lona L.
Published: June 2008

Abstract: The main objective of the present study was to characterize the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) relationship of the effects of buprenorphine on cognitive functioning in healthy volunteers. Twenty‐three male volunteers received 0.6 mg buprenorphine as an intravenous infusion over 150 min. The cognitive and psychomotor performance was evaluated before and at various times after drug administration by a test battery consisting of trail‐making test for visual information processing, finger‐tapping test for psychomotor speed, and continuous reaction time for attention. Non‐linear mixed effect modelling was used in the analysis of the PK/PD relationships. Buprenorphine caused significant deficits in cognitive and psychomotor functioning. The time course of cognitive and psychomotor impairment was found to have a slow distribution to the biophase from plasma with PK/PD models involving an effect compartment providing the best descriptions of the time course of the data. The values for half‐life of biophase equilibration were consistent between the neuropsychological tests in the range of 66.6–84.9 min. The time to onset and duration of the cognitive and psychomotor impairment of buprenorphine was determined by a slow distribution to the biophase.
Differential mRNA expression levels and gene sequences of carboxylesterase in both deltamethrin resistant and susceptible strains of the cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii
Authors: Cao Chuan‐Wang , Zhang Jing , Gao Xi‐Wu , Liang Pei , Guo Hui‐Lin
Published: June 2008

Extensive use of insecticides on cotton has prompted resistance development in the cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii (Glover) in China. A deltamethrin‐selected population of cotton aphids from Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China with 228.59‐fold higher resistance to deltamethrin was used to examine how carboxylesterase conferred resistance to this pyrethroid insecticide. The carboxylesterase activity in the deltamethrin‐resistant strain was 3.67‐, 2.02‐ and 1.16‐fold of the susceptible strain when using α‐naphthyl acetate (α‐NA), β‐naphthyl acetate (β‐NA) and α‐naphthyl butyrate (α‐NB) as substrates, respectively. Carboxylesterase cDNA was cloned and sequenced from both deltamethrin‐resistant and susceptible strains. The cDNA contained 1581 bp open reading frames (ORFs) coding a 526 amino acid protein. Only one amino acid substitution (Val87‐Ala) was observed between deltamethrin‐resistant and susceptible strains but it is not genetically linked to resistance by the catalytic triad and signature motif analysis. The real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis indicated that the resistant strain had a 6.61‐fold higher level of carboxylesterase mRNA than the susceptible strain. The results revealed that up‐regulation of the carboxylesterase gene, not modified gene structure, may be responsible for the development of resistance in cotton aphids to deltamethrin.
Bamboo stumps as mosquito larval habitats in Darjeeling Himalayas, India: A spatial scale analysis
Authors: Aditya Gautam , Tamang Rakesh , Sharma Dipendra , Subba Francis , Saha Goutam K.
Published: June 2008

Bamboo stumps can be a congenial breeding habitat of the mosquitoes. In view of this, a preliminary assessment of the dipteran immatures inhabiting the stumps of bamboo groves in the Darjeeling Himalayas was carried out at a spatial scale. Of the 104 stumps of Dendrocalamus hamiltoni surveyed, 70 were found to host immatures of three dipteran species, the mosquitoes Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus and the midges Chironomus sp. in varying densities. Though the stumps varied in diameter, in each stump on average 12. 1 immatures were found. The abundance of the immatures was positively correlated with the diameter of the stumps (r=+0.382; P < 0.001) but negatively with the pH of the water present in the stumps (r=–0.336; P < 0.01). The coefficient of association was found to be +8.4 for the Ae. aegypti and Chironomus immatures, while in the rest of the species pair the association seemed to be independent. Thus it can be concluded that the stumps in the bamboo groves of Darjeeling Himalayas provides a favourable habitat for the mosquito and chironomid immatures.
Population suppression of Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) using yellow sticky traps and Eretmocerus nr. rajasthanicus (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) on tomato plants in greenhouses
Authors: Gu Xi‐Shu , Bu Wen‐Jun , Xu Wei‐Hong , Bai Yi‐Chuan , Liu Bai‐Ming , Liu Tong‐Xian
Published: June 2008

We conducted three experiments for management of Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) biotype ‘B’ on tomatoes under greenhouse conditions: (i) vertically placing yellow sticky cards either parallel or perpendicular to tomato rows at a rate of 1 per 3‐m row; (ii) releasing Eretmocerus sp. nr. rajasthanicus once at 30 adults/m2 in the high whitefly density greenhouses (> 10 adults/plant), or twice at 15 adults/m2 at a 5‐day interval in the low whitefly density greenhouses (< 10 adults/plant); and (iii) using combinations of yellow sticky cards that were placed vertically parallel to tomato rows and parasitoids released once at 30/m2 in high whitefly density greenhouses or twice at 15/m2 at a 5‐day interval in low whitefly density greenhouses. Our data show that yellow sticky cards trapped B. tabaci adults and significantly reduced whitefly populations on tomato. The yellow sticky cards that were placed parallel to tomato rows caught significantly more whitefly adults than those placed perpendicular to tomato rows on every sampling date. In the treatment where parasitoids were released once at 30/m2 in high whitefly density greenhouses, the number of live whitefly nymphs were reduced from 4.6/leaf to 2.9/leaf in 40 days as compared with those on untreated plants on which live whitefly nymphs increased from 4.4/leaf to 8.9/leaf. In the treatment where parasitoids were released twice at 15/m2 in low whitefly density greenhouses, the numbers of live nymphs of B. tabaci on tomato leaves were reduced from 2.1/leaf to 1.7/leaf in 20 days as compared with those on untreated plants on which numbers of live nymphs of B. tabaci increased from 2.2/leaf to 4.5/leaf. In the treatment of yellow sticky cards and parasitoid release once at 30/m2 in high whitefly density greenhouses, the numbers of live nymphs of B. tabaci on tomato leaves were reduced from 7.2/leaf to 1.9/leaf, and in the treatment of yellow sticky cards and parasitoid release twice at 15/m2 at a 5‐day interval at low whitefly density, the numbers of live nymphs of B. tabaci on tomato leaves were reduced from 2.5/leaf to 0.8/leaf; whereas the numbers of live nymphs of B. tabaci on untreated plants increased from 4.4/leaf to 8.9/leaf. An integrated program for management of B. tabaci on greenhouse vegetables by using yellow sticky cards, parasitoids and biorational insecticides is discussed.
Testing reionization with gamma-ray burst absorption spectra
Authors: Gallerani S. , Salvaterra R. , Ferrara A. , Choudhury T. Roy
Published: June 2008

We propose to study cosmic reionization using absorption-line spectra of high-redshift gamma-ray burst (GRB) afterglows. We show that the statistics of the dark portions (gaps) in GRB absorption spectra represent exquisite tools to discriminate among different reionization models. We then compute the probability to find the largest gap in a given width range [Wmax, Wmax+ dW] at a flux threshold Fth for burst afterglows at redshifts 6.3 ≤z≤ 6.7. We show that different reionization scenarios populate the (Wmax, Fth) plane in a very different way, allowing to distinguish among different reionization histories. We provide here useful plots that allow a very simple and direct comparison between observations and model results. Finally, we apply our methods to GRB 050904 detected at z= 6.29. We show that the observation of this burst strongly favours reionization models which predict a highly ionized intergalactic medium at z∼ 6, with an estimated mean neutral hydrogen fraction xH i= 6.4 ± 0.3 × 10-5 along the line of sight towards GRB 050904.
Genital herpes in older women: A silent epidemic
Authors: Hoff Janice
Published: June 2008

Purpose: To present an overview of the prevalence of genital herpes in older women and to present case studies of older women diagnosed with genital herpes in a geriatric practice in the southeastern United States.

Data sources: Review of current scientific literature and treatment/practice guidelines. Specific descriptive cases are reviewed to illustrate the clinical problem.

Conclusions: Genital herpes is an important differential diagnosis to include when assessing and treating older women for recurrent genital symptoms.

Implications for practice: Given the large numbers of older individuals potentially infected with genital herpes, the nurse practitioner (NP) is well positioned to accurately diagnose and initiate treatment that can improve quality of life. The NP’s skill in education and counseling is essential to the ongoing management of genital herpes infections.
Postgenomics of Tribolium: Targeting the endocrine regulation of diuresis
Authors: PARK Yoonseong , BEEMAN Richard W.
Published: June 2008

Coleopteran insects comprise a highly successful taxon, representing more than 25% of eukaryotic species, many of which are economically important. One of these, the red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum H.), is a major pest of stored grain and cereal products and is also an excellent genetic model for the Coleoptera. The Tribolium genome sequencing project was recently completed, the first for an agricultural insect pest species. This genome sequence and annotation, in combination with the tractability of Tribolium for genetic dissection and functional genomic analysis, makes it one of the most useful subjects for studies of insect development, genetics and physiology. Tribolium has a number of interesting physiological adaptations, including desiccation tolerance associated with specialized cryptonephridial organs for active rectal absorption of atmospheric water. The study of endocrine regulation of diuresis in this species has led to the identification of a number of osmoregulatory peptides, including the novel arginine‐vasopressin‐like peptide.
Oviposition deterrent, ovicidal and gravid mortality effects of ethanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata Nees against the malarial vector Anopheles stephensi Liston (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: CHENNIAPPAN Kuppusamy , KADARKARAI Murugan
Published: June 2008

Oviposition is an important phenomenon of mosquitoes and has recently become the focus in the concept of integrated vector control management. In the present study, we evaluated oviposition deterrent, ovicidal and mortality effects of ethanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata Nees against gravid and oviposited females of Anopheles stephensi Liston. Water treated with the ethanolic extract had a high deterrent activity in ovipositing females: oviposition activity index values for the test species were –0.28, –0.45, –0.49 and –0.59 for extract concentrations of 29, 35, 41 and 46 p.p.m., respectively. High degrees of mortality were observed with various concentrations of extract: 1.12 (control) to 11.70 for gravid females, and 0.65 (control) to 10.25 for oviposited females. The highest mortality in both gravid and oviposited females was observed soon after they came in contact with oviposition medium treated with the extract, and this was found to be significant at doses higher than 35 p.p.m., suggesting possible contact toxicity of the extract. The extract caused moderate ovicidal activity against various age groups of A. stephensi, but it inflicted delayed effects such as high larval, pupal and adult mortality. The age of the eggs and the duration of the extract treatment influenced the ovicidal activity observed. It is clear that ethanolic extract of A. paniculata Nees can affect the oviposition cycle of A. stephensi Liston, thereby suppressing the vector population and adversely influencing transmission of the disease pathogen.
Major ectoparasites of cattle in and around Mekelle, northern Ethiopia
Authors: YACOB H.T. , ATAKLTY H. , KUMSA B.
Published: June 2008

Studies on the identification of major ectoparasites of cattle in and around Mekelle in northern Ethiopia were carried out from November 2006 to June 2007. Ectoparasite prevalence, infestation, and the possible risks associated with ectoparasites were investigated. Data collected were analyzed using the χ2‐test. A total of 849 cattle were examined: 40.2% (341), 53.2% (452) and 5.9% (50) were infested with ticks, lice and Demodex, respectively. A positive correlation was observed between prevalence and production system and breed of cattle. The results also revealed widespread occurrence of ectoparasites that have affected the general health and productivity of cattle in the study area. Seven different species of ticks were found on the cattle, with some capable of transmitting pathogens harmful to both cattle and humans.
Graphium agamemnon Linnaeus (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae), a pest of soursop (Annona muricata Linnaeus), in Vietnam: Biology and a novel method of control
Authors: VU Nga Thi , EASTWOOD Rod , NGUYEN Chat Thi , PHAM Lam Van
Published: June 2008

Few butterflies are pests of economic significance, but some may be locally destructive, such as the papilionid Graphium agamemnon Linnaeus, which is known to feed on the commercially important soursop (Annona muricata Linnaeus) in Vietnam. This paper documents the life history and ecology of G. agamemnon and investigates commonly used control measures in south‐east Vietnam. A novel method of controlling G. agamemnon infestation is described. If soursop basal rootstock (Annona glabra Linnaeus) is encouraged to shoot during times of peak butterfly activity, ovipositing G. agamemnon females are preferentially attracted to the new growth where the resulting early stages may be easily detected and removed by hand.
Fungistatic Activity of Heat‐Treated Flaxseed Determined by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Xu Y. , Hall III C. , Wolf‐Hall C.
Published: June 2008

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of heat treatment on the fungistatic activity of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) in potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium and a fresh noodle system. The radial growth ofPenicillium chrysogenum,Aspergillus flavus, and aPenicilliumsp. isolated from moldy noodles, as well as the mold count of fresh noodle enriched with heat treated flaxseed, were used to assess antifungal activity. A central composite design in the response surface methodology was used to predict the effect of heating temperature and time on antifungal activity of flaxseed flour (FF). Statistical analysis determined that the linear terms of both variables (that is, heating temperature and time) and the quadratic terms of the heating temperature had significant (P< 0.05) effects on the radial growth of all 3 test fungi and the mold count log‐cycle reduction of fresh noodle. The interactions between the temperature and time were significant for all dependent variables (P< 0.05). Significant reductions in antifungal activities were found when FF was subjected to high temperatures, regardless of heating time. In contrast, prolonging the heating time did not substantially affect the antifungal activities of FF at low temperature. However, 60% of the antifungal activity was retained after FF was heated at 100 °C for 15 min, which suggests a potential use of FF as an antifungal additive in food products subjected to low to mild heat treatments.