bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal chemistry of borates: the classification and algebraic description by topological type of fundamental building blocks
Authors: Yuan Guanghui , Xue Dongfeng
Published: May 2007

The structural characteristics of all the borates available were analyzed using the Inorganic Crystal Structure Database. The fundamental building blocks (FBBs) in 841 borates were systematically classified into 6 types in terms of their topological structures. By including the polymerization of the FBBs in the borate structure, a novel systematic classification and an algebraic description of borates have been proposed. The current systematic borate classification, in which all the identical FBBs can be classified into the same type, is more reasonable and provides new insight into the structural differences between various borates. The current, simpler, algebraic description is more extensive and can reflect more of the structural information of borates. This thus provides an impetus for elucidating the topological features of borates. Our work also provides much useful information on the design and search for novel borates, which is also helpful to classify newly synthesized borates and to strengthen the understanding of the overall scope of borate structures.
Comparison of waveform inversion, part 2: phase approach
Authors: Bednar J. B. , Shin Changsoo , Pyun Sukjoon
Published: May 2007

In this paper, we take advantage of the natural separation into amplitude and phase of a logarithmic‐based approach to full‐wavefield inversion and concentrate on deriving purely kinematic approaches for both conventional and logarithmic‐based methods. We compare the resulting algorithms theoretically and empirically. To maintain consistency between this and the previous paper in this series, we continue with the same symbolism and notation and apply our new algorithms to the same three data sets. We show that both of these new techniques, although different in implementation style, share the same computational methodology. We also show that reverse‐time back‐propagation of the residuals for our new kinematic methods continues to be the basis for calculation of the steepest‐descent vector. We conclude that the logarithmic phase‐based method is more practical than its conventionally based counterpart, but, in spite of the fact that the conventional algorithm appears unstable, differences are not great.
Chronic intranasal administration of mould spores or extracts to unsensitized mice leads to lung allergic inflammation, hyper‐reactivity and remodelling
Authors: Denis Olivier , Van Den Brûle Sybille , Heymans Julie , Havaux Xavier , Rochard Christelle , Huaux François , Huygen Kris
Published: May 2007

Allergic asthma is a serious multifaceted disease characterized by eosinophil‐rich airway inflammation, airway hyperreactivity and airway wall modifications known as remodelling. We previously demonstrated that the spores of two allergenic moulds, Alternaria alternata and Cladosporium herbarum, were potent inducers of immunoglobulin E (IgE) production. Moreover, mice sensitized by two intraperitoneal injections before intranasal challenge with A. alternata or C. herbarum spores developed an allergic lung inflammation and hyperreactivity. Here we report on the effect of chronic intranasal administration of C. herbarum spores or A. alternata extracts to unsensitized BALB/c mice. Our results demonstrate that this chronic treatment led to an increase of total serum IgE and the appearance of specific IgE and IgG1. Total cell number in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from treated mice was highly increased compared to phosphate‐buffered‐saline‐treated mice because of the accumulation of macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes and eosinophils. Airway hyperreactivity appeared after 3 weeks (extract) and 7 weeks (spores) and was maintained during the whole treatment. Increased interleukin‐13 mRNA expression in the lungs and T helper type 2 cytokines (interleukin‐4, ‐5, ‐6 and ‐13) and transforming growth factor‐β secretion in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were also observed. Lung hydroxyproline and fibronectin contents indicated increased fibrosis in mice treated with mould allergen. These observations were confirmed by histological analysis demonstrating airway wall remodelling and strong mucus production. These observations show that this model, using chronic intranasal administration of relevant particulate allergens, is an interesting tool for the study of mechanisms leading to allergic pulmonary diseases and lung remodelling.
Predicting species distributions: a critical comparison of the most common statistical models using artificial species
Authors: Meynard Christine N. , Quinn James F.
Published: May 2007

Aim To test statistical models used to predict species distributions under different shapes of occurrence–environment relationship. We addressed three questions: (1) Is there a statistical technique that has a consistently higher predictive ability than others for all kinds of relationships? (2) How does species prevalence influence the relative performance of models? (3) When an automated stepwise selection procedure is used, does it improve predictive modelling, and are the relevant variables being selected?

Location We used environmental data from a real landscape, the state of California, and simulated species distributions within this landscape.

Methods Eighteen artificial species were generated, which varied in their occurrence response to the environmental gradients considered (random, linear, Gaussian, threshold or mixed), in the interaction of those factors (no interaction vs. multiplicative), and on their prevalence (50% vs. 5%). The landscape was then randomly sampled with a large (n = 2000) or small (n = 150) sample size, and the predictive ability of each statistical approach was assessed by comparing the true and predicted distributions using five different indexes of performance (area under the receiver‐operator characteristic curve, Kappa, correlation between true and predictive probability of occurrence, sensitivity and specificity). We compared generalized additive models (GAM) with and without flexible degrees of freedom, logistic regressions (general linear models, GLM) with and without variable selection, classification trees, and the genetic algorithm for rule‐set production (GARP).

Results Species with threshold and mixed responses, additive environmental effects, and high prevalence generated better predictions than did other species for all statistical models. In general, GAM outperforms all other strategies, although differences with GLM are usually not significant. The two variable‐selection strategies presented here did not discriminate successfully between truly causal factors and correlated environmental variables.

Main conclusions Based on our analyses, we recommend the use of GAM or GLM over classification trees or GARP, and the specification of any suspected interaction terms between predictors. An expert‐based variable selection procedure was preferable to the automated procedures used here. Finally, for low‐prevalence species, variability in model performance is both very high and sample‐dependent. This suggests that distribution models for species with low prevalence can be improved through targeted sampling.
Early life experiences and their impact on our understanding of depression
Authors: FEELY M. , SINES D. , LONG A.
Published: May 2007

This paper presents part of a larger Grounded Theory study, which was designed to capture a sample of people's perceptions of living with or, caring for, individuals with depression. Data were collected from a focus group consisting of people with depression (n = 7). In‐depth one‐to‐one interviews were undertaken with eight further respondents (n = 8). Purposeful sampling was used initially. Thereafter, in keeping with one of the key tenets of grounded theory, theoretical sampling was used. The emergent concepts were pursued until saturation occurred. The constant comparative approach was used to analyse the data together with the NVivo qualitative analysis software package. This paper focuses on the respondents' perceptions of the pre‐diagnosis, depression encounter. The key category that emerged was ‘the pre‐diagnosis phase of depression and the now experience’. Five key themes surfaced within this category: (1) negative impact significant life events; (2) self‐blame; (3) personal characteristics; (4) pre‐diagnosis, depression unknowingness; and (5) pre‐help seeking. The findings suggest that those in the field of human services need to better understand the lived experience of people with depression, in order to provide holistic treatment and care.1
Prediction of digestible energy content of extruded dog food by in vitro analyses
Authors: Hervera M. , Baucells M. D. , Blanch F. , Castrillo C.
Published: May 2007

The aim of this study was to develop a simple and reproducible in vitro method for predicting the apparent energy digestibility of dry extruded dog foods. The proposed method is based on the two‐step multienzymatic incubation assay described by [Boisen, S., 1991: In Vitro Digestion for Pigs and Poultry, M. F. Fuller (ed.). CAB International, Wallingford, 135–146], with some modifications adapted to dogs’ digestion characteristics. The method consisted in two consecutives incubations, first one during 2 h with pepsin (10 mg/g of food sample) in acid pH and second one during 4 h with pancreatin (100 mg/g of food sample). The undigested residue obtained was collected in a filtration unit and then dried and ashed. The in vitro percentage of organic matter disappearance (in vitro dOM) of 54 dry extruded commercial dog foods was determined and used as predictor of the in vivo apparent organic matter (in vivo dOM) and energy digestibility (in vivo dE) and digestible energy (DE) content. There was a close linear relationship between the in vivo dOM and dE [r2 = 0.95, residual standard deviation (RSD) = 1.05 and coefficient of variation (CV) = 1.2%] and also between the in vitro and in vivo dOM (r2 = 0.92, RSD = 1.38 and CV = 1.6%), even if the in vitro dOM overestimated on average by 4% the in vivo dOM. When the in vitro dOM was used to predict the in vivo dE, the relationship between both variables was defined by the equation: in vivo dE (%) = −2.45 + 0.98 ± 0.04×in vitro dOM (%), (r2 = 0.92, RSD = 1.25 and CV = 1.5%). In addition, a close relationship between the in vivo and predicted DE (estimated dE × gross energy determined calorimetrically) was found (r2 = 0.97, RSD = 0.26 and CV = 1.4%). The accuracy of DE content prediction using the proposed in vitro method was higher than that obtained when the DE content of the same set of samples was predicted by the equation proposed by the NRC (1985) (r2 = 0.76, CV = 4.5%) and also slightly higher than that obtained when using the equation proposed by NRC (2006) (r2 = 0.95, CV = 2.1%).
Apparent nutrient digestibility and excreta quality in African grey parrots fed two pelleted diets based on coarsely or finely ground ingredients
Authors: Kalmar I. D. , Werquin G. , Janssens G. P. J.
Published: May 2007

A feeding trial was performed to study the influence of particle size in extruded parrot pellets on apparent digestibility and excreta consistency and pH. Two test diets were alternately provided to eight African grey parrots according to a 2 × 2 cross‐over design. Both diets were similar in nutrient content and ingredient composition but differed in particle size of the composing particles of individual pellets. Apparent digestibility of macronutrients was studied using the total collection method. Next, the appearance of the excreta was studied by calculation of weight–surface ratio of individual excrements as an objective measurement of consistency. Last, excreta pH was measured directly on fresh excrements and on homogenized 10% excreta solutions. Neither apparent digestibility coefficients nor excreta pH values were significantly different in parrots fed the two diets. However, excreta consistency was significantly (p < 0.05) more solid when fed the coarse diet than when fed with the finely ground diet. The results of this study suggest that excreta consistency can be improved through larger particle size, without adverse effects on nutritive value of the diet.
Rice protein concentrate meal as potential dietary ingredient in practical diets for blackspot seabream (Pagellus bogaraveo)
Authors: Palmegiano G. B. , Costanzo M. T. , Daprà F. , Gai F. , Galletta M. G. , Maricchiolo G. , Micale V. , Peiretti P. G. , Genovese L.
Published: May 2007

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performances and the flesh quality of Pagellus bogaraveo fed with diets containing rice protein concentrate [RPC, 70% crude protein (CP) and 10% ether extract]. Three isoproteic and isoenergetic (CP 47%, 22 MJ/kg DM) diets were formulated with an increasing level of RPC: 0%, 20% and 35%. The fish (mean weight 75 g) from the Messina Straits were randomly distributed in 12 tanks (3 diets × 4 replications, 10 fish/tank). The daily ratio (1.5% of the fish biomass) was updated every 15 days. Biomass gain showed an opposite trend to the RPC diet inclusion. No differences appeared in the somatic indexes. Differences appeared between fatty acid profiles of the dorsal muscle. Fatty acid of series n‐6 increased and fatty acid of series n‐3 decreased in fillets of fish fed with increasing levels of RPC. The inclusion of RPC in the diets, as a partial replacement of fish meal (20%), is possible without affecting the growth performance and fillet quality.
Comparison between plasma and milk levels of leptin during pregnancy and lactation in cow, a relationship with β‐lactoglobulin
Authors: Parola R. , Macchi E. , Fracchia D. , Sabbioni A. , Avanzi D. , Motta M. , Accornero P. , Baratta M.
Published: May 2007

Leptin gene is expressed in the mammary tissue and the expression of both leptin and its receptor changes significantly during pregnancy and lactation, with high levels during the first half of pregnancy and a decrease at delivery. The aim of this work was to investigate into leptin concentration in plasma and in milk during pregnancy and the first week after parturition in dairy cow and to analyze the correlation between leptin and β‐lactoglobulin (β‐LG) concentrations in plasma and in milk. The trial was conducted on six Holstein dairy cows, reared in the same environmental conditions and evaluated with similar body condition score, during the complete reproductive cycle from insemination to the delivery. Blood from the jugular vein and milk samples were collected at weekly intervals. Plasma leptin concentration showed a lower level (p < 0.05) at the beginning of pregnancy. Milk leptin concentration showed a higher level (p < 0.01) than plasma level from week 23 to week 29 of pregnancy. Plasma β‐LG concentrations were higher (p < 0.01) compared to plasma concentrations during the first part of pregnancy, then milk levels rise and become higher than plasma levels during the last weeks before dry period. A positive correlation (p < 0.01) was observed between leptin and β‐LG both in plasma and in milk profiles.
Practical Techniques for Bovine Sperm Simultaneous Fluorimetric Assessment of Plasma, Acrosomal and Mitochondrial Membranes
Authors: Celeghini ECC , De Arruda RP , De Andrade AFC , Nascimento J , Raphael CF
Published: May 2007

Contents

This experiment was performed to develop and validate practical techniques for simultaneous evaluation of the integrity of plasma and acrosomal membranes, as well as mitochondrial function in bovine spermatozoa using associations of fluorescent probes. Four protocols of fluorescent probes association were defined: protocol 1: propidium iodide (PI), fluorescein isothiocyanate‐conjugated Pisum sativum agglutinin (FITC‐PSA) and rhodamine 123; protocol 2: PI, FITC‐PSA and MitoTracker Green FM (MITO); protocol 3: PI, Hoechst 33342 (H342), FITC‐PSA and CMXRos; and protocol 4: PI, H342, FITC‐PSA and JC‐1. Three ejaculates from each of the four bulls (n = 12) were utilized, showing sperm motility ≥80% and abnormal morphology ≤10%. The semen was diluted in Modified Tyrode’s medium (TALP) (25 × 106 spermatozoa/ml) and split into two aliquots, one sample was flash‐frozen in liquid nitrogen and thawed. Samples for three treatments were prepared with the following ratio of fresh semen : flash‐frozen semen: 100 : 0, 50 : 50 and 0 : 100. Samples were stained in all four protocols and evaluated by epifluorescence microscopy. Protocol 1 did not result in a satisfactory stain, so it could not be validated. Protocols 2, 3 and 4 were validated and showed high determination coefficient to plasma membrane integrity (R2 = 0.95, 0.93 and 0.92, respectively), acrosome integrity (R2 = 0.95, 0.92 and 0.91, respectively) and mitochondrial function (R2 = 0.84, 0.93 and R2 = 0.93, respectively). These techniques are efficient for the simultaneous integrity evaluation of plasma and acrosomal membranes and mitochondrial function in bovine spermatozoa. However, JC‐1 has an advantage over MITO and CMXRos, as it separates two cell populations with high and low mitochondrial membrane potential.
Relationship Among Follicular Growth, Oestrus, Time of Ovulation, Endogenous Estradiol 17β and Luteinizing Hormone in Bos Indicus Cows After a Synchronization Program
Authors: Maquivar M , Verduzco A , Galina CS , Pulido A , Rojas S , Forster K , Van der Laan G , Arnoni R
Published: May 2007

Contents

To determine the pattern of follicular growth during oestrus and the relationship with estradiol and luteinizing hormone in ovulating and non‐ovulating cows, three groups of (n = 10), thirty cyclic, Bos indicus cows were synchronized with CIDR, consecutively at 9‐day intervals. Twenty‐four hours after implant withdrawal, all cows synchronized in the same group with other cows displaying estrous behaviour after implant withdrawal were subjected to an intensive period of ultrasonographic observations (every 6 h for 120 h). Blood samples were taken to evaluate LH surge and 17‐β estradiol. No differences were observed in follicular growth, ovulatory diameter and growth average in the three groups of synchronized cows. Cows ovulating (CO) had a better growth average in comparison with the group of cows not ovulating (CNO) (1.4 ± 0.7 mm vs 0.7 ± 0.5 mm, p < 0.06). The average time from estradiol release to LH surge was 39.3 ± 24.6 h. Differences were also observed between CO and CNO with respect to both the first concentration (27.7 ± 5.2 vs 58.6 ± 31.9, p < 0.004) and last concentration (79.3 ± 23.3 vs 99.2 ± 27.3, p < 0.05) of estradiol above 5 pg/ml. The average time from overt signs of oestrus to LH release was 8.4 ± 7.7 h. In the CNO, the increase in LH concentration was never above two SD from the basal average. In conclusion, there is a wide variability in follicular growth and ovulatory diameter between CO and CNO, which can affect the intervals of LH release, estradiol peak and ovulation. Yet, LH surge might be a good marker for timing ovulation in Zebu cows.
Significance of phentolamine redosing during prostaglandin E1 penile color Doppler ultrasonography in diagnosis of vascular erectile dysfunction
Authors: Arafa Mohamed , Eid Hazem , Shamloul Rany
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  Recently, it was reported that phentolamine redosing during penile duplex can abolish a false diagnosis of venous leakage in patients with impotence. The aim of this study is to identify any useful role of phentolamine redosing in diagnosis of venogenic impotence. Sixty‐seven consecutive patients complaining of weak erection for at least 6 months were included in this study. Penile color Doppler ultrasound (CDU) was performed using a 7.5 MHz linear array transducer with a color flow mapping capability. Following intracavernous injection of 20 μg prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), all patients with persistent end diastolic velocity (EDV) >5 cm/sec with an erectile response of E3 or lower, 20 min after intracavernosal injection of PGE1, were asked to revisit our clinic for a second CDU, 2 weeks later. During initial CDU examination, all 67 patients experienced poor response to 20 μg PGE1 with their average peak systolic velocity (PSV) and EDV being 42.8 and 6.6 cm/sec, respectively. The second CDU examination had similar results to the first one. Addition of 2 mg phentolamine did not significantly change the PSV and EDV of cavernosal arteries in any of the 67 patients. In conclusion, addition of intracavernous phentolamine during PGE1 CDU examination carries no advantage over the use of PGE1 alone regarding cavernosal artery response in patients with suspected venogenic EDV.
Testicular cancer with tumor thrombus extending to the inferior vena cava successfully removed using veno‐venous bypass: A case report
Authors: Kinebuchi Yoshiaki , Ogawa Teruyuki , Kato Haruaki , Igawa Yasuhiko , Nishizawa Osamu , Miyagawa Shin‐Ichi
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  A 33‐year‐old man with a left testicular tumor was referred to Shinshu University Hospital for advanced therapy. Radiographic imaging revealed multiple metastases in the retroperitoneal lymph nodes (RPLN) and bilateral lungs, as well as tumor thrombus that extended from the left renal vein to the inferior vena cava (IVC) adjacent to the right atrium. After orchidectomy, a diagnosis of embryonal carcinoma was made with a clinical stage of T1N2M1bS3, which has a poor prognosis, based on the International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group consensus. After eight courses of chemotherapy, the patient's tumor markers normalized and the lung metastases disappeared, but the RPLN and tumor thrombus remained. Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection and thrombectomy were performed using a veno‐venous bypass (VVB). The pathological examination of the thrombus revealed a mature teratoma. The patient has been disease‐free since surgery.
Interdisciplinary Heterogeneity as a Catalyst for Product Innovativeness of Entrepreneurial Teams
Authors: Henneke Daniel , Lüthje Christian
Published: May 2007

Although more and more ventures are successfully founded by entrepreneurial teams, the specific benefits of the team‐based founding approach have received little attention in extant empirical studies. This study explores the relationship between the level of interdisciplinary heterogeneity in entrepreneurial teams and the level of product innovativeness in high‐tech ventures. It is proposed that an interdisciplinary new venture team composition impacts the quality of the strategic planning process (scanning activities, planning openness) and thereby indirectly shapes product innovativeness. The hypotheses are investigated using data from a sample of Canadian high‐tech ventures. The findings provide support for the proposed relationship between team heterogeneity, strategic planning and product innovativeness. Venture capitalists, university faculty and incubator institutions are therefore well advised to direct their attention towards fostering a heterogeneous composition of founding teams.
The Learning Organization as Facilitator of Complex NPD Projects
Authors: Kim Jongbae , Wilemon David
Published: May 2007

With rapid technological and market changes, new product development (NPD) complexity is a significant issue that organizations continually face in their development projects. The inability to recognize and/or manage complexity can cause the best‐intentioned projects to fail. By creating a learning organization attuned to complexity and its management, however, companies are more likely to have the knowledge and skills essential to respond competently to the complexity frequently encountered in NPD projects. In this paper, we first define complexity in NPD and then examine organizational learning as it can assist in dealing with development complexity. Next, we report findings from an exploratory research study on organizational learning and its relationship to product development complexity. The study is based on 32 field interviews with NPD participants regarding their learning experiences in dealing with complexity; the transfer of project learning to other projects; and the factors that minimize/block the transfer of learning among projects. Based on our research, we advance several suggestions for implementing a learning organization designed specifically to capitalize on the experiences of development firms' efforts in dealing with complexity and its consequences.
Innovation Leaders Should be Controlled Schizophrenics
Authors: Buijs Jan
Published: May 2007

Innovating is a multi‐faceted process. In this paper, four different, yet intertwined aspects of this process are distinguished. The first aspect concerns the content of the innovation; a new product, a new technology or a new market. The second aspect concerns the group dynamics of the innovation team. The third aspect concerns seeing the innovation process as a creative process. And the fourth aspect has to do with leadership. Since these four aspects are simultaneously working together during the innovation process, the leaders of this process are working in a very difficult situation, as all four aspects need to be dealt with in different ways. Nearly all of them are, in one way or another, in conflict with one another. They may conflict in real actions, in time horizons (past, present or future) or in effect (positive reactions during market introduction do not garantee ultimate market success). This means that innovation leaders need to show a special kind of leadership. This leadership must be balanced, people‐focused and must include a high tolerance for ambiguity and paradoxes. They have to be nice and nasty at the same time. In short: innovation leaders should be some kind of controlled schizophrenics.
Sovereignty and its Presuppositions: Before 9/11 and after
Authors: Jackson Robert
Published: May 2007

Is the modern states system in terminal decline? Are we witnessing a great transformation in that regard? Are the events of 9/11 indicative of that? Or is state sovereignty evolving, yet again, in response to scientific, technological, economic and social changes – as it has done throughout the post-medieval era of its existence? That latter line of argument is put forward in this essay.
Exploring Job Satisfaction in Private and Public Employment: Empirical Evidence from Greece
Authors: Demoussis Michael , Giannakopoulos Nicholas
Published: May 2007

Abstract.  This paper analyses subjective job satisfaction (JS) responses by employees in the public and private sectors of the Greek labour market. Panel data covering the period 1995–2001 and a random effects ordered probit model are used for estimation purposes. The results of the econometric estimation show that a substantial JS differential exists between the two sectors, in every JS domain and always in favour of public employment. A typical ordered decomposition analysis indicates that about one‐third of the difference in expected JS can be explained by differences in employee characteristics and two‐thirds by unobserved sector‐specific inbuilt features. The comparison of wage reductions, which a representative employee will be prepared to endure in order to avoid employment in the private sector, reveals that the regularity of working schedules is appreciated more than any other facet of JS. The obtained results enhance the existing apparatus for evaluating government policies in the labour market.
The Control of Hypertension In Pregnancy Study pilot trial
Authors: Magee LA , Von Dadelszen P , Chan S , Gafni A , Gruslin A , Helewa M , Hewson S , Kavuma E , Lee SK , Logan AG , McKay D , Moutquin J‐M , Ohlsson A , Rey E , Ross S , Singer J , Willan AR , Hannah ME ,   CHIPS Pilot Trial Collaborative Group
Published: May 2007

Objective  To determine whether ‘less tight’ (versus ‘tight’) control of nonsevere hypertension results in a difference in diastolic blood pressure (dBP) between groups.

Design  Randomised controlled trial (ISRCTN#57277508).

Setting  Seventeen obstetric centres in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and UK.

Population  Inclusion: pregnant women, dBP 90–109 mmHg, pre‐existing/gestational hypertension; live fetus(es); and 20–33+6 weeks. Exclusion: systolic blood pressure ≥ 170 mmHg and proteinuria, contraindication, or major fetal anomaly.

Methods  Randomisation to less tight (target dBP, 100 mmHg) or tight (target dBP, 85 mmHg) blood pressure control.

Main outcome measures  Primary: mean dBP at 28, 32 and 36 weeks. Secondary: clinician compliance and women’s satisfaction. Other: serious perinatal and maternal complications.

Results  A total of 132 women were randomised to less tight (n= 66; seven had no study visit) or tight control (n= 66; one was lost to follow up; seven had no study visit). Mean dBP was significantly lower with tight control: −3.5 mmHg, 95% credible interval (−6.4, −0.6). Clinician compliance was 79% in both groups. Women were satisfied with their care. With less tight (versus tight) control, the rates of other treatments and outcomes were the following: post‐randomisation antenatal antihypertensive medication use: 46 (69.7%) versus 58 (89.2%), severe hypertension: 38 (57.6%) versus 26 (40.0%), proteinuria: 16 (24.2%) versus 20 (30.8%), serious maternal complications: 3 (4.6%) versus 2 (3.1%), preterm birth: 24 (36.4%) versus 26 (40.0%), birthweight: 2675 ± 858 versus 2501 ± 855 g, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission: 15 (22.7%) versus 22 (34.4%), and serious perinatal complications: 9 (13.6%) versus 14 (21.5%).

Conclusion  The CHIPS pilot trial confirms the feasibility and importance of a large definitive trial to determine the effects of less tight control on serious perinatal and maternal complications.
Investigation of an increase in postpartum haemorrhage in Canada
Authors: Joseph KS , Rouleau J , Kramer MS , Young DC , Liston RM , Baskett TF ,   Maternal Health Study Group of the Canadian Perinatal Surveillance System
Published: May 2007

Objective  To investigate the cause of a recent increase in hysterectomies for postpartum haemorrhage in Canada.

Design  Retrospective cohort study.

Setting  Canada between 1991 and 2004.

Population  All hospital deliveries in Canada as documented in the database of the Canadian Institute for Health Information (excluding incomplete data from Quebec, Manitoba and Nova Scotia).

Methods  Deliveries with postpartum haemorrhage by subtype were identified using International Classification of Diseases codes, while hysterectomies were identified using procedure codes. Changes in determinants of postpartum haemorrhage (all postpartum haemorrhage and that requiring hysterectomy) were examined, and crude and adjusted period changes were assessed using logistic models.

Main outcome measures  Postpartum haemorrhage, postpartum haemorrhage with hysterectomy, postpartum haemorrhage with blood transfusion and postpartum haemorrhage by subtype.

Results  Rates of postpartum haemorrhage increased from 4.1% in 1991 to 5.1% in 2004 (23% increase, 95% CI 20–26%), while rates of postpartum haemorrhage with hysterectomy increased from 24.0 in 1991 to 41.7 per 100 000 deliveries in 2004 (73% increase, 95% CI 27–137%). These increases were because of an increase in atonic postpartum haemorrhage, from 29.4 per 1000 deliveries in 1991 to 39.5 per 1000 deliveries in 2004 (34% increase, 95% CI 31–38%). Adjustment for temporal changes in risk factors did not explain the increase in atonic postpartum haemorrhage but attenuated the increase in atonic postpartum haemorrhage with hysterectomy.

Conclusions  There has been a recent, unexplained increase in the frequency, and possibly the severity, of atonic postpartum haemorrhage in Canada.
Shortened duration of human chorionic gonadotrophin surveillance following complete or partial hydatidiform mole: evidence for revised protocol of a UK regional trophoblastic disease unit
Authors: Sebire NJ , Foskett M , Short D , Savage P , Stewart W , Thomson M , Seckl MJ
Published: May 2007

Following hydatidiform mole, women are at increased risk of persistent gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (pGTN) and are therefore monitored using serum human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) concentration measurements. We retrospectively evaluated the policy of extended (2 year) follow up for women with hCG concentrations returning to normal >56 days after evacuation. Of 6701 women registered for hCG follow up, 422 (6%) developed pGTN, 412 (98%) of these women presented within 6 months after evacuation. Three developed pGTN at 402, 677 and 1267 days after evacuation following spontaneous normalisation of hCG levels. Only one woman was detected by routine extended follow up. Prolonged surveillance after molar pregnancy causes significant anxiety and is not cost‐effective. Therefore, the current revised protocol comprises hCG follow up for 6 months after spontaneous return of hCG levels to normal for all women.
Twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome after 26 weeks of gestation: is there a role for fetoscopic laser surgery?
Authors: Middeldorp JM , Lopriore E , Sueters M , Klumper FJCM , Kanhai HHH , Vandenbussche FPHA , Oepkes D
Published: May 2007

Objective  To compare fetoscopic laser surgery with amniodrainage in the treatment of twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) diagnosed after 26 weeks of gestation.

Design  A retrospective cohort study.

Setting  Leiden University Medical Centre, a tertiary referral hospital for fetal therapy.

Population  Between January 1991 and February 2006, 21 TTTS cases were diagnosed and treated after 26 weeks of gestation.

Methods  Treatment of TTTS consisted of either amniodrainage or fetoscopic laser coagulation of vascular anastomoses.

Main outcome measures  Primary outcome: adverse outcome (intrauterine or neonatal death, major neonatal morbidity and/or severe cerebral injury). Secondary outcome: gestational age at birth.

Results  Eleven TTTS cases were treated with amniodrainage and ten with laser surgery. Median gestational age at birth in the amniodrainage group and in the laser surgery group was 29 and 31 weeks, respectively (P = 0.17) All infants were born alive. Major neonatal morbidity occurred more often in the amniodrainage group than in the laser surgery group, 27% (6/22) and 0% (0/20), respectively (P = 0.02). Severe cerebral injury in the amniodrainage group and in the laser surgery group occurred in 23% (5/22) and 15% (3/20) of infants, respectively (P = 0.70). Neonatal mortality in the amniodrainage group and in the laser surgery group was 14% (3/22) and 0% (0/20), respectively (P = 0.23). Overall adverse outcome was 36% (8/22) in the amniodrainage group and 15% (3/20) in the laser surgery group (P = 0.17).

Conclusion  In TTTS diagnosed after 26 weeks of gestation, amniodrainage and laser surgery both result in 100% survival. However, infants born after laser surgery have less major neonatal morbidity.
Maternal mortality in Yunnan, China: recent trends and associated factors
Authors: Li J , Luo C , Deng R , Jacoby P , De Klerk N
Published: May 2007

Objective  Yunnan Province, located in southwest China, is one of the poorest province in China. The maternal mortality ratio (MMR) is about twice the national average (56.2/100 000 live births), and in remote mountainous regions, the rate is five times higher. This study aimed to examine the progress in reduction of maternal mortality in the 1990s and early 2000s and the factors associated with this reduction in Yunnan.

Design  A population‐based, longitudinal, ecological correlation study.

Setting  A remote province of China with a proportionately large indigenous population.

Population  Populations at county, prefecture and provincial level.

Methods  Using maternal mortality data collected at the province, prefecture/region and county levels, trend and time series analyses and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed using SPSS (Version 13).

Main outcome measure  MMR and its change over time.

Results  MMR declined substantially in the 1990s at a rate of 3.0% per year. Utilisation of prenatal and obstetric care increased and was significantly correlated with the declining trend in MMR. Hospital delivery was a strong predictor of MMR, independent of social and economic development. Both low income and illiteracy were significantly associated with increased MMR.

Conclusions  Declines in maternal mortality in Yunnan over the past 14 years appear to reflect health, social and economic interventions implemented in the 1990s. The association of hospital delivery with maternal mortality may be due to the effective management of severe pregnancy and birth complications. Low income and illiteracy were associated with MMR but primarily through their impact on the use of prenatal and obstetric care.
Breed‐specific pro‐inflammatory cytokine production as a predisposing factor for susceptibility to sepsis in the dog
Authors: Nemzek Jean A. , Agrodnia Marta D. , Hauptman Joe G.
Published: May 2007

Objective: To determine whether 2 dog breeds with a high risk for parvoviral enteritis, a disease associated with sepsis, produce stronger pro‐inflammatory cytokine responses to a stimulus than dogs with a lower risk.

Design: Blinded comparison.

Setting: University outpatient clinic.

Animals: Healthy, unrelated, purebred Doberman Pinschers (n=10) and Rottweilers (n=9) with age‐matched mixed‐breed dogs (n=7).

Interventions: Heparinized, whole‐blood samples were collected from each dog and incubated for 6 hours with lipopolysaccharide. Plasma was collected, and bioassays were used to determine the concentrations of TNF‐α and IL‐6. The mean values obtained from the high‐risk breeds were compared with the mean obtained from the mixed‐breeds.

Measurements and main results: The mean TNF‐α production from dogs with a high risk for parvoviral enteritis (1321±161 pg/mL; Doberman Pinscher and Rottweiler) was greater (P<0.05) than that from lower risk, mixed‐breed dogs (674±186 pg/mL). There were no differences in TNF‐α levels between Doberman (1128±247 pg/mL) and Rottweiler (1563±pg/mL) breeds or between any breeds with regard to IL‐6 production.

Conclusions: The magnitude of TNF‐α production by peripheral blood monocytes was the greatest in the dogs with breed‐related risk for parvoviral enteritis. However, additional studies are needed to prove a causal relationship between high TNF and predilection for parvoviral enteritis. Regardless, breed appears to be a predisposing factor for variations in cytokine production that could impact the host response to infection and other inflammatory insults.
Neurologic deficits associated with severe hyponatremia in 2 foals
Authors: Wong David M. , Sponseller Beatrice T. , Brockus Charles , Fales‐Williams Amanda J.
Published: May 2007

Objective:To describe the neurologic deficits associated with profound hyponatremia in 2 critically ill foals.

Series summary:A 4‐month‐old Thoroughbred colt and an 11‐day‐old Paint filly presented for acute diarrhea and depression. Severe neurologic deficits including blindness and head pressing were noted upon initial examination along with marked hyponatremia observed on biochemistry profile. Aggressive intravenous sodium replacement increased the serum sodium concentration to subnormal values with concurrent resolution of neurologic deficits. Intensive monitoring and fluid therapy were continued; the Thoroughbred colt was euthanized due to lack of response to the primary disease while the Paint filly was discharged clinically healthy without further complications.

New or unique information provided:Mild hyponatremia (122–132 mEq/L) is a common clinicopathologic finding in equine medicine associated with a variety of diseases. The vast majority of horses with mild hyponatremia do not demonstrate direct clinical manifestations as a result of low serum sodium concentration. However, when severe acute hyponatremia occurs (<122 mEq/L), such as with acute enterocolitis, subtle to profound neurologic deficits may be observed and immediate and rapid treatment as well as serial evaluations of serum sodium concentration are warranted. Significant, and potentially permanent, neurologic deficits can occur if water balance and tonicity are not properly addressed. The cases presented here describe additional cases of a previously published disease in foals, acute hyponatremia and associated neurologic deficits, and describe the microscopic examination of the central nervous system in one foal that did not survive.
Global localism: Recentering the research agenda for biodiversity conservation
Authors: Medley Kimberly E. , Kalibo Humphrey W.
Published: May 2007

Global environmental crisis narratives about biodiversity loss promote conservation research on how human activities impact natural resources and link scientific findings to protectionist policies. This paper critiques how local knowledge, over space and through time, is constructed for these studies and integrated with ecological measures and qualitative interpretations of biodiversity conditions. As a case example, we describe how ethnoecological research at Mt. Kasigau, a biodiversity hot spot in Southeastern Kenya, changes ‘scientific’ views on human–resource relations. Species richness in woody plants and local knowledge about trees show resource continua on the mountain that question the designation of diverse undisturbed forests and degraded human‐utilized lands. Local narratives document spatially dynamic and adaptive relationships between the Kasigau Taita and their plant resources as they moved up and down the mountain in response to environmental conditions and extra local forces. We argue that greater ‘local learning’ about local places is important to hypothesizing and potentially guiding ‘global action’ for biodiversity conservation.
Analysis of a rural water supply project in three communities in Mali: Participation and sustainability
Authors: Gleitsmann Brett A. , Kroma Margaret M. , Steenhuis Tammo
Published: May 2007

This paper presents a qualitative assessment of the participatory water management strategies implemented at the community level in rural Mali through a water supply project — The West Africa Water Initiative (WAWI) — coordinated by World Vision International, a non‐governmental and humanitarian organization. Data for the study were generated through a combination of primary and secondary sources in three villages. Results of the study indicate that while community‐based rural water supply is a positive step in responding to the needs of rural Malians, the installation of boreholes with hand pumps informed merely by consultative participatory approaches and limited extension involvement will not necessarily proffer sustainable rural water supply in the region. A “platform” approach to rural water supply management that can mobilize the assets and insights of different social actors to influence decision making at all stages, including the design and choice‐of‐technology stages, in water supply interventions is instead advocated.
Cardiovascular Emergency Preparedness in Recreation Facilities at Major US Universities: College Fitness Center Emergency Readiness
Authors: Herbert William G. , Herbert David L. , McInnis Kyle J. , Ribisl Paul M. , Franklin Barry A. , Callahan Mandy , Hood Aaron W.
Published: May 2007

Recent American Heart Association/American College of Sports Medicine (AHA/ACSM) guidelines advocate preparticipation screening, planning, and rehearsal for emergencies and automated external defibrillators in all health/fitness facilities. The authors evaluated adherence to these recommendations at 158 recreational service departments in major US universities (51% response rate for 313 institutions queried). Many made their facilities available to unaffiliated residents, with 39% offering programs for those with special medical conditions. Only 18% performed universal preparticipation screening. Twenty‐seven percent reported having 1 or more exercise‐related instances of cardiac arrest or sudden cardiac death within the past 5 years. Seventy‐three percent had an automated external defibrillator, but only 6% reported using it in an emergency. Almost all had written emergency plans, but only 50% posted their plans, and only 27% performed the recommended quarterly emergency drills. The authors' findings suggest low awareness of and adherence to the AHA/ACSM recommendations for identifying individuals at risk for exercise‐related cardiovascular complications and for handling such emergencies in university‐based fitness facilities.
Sinus CT Scan Findings in “Sinus Headache” Migraineurs
Authors: Mehle Mark E. , Kremer Patricia S.
Published: May 2007

Objective.— To evaluate the sinus CT scan findings in “sinus headache” migraineurs, and to compare the findings to nonmigraine “sinus headache” patients.

Background.— The majority of patients presenting with “sinus headache” satisfy the International Headache Society (IHS) criteria for migraine headache. Few studies have correlated the rhinologic complaints and computed tomography (CT) findings in these patients.

Methods.— Thirty‐five patients with “sinus headache” were evaluated prospectively and referred for CT of the paranasal sinuses. The CT scans were assessed for sinus abnormality (recorded as a Lund–Mackay [L‐M] score) and were analyzed for concha bullosa and septal deviation. The findings in the migraine cohort were compared with the nonmigraine “sinus headache” patients.

Findings.— Twenty‐six patients (74.3%) satisfied the IHS criteria for migraine. The mean CT scan L‐M score did not differ significantly between the migraine (2.07) and nonmigraine cohort (2.66). Five of the migraine group had substantial sinus disease radiographically (with L‐M scores of 5 or above). Concha bullosa of at least 1 middle turbinate was more common in the nonmigraine cohort. An analysis of the sidedness of the headaches, sinus disease, concha bullosa, and/or septal deviation is presented.

Conclusions.— The majority of “sinus headache” patients satisfy the IHS criteria for migraine. Surprisingly, these patients often have radiographic sinus disease. This raises the possibility of selection bias in otolaryngology patients, inaccurate diagnosis, or radiographic sinus disease and migraine as comorbid conditions. Positive migraine histories apparently do not obviate the need for a thorough ENT workup, possibly including CT scanning.
Migraine Comorbidity Constellations
Authors: Tietjen Gretchen E. , Herial Nabeel A. , Hardgrove Jacqueline , Utley Christine , White Leah
Published: May 2007

Objectives.—To identify distinct constellations of comorbid disorders occurring in migraineurs, and to examine differences in demographics, headache profiles, and psychosocial features between the comorbidity constellations.

Methods.—This is a retrospective electronic chart review of consecutive new female outpatients diagnosed with migraine (n = 223) using International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD)‐II criteria. Questionnaire collected information on comorbid diagnoses, current depression, somatic symptoms, psychosocial stressors, and antidepressant use, social and abuse history. Cluster analysis, based on nonheadache disorders, was performed and differences between the resulting groups were examined.

Results.—We identified 3 groups. Group 1 (n = 55) was defined by hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and hypothyroidism; Group 2 (n = 83) by depression, anxiety, and fibromyalgia; Group 3 (n = 85) by the absence of defining comorbidities. Group 1 had more males (22% vs 5% vs 12%, P < .05), was older (median years: 52 vs 36 vs 32, P < .01), and had later age of headache onset (median years: 22 vs 16 vs 18, P < .05). Group 2 had the greatest disability (P < .05), and the lowest quality of life (P < .001). Persons in Group 2 more commonly reported sexual abuse (OR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.1 to 6.5), physical abuse (OR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.2 to 5.1), and emotional abuse (OR = 4.3, 95% CI: 1.9 to 8.9).

Conclusion.—Within a headache clinic population, we identified 3 different migraine comorbidity constellations, with differing headache and psychosocial profiles, suggesting heterogeneity of genetic and environmental factors. This may have implications for diagnosis and disease management.