bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The performance of various anthropometric assessment methods for predicting low birth weight in pregnant women
Authors: Padilha Patricia de Carvalho , Accioly Elizabeth , Veiga Glória Valéria da , Bessa Tereza Cristina , Della Libera Beatriz , Nogueira Jamile Lima , Alves Priscila Dutra , Souza Junior Paulo Roberto de , Saunders Cláudia
Published: July 2009

OBJECTIVES: to assess the performance of various anthropometric methods for the evaulation of the nutritional status of pregnant women as a means of predicting low birth weight (LBW). METHODS: a descriptive cross-cutting study carried out among 433 pregnant women (>20 years) attending a Public Maternity Hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The adequacy of the weight gain at the end of the pregnancy was evaluated in accordance with the proposals of the Institute of Medicine and the Brazilian Ministry of Health. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the adequacy of weight gain at the end of the pregnancy or nutritional state of mother as a predictor of low birth weight were calculated. RESULTS: the sensitivity of the various methods varied from 63.1% to 68.4% and the specificity from 71.2% to 75.1%. The adapted Institute of Medicine proposal drawn up by the Brazilian Ministry of Health, according to the classification of the pre-delivery nutritional status of the mother according to the World Health Organization cutoff points showed itself to be the most accurate (74.5%), this being the most adequate method for nutritional triage for reason of its association with low birth weight (OR=4.10; 95%CI=1.53-10.92). CONCLUSIONS: the best proposals for this population are those of the Institute of Medicine and the Brazilian Ministry of Health. Further studies aiming to ascertain the most appropriate methods of anthropometric evaluation for different populations should be encouraged.
Anthracyclines in Early-Stage Breast Cancer: Is It the End of an Era?
Authors: Robson Danny , Verma Sunil
Published: June 2009

Anthracycline regimens have been the mainstay of adjuvant care in breast cancer for >20 years. A growing body of clinical experience has uncovered an unacceptable rate of significant cardiac and leukomogenic toxicities. A systematic review of the literature was performed highlighting anthracycline- and nonanthracycline-based adjuvant regimens. The published data suggest that nonanthracycline alternatives are less toxic than anthracycline-containing regimens and equally, if not more, efficacious. Molecular predictors, such as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 and topoisomerase II α, are further refining the optimal role of anthracyclines. With these new advances, the current role of anthracycline-based chemotherapy in early-stage breast cancer demands re-examination.
Role of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant in the Management of Follicular Lymphoma
Authors: Foster Matthew , Gabriel Don A. , Shea Thomas
Published: June 2009

Learning Objectives

Evaluate recent data regarding outcomes of autologous and allogeneic stem cell transplant for follicular lymphoma. Apply patient and disease characteristics to predict favorable post-transplant outcomes for patients with follicular lymphoma. Enumerate the indications for referral of patients with follicular lymphoma to a transplant center. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of allogeneic versus autologous stem cell transplant for follicular lymphoma.

This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com.
Naked Oats for Improving Human Nutrition: Genetic and Agronomic Variability of Grain Bioactive Components
Authors: Redaelli R. , Sgrulletta D. , Scalfati G. , De Stefanis E. , Cacciatori P.
Published: July 2009

The impact of genotype, environment, and rotation on the variability of important bioactive compounds (protein and β‐glucan) was evaluated in the grains of seven naked and two husked oat (Avena sativa L.) genotypes, grown in a set of trials in 2001–2002 and 2002–2003 in two Italian locations in winter seeding. Each trial was composed of two experiments, corresponding to different rotation systems, i.e., cereal or legume as the preceding crop. Genetic, agronomic, and environmental effects for all the parameters investigated and significant interactions between variability factors were found. Plots grown after cereal appeared to accumulate more protein (+4%) and β‐glucan (+9%) than those grown after legume. Significant interactions were found between rotation and genotypes. Total dietary fiber (TDF) content was also determined in a group of samples and found to be mostly determined by genotype and its interaction with other factors. Among the naked genotypes, ‘Bikini’ and Hja72095N showed the highest protein content; ‘Abel’, ‘Nave’, and Bikini were characterized by high β‐glucan content, and ‘Konradin’ had the largest amount of TDF in all environments. The present paper furnishes useful indicators to identify the most appropriate genotypes and the correct cultural practices to improve the nutritional value of naked oats, making them a suitable source of raw material for innovative food production.
Polyphenol, Conditioning, and Conservation Effects on Protein Fractions and Degradability in Forage Legumes
Authors: Grabber J.H. , Coblentz W.K.
Published: July 2009

Forage legume proteins were fractionated by the Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System or ruminally incubated to assess how conditioning and conservation methods interact with polyphenols (condensed tannins or o‐quinones) to alter protein degradability. The presence of polyphenols, conditioning by maceration rather than rolls, and conservation as hay rather than silage shifted protein fractions from buffer‐soluble to detergent‐extractable forms. Rumen undegradable protein (RUP) calculated from protein fractions for roll‐conditioned hays averaged 281 g kg−1 for alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), 309 g kg−1 for high‐tannin birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.), and 352 g kg−1 for o‐quinone–containing red clover (Trifolium pratense L.). Roll‐conditioned silages had lower RUP, averaging 132 g kg−1 for alfalfa, 161 g kg−1 for high‐tannin trefoil, and 241 g kg−1 for clover. Maceration increased calculated RUP by 67 to 124 g kg−1; responses were greatest in clover and high‐tannin trefoil. Rumen in situ residual protein (RP) was comparable to calculated RUP for silage, but ∼75 g kg−1 higher for hay. Hay RP also indicated a greater impact of tannins and a smaller impact of maceration on protein degradability. Discrepancies between calculated RUP, in situ RP, and previous protease RUP estimates indicate that routine methods for estimating RUP must be refined so that polyphenol‐containing forages can be properly characterized for feeding to ruminant livestock.
Mutagenesis, Selection, and Allelic Analysis of Epicuticular Wax Mutants in Sorghum
Authors: Peters Paul J. , Jenks Matthew A. , Rich Patrick J. , Axtell John D. , Ejeta Gebisa
Published: July 2009

Epicuticular wax forms an outer coating on the aerial surfaces of many crop plants and is implicated in tolerance to several environmental stresses including drought. Advances in knowledge of biosynthesis and secretion of these leaf surface waxes could lead to improvements in crop‐stress tolerance. To study the genetics of epicuticular wax deposition, we screened for bloomless (bm) and sparse‐bloom (h) mutants with reduced glaucousness of abaxial sheath surfaces within chemically mutagenized populations of Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench. We screened over 3974 segregating M2 head rows with over 160,000 plants and identified 38 putative recessive epicuticular wax mutant alleles. We grouped 31 of these into allelic groups associated with one existing and 18 new epicuticular wax loci. The overall epicuticular wax mutation frequency was 0.88%. In addition, analysis of the mutant segregation frequencies within the M2 rows allowed us to calculate the existence of five target meristem cells in a dormant (M0) seed embryo. The high epicuticular wax mutation rate and identification of 19 epicuticular wax loci indicate the presence of a complex genetic system of epicuticular wax production in sorghum as has been shown in other species. The new bloomless and sparse‐bloom mutants identified here have a wide range of phenotypes and constitute a valuable resource for studies of the genetics and biosynthesis of epicuticular waxes and their effects on tolerance to environmental stresses such as drought.
Validation and Interaction of the Soybean Mosaic Virus Lethal Necrosis Allele, Rsv1‐n, in PI 507389
Authors: Tucker D. M. , Maroof M. A. Saghai , Jeong S. C. , Buss G. R. , Tolin S. A.
Published: July 2009

Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) is the causal agent of a commonly occurring disease of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] that can be effectively controlled through the deployment of single, dominant genes known as Rsv genes, which confer resistance to different strains of SMV. The Rsv1‐n allele in PI 507389 conditions a lethal necrosis (LN) reaction on inoculation with specific SMV strains, including SMV‐G1, ‐G5, and ‐G6. The objective of the current study was to examine effects of the Rsv1‐n allele introgressed into the susceptible genotype ‘Essex’ background alone or in combination with either Rsv3 or Rsv4 resistance genes by inoculation with six different SMV strains. Presence of Rsv1‐n and its LN as well as severe mosaic reactions to the strains tested were masked when the gene was pyramided with Rsv3 and Rsv4 Thus in some cases, the LN‐causing gene may go undetected in breeding populations. Pyramided isolines containing Rsv1‐n and Rsv4 together were susceptible to SMV‐G6, displaying a mosaic reaction, although Rsv4 alone confers resistance against all known strains. This study demonstrates the importance of selecting against the Rsv1‐n allele to prevent its introduction into breeding programs.
Asymmetric Responses of Paspalum Species to a Soil Moisture Gradient
Authors: Henry Gerald M. , Yelverton Fred H. , Burton Michael G.
Published: July 2009

Anecdotal evidence suggests that dallisgrass (Paspalum dilatatum Poir.) and bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum Flueggé), two of the most troublesome weed species in managed turfgrass, are both drought and flood tolerant. Water table depth gradient tanks were employed to identify habitat specialization and competitive differences between dallisgrass and bahiagrass. Shoot and rhizome final biomass and survival were used as metrics for plants grown in monoculture or competition with hybrid bermudagrass (Cynodon transvaalensis Burtt Davy × C. dactylon (L.) Pers. ‘Tifway 419’) in sand or sandy loam soil. Shoot and rhizome growth of dallisgrass was greatest at the levels of highest soil moisture within each gradient tank regardless of soil type or competition. Percent survival of dallisgrass decreased to a low of 50% as depth to water table increased when grown as a monoculture and 12.5% when grown in competition with hybrid bermudagrass. Percent survival of bahiagrass was 100% regardless of water table depth, soil type, or competition. Shoot and rhizome growth of bahiagrass was greatest as depth to water table increased when grown in sandy loam soil. The opposite trend was observed when grown in sandy soil. Results suggest that dallisgrass may be more competitive with hybrid bermudagrass when volumetric soil moisture is high, while bahiagrass may be more competitive when volumetric soil moisture is low.
Comparison of Three Methods for Estimating Leaf Area Index of Upland Rice Cultivars
Authors: Sone C. , Saito K. , Futakuchi K.
Published: July 2009

Nondestructive estimation of leaf area index (LAI) using two canopy analyzers (LAI‐2000 and SunScan) was compared with destructively measured LAI for four upland rice (Oryza spp.) cultivars with various types of canopy development during the period from 21 to 56 d after sowing (DAS). For the LAI‐2000, LAI was estimated with or without the wide angle reading (Ring 5). When data from 50 and 56 DAS, which included LAI measured destructively of >4 m2 m−2, were omitted, the relationship of LAI measured destructively with LAI estimated by the SunScan was highly significant (R2 = 0.96) and had lower root mean square error than that with LAI estimated by the LAI‐2000 without Ring 5. We conclude that by restricting the range of LAI to <4 m2 m−2, the SanScan can provide reasonable estimates of LAI.
A Survey of Apomixis and Ploidy Levels among Poa L. (Poaceae) Using Flow Cytometry
Authors: Kelley Alicia Michelle , Johnson Paul G. , Waldron Blair L. , Peel Michael D.
Published: July 2009

Poa is a complex genus taxonomically and genetically. As a result, relatively little information exists for this economically important genus with regards to reproductive mode and variability in chromosome number. We examined apomixis frequency and ploidy levels in 83 Poa accessions representing 33 species from the National Plant Germplasm System using flow cytometric techniques. In reproductive mode analysis, we analyzed at least three preparations of 50 seeds each from the accessions. In ploidy level analysis, at least three plants of each accession were analyzed. Sixty percent of the species had at least one apomictic or facultative apomictic accession; 40% were sexual. Thirty‐three percent of the species had no sexual accessions. Autonomous apomixis was newly identified in P. bactriana and P. bulbosa in addition to it being previously reported in P. nervosa. Poa annua and P. trivialis were identified as obligate sexual, and P. nervosa as obligate apomictic. Two of four P. palustris accessions exhibited facultative apomixis. Ploidy levels among sexually reproducing Poa accessions ranged from 2n = 2x = 14 to 2n = 12x = 84, with most accessions between 2n = 3x = 21 to 2n = 8x = 56. Among apomictic accessions, ploidy levels ranged from 2n = 3x = 21 to 2n = 10x = 70, with most between 2n = 4x = 28 and 2n = 10x = 70. These results emphasize the wide variability in Poa, both among and within species.
The Inheritance of Cold Tolerance and Turf Traits in a Seeded Bermudagrass Population
Authors: Stefaniak Thomas R. , Rodgers C. A. , VanDyke R. , Williams D. W. , Phillips T. D.
Published: July 2009

Low temperature tolerance is a principal factor limiting the use of seeded bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon var. dactylon (L.) Pers.]. Therefore, increasing the winter tolerance of seeded bermudagrass cultivars has been a goal of turfgrass breeders for many years. Breeding methods for developing cultivars with increased tolerance to cold temperatures and superior turf characteristics could be improved by having accurate heritability estimates for cold tolerance and other turf performance traits. Parental clones and their respective polycross half‐sib families were established in a randomized complete block design with four replications in 2004 in Lexington, KY. Significant genetic variances were estimated for all traits except density, turf quality and color retention 2006. Narrow‐sense heritability estimates were found to range from 0 to 0.91 using the parent–offspring covariance method for estimating heritability. All heritabilities for spring green‐up were significantly (p < 0.01) different from 0. Positive predicted genetic gains were calculated for color, color retention, spring green‐up, and texture. These results indicate that genetic gains could be achieved if selections were made for these traits in this population.
Nitrogen Rate and Mowing Height Effects on Velvet and Creeping Bentgrasses for Low‐Input Putting Greens
Authors: Koeritz E. J. , Stier J. C.
Published: July 2009

Economics and regulations are causing golf course managers to use lower‐input approaches for turfgrass maintenance. Our objective was to compare velvet bentgrass (Agrostis canina L.) and creeping bentgrass (A. stolonifera L.) cultivars for putting green turf as affected by mowing height and N rate. Field plots were established on a sand‐based root zone using a strip‐split plot, randomized block design with four replications. Main plots were cultivars (‘Vesper’ and ‘SR7200’ velvet bentgrasses and ‘Penncross’ and ‘L‐93’ creeping bentgrasses). Mowing heights of 2.5, 4.0, and 6.4 mm were stripped across main plots, which were split to receive 48 or 146 kg ha−1 N yr−1 Vesper at the higher N rate provided the best turf quality, had the best spring green‐up, and had greater shoot density than either creeping bentgrass regardless of N rate. Cultivar and N treatments had variable effects on ball roll. In 2006 the velvet bentgrasses had less dollar spot disease (Sclerotinia homeocarpa F.T. Bennett) than creeping bentgrasses at 4.0 and 6.4 mm mowing heights. Velvet bentgrasses do not necessarily require less N than creeping bentgrasses, and intraspecific variation between cultivars indicates generic comparisons to creeping bentgrass are not always appropriate at the species level.
Genetics of Leaf Rust Resistance in the Soft Red Winter Wheat ‘Caldwell’
Authors: Kolmer J. A.
Published: July 2009

The soft red winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) ‘Caldwell’ has effective resistance to leaf rust caused by Puccinia triticina. To determine the genetic basis of this resistance, Caldwell was crossed with the leaf rust–susceptible spring wheat ‘Thatcher’, and the F1 plants were backcrossed to Thatcher to obtain backcross (BC) F2 (BC1F2) families. In the seedlings, the BC1F2 families segregated for a single gene to P. triticina race SBDG, which is likely Lr14a based on tests with BC1F3 lines. In field tests, the BC1F2 families segregated for a single gene for adult plant resistance that was independent of the seedling resistance. BC1F2 adult plants were inoculated in greenhouse tests with P. triticina races BBBD and THBJ, and resistant plants were selected and advanced by single‐seed descent to produce BC1F4 lines. In greenhouse tests, adult plants of some of the BC1F4 lines had the same low and high infection type (IT) to different P. triticina races as the Thatcher isoline with Lr12 Other BC1F4 plants had intermediate IT to the P. triticina race THBJ. The BC1F4 plants with the intermediate ITs were selected and tested as BC1F5 adult plants in greenhouse tests and as BC1F4:6 lines in field plot tests at two locations. Caldwell likely has the seedling resistance Lr14a, the adult plant gene Lr12, and an uncharacterized adult plant resistance gene that conditions an intermediate level of effective resistance in field plots.
Identification and Mapping of New Sources of Resistance to Aflatoxin Accumulation in Maize
Authors: Warburton Marilyn L. , Brooks Thomas D. , Krakowsky Matthew D. , Shan Xueyan , Windham Gary L. , Williams W. Paul
Published: July 2009

Maize (Zea mays L.) susceptibility to ear rot and aflatoxin accumulation by Aspergillus flavus (Link:Fr) has caused significant economic losses for farmers in the U.S. over the past 30 years. Aflatoxin outbreaks are generally associated with high temperatures and low moisture levels common to the southern U.S. To identify aflatoxin accumulation resistance quantitative trait loci (QTL) and linked markers for marker‐assisted breeding (MAB), a genetic mapping population of F2:3 family genotypes, increased by sib‐mating, was developed from Mp717, a maize inbred resistant to aflatoxin accumulation, and NC300, a southern‐adapted inbred with low levels of resistance and desirable agronomic traits. Replicated trials of the mapping population were subjected to A. flavus inoculation in Tifton, GA and Starkville, MS in 2004 and 2005. Quantitative trait loci on all chromosomes, except chromosomes 4, 6, and 9, were identified, and individual QTL explained from less than 1% to a maximum of 11% of the phenotypic variance in aflatoxin accumulation in grain. Both Mp717 and NC300 were found to contribute resistance to aflatoxin accumulation in the F2:3 families and overall QTL effects differed because of environmental conditions. Many of these loci were distinct from previously identified QTL, which confirmed Mp717 as a novel source of aflatoxin resistance.
Sale of a Deteriorating Asset via Sequential Search
Authors: Lippman Steven A. , Mamer John W
Published: June 2009

We consider the sale of an asset via sequential search over a finite time horizon and analyze the problem in both the posted price and the reservation price regimes. The distinguishing feature of this search model is the fact that the asset deteriorates with the passage of time. Under mild conditions, we show that the seller's optimal posted price (and the seller's optimal reservation price) per remaining unit of the asset decreases as time passes.
Evaluation of pain and inflammation associated with hot iron branding and microchip transponder injection in horses
Authors: Lindegaard Casper , Vaabengaard Dorte , Christophersen Mogens T. , Ekstøm Claus T. , Fjeldborg Julie
Published: July 2009

Objective—To compare effects of hot iron branding and microchip transponder injection regarding aversive behavioral reactions indicative of pain and inflammation in horses.

Animals—7 adult horses.

Procedures—In a randomized controlled clinical crossover study, behavioral reactions to hot iron branding and microchip transponder injection were scored by 4 observers. Local and systemic inflammation including allodynia were assessed and compared by use of physiologic and biochemical responses obtained repeatedly for the 168-hour study period. Serum cortisol concentration was measured repeatedly throughout the first 24 hours of the study. Sham treatments were performed 1 day before and 7 days after treatments.

Results—Hot iron branding elicited a significantly stronger aversive reaction indicative of pain than did microchip transponder injection (odds ratio [OR], 12.83). Allodynia quantified by means of skin sensitivity to von Frey monofilaments was significantly greater after hot iron branding than after microchip transponder injection (OR, 2.59). Neither treatment induced signs of spontaneously occurring pain that were observed during the remaining study period, and neither treatment induced increased serum cortisol concentrations. Comparison with sham treatments indicated no memory of an unpleasant event. The hot iron branding areas had significantly increased skin temperature and swelling (OR, 14.6). Systemic inflammation as measured via serum amyloid A concentration was not detected after any of the treatments.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Microchip transponder injection induced less signs of pain and inflammation and did not seem to pose a higher long-term risk than hot iron branding. Consequently, results indicated that hot iron branding does inflict more pain and should be abandoned where possible.
Evaluation of inflammatory responses induced via intra-articular injection of interleukin-1 in horses receiving a dietary nutraceutical and assessment of the clinical effects of long-term nutraceutical administration
Authors: Pearson Wendy , Orth Michael W. , Lindinger Michael I.
Published: July 2009

Objective—To evaluate inflammatory responses induced via intra-articular recombinant human interleukin (IL)-1β treatment in horses receiving a dietary nutraceutical (DN; composed of mussel, shark cartilage, abalone, and Biota orientalis lipid extract) and assess the clinical effects of long-term DN administration.

Animals—22 healthy horses.

Procedures—12 horses were fed 0, 15, 45, or 75 mg of DN (3 horses/treatment) daily for 84 days. General health and clinicopathologic variables were monitored at intervals. Ten other horses received 0 or 15 g of DN/d (5 horses/treatment) for 29 days (beginning day −14). One intercarpal joint in each horse was injected twice with IL-1β (10 and 100 ng on days 0 and 1, respectively), and the contralateral joint was similarly injected with saline (0.9% NaCl) solution. Synovial fluid prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG), nitric oxide (NO), and protein concentrations and leukocyte counts were analyzed before and at intervals after injections.

Results—Administration of the DN (up to 75 g/d) to horses for 84 days did not induce any adverse effects. In the other experiment, synovial fluid PGE2, GAG, and protein concentrations and leukocyte count increased after intra-articular injections of IL-1β (compared with effects of saline solution injections) in horses that received no DN; NO concentration was not affected. In horses that were fed the DN, intra-articular IL-1β injections did not induce significant increases in synovial fluid PGE2 and GAG concentrations.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that administration of the DN may be useful in preventing inflammation associated with arthritis and degenerative joint disease in horses.
Effects of acute exercise and long-term exercise on total Na+,K+-ATPase content and Na+,K+-ATPase isoform expression profile in equine muscle
Authors: van den Burg Maarten M. M. , Eizema Karin , de Graaf-Roelfsema Ellen , van Breda Eric , Wijnberg Inge D. , van der Kolk Johannes H. , Everts Maria E.
Published: July 2009

Objective—To investigate the effects of acute exercise and long-term training on Na+,K+-ATPase content, mRNA isoforms, and protein concentration in equine muscle.

Animals—6 Standardbreds.

Procedures—Horses performed a bout of exercise on a treadmill before and after 18 weeks of combined interval and endurance training. Muscle biopsy specimens were obtained from vastus lateralis muscle (VLM) and pectoralis descendens muscle (PDM) before and after exercise. The Na+,K+-ATPase content, mRNA isoforms, and protein concentrations were determined by use of [3H]ouabain binding, real-time PCR assay, and western blotting, respectively.

Results—6 Na+,K+-ATPase mRNA isoforms were present in equine muscle, but only A2 and B1 proteins were detected. Exercise before training resulted in increases of mRNA isoforms A1, A2, A3, and B2 in VLM and A1 and B3 in PDM. Training increased resting values for mRNA isoforms A3 and B1 in VLM and B3 in PDM. The Na+,K+-ATPase, [3H]ouabain binding, and proteins of mRNA A2 and B1 increased in VLM, whereas in PDM, only A2 protein increased as a result of training. After training, effects of strenuous exercise on mRNA expression were no longer detectable.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Equine muscle contained all Na+,K+-ATPase mRNA isoforms, but only A2 and B1 proteins could be detected. Expression of these isoforms changed as a result of strenuous exercise and long-term training, representing an adaptive response. Determination of Na+,K+-ATPase gene expression may be relevant for understanding alterations in excitability during neuromuscular diseases.
Stability and uniformity of extemporaneous preparations of voriconazole in two liquid suspension vehicles at two storage temperatures
Authors: Nguyen Kyvan Q. , Hawkins Michelle G. , Taylor Ian T. , Wiebe Valerie J. , Tell Lisa A.
Published: July 2009

Objective—To determine the stability and distribution of voriconazole in 2 extemporaneously prepared (compounded) suspensions stored for 30 days at 2 temperatures.

Sample Population—Voriconazole suspensions (40 mg/mL) compounded from commercially available 200-mg tablets suspended in 1 of 2 vehicles. One vehicle contained a commercially available suspending agent and a sweetening syrup in a 1:1 mixture (SASS). The other vehicle contained the suspending agent with deionized water in a 3:1 mixture (SADI).

Procedures—Voriconazole suspensions (40 mg/mL in 40-mL volumes) were compounded on day 0 and stored at room temperature (approx 21°C) or refrigerated (approx 5°C). To evaluate distribution, room-temperature aliquots of voriconazole were measured immediately after preparation. Refrigerated aliquots were measured after 3 hours of refrigeration. To evaluate stability, aliquots from each suspension were measured at approximately 7-day intervals for up to 30 days. Voriconazole concentration, color, odor, opacity, and pH were measured, and aerobic and anaerobic bacterial cultures were performed at various points.

Results—Drug distribution was uniform (coefficient of variation, < 5%) in both suspensions. On day 0, 87.8% to 93.0% of voriconazole was recovered; percentage recovery increased to between 95.1% and 100.8% by day 7. On subsequent days, up to day 30, percentage recovery was stable (> 90%) for all suspensions. The pH of each suspension did not differ significantly throughout the 30-day period. Storage temperature did not affect drug concentrations at any time, nor was bacterial growth obtained.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Extemporaneously prepared voriconazole in SASS and SADI resulted in suspensions that remained stable for at least 30 days. Refrigerated versus room-temperature storage of the suspensions had no effect on drug stability.
Dimensionality and Reliability of a Modified Version of Norton's 1983 Quality Marriage Index among Expectant and New Canadian Mothers
Authors: Nazarinia R. Roudi , Schumm Walter R. , White James M.
Published: July 2009

A slightly modified version of Norton's 1983 Quality Marriage Index was administered to 61 expectant mothers prior to giving birth and within 3 mo. after giving birth. Mothers' ages ranged from 19 to 43 years ( M = 30, SD = 5.01) and their partners' ages ranged from 21 to 48 years ( M = 32, SD = 6.02). Mothers were presented an opportunity to participate in this study during prenatal classes held at hospital and community health centers. The only requirement for participation was that the mother be residing with her child's father for the duration of the study. The six items of the modified index showed high internal consistency (α>.90) and substantial test-retest reliability with a Pearson zero-order correlation of .65 across the two administrations. Maximum likelihood factor analysis indicated moderate support for unidimensional factor structure for the modified index, but removing one item from the pre- and postnatal administration improved the factor structure. In the first administration, the last item (overall current satisfaction with partner) fit poorly with the factor structure, while at the second administration, the second item (our relationship is very stable) fit poorly. Possible implications of the results are discussed.
Home-Based Telecommuting and Quality of Life: Further Evidence on an Employee-Oriented Human Resource Practice
Authors: Hornung Severin , Glaser Jürgen
Published: July 2009

Building on previous research, further evidence for the potential of home-based telecommuting as an employee-oriented human resource practice is provided from a study in the German public administration. Survey data from 1,008 public employees were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Mean age of the sample was 43.6 yr. ( SD = 8.8 yr.), and 27.5% (277) of the participants were women. Analysis supported the roles of higher Autonomy and lower Work-Family Conflict as psychological mediators between Telecommunication Intensity and both Job Satisfaction and Quality of Life. Implications for the design of flexible working arrangements are discussed.
Applicants' Preference for Impression Management Tactic in Employment Interviews by Transportation Security Administration
Authors: Scudder Joseph N. , Lamude Kevin G.
Published: July 2009

Following past findings on employment interviews, this study hypothesized applicants would have a preference for using self-promoting tactics of impression management over other focuses. Self-reports of impression management tactics were collected from 124 applicants who had interviews for screener positions with the Transportation Security Administration. Contrary to the hypothesis, analysis indicated participants reported they used more ingratiation tactics attempting to praise the interviewer than self-promotion tactics which focused on their own accomplishments. Special qualifications for security jobs which required well-developed perceptual abilities and the controlling structure of the interview context were perhaps responsible for present results differing from prior findings.
Developing a Study Orientation Questionnaire in Mathematics for Primary School Students
Authors: Maree Jacobus G. , Van Der Walt Martha S. , Ellis Suria M.
Published: July 2009

The Study Orientation Questionnaire in Mathematics (Primary) is being developed as a diagnostic measure for South African teachers and counsellors to help primary school students improve their orientation towards the study of mathematics. In this study, participants were primary school students in the North-West Province of South Africa. During the standardisation in 2007, 1,013 students (538 boys: M age = 12.61; SD =1.53; 555 girls: M age= 11.98; SD =1.35; 10 missing values) were assessed. Factor analysis yielded three factors. Analysis also showed satisfactory reliability coefficients and item-factor correlations. Step-wise linear regression indicated that three factors (Mathematics anxiety, Study attitude in mathematics, and Study habits in mathematics) contributed significantly ( R2 = .194) to predicting achievement in mathematics as measured by the Basic Mathematics Questionnaire (Primary).
Assessing Superstitious Belief
Authors: Dagnall Neil , Parker Andrew , Munley Gary
Published: July 2009

The current study evaluated the psychometric properties of Wiseman and Watt's (2004) negative and positive superstitious belief items. The original items were compared with a modified, reworded set of items which emphasized each item's relation with either good or bad luck, and standard psychometric analyses were done. Modifying the items did not improve their psychometric properties; there was a negligible effect on Cronbach alpha, and Positive Item 3 continued to perform poorly. Confirmatory factor analysis, using the maximum likelihood method, suggested that a two-factor solution was preferable to a one-factor solution for both the original and modified items and that the problematic item should be discounted. It was concluded that the items require development and refinement before firm conclusions can be made about the factorial structure of superstitious belief. These results should also be tested further using Rasch methods.
What the Heart Thinks, the Tongue Speaks: A Study on Depression and Lexical Choice
Authors: Vanheule Stijn , Desmet Mattias , Meganck Reitske
Published: July 2009

The present study examined symptom-specificity in depression, testing the hypothesis that affective, cognitive, and somatic dimensions in depressive symptoms, as measured with the Beck Depression Inventory–II, cohere, respectively, with the use of affective-, cognitive-, and somatic-related words in natural language, as measured with the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count. Based on questionnaire and interview data from 32 mental health outpatients, analyses indicate scores for affective depressive symptoms correlate significantly with affective word use, cognitive depressive symptoms are related to cognitively oriented word use combined with affective word use, and the presence of somatic depressive symptoms correlates significantly with words referring to physical states and functions. These results indicate that different facets of depression have specific correlates and that natural word use serves as a psychological marker. From a psychometric point of view, this study substantiates the concurrent validity of the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC2001) categories under study and the Beck Depression Inventory-II subscales for affective, cognitive, and somatic symptoms.
Use of Board Games, Historical Calendars, and Trading Cards in a History of Psychology Class
Authors: Abramson Charles I. , Burke-Bergmann Amanda L. , Nolf Sondra L. , Swift Kristen
Published: July 2009

This article describes three activities for students created for a history of psychology course: various board games, trading cards, and calendars. Data are provided on their effectiveness. Suggestions for incorporating the activities are described.
Personality Traits and Achievement Motives: Theoretical and Empirical Relations between the NEO Personality Inventory-Revised and the Achievement Motives Scale
Authors: Diseth Åge , Martinsen Øyvind
Published: July 2009

Theoretical and empirical relations between personality traits and motive dispositions were investigated by comparing scores of 315 undergraduate psychology students on the NEO Personality Inventory-Revised and the Achievement Motives Scale. Analyses showed all NEO Personality Inventory-Revised factors except agreeableness were significantly correlated with the motive for success and the motive to avoid failure. A structural equation model showed that motive for success was predicted by Extraversion, Openness, Conscientiousness, and Neuroticism (negative relation), and motive to avoid failure was predicted by Neuroticism and Openness (negative relation). Although both achievement motives were predicted by several personality factors, motive for success was most strongly predicted by Openness, and motive to avoid failure was most strongly predicted by neuroticism. These findings extended previous research on the relations of personality traits and achievement motives and provided a basis for the discussion of motive dispositions in personality. The results also added to the construct validity of the Achievement Motives Scale.
Factorial Structure of Web Credibility in a Population of Italian Internet Users: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lombardo Giuseppina , Caci Barbara , Cardaci Maurizio
Published: July 2009

Recent studies by Fogg and his colleagues have defined a new psychological construct called Web credibility. It describes the principal dimensions which lead people to believe (or not) online information. In this framework, the factorial structure of Web credibility was explored in a sample of 152 Italian students of psychology who were Internet users, using a questionnaire. A consistent four-factorial structure emphasized crucial aspects of Web credibility, namely, Inaccuracy, Efficiency, Social Validation, and Commercial Features. Such results seem in line with Fogg's theoretical model; however, further research is required to identify dimensions of this construct.
A Construction and Validation of a Freshman Stress Questionnaire: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Boujut Emilie , Bruchon-Schweitzer Marilou
Published: July 2009

A stress questionnaire for freshmen was developed and administered to 1,102 French students at the beginning of the term (T1). A Principal Component Analysis of responses, followed by varimax and oblique rotations, yielded four factors accounting for 58% of the total variance. Factors were identified as academic stress, university's dysfunctions, feelings of loneliness, and problems with close relations. Associations were observed between scores on these factors and on personal variables measured at the same time (T1), namely, neuroticism, self-esteem, and two coping strategies, as well as variables measured at the end of the term (T2), depressive symptoms, eating disorders, somatic symptoms, and life satisfaction.
Association of osteoprotegerin and rankl levels with insulin resistance in pubertal obese children
Authors: Yeşilkaya Ediz , Bideci Aysun , Çamurdan Orhun , Boyraz Mehmet , Vurucu Sebahattin , Cinaz Peyami
Published: July 2009

Osteoprotegerin (OPG)/“receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa B-ligand” (RANKL) system has an important role in the remodeling of bone through regulation of osteoclastogenesis. We aimed to detect OPG and RANKL levels, particularly in obese children in the pubertal period and to investigate whether these parameters correlate with insulin resistance in childhood. Our study included 66 obese children ranging in age from 9.1 to 16 years, and 22 non-obese children ranging in age from 10.5 to 16 years. Blood glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol levels were measured for all cases; HOMA-IR, Quicki index and atherogenic index were calculated. Serum OPG and RANKL levels were also measured. OPG and RANKL levels did not show any difference between obese and non-obese children (P>.05). No difference in these 2 parameters were observed among the children with and without insulin resistance (P>.05). No correlation could be established between the OPG, the HOMA-IR, Quick and atherogenic indices. Obesity and insulin resistance are believed to show their effect in the later period of life to become able to change some of the parameters.
Checklist of the pathogens of lamprey species of Poland
Authors: Sobecka Ewa , Moskal Jerzy , Więcaszek Beata
Published: June 2009

This is a checklist of 51 pathogens of lamprey species found in Poland, including European river lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis (Linnaeus, 1758), European brook lamprey Lampetra planeri (Bloch, 1784), Ukrainian brook lamprey Eudontomyzon mariae (Berg, 1931), Danubian brook lamprey Eudontomyzon vladykovi Oliva and Zanandrea, 1959 and sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus Linnaeus, 1758.
The Puck Bay as an example of deep dredging unfavorably affecting the aquatic environment
Authors: Graca Bożena
Published: June 2009

The presented study is a review of available geochemical data concerning a dredge area in the Puck Bay. It is a small, semi-closed and degraded water body on the Polish Baltic coast. In this region very deep dredging was conducted in the years 1989-95. Five dredge pits were created in the bottom of the bay. Only two of them have been geochemically investigated so far. In the deepwater parts of both the dredge pits organic matter accumulation resulted in sulfate reduction and subsequent hydrogen sulfide production in the sediment, as well as elevated nutrient concentrations in the interstitial waters. Moreover, temporal oxygen deficits in the near bottom waters were observed. Such conditions favor nitrogen and phosphorus release to the water column and potentially enhance the eutrophication. The impact of deep dredging on the chemical conditions in the dredged area seems to be controlled by a complex interplay of the season, phytoplankton biomass production and hydrodynamic conditions. Areas with high biomass production and low water dynamic are probably more vulnerable to environmental degradation due to deep dredging. This implies that some of the dredge pits require different methods of recultivation than others. However the decision if, and with which methods, to remediate dredge pits in the Puck Bay requires successive research including all the pits in all four seasons.
Impact of heavy metals on water, fish (Cyprinus carpio) and sediments from a water tank at Tumkur, India
Authors: Sreedhara Nayaka B. , Ramakrishna S. , Jayaprakash  , Delvi M.
Published: June 2009

This study was carried out to assess the concentrations of various heavy metals and their distribution in a hyper-eutrophic urban Tumkur tank system, which is being polluted from industrial, domestic and sewage effluents. Samples of water, fish and soil sediment were analyzed for the concentration of seven heavy metals (iron, zinc, copper, nickel, chromium, lead and cadmium) using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The water-soluble (bioavailable) fractions of heavy metals correlated positively with their total concentration, exhibiting the following sequence of bioavailability: Zn > Cd > Ni > Pb > Cu > Cr > Fe. Cyprinus carpio exhibited a maximum bioaccumulation factor for copper (5500). The mean values of all types of collected samples were correlated with the corresponding mean values in a control tank (Teetha tank). The sequence of the order of the concentration of the metals in water, fish and sediment samples exhibiting higher values than those observed in the control tank was as follows: Cr > Pb > Cu ≈ Ni > Fe > Cd > Zn, Cr > Cd > Cu ≈ Zn > Pb > Fe ≈ Ni and Fe > Pb > Cr > Cu > Ni > Zn > Cd, respectively. The geoaccumulation indices of the heavy metals revealed that the tank is moderately to strongly contaminated. As Cyprinus carpio is extensively used for human consumption, there is a growing health risk that these metals could find their way into the human food chain.
Morphological and biochemical variation among common reed (Phragmites australis) populations in northwest Poland
Authors: Drapikowska Maria , Krzakowa Maria
Published: June 2009

Plant material from 42 common reed populations originating from various lakes and ponds in northwest Poland were investigated with respect to eight panicle traits and three peroxidase loci that were detected with electrophoresis. Genetic differences between populations were estimated based on allozyme frequencies. Electrophoretic data indicated that some populations contain an excess of heterozygotes, pointing to extensive gene flow, which is typical of panmictic, open-pollinated populations.
Distribution of heavy metals in the Mała Wełna River system (western Poland)
Authors: Frankowski Marcin , Sojka Mariusz , Zioła-Frankowska Anetta , Siepak Marcin , Murat-Błażejewska Sadżide
Published: June 2009

This paper reports the results of measurements of heavy metal concentrations in water, suspension, and bottom sediment samples collected at eight sites along the Mała Wełna River (western Poland). The samples were collected once a month from May to August 2006. The highest variations in the water of the Mała Wełna River were noted in the concentrations of Zn, Pb, and Cu. The results indicate that the suspension plays an important role in the transportation of pollutants contaminating the water and later in the accumulation of pollutants in the bottom sediments. The concentration of heavy metals in the bottom sediments were determined individually in grain size fractions: >2, 2-1, 1-0.5, 0.5-0.25, 0.25-0.1, 0.1-0.063, <0.063 mm. Concentrations of them were the lowest in the 0.5-0.25 and 0.25-0.1 mm fractions, and were the highest in the 0.1-0.063 and <0.063 fractions.
The influence of river functionality on habitat selection by Ephemeroptera in spatially and temporally diverse lowland rivers, with particular reference to the River Bug
Authors: Głazaczow Adam , Orwin David , Bajaczyk Rafał
Published: June 2009

The purpose of this work is the designation of changes in the environmental preferences of mayflies in the prevailing conditions in a large lowland river little changed by human activity. During the study, the occurrence of the following species were recorded: Cercobrachys minutus (54.2%); Procloeon nana (24.5%); Pseudocentroptiloides shadini (7.6%); Ametropus fragilis (2.9%), which were numerously represented and formed a permanent element of the fauna, and Baetopus wartensis (0.1%) and Oligoneurisca borysthenica which were noted very rarely and were accidental species. The differences and similarities in the functionality of the psammophilous and other mayfly assemblages were assessed. The data from the last fifteen years of study was investigated and compared with those from other rivers which were more managed. PCA was used to distinguish the main factors influencing habitat selection at particular stages of life history and the tendency for drifting.
The diurnal distribution of the zooplankton community of the littoral zone of Lake Wielkowiejskie (Wielkopolski National Park, Poland)
Authors: Kuczyńska-Kippen Natalia , Milecka Ewelina
Published: June 2009

The main aim of this study was to analyze the diel distribution of zooplankton communities within the zones of Nymphaea albae, Myriophyllum verticillatum, and Typha angustifolia, and, compared to that, in the open water area of a lake. It also aimed to analyze the relationship between zooplankton densities and the concentration of physicochemical factors and chlorophy11 a content.

A total of 149 zooplankton taxa were noted, and, despite the narrow range of the research in the analyzed lake, some rare species were noted, among which two - Colurella sinistra and Lecane inopinata - were recorded for the first time among Polish fauna. The rush zone was taxonomically the richest, while the open water area was the poorest. The highest number of individuals was observed in the Myriophyllum bed, while the lowest was noted in the zone dominated by Nymphaea alba.

The highest densities of zooplankton occurred at dusk, while the lowest occurred during the day, irrespective of the sampling station. Because Lake Wielkowiejskie is a shallow and macrophyte-dominated water body, the differences in the diurnal distribution of zooplankton communities may suggest horizontal migrations between the pelagic zone and the phytolittoral, as well as between particular macrophyte stands.

A positive correlation between the densities of some zooplankters and the concentration of chlorophyll a was found, while a negative relationship with the concentration of nitrites was recorded for Lecane quadridentata and Alonella nana.