bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of dipyridamole and fosinopril on renal progression in nephrectomized rats
Authors: BURANAKARL Chollada , KITJTAWONRAT Anusak , PONDEENANA Somchai , SUNYASUJAREE Boonmee , KANCHANAPANGKA Sumolaya , CHAIYABUTR Narongsak , BOVÉE Kenneth C
Published: December 2004

SUMMARY:   There is evidence to suggest that antiplatelet aggregation and inhibition of angiotensin converting enzyme will attenuate the progression of renal disease. In the present study, dipyridamole (DPM; 30 mg/kg per day, p.o.) or fosinopril (FOS; 20 mg/kg per day, p.o.) was given to rats for 5 weeks starting immediately after renal mass reduction (right uninephrectomy and ligation of approximately two‐thirds of the blood supply to the left kidney). Renal mass reduction caused increased mean arterial blood pressure, reduced effective renal plasma flow (ERPF) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR), azotemia and proteinuria. Neither proteinuria nor hypertension was affected by DPM, although renal function improved markedly. Rats receiving FOS showed normalization of blood pressure with a significant increase in both ERPF and GFR, along with a lower degree of proteinuria. A histological examination of the remnant kidney detected the presence of vasodilation with a lower degree of podocyte swelling in both treatment groups, with a remarkable effect in the FOS group. These data indicate that both FOS and DPM attenuate the progression of glomerular disease associated with renal mass reduction in rats. However, FOS was more beneficial than DPM because it reduced proteinuria and lowered blood pressure.
Atorvastatin in dyslipidaemia of the nephrotic syndrome
Authors: VALDIVIELSO Pedro , MOLIZ Manuel , VALERA Alfonso , CORRALES Miguel A , SANCHEZ‐CHAPARRO Miguel A , GONZALEZ‐SANTOS Pedro
Published: December 2004

SUMMARY:  The combined dyslipidaemia that accompanies the nephrotic syndrome increases the cardiovascular risk and appears to worsen long‐term renal function. Our aim was to determine the efficacy and safety of 10 mg atorvastatin in the control of dyslipidaemia in these patients. We carried out a prospective, open, 6 month study of 10 patients with primary or secondary nephrotic syndrome (proteinuria >3.5 g/day, hypoalbuminaemia, oedema and hyperlipidaemia). The changes in lipids and plasma lipoproteins were measured, as well as the safety profile (transaminases, creatine phosphokinase, fibrinogen and antithrombin III activity) and parameters of renal function. The addition of 10 mg atorvastatin daily for 6 months resulted in a 41% reduction in low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and 31% in triglycerides (both P < 0.05), and a 15% increase in high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (NS). The drug was well tolerated and there was no change in the safety profile or deterioration in renal function. In fact, the levels of proteinuria fell in all but one patient (6.2 ± 2.6 vs 4.8 ± 2.5 g/24 h; P < 0.05). Atorvastatin, at the above dose, and for the time used proved to be a safe drug that effectively reduced dyslipidaemia in patients with nephrotic syndrome.
Electroencephalograph variables, drug concentrations and sedation scores in children emerging from propofol infusion anaesthesia
Authors: Murray Deirdre M. , Thorne Gareth C. , Rigby‐Jones Ann E. , Tonucci Daniella , Grimes Siobhan , Tooley Mark A. , Wolf Andrew R.
Published: December 2004

Background : Inadequate sedation or oversedation are common problems in Paediatric Intensive Care because of wide variations in drug response and the lack of objective tests for sedative depth. We undertook a pilot study to try to identify correlates of propofol drug concentration, electroencephalographic (EEG) variables and observed behaviour during a stepwise reduction in propofol infusion after paediatric cardiac surgery.

Methods : This was a prospective pilot study with 10 children (5 months to 8 years) emerging from propofol anaesthesia following cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Patients underwent a stepped wake‐up from propofol anaesthesia during which the propofol infusion rate was decreased from 4 mg·kg−1·h−1 in 1 mg·kg−1·h−1 steps at 30 min intervals. EEG variables, propofol blood concentrations and clinical sedation scores (COMFORT scale) were recorded during the stepped wakeup. Analgesia was maintained with a standardized continuous infusion of fentanyl.

Results : Mean (sd) whole blood propofol concentrations at arousal varied considerably [973 ng·ml−1 (sd 523 ng·ml−1)]. The summed ratio (SR) of high frequency to low frequency bands correlated with both propofol infusion rate (R2 value = 0.47) and propofol blood concentrations (R2 value = 0.64). The mean SR in deeply sedated patients was significantly different from that in the 5 min prior to wakening (6.84 vs 1.55, P = 0.00002). There was no relationship between COMFORT scores and SR.

Conclusions : In this group of patients receiving opioid analgesia and relatively high doses of propofol, sedation scores were unhelpful in predicting arousal. The SR correlated with propofol blood concentrations and clinical arousal and may have potential as a predictive tool for arousal in children.
The relationship between nutrition and children's educational performance: a focus on the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Galal Osman , Hulett Judie
Published: December 2004

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the link between children's nutritional status and their educational achievement. It is argued that education policy makers must consider nutrition as a key factor in the design of educational interventions to improve the participation and academic performance of school‐age children. Historically, analyses aimed at improving accessibility and quality of schooling in countries struggling with educational issues have focused on school‐related factors such as location, the availability of teaching materials, teacher quality, and institutional management. Demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of households are also frequently cited as important determinants of school participation and school achievement. Surprisingly, except for age and gender, individual characteristics such as health and nutritional status are rarely considered as underlying factors. However, studies have shown that undernourished children have lower attendance, shorter attention span, lower performance scores, and more health‐related problems than their well‐nourished counterparts. Eight hundred million primary school‐age children form a substantial fraction of the world's 2000 population; a number that is growing by about 10 million each year. The resulting pressure on schools implies the need for cost‐effective approaches that support both education and health. The key is the nutrition/learning nexus. Current problems found in both the developing and developed world relevant to the role of nutrition for tangible educational impact, efficient use of resources, and development of health promoting policies, are illustrated using data from the United Arab Emirates as an example. The problems and possible solutions are applicable to many other regions in the world.
Bilateral Ota naevus
Authors: Ruiz‐Villaverde R , Blasco Melguizo J , Buendía Eisman A , Serrano Ortega S
Published: December 2004

We present the case of a 22‐year‐old woman, who had presented since the age of 15 a pale‐blue spot spread on the right‐hand side of her forehead and in her bulbar conjunctiva (first and second branches of the trigeminus nerve), consistent with Ota naevus. A few years later another with similar characteristics appeared on the other side of her forehead, cheek and sclera. No deafness, neurological defect nor visual loss were detected. We comment on the rarity of this case because the patient is Caucasian and also we explain the main complications derived of this disease and consider the therapeutic options.
Detection of cutaneous herpes simplex virus infections by immunofluorescence vs. PCR
Authors: Bezold G , Lange M , Gethöffer K , Gall H , Peter RU
Published: December 2004

Background Detection of cutaneous infections with herpes simplex virus (HSV) has proven difficult, as serum antibody tests sometimes are not sensitive and specific enough for that purpose.

Objective This study was conducted to compare the sensitivity for detection of HSV of an immunofluorescence method (Syva Microtrak) and an internally controlled PCR.

Methods Cutaneous swabs from skin lesions were analysed by immunofluorescence separately for HSV types 1 and 2 and by competitive PCR. Detection of PCR products was done by ELISA, if positive additionally by agarose gel electrophoresis.

Results Of 79 samples 34 were PCR‐positive by ELISA (34 = 100%), of which 23 (68%) were also positive on the agarose gel. Eleven samples (32%) were positive by immunofluorescence. No sample was positive by immunofluorescence and negative by PCR.

Conclusions These results demonstrate that immunofluorescence using Syva Microtrak is not suitable for exclusion of herpes simplex virus infection as sensitivity was only 32%. However, as immunofluorescence is cheaper and faster than PCR, first screening can be done with immunofluorescence, and negative samples can be investigated by PCR to finally prove or exclude the presence of HSV DNA.
Kaposi's sarcoma – still an enigma
Authors: Babál P , Péč J
Published: December 2004

Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is an unusual neoplasm that has proved to be an enigma in many ways since its original description in 1872. KS, a vascular tumour that is otherwise rare, is at present the most common neoplasm in patients with AIDS. The lesions contain spindle cells that share features with endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells and are in all likelihood primitive mesenchymal cells that can form vascular channels. These cells are monoclonal in origin indicating therefore that KS is a neoplasm. The presence of a novel type of human herpes virus, KS herpesvirus (KSHV) also called human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV8) in KS lesions support a viral ethiology. KS may be mistaken in the skin for an inflammatory or other lesion, thus skin biopsy is important for correct diagnosis, with the use of immunohistochemistry or molecular biology if needed. Radiation or interferon alpha dominate in the therapeutic approaches.
Disseminated bullous eruption with systemic reaction caused by Cimex lectularius
Authors: Liebold K , Schliemann‐Willers S , Wollina U
Published: December 2004

Bedbugs seem to have become more common due to international trade and travelling. We report on a 37‐year‐old man who developed a bullous reaction with fever and general malaise due to bites of the common bedbug, Cimex lectularius. Fortunately, bullous and systemic reactions are rare.
Polyamine metabolism during the germination of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum ascospores and its relation with host infection
Authors: Gárriz Andrés , Dalmasso María C. , Marina María , Rivas Elisa I. , Ruiz Oscar A. , Pieckenstain Fernando L.
Published: December 2004

• Polyamine biosynthesis inhibitors were used to study polyamine metabolism during the germination of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum ascospores, and to evaluate the potential of polyamine biosynthesis inhibition for the control of ascospore‐borne diseases in plants.

• The effects of inhibitors on ascospore germination, free polyamine levels, ornithine decarboxylase activity and development of disease symptoms on tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) leaf discs inoculated with ascospores were determined.

• α‐Difluoromethylornithine inhibited ornithine decarboxylase and decreased free spermidine levels, but had no effect on ascospore germination. Both, the spermidine synthase inhibitor cyclohexylamine and the S‐adenosyl‐methionine decarboxylase inhibitor methylglyoxal bis‐[guanyl hydrazone] decreased free spermidine levels, but only the latter inhibited ascospore germination, at concentrations of 5 mm or higher. Lesion development on leaf discs was reduced by cyclohexylamine and methylglyoxal bis‐[guanyl hydrazone], but not by α‐difluoromethylornithine. In the absence of inhibitors, dormant ascospores contained higher polyamine levels than mycelium.

• Ascospore germination did not depend on ornithine decarboxylase activity and inhibitors of this enzyme will probably have a limited potential for the control of ascospore–borne plant diseases. On the contrary, spermidine synthase and S‐adenosyl‐methionine decarboxylase could be more suitable targets for fungicidal action. The relative insensitivity of ascospore germination to polyamine biosynthesis inhibitors may be caused by their high polyamine content.
Characterization of microsatellite loci in the marine seaweeds, Fucus serratus and F. evanescens (Heterokontophyta; Fucaceae)
Authors: Coyer J. A. , Veldsink J. H. , Jones K. , Stam W. T. , Olsen J. L.
Published: December 2004

Fucus serratus and F. evanescens commonly occur on Northern European shores. Nine microsatellite loci were developed for F. serratus (8–22 alleles, observed heterozygosities = 0.367–0.850) and one for F. evanescens (seven alleles, observed heterozygosity = 0.804). Cross‐amplification was apparent, as five F. serratus loci were polymorphic in F. evanescens and 2–5 were polymorphic in F. vesiculosus, F. distichus, and F. spiralis.
Microsatellites for the greater glider, Petauroides volans
Authors: Taylor Andrea C. , Kraaijeveld Ken , Lindenmayer David B.
Published: December 2004

Although relatively abundant throughout its range in eastern Australia, the greater glider (Petauroides volans) is widely considered to be sensitive to the impacts of forest fragmentation and disturbance. Genetic analysis of meta‐population structure in fragmented landscapes offers much promise in helping to understand the response of the species to such disturbance. To this end, standard size‐selected library construction and screening methods were used to develop 12 greater glider dinucleotide microsatellite primer pairs that reveal substantial genetic diversity in the species. They will be used in a variety of genetic analyses to examine population dynamics in a fragmented forest system.
Polymorphic dinucleotide microsatellite loci in the sandfly Lutzomyia longipalpis (Diptera: Phlebotominae)
Authors: Watts P. C. , Boyland E. , Noyes H. A. , Maingon R. , Kemp S. J.
Published: December 2004

The sandfly Lutzomyia longipalpis, an important vector of visceral leishmaniasis in the New World, is believed to be a species complex. In an effort to better understand population dynamics and speciation in this vector we developed a panel of dinucleotide — (CA)n— microsatellite loci using an enrichment technique. Eleven polymorphic loci that produced consistent allelic banding patterns were characterized using a laboratory population of L. longipalpis. These dinucleotide microsatellite loci were more polymorphic than trinucleotide microsatellites characterized in wild‐caught samples of two other sandfly species; the variability of these loci was unexpected because the laboratory flies were believed to be inbred.
Development and polymorphism of simple sequence repeat DNA markers for Kandelia candel (L.) Druce
Authors: Sugaya T. , Takeuchi T. , Yoshimaru H. , Katsuta M.
Published: December 2004

Microsatellite markers of Kandelia candel were developed. Forty‐nine clones yielded strong positive signals among 331 clones hybridized to repetitive sequence probes. Primer pairs were designed for 19 of these positive clones according to their sequence data. Five of the primer pairs showed polymorphism for 16 individuals from Amami‐O‐Shima Island, Japan. Three to nine alleles per locus were detected, and the observed heterozygosities ranged from 0.250 to 0.938. Because our previous study reported very low level of genetic diversity for allozymes in the same Amami population, these microsatellite markers should be powerful tools for the analysis of genetic structure.
Automated single‐strand conformation polymorphism reveals low diversity of a Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II gene in the threatened New Zealand sea lion
Authors: Lento G. M. , Baker C. S. , David V. , Yuhki N. , Gales N. J. , O'Brien S. J.
Published: December 2004

Single‐strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis of the second exon of the DQB gene in the endemic New Zealand sea lion (Phocarctos hookeri) was automated using fluorescently‐labelled PCR primers and a capillary sequencer. SSCP mobility profiles (n = 61 individuals) were confirmed by direct sequencing of genomic polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products (n = 39). We found only two alleles defined by changes at a single codon of this apparently functional locus. SSCP at a constant temperature above ambient allowed consistent and rapid genotyping. By comparison, sequence‐based genotyping was highly dependent on the threshold used to identify secondary peaks indicative of a heterozygote.
Isolation and characterization of highly polymorphic microsatellite loci in the bladder campion, Silene vulgaris (Caryophyllaceae)
Authors: Juillet Nicolas , Freymond HervÉ , Degen Loïc , Goudet JÉrÔme
Published: December 2004

This study reports the isolation and characterization of seven highly polymorphic microsatellite loci in Silene vulgaris (Caryophyllaceae). The loci were isolated from two libraries constructed from genomic DNA enriched for CA and GA repeats. These markers yielded nine to 40 alleles per locus (mean 22.1) in a survey of 45 individuals from a single population located in the western Swiss Alps. Average observed heterozygosity ranged from 16.2 to 77.4%. These microsatellite loci should be valuable tools for studying fine‐scale genetic structure.
New tetranucleotide microsatellites for fine‐scale discrimination among endangered chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)
Authors: Greig Carolyn , Jacobson David P. , Banks Michael A.
Published: December 2004

The unambiguous identification of Central Valley spring‐run chinook salmon has become imperative since their proposed listing in 1998. The accuracy of methods used to assign individuals to their stock of origin is critical for understanding juvenile migration patterns and determining the success of protection measures. Existing microsatellites discriminate between the endangered winter‐run and other chinook but are insufficient to characterize phylogenetically less distinct runs. Here, we isolated and developed highly variable tetranucleotide microsatellites for the specific goal of increasing discriminatory power among closely related populations, providing a new power towards the reliable differentiation of nonwinter runs
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in the tropical tree Jacaranda copaia (Bignoniaceae)
Authors: Jones F. A. , Hubbell S. P.
Published: December 2004

We isolated 10 microsatellite loci for Jacaranda copaia for direct measurement of seed and pollen movement within the 50 ha Forest Dynamics Plot on Barro Colorado Island, Panama, and for studies of population genetic structure and gene flow across the Isthmus of Panama. Enriched repeat libraries were screened for microsatellite repeats and polymorphic primer pairs were developed. A total of 110 adult individuals were screened for allelic diversity and loci showed high levels of heterozygosity. These loci show both high maternal and paternal exclusion probabilities.
Isolation and characterization of nuclear microsatellite loci in the anadromous marine fish Morone saxatilis
Authors: Brown K. M. , Baltazar G. A. , Weinstein B. N. , Hamilton M. B.
Published: December 2004

Molecular genetic studies of population structure and gene flow are commonly employed in fish stock assessment and breeding population delineation. Genetically structured breeding populations may have different effective population sizes, distinct reproductive rates and variable susceptibility to harvesting or breeding habitat degradation. Nine microsatellite loci were isolated for Morone saxatilis (Moronidae), an anadromous fish inhabiting the mid‐Atlantic. Microsatellite loci were isolated with a subtractive hybridization method and will be used to estimate population structure. The loci averaged 8.5 alleles each. Seven loci in the Choptank population and two loci in the Potomac population deviated from Hardy–Weinberg expected frequencies of heterozygotes.
Microsatellite markers for paternity testing in fork‐marked lemurs (Phaner furcifer)
Authors: Hapke A. , Schülke O. , Zischler H.
Published: December 2004

We report the development of three new microsatellites and four transferred across‐species for fork‐marked lemurs (Phaner furcifer). Two markers were isolated from Cheirogaleus medius and one from Microcebus murinus. The transferred markers also originate from Cheirogaleus medius and Microcebus murinus. The seven markers were tested on 30 individuals of Phaner furcifer and have proven to be useful for inclusion and exclusion of potential parents. The markers presented here are the first published for application on Phaner furcifer.
Twelve microsatellites for two deep sea polychaete tubeworm species, Lamellibrachia luymesi and Seepiophila jonesi, from the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: McMullin E. R. , Wood J. , Hamm S.
Published: December 2004

The vestimentiferan tubeworms Lamellibrachia luymesi and Seepiophila jonesi are found at hydrocarbon seeps in the Gulf of Mexico. Primers for polymorphic microsatellite loci were developed from genomic libraries of L. luymesi (five loci) and from S. jonesi tissue (eight loci) and were used to screen individuals collected from nine northern Gulf of Mexico hydrocarbon seep sites. Loci had from four to more than 50 alleles with high expected levels of heterozygosity. Cross‐species amplification, tested on seven vestimentiferan species including both hydrothermal vent and cold seep species, was generally strong in similar species but weak in more genetically distant species.
Five polymorphic microsatellite markers for the Great Plains toad, Bufo cognatus
Authors: Gonzalez Zorisadday , Ray David A. , McAliley L. Rex , Gray Matthew J. , Perchellet Celine , Smith Loren M. , Densmore Llewellyn D.
Published: December 2004

We characterize five polymorphic microsatellite loci for the Great Plains toad, Bufo cognatus, which are being used as markers in a study of the genetics and structure of toad populations inhabiting playa lakes on the Llano Estacado plateau of Texas. Observed heterozygosity (HO) estimates for the toads ranged from 0.56 to 0.90, and expected heterozygosity (HE) estimates ranged from 0.85 to 0.95.
Characterization of nuclear microsatellites in New Caledonian Araucaria species
Authors: Robertson A. , Hollingsworth P. M. , Kettle C. J. , Ennos R. A. , Gardner M. F.
Published: December 2004

Thirteen of the world's 19 species of Araucaria are endemic to the Pacific Ocean island of New Caledonia. In order to investigate the evolutionary biological processes underlying the radiation of the genus on the island we have developed a set of nuclear microsatellite loci. Using a membrane enrichment procedure, five loci have been developed (four derived from A. subulata DNA and one from A. rulei DNA) which amplified in A. columnaris. PCR products of the expected size were also produced in a very limited sample of eight other New Caledonian Araucaria species tested.
Identification and characterization of microsatellite DNA markers developed in ide Leuciscus idus and Siberian roach Rutilus rutilus
Authors: Barinova Anna , Yadrenkina Elena , Nakajima Masamichi , Taniguchi Nobuhiko
Published: December 2004

The first five microsatellite markers for the ide, Leuciscus idus, and four microsatellite markers for the Siberian roach, Rutilus rutilus, were designed. Cross‐amplification of ide markers was examined in Siberian roach and vice versa. The number of alleles per locus ranged from three to 13 in ide and from two to eight in roach. The expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.313 to 0.909 in ide and from 0.119 to 0.775 in roach. These markers could be used to evaluate the genetic population structure of these species and other fish from the Cyprinidae family.
Mate‐sharing costs in polygynous Northern Lapwings Vanellus vanellus
Authors: Grønstøl Gaute Bø
Published: December 2004

In this study bigamous female Northern Lapwings Vanellus vanellus received significantly less incubation relief from their males than monogamous females. On average, monogamous males spent 34.3% of their time incubating and bigamous males 29.9%. Bigamous males divided their effort between their nests, incubating on average 9.4% on primary nests and 20.5% on secondary nests. Bigamous females compensated for the lack of male relief. Primary females incubated for 71.8% of their time, secondary females for 64.2%, while monogamous females spent 52.7% of their time incubating. As a result, there was no significant difference in total nest attentiveness among nests of different status. Primary and secondary females received equivalent incubation relief from the male. Bigamous males increased their contribution to incubation significantly as the season progressed. A bigamous male's distribution of incubation relief between his females was unrelated to female body mass, or to the degree of asynchrony between primary and secondary females in arrival and laying. Incubation time was significantly, negatively, correlated with total nest attentiveness. Monogamous females spent most time, secondary females spent an intermediate time, and primary females spent the least time on maintenance behaviour (foraging, comfort behaviour, inactivity). No significant differences were found in hatching success among females of different mating status. However, the ratio of unhatched to hatched eggs (i.e. the eggs that remained in the nest at the time of hatching) differed significantly: secondary females hatched a smaller proportion of their eggs than monogamous and primary females.
Brood reduction in the Red‐necked GrebePodiceps grisegena
Authors: Kloskowski Janusz
Published: December 2004

Brood reduction in Red‐necked GrebesPodiceps grisegenabreeding on fish ponds in south‐eastern Poland occurred either through the desertion of the last‐laid eggs after partial hatching of the clutch and/or the selective starvation of the smallest chicks. Abandonment of unhatched eggs was not influenced by the number of young already hatched or by the breeding date, but it was more likely in larger clutches and in families suffering chick starvation. Chicks from the largest broods had a higher probability of survival until fledging than those from single‐chick broods. Larger chicks obtained food more successfully through better positioning during food delivery. In families that did not suffer brood reduction, chicks were better provisioned with food than in reduced broods. Although allocation of food among chicks in reduced broods was more skewed to the disadvantage of the younger siblings, dominant chicks obtained less food prior to brood reduction than dominant siblings in unreduced broods. Sibling aggression did not differ between unreduced and reduced broods before death of the weakest chicks. Post‐laying adjustment of the number of offspring to prevailing feeding conditions occurred at two stages: by parental manipulation of the number of hatched eggs at the time when parents and chicks leave the nest and by competition between chicks. It is suggested that late egg desertion may be an adaptive mechanism of brood‐size adjustment, when elimination of the weakest chicks through sibling competition is not very efficient.
Distribution, abundance and behaviour of Buller’s, Chatham Island and Salvin's Albatrosses off Chile and Peru
Authors: Spear Larry B. , Ainley David G. , Webb Sophie W.
Published: December 2004

During 15 cruises between 1980 and 1995, we studied three species of albatross that nest in New Zealand but occur as non‐breeders along the Pacific coast of South America: Buller's Thalassarche bulleri, Chatham Island T. eremita, and Salvin's Albatross T. salvini. We logged 547 h of observation, surveying 7638 km2 of ocean surface, and recorded 86, 27, and 475 individuals, respectively, of the three species. Chatham Island and Salvin's Albatrosses occurred throughout the Humboldt Current, but habitats differed. Buller's and Salvin's Albatrosses preferred the continental slope, while Chatham Island Albatrosses frequented mostly pelagic waters. On a latitudinal basis, Salvin's Albatross distribution was skewed northward in the austral autumn and southward in spring; Chatham Island Albatross occurred southward during autumn, but was everywhere scarce in spring; and Buller's Albatross occurred almost exclusively in the south (30°S to 40°S) in both seasons. Upwelling and wind speed were positively correlated with densities of Buller's and Salvin's Albatrosses. Densities of Chatham Island Albatrosses also were positively correlated with wind speed, but they occurred further offshore in more stratified waters (with less mixing/upwelling) than did the other two. Pelagic population estimates for the Humboldt Current system, analysed using generalized additive models, peaked at 26 700 individuals for Buller's Albatross (95% confidence interval (CI) 13 100–37 100); 6790 for Chatham Island Albatross (CI 3900–11 100); and 133 100 for Salvin's Albatross (CI 82 800–183 600). Based on adult:subadult ratios observed in the study area, our best estimates for the number of wintering adults were 9100, 5800 and 114 400 birds, respectively, or 20%, 73% and 75% of the numbers estimated (44 500, 8000 and 153 300 birds) for the breeding populations at respective colonies. If we subtract from the autumn count the number of adult‐plumaged birds seen in spring (assumed to be non‐breeders), then respective percentages were 0%, 73% and 65%. Foraging locations and attraction by these birds to commercial fishing operations makes them susceptible to mortality as a result of the recent development of a long‐line fishery on the continental slope of Chile.
Movements by juvenile and immature Steller's Sea Eagles Haliaeetus pelagicus tracked by satellite
Authors: Mcgrady Michael J. , Ueta Mutsuyuki , Potapov Eugene R. , Utekhina Irina , Masterov Vladimir , Ladyguine Alexander , Zykov Vladimir , Cibor Jack , Fuller Mark , Seegar William S.
Published: December 2004

Twenty‐four juvenile Steller's Sea Eagles Haliaeetus pelagicus were tracked via satellite from natal areas in Magadan, Kabarovsk, Amur, Sakhalin and Kamchatka. Nestling dispersal occurred between 9 September and 6 December (n = 24), mostly 14 September–21 October, and did not differ among regions or years. Most eagles made stopovers of 4–28 days during migration. Migration occurred 9 September–18 January, mostly along previously described routes, taking 4–116 days to complete (n = 18). Eagles averaged 47.8 km/day excluding stopovers; 22.9 km/day including stopovers. The mean degrees of latitude spanned during migration was: Kamchatka, 2.1; Magadan, 11.6; Amur, 7.3; and Sakhalin, 1.1. Eagle winter range sizes varied. Eagles concentrated in 1–3 subareas within overall winter ranges. The mean size of the first wintering subareas was 274 km2, the second 529 km2, and the third 1181 km2. Second wintering areas were south of first wintering areas. Spring migration started between 2 February and 31 March. Two eagles from Magadan were tracked onto summering grounds, well south of their natal areas. Both had early and late summering areas. One bird was followed for 25 months. It initiated its second autumn migration in the first half of October and arrived on its wintering grounds on 26 December. The second autumn migration covered 1839 km (20.9–22.4 km/day). Unlike its first winter when it used two subareas, this bird used only one subarea in 1998–99, but this was located near wintering areas used in 1997–98. It left its wintering ground between 13 April and 13 May, and arrived on its summering grounds between 7 June and 8 July. Unlike most satellite radiotracking studies, data are presented from a relatively large number of birds from across their breeding range, including new information on eagle movements on the wintering grounds and during the second year.
A detailed analysis of primary feather moult in the Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris– new feather mass increases at a constant rate
Authors: Dawson Alistair
Published: December 2004

During moult, the rate that protein can be synthesized and used to grow new feathers must be a critical factor influencing the quality of new plumage. However, the rate that new feather mass accrues during moult has not been assessed in detail. To estimate this, the increase in length of each of the nine primary feathers (P1–P9) in 16 captive Common Starlings Sturnus vulgaris was measured at weekly intervals throughout moult. The rate of increase in length was similar for all primary feathers except P9, which increased more slowly. After completion of moult, these feathers were plucked, accurately measured and weighed. The distribution of mass along the length of each primary was assessed. Using these data, I estimated the rate that mass had increased for each feather during moult. For each individual primary, mass increased at a steady rate until almost fully grown. The rate of increase in mass was least for P1 and greatest for P9. The number of feathers growing concurrently decreased as moult progressed. The net result was that total new primary feather mass increased at a steady rate throughout most of moult (linear regression between start of growth of P2 and end of growth of P8; r2 = 0.991). Retrospective conversion of feather lengths into moult score showed that the increase in score was not linear. It was greatest early in moult and decreased as moult progressed. A scoring system that factors in distribution of mass within and between feathers may provide a more physiologically relevant measure of the progress of moult.
Pseudopodoces humilis, a misclassified terrestrial tit (Paridae) of the Tibetan Plateau: evolutionary consequences of shifting adaptive zones
Authors: James Helen F. , Ericson Per G.P. , Slikas Beth , Lei Fu‐Min , Gill Frank B. , Olson Storrs L.
Published: December 2004

Pseudopodoces humilis (Hume's Ground‐Jay) is a small passerine bird that inhabits the high rocky steppes of the Tibetan (Qinghai–Xizang) Plateau. Although it was long classified as a small species of ground jay (Podoces), two previous anatomical studies cast doubt on its assignment to the Corvidae (crows and jays). We studied the evolutionary relationships of Pseudopodoces using three independent datasets drawn from comparative osteology, the nuclear c‐myc gene, and the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene. All three datasets agree on the placement of Pseudopodoces in the family Paridae (tits and chickadees). The cytochrome b data further suggest that Pseudopodoces may be closest to the Great Tit Parus major species group. Pseudopodoces is the only species of parid whose distribution is limited to treeless terrain. Its evolutionary relationships were long obscured by adaptations to open habitat, including pale, cryptic plumage; a long, decurved bill for probing in crevices among rocks or in the ground; and long legs for terrestrial locomotion. Despite these accommodations to a novel adaptive zone, its evolutionary affinity with the Paridae is clearly expressed in comparative osteology and genetics, and is supported by its habit of nesting in cavities.
Legal issues in contact lens practice with special reference to the practice of orthokeratology
Authors: White Peter , Cho Pauline
Published: December 2004

This report aims to encourage optometrists to reflect on the legal implications of clinical contact lens practice, with particular reference to the practice of orthokeratology (ortho‐k), which has seen a recent revival of interest. A patient may claim compensation if an optometrist is negligent by breaching his duty to exercise reasonable care and skill in diagnosis, advice or treatment. However, the optometrist will only be liable for reasonably foreseeable harm to the patient, so practitioners need to be fully aware of the foreseeable risks. Failure to adequately inform the patient may lead to a claim for negligence, if disclosure of the risks would have influenced the patient's decision to undergo or forego the procedure. It is important that the professional bodies establish guidelines on acceptable practice, with particular emphasis on the provision of information to patients. Reasonable disclosure, use of appropriate information/consent forms, and proper documentation of cases, should all focus on the needs of, and benefits to, patients.
The streak retinoscopy pupil reflex in the presence of astigmatism
Authors: Smith G. , Haymes S.
Published: December 2004

Computer simulation is being increasingly used as a teaching tool. Having developed a computer‐generated virtual focimeter, we are now in the process of developing a computer‐generated virtual streak retinoscope to teach the principles of retinoscopy and the effect of residual refractive error and mirror movement on the pupil reflex. One of the important requirements was to provide as accurate a simulation as possible for the completely general case of an astigmatic patient and a streak in any orientation being moved also in any orientation. This required a thorough understanding of the optical theory of the retinoscope and equations that describe the behaviour of the pupil reflex. We have taken this opportunity to review the optics of the streak retinoscope and derive equations for the behaviour of the pupil streak reflex.
The practice competency gap: challenges that impede the introduction of national core competencies
Authors: Scholes Julie , Endacott Ruth
Published: December 2004

This paper reports the findings from a study commissioned by the English National Board for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting (ENB), entitled Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Educational Preparation for Critical Care Nursing

One aim of the study was to generate evidence that incorporated the national perspective on the priorities for core competencies and a national threshold standard of the ENB critical care clinical awards. Although these courses are no longer validated by the professional statutory body, the findings illuminate some key insights into the current challenges facing providers and consumers of critical care education as well as into implications for all post‐registration education provision

The paper outlines how the study data were collected, how the core competencies were generated and the national consultation exercise and the levers and barriers that affect the introduction of core competencies. Other aspects of the study data are reported elsewhere (Scholes and Endacott, 2002)
Critical care staff rotation: outcomes of a survey and pilot study
Authors: Richardson Annette , Douglas Margaret , Shuttler Rachel , Hagland Martin R
Published: December 2004

Staff rotation is defined as a reciprocal exchange of staff between two or more clinical areas for a predetermined period of time

The rationale for introducing a ‘Critical Care Nurse Rotation Programme’ includes important issues such as improving nurses’ knowledge and skills, providing development opportunities, networking, the ability to recruit and retain nurses and the provision of a more versatile and flexible workforce

To gain the understanding of nurses’ views and opinions on critical care rotation programmes, evidence was collected by means of questionnaires involving 153 critical care nurses and by undertaking semi‐structured interviews with four nurses

On the basis of the responses, a pilot of three Critical Care Nurse Rotation Programmes was introduced

An evaluation of the pilot project assessed participants, supervisors and senior nurses’ experience of rotation and revealed very positive experiences being reported

The benefits highlighted included improving clinical skills and experience, improving interdepartmental relationships, heightened motivation and opportunities to network. The disadvantages focused on the operational and managerial issues, such as difficulties maintaining supervision and providing an adequate supernumerary period

Evidence from the survey and pilot study suggests that in the future, providing rotational programmes for critical care nurses would be a valuable strategy for recruitment, retention and developing the workforce
Ms B and legal competence: examining the role of nurses in difficult ethico‐legal decision‐making
Authors: Goodman Benny
Published: December 2004

The case of Ms B throws up some interesting issues regarding the role of the nurse in assisting patients in making and implementing their decisions

The High Court transcript makes it clear who the voices with influence in legal matters were, and why the decisions they took were made

Absent from the myriad voices is that of the profession of nursing. Are nurses silenced by professional boundaries, the legal framework or lack of confidence?

The concept of nursing advocacy is once again thrown into relief and critical questions need asking about the limits of professional nursing practice
Prevalence and Correlates of Depressive Symptoms in a Community Sample of People Suffering from Heart Failure
Authors: Turvey Carolyn L. , Schultz Kara , Arndt Stephan , Wallace Robert B. , Herzog Regula
Published: December 2004

OBJECTIVES: To examine the rates and correlates of depressive symptoms and syndromal depression in people with self‐reported heart failure participating in a community study of people aged 70 and older.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional.

SETTING: Community‐based epidemiological study of older people from the continental United States.

PARTICIPANTS: Six thousand one hundred twenty‐five older people participating in the longitudinal study of Assets and Health Dynamics. Participants had to be born in 1923 or earlier.

MEASUREMENTS: The short‐form Composite International Diagnostic Interview assessed syndromal depression, and a revised version of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies—Depression scale assessed depressive symptoms. Medical illness was based on self‐report. The authors compared the rates of syndromal depression and individual depressive symptoms in people with self‐reported heart failure (n = 199) with those in people with other heart conditions (n = 1,856) and with no heart conditions (n = 4,070).

RESULTS: Eleven percent of those with heart failure met criteria for syndromal depression, compared with 4.8% of people with other heart conditions and 3.2% of those with no heart conditions. The association between heart failure and depression held even after controlling for disability, reported fatigue and breathlessness, and number of comorbid chronic illnesses.

CONCLUSION: Community‐living older people with self‐reported heart failure were at approximately twice the risk for syndromal depression of the rest of the community. Although fatigue and functional disability were also related to depression in this sample, these variables did not account for the association between syndromal depression and self‐reported heart failure.
Quality of Care of Medicare Beneficiaries with Acute Myocardial Infarction: Who Is Included in Quality Improvement Measurement?
Authors: Rathore Saif S. , Wang Yongfei , Radford Martha J. , Ordin Diana L. , Krumholz Harlan M.
Published: December 2004

Objectives: To determine the proportion of older patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) incorporated in a commonly used set of AMI quality indicators.

Design: Retrospective analysis of a medical record database.

Setting: Nongovernmental U.S. acute care hospitals.

Participants: Medicare patients hospitalized for AMI between January 1994 and February 1996.

Measurements: Proportion of patients aged 65 and older classified as ideal candidates (without absolute or relative contraindications) for six Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services AMI quality indicators: aspirin (admission, discharge), beta‐blocker (admission, discharge), angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors at discharge, and time to reperfusion therapy.

Results: Of the 149,996 patients eligible for admission therapies, 10.1% were ideal candidates for reperfusion therapy, 65.0% for aspirin, and 34.7% for beta‐blockers. Of the 116,919 patients eligible for discharge therapies, 47.7% were ideal candidates for aspirin, 17.6% for beta‐blockers, and 15.2% for ACE inhibitors. More than one‐quarter (26.8%) of all patients were ineligible for any of the six quality indicators; this proportion increased with age, ranging from 23.7% of patients aged 65 to 69 to 30.2% of patients aged 85 and older.

Conclusion: A substantial proportion of older patients were not included in AMI process quality measurement, with the proportion excluded higher in successively older age groups. The data highlight the need for additional research to determine effective treatment strategies for patients for whom the evidence base for clinical decision‐making remains weak.
Racial Differences in Preventive Practices of African‐American and Hispanic Women
Authors: Ganesan Kalpana , Teklehaimanot Senait , Akhtar Abbasi J. , Wijegunaratne Jayantha , Thadepalli Khyathi , Ganesan Nandakumar
Published: December 2004

OBJECTIVES: To compare the use of preventive practices of Hispanic‐ and African‐American women aged 50 and older.

DESIGN: A cross‐sectional survey.

SETTING: Inpatient and outpatient units of a teaching hospital located in South Central Los Angeles.

PARTICIPANTS: Convenience sample of 337 women aged 50 and older.

MEASUREMENTS: Demographic and lifestyle characteristics and selected preventive practices. Preventive practices reported were self‐breast examination, mammography, Papanicolaou (Pap) smear, digital rectal examination and stool occult blood examination, sigmoidoscopy, chemoprophylaxis, and immunization. Information was obtained in a face‐to‐face interview.

RESULTS: African‐American women were more likely to have had a Pap smear ever and to have used aspirin prophylaxis than Hispanic women.

CONCLUSION: There were no major differences in the use of preventive services by the two ethnic groups except for Pap smear and aspirin use. Immunization and colorectal cancer screening rates were low in African‐American and Hispanic women.
Community‐Acquired Pneumonia in Older People: The Need for a Broader Perspective
Authors: Loeb Mark B.
Published: December 2004

Community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) poses a substantial threat to the health of older adults. The incidence of this infection and mortality associated with it increase with age. Despite the considerable effect of CAP on older adults, little is known about the effect of socioeconomic and environmental factors on CAP in older people. This paper argues that broader determinants, including socioeconomic status (SES), nutrition, and factors in the physical environment such as exposure to tobacco smoke and air pollution need to be evaluated as potential risk factors for CAP in older adults. Data suggesting a relationship between low SES and risk of acquiring CAP exist; possible causal pathways include increased exposure through crowding or increased susceptibility to infection. Inadequate nutrition, exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollution, and not receiving immunization may predispose older people to lower respiratory tract infection. This study reviews current evidence for these potential risk factors and suggests priorities for research. A thorough understanding of these factors and their underlying biological mechanisms is needed to develop successful health‐promotion strategies such as better immunization strategies and educational programs about nutrition. Determining the effect of air pollution on CAP in older adults is important in terms of reducing personal risk to older individuals and for healthcare agencies charged with formulating policy to protect the health of older adults.