bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and radiological outcome of cast immobilisation versus surgical treatment of acute scaphoid fractures at a mean follow-up of 93 months
Authors: Dias J. J. , Dhukaram V. , Abhinav A. , Bhowal B. , Wildin C. J.
Published: June 2008

We report the outcome at a mean of 93 months (73 to 110) of 71 patients with an acute fracture of the scaphoid who were randomised to Herbert screw fixation (35) or below-elbow plaster cast immobilisation (36). These 71 patients represent the majority of a randomised series of 88 patients whose short-term outcome has previously been reported. Those patients available for later review were similar in age, gender and hand dominance.

There was no statistical difference in symptoms and disability as assessed by the mean Patient Evaluation Measure (p = 0.4), or mean Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (p = 0.9), the mean range of movement of the wrist (p = 0.4), mean grip strength (p = 0.8), or mean pinch strength (p = 0.4).

Radiographs were available from the final review for 59 patients. Osteoarthritic changes were seen in the scaphotrapezial and radioscaphoid joints in eight (13.5%) and six patients (10.2%), respectively. Three patients had asymptomatic lucency surrounding the screw. One non-operatively treated patient developed nonunion with avascular necrosis. In five patients who were treated non-operatively (16%) there was an abnormal scapholunate angle ( > 60°), but in four of these patients this finding was asymptomatic.

No medium-term difference in function or radiological outcome was identified between the two treatment groups.
The detection of full thickness rotator cuff tears using ultrasound
Authors: Al-Shawi A. , Badge R. , Bunker T.
Published: June 2008

We have examined the accuracy of 143 consecutive ultrasound scans of patients who subsequently underwent shoulder arthroscopy for rotator-cuff disease. All the scans and subsequent surgery were performed by an orthopaedic surgeon using a portable ultrasound scanner in a one-stop clinic. There were 78 full thickness tears which we confirmed by surgery or MRI. Three moderate-size tears were assessed as partial-thickness at ultrasound scan (false negative) giving a sensitivity of 96.2%. One partially torn and two intact cuffs were over-diagnosed as small full-thickness tears by ultrasound scan (false positive) giving a specificity of 95.4%. This gave a positive predictive value of 96.2% and a negative predictive value of 95.4%. Estimation of tear size was more accurate for large and massive tears at 96.5% than for moderate (88.8%) and small tears (91.6%). These results are equivalent to those obtained by several studies undertaken by experienced radiologists.

We conclude that ultrasound imaging of the shoulder performed by a sufficiently-trained orthopaedic surgeon is a reliable time-saving practice to identify rotator-cuff integrity.
Antibiotic prophylaxis for wound infections in total joint arthroplasty
Authors: AlBuhairan B. , Hind D. , Hutchinson A.
Published: June 2008

We reviewed systematically the published evidence on the effectiveness of antibiotic prophylaxis for the reduction of wound infection in patients undergoing total hip and total knee replacement. Publications were identified using the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL databases. We also contacted authors to identify unpublished trials. We included randomised controlled trials which compared any prophylaxis with none, the administration of systemic antibiotics with that of those in cement, cephalosporins with glycopeptides, cephalosporins with penicillin-derivatives, and second-generation with first-generation cephalosporins.

A total of 26 studies (11 343 participants) met the inclusion criteria. Methodological quality was variable. In a meta-analysis of seven studies (3065 participants) antibiotic prophylaxis reduced the absolute risk of wound infection by 8% and the relative risk by 81% compared with no prophylaxis (p < 0.00001). No other comparison showed a significant difference in clinical effect.

Antibiotic prophylaxis should be routine in joint replacement but the choice of agent should be made on the basis of cost and local availability.
The outcome of surgical intervention for early deformity in young ambulant children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy
Authors: Gough M. , Schneider P. , Shortland A. P.
Published: June 2008

We reviewed the outcome in 24 children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy aged seven years or younger for whom surgery was recommended between 1999 and 2005 following gait analysis. A total of 13 children (operative group) had surgery and the remaining 11 (control group) did not, for family or administrative reasons. The operative group had at least two post-operative gait analyses at yearly intervals, with eight children having a third and six children a fourth. The control group had a second analysis after a mean interval of 1.5 years (95% confidence interval 1.1 to 1.9). In the operative group, the Gillette gait index, the ranges of movement in the lower limb joint and knee extension in stance improved following surgery, and this was maintained overall at the second post-operative analysis. The minimum knee flexion in stance in the control group increased between analyses.

These results suggest that surgical intervention in selected children can result in improvements in gait and function in the short to medium term compared with non-operative management.
Return to sport after joint replacement
Authors: Wylde V. , Blom A. , Dieppe P. , Hewlett S. , Learmonth I.
Published: June 2008

Our aim was to determine the pre-operative sporting profiles of patients undergoing primary joint replacement and to establish if they were able to return to sport after surgery. A postal survey was completed by 2085 patients between one and three years after operation. They had undergone one of five operations, namely total hip replacement, hip resurfacing, total knee replacement, unicompartmental knee replacement or patellar resurfacing. In the three years before operation 726 (34.8%) patients were participating in sport, the most common being swimming, walking and golf. A total of 446 (61.4%) had returned to their sporting activities by one to three years after operation and 192 (26.4%) were unable to do so because of their joint replacement, with the most common reason being pain. The largest decline was in high-impact sports including badminton, tennis and dancing. After controlling for the influence of age and gender, there was no significant difference in the rate of return to sport according to the type of operation.
Dysplasia epiphysealis hemimelica with involvement of the hip and spine in a young girl
Authors: Haddad F. , Chemali R. , Maalouf G.
Published: June 2008

Dysplasia epiphysealis hemimelica of the left proximal femur was diagnosed in an eight-month-old girl. At the age of 18 months, radiographs of the hip and MRI showed overgrowth and loss of containment of the femoral head. She underwent resection of the superior portion of the head and neck of the femur at the age of 2.5 years. Six months later further radiographs and an MR scan show that the mass has increased in size and that hip containment has been lost. Further plain radiographs have shown that the left knee, ankle and spine were involved.

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of dysplasia epiphysealis hemimelica involving both the lower limb and the spine. A review of the literature is presented.
Dental treatment and prosthetic joints
Authors: Oswald T. F. , Gould F. K.
Published: June 2008

The routine administration of prophylactic antibiotics for dental interventions to prevent haematogenous spread of infections to prosthetic joints is a contentious issue. In this editorial we discuss the potentially harmful effects of this practice and propose an alternative solution.
Non‐linear structural equation models with correlated continuous and discrete data
Authors: Lee Sik‐Yum , Song Xin‐Yuan , Cai Jing‐Heng , So Wing‐Yee , Ma Ching‐Wang , Chan Chung‐Ngor Juliana
Published: June 2008

Structural equation models (SEMs) have been widely applied to examine interrelationships among latent and observed variables in social and psychological research. Motivated by the fact that correlated discrete variables are frequently encountered in practical applications, a non‐linear SEM that accommodates covariates, and mixed continuous, ordered, and unordered categorical variables is proposed. Maximum likelihood methods for estimation and model comparison are discussed. One real‐life data set about cardiovascular disease is used to illustrate the methodologies.
Just a talking book? Word learning from watching baby videos
Authors: Robb Michael B. , Richert Rebekah A. , Wartella Ellen A.
Published: June 2008

This study examined the relationship between viewing an infant DVD and expressive and receptive language outcomes. Children between 12 and 15 months were randomly assigned to view Baby Wordsworth, a DVD highlighting words around the house marketed for children beginning at 12 months of age. Viewings took place in home settings over 6 weeks. After every 2 weeks and five exposures to the DVD, children were assessed on expressive and receptive communication measures. Results indicated there was no increased growth on either outcome for children who had viewed the DVD as compared to children in the control group, even after multiple exposures. After controlling for age, gender, cognitive developmental level, income, and parent education, the most significant predictor of vocabulary comprehension and production scores was the amount of time children were read to.
A closer look at the relationship between affective commitment to supervisors and organizations and turnover
Authors: Vandenberghe Christian , Bentein Kathleen
Published: June 2008

We examined the relationships of affective organizational commitment and affective commitment to supervisors with turnover intentions and actual turnover, using three independent samples of employees. In Sample 1 (N=172) and Sample 2 (N=186), affective organizational commitment and affective commitment to supervisors were found to exert independent negative effects on turnover intentions. Moreover, in both samples, affective commitment to supervisors was more strongly related to turnover intentions when affective organizational commitment was low. In Sample 3 (N=431), affective commitment to supervisors was the single significant predictor of actual turnover and interacted with affective organizational commitment such that its effect was stronger when affective organizational commitment was low. The implications of these findings for the understanding of the commitment–turnover relationship are discussed.
Self‐evaluation and union interest: The empirical relevance of a mediated model
Authors: Mellor Steven
Published: June 2008

A model of union interest was advanced with self‐evaluation as linking economic and socio‐economic realities to willingness to join a union in the context of a new psychological framework. Using a representative survey sample of non‐union US employees (N=1,010), the model was tested with structural equation modelling techniques. Support was generally found for the hypothesized model, although a revised model was considered. In particular, psychological self‐sufficiency fully mediated the influence of financial dependency on self‐enhancement (overconfidence in one's abilities and efficacy), and, in turn, self‐enhancement fully mediated the influence of psychological self‐sufficiency on union interest. Suggestions stemming from the model for future theory, research, and application are provided.
Kinesiophobia and symptomatology in chronic fatigue syndrome: A psychometric study of two questionnaires
Authors: Nijs Jo. , Thielemans Alice.
Published: July 2008

Objectives. The aims of the study were to examine the reliability of the Dutch and French versions of the Tampa scale kinesiophobia (TSK) version chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and to examine the reliability and validity of the Dutch and French versions of the CFS symptom list.

Design. Repeated‐measures design.

Methods. Native Dutch speakers (N=100) and native French (N=48) speakers fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for CFS were asked to list the five most important symptoms and to complete the TSK–CFS, the CFS symptom list, and the Short Form 36 Health Status Survey or SF‐36. A modified version of the TSK–CFS and the CFS symptom list was filled in within 24 hours of the first assessment.

Results. The French and Dutch version of the TSK–CFS and CFS symptom lists displayed good reliability (ICC≥.83). The CFS symptom list was internally consistent (Cronbach's α≥.93) and concurrently valid with the SF‐36. For the native Dutch and French speakers, respectively, 82 and 78% of the self‐reported symptoms matched the content of CFS symptom list.

Conclusions. The results are in support of the psychometric properties of the French and Dutch versions of both the TSK–CFS and the CFS symptom list for assessing kinesiophobia and symptom severity, respectively.
Two-Dimensional Temperature Measurements in Flames Using Filtered Rayleigh Scattering at 254 nm
Authors: Zetterberg Johan , Li Zhongshan , Afzelius Mikael , Aldén M.
Published: July 2008

Two-dimensional temperature measurements using filtered Rayleigh scattering (FRS) have been demonstrated. A tunable single-longitudinal-mode alexandrite laser was employed to provide the tunable narrow-line-width ultraviolet laser beam at 254 nm. Isotopic-enhanced mercury was utilized as an ultraviolet atomic filter. The strong absorption of the filter enabled effective suppression of elastic background. The transmission curve of the mercury filter was characterized by combining experimental measurements and proper modeling. The Rayleigh–Brillouin spectral profiles were calculated employing the S6 model. Quantitative interpretations of two-dimensional FRS signals were performed in both premixed and diffusion flames. The temperature values obtained were in good agreement with adiabatic calculations and earlier measurements.
Obsessive Passion as an Explanation for Burnout: An Alternative Theoretical Perspective Applied to Humanitarian Work
Authors: Tassell Natasha , Flett Ross
Published: July 2008

Burnout is an occupationally based syndrome that develops as a result of prolonged and cumulative stress. The experience of burnout has been documented in detail in a variety of human service professions. The purpose of this article is two-fold: to provide an alternative theoretical perspective on the development of burnout, which suggests it is not stressors per se that are responsible for burnout development; and, to use this alternative perspective as an explanation for burnout in the context of another human service profession — humanitarian work. Using the passion for activities notion conceptualised by Vallerand and colleagues (2003), it is explained how a lack of self-determination and autonomy leads to the development of an obsessive passion for an activity. Obsessive passion is linked to a variety of adverse cognitive and affective outcomes. This is then applied to the domain of humanitarian work, and it is suggested individuals with an obsessive passion are more likely to suffer adverse outcomes and consequently develop burnout when working in humanitarian crises. Some suggestions for future theoretical and empirical investigations regarding the relationship between obsessive passion and burnout are provided.
One re-enchanted evening the Academy Awards as a mediated ritual within celebrity culture
Authors: Haastrup Helle Kannik
Published: June 2008

This is a case study of the Oscars ceremony 2007, analysing how the awards show works as a mediated ritual within celebrity culture. In the analysis, I characterize the Oscars as an example of a live media event, and then I analyse how it is connected to celebrity culture and, eventually,
I discuss whether it can be said to have religious affinities and perhaps even be an example of a replacement strategy for the decline in organized religion. In my analysis I combine sociological analysis of the media event genre as presented by Dayan & Katz, as well as Couldry, with cultural
analysis of celebrity culture and stars as argued by Rojek, Turner, Morin and Dyer. On the basis of this analysis, I want to argue that the Academy Awards ceremony can be seen as a re-enchanted evening on several levels: as a live media event, a mediated ritual and as presenting glamorous
stars as objects of identification.
Magic spells and recitation contests: the Quran as entertainment on Arab satellite television
Authors: Galal Ehab
Published: June 2008

Religion in the Middle East is, in general, related to political discussions on Islams position and influence on the development of democracy. The same approach has been dominant in research into new media in the Islamic world. The argument of the article is that the mediatization of
Islam with the latest development of religious popular culture supports a process, where a political and rational version of Islam is increasingly being replaced by a more individualized and consumer-based version. The article analyses two different types of popular religious programmes on
religious satellite TV: the Quran recitation competition and the Quranic healing programme. By analysing the medias use of the central symbol of Islam, the Quran, it is possible to discuss the question of re-enchantment as a part of popular culture. It is, in this way, illustrated how traditional
religious practices are perceived as instrumental for constructions of the Islamic self.
Re-enchantment and the popular imagination: fate, magic and purity
Authors: Murdock Graham
Published: June 2008

Theorists have long argued that the world is becoming more secular as modernitys celebration of scientific and technological progress displaces religious systems from the centre of institutional and imaginative life. This assumption is increasingly untenable. All the worlds major religions
see their support increasing. This continued vitality is due, in part, to the contradictory nature of modernitys pursuit of progress. The global reach of the risks attached to nuclear weapons and global warming have helped revive notions of fate. The communications networks that underwrite
global capital also provide the organizational resources for new forms of fundamentalism. Advertisings incessant promotion of consumerism depends on belief in the transformative power of magic. Taking these three core cultural themes of fate, magic and purity as a focus, this article explores
the forms that re-enchantment has taken within the popular media.
The mediatization of religion: A theory of the media as agents of religious change
Authors: Hjarvard Stig
Published: June 2008

The article presents a theoretical framework for the understanding of how media work as agents of religious change. At the centre of this theory is the concept of mediatization. Through the process of mediatization, religion is increasingly being subsumed under the logic of the media. As conduits of communication, the media have become the primary source of religious ideas, in particular in the form of banal religion. As a language the media mould religious imagination in accordance with the genres of popular culture, and as cultural environments the media have taken over many of the social functions of the institutionalized religions, providing both moral and spiritual guidance and a sense of community. Finally, the results of a national survey in Denmark are presented in order to substantiate the theoretical arguments and illustrate how the mediatization of religion has made popular media texts important sources of spiritual interest.
Correlates of Alaska Native Fatal and Nonfatal Suicidal Behaviors 1990–2001
Authors: Wexler Lisa , Hill Ryan , Bertone‐Johnson Elizabeth , Fenaughty Andrea
Published: July 2008

Factors correlated with suicidal behavior in a predominately Alaska Native region of Alaska are described, and the correlates relating to fatal and nonfatal suicide behaviors in this indigenous population are distinguished. Suicide data from the region (1990–2001) were aggregated and compared to 2000 U.S. Census Data using chi‐squared tests. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify predictors of suicide behaviors. Suicidal behaviors were significantly more common among single, unemployed Alaska Natives who had not completed high school. In multivariable analysis, male sex, age ≥ 25 years, firearms, and substance abuse history were each associated with suicide death.
Maximal cluster sets on spaces of holomorphic functions
Authors: Prado-Bassas José A.
Published: June 2008

This is an expository paper where we relate some aspects of the problem of looking for holomorphic functions with maximal cluster sets under the action of operators defined on spaces of holomorphic functions. Some functional generalizations of cluster sets, as well as special spaces of analytic functions, are also considered.
On uniqueness of meromorphic functions sharing three sets
Authors: Banerjee Abhijit
Published: June 2008

Using the notion of weighted sharing of sets we deal with the problem of uniqueness of meromorphic functions sharing three sets and obtain three results two of which will improve and the other will supplement a result of Lin-Yi [12].
On a differential inequality
Authors: Fournier Richard
Published: June 2008

We identify the extremal functions for a class of differential inequalities first introduced by Sanford S. Miller and P. T. Mocanu in 1978.
Infinitesimal resistance metrics on Sierpinski gasket type fractals
Authors: Cucuringu Mihai , Strichartz Robert S.
Published: June 2008

We prove the existence of an infinitesimal resistance metric on the Sierpinski gasket (SG) at boundary points, junction points and periodic points. This is a renormalized limit of the effective resistance metric as we zoom in on the point, and satisfies a self-similar identity. We obtain similar results on PCF fractals with three boundary points.
Absolutely convergent multiple Fourier series and multiplicative Zygmund classes of functions
Authors: Fülöp Vanda , Móricz Ferenc
Published: June 2008

We study the smoothness properties of a complex-valued function
On some high indices theorems III
Authors: Pierce Pamela B. , Schramm Michael , Waterman Daniel
Published: June 2008

We show that if the series, ∑
On the Interpretation of Multiple Waves in Cyclic Voltammograms of Self-Assembled Monolayers of n-Alkane Thiols on Gold
Authors: Thom Ian , Buck Manfred
Published: June 2008

A homologue series of n-alkane thiols (CH3(CH2)
m
SH, MCm, m between 8 and 22) adsorbed on Au/mica substrates was studied in an alkaline environment using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and second harmonic generation (SHG). The known split of the reductive desorption signal in the cyclic voltammogram for thiols with chain length of m > 12 disappears again for m = 22. Simultaneous recording of SHG and CV data allowed correlation of thiol coverage with charge which was found to be linear, irrespective of the shape of the desorption signal. This evidences that the double peak structure of the desorption signal does not arise from the separation of faradaic and capacitive processes. The same is found for the double wave of the readsorption signal. The transient appearance of a split desorption signal for the one electron process of thiol desorption in the range of 12 < m < 22 is suggested to originate from intermolecular interactions.
Nanometer Resolution Holography with the Low Energy Electron Point Source Microscope
Authors: Eisele Andreas , Völkel Berthold , Grunze Michael , Gölzhäuser Armin
Published: June 2008

Holography with the low energy electron point source (LEEPS) microscope has been explored for imaging of unstained biomolecules. DNA ropes are prepared on microfabricated sample supports and imaged with coherent 40 eV electrons emitted from a W(111) point source. We reconstruct the electron wave front and show that the correct source-to-object distance can be determined by analyzing the focus of the reconstruction. Upon variation of the source position, the reconstruction shows reproducible object features with an object focus located at the correct tip-to-object distance with a depth of sharpness of ∼40 nm. It is argued that reconstruction artifacts can be identified by their focus behavior and that only features in the first focus – coming from the screen – truly relate to the object's structure.
A Brief Introduction to the Streptavidin-Biotin System and its Usage in Modern Surface Based Assays
Authors: Grunwald Christian
Published: June 2008

This review presents the molecular basis of the high affinity between (strept)avidin and biotin as it was discovered from different protein crystal structures using wild type and mutant streptavidin. Optimization strategies for further improving the applicability of the (strept)avidin-biotin system and prospects for modulating the affinity are discussed. The characterization and the application of the streptavidin-biotin system in surface-based biosensing assays are demonstrated with selected examples focussing on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Recent trends to further enhance the utility of convential SPR e.g. parallel detection of biological molecules and sensitivity enhancement towards small molecules are covered as well.
Pure and Molecularly Mixed Methyl- and Hydroxyl-Terminated Self-Assembled Dialkylammonium Monolayers on Mica: Wettability and Conformational Order
Authors: Zwahlen Mathias , Caseri Walter R. , Hähner Georg
Published: June 2008

Muscovite mica surfaces were coated with methyl- and hydroxyl-terminated dialkyldimethylammonium monolayers via ion exchange by immersion of the substrates into solutions of the corresponding salts. The samples were examined by water contact-angle measurements and near edge X-Ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (NEXAFS). The purely methyl-terminated species was found to form self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of comparable quality to those of a similar thiol/gold system as has been reported earlier. The hydroxyl-terminated surfactant established films with a lower degree of orientation under the same preparation conditions and showed a high water contact angle value for a hydrophilic surface (47°). The molecularly mixed film where one alkyl chain of the surfactant is methyl terminated and one hydroxyl terminated had a significantly lower wettability but established a similar degree of orientation as the film prepared from the purely OH-terminated species.
Power and Wavelength Dependence of Photoenhancement in (CdSe)ZnS-Dopamine in Aqueous Solution and Live Cells
Authors: Clarke S. , Koshy S. , Zhang J. , Cohen N. , Nadeau J.
Published: June 2008

CdSe(ZnS) quantum dots conjugated to the electron donor dopamine show enhancement of photoluminescence over a time course of seconds to minutes when exposed to ultraviolet or blue irradiation. This phenomenon is observed when the dots are in aqueous solution as well as after endocytosis by living cells. The rate of enhancement is directly related to the number of dopamine conjugates per quantum dot, and can be semi-quantitatively adjusted over a wide range. Uptake of the particles by cells is also dependent upon surface coverage, with moderate coverages proving ideal for both uptake and relative signal enhancement. The enhancement is strongly power-dependent and may also show dependence upon wavelength; however, direct excitation of the dopamine molecule is not necessary for the enhancement effect.
Fabrication of an Amino-Terminated Organic Surface by Chemical Conversion of a Nitro-Terminated Self-Assembled Monolayer
Authors: Al-Rawashdeh N. A. F. , Azzam W. , Wöll Christof
Published: June 2008

Self-assembeld monolayers (SAMs) formed by the adsorption of 4′-nitro-1,1′-biphenyl-4-thiol (NBT) on gold substrates were studied using infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy (IRRAS). The IRRAS results revealed that the straightforward approach for the fabrication of SAMs, namely, immersions of the gold film in organothiol solutions, leads to the formation of highly oriented SAMs. To prepare highly oriented amino-terminated SAMs, the nitro-terminated SAMs were immersed into ZnCl2/HCl solution to chemically convert the nitro group to an amino group. IR spectra recorded for this conversion revealed that the conversion is completed after a fairly short period of time (45 min.), immersion for longer time results in the etching of the SAMs by the acidic solution.
The Death Penalty in China Today: Kill Fewer, Kill Cautiously
Authors: Trevaskes Susan
Published: July 2008

This paper examines a recent debate at the highest level of China's politicolegal leadership on the application of the death penalty. The debate centers around the interpretation of a new criminal justice policy called “balancing leniency and severity” and around limiting the death penalty to all but the most egregious criminals.
Scoliosis in Patients With Prader-Willi Syndrome
Authors: Odent Thierry , Accadbled Franck , Koureas Georges , Cournot Maxime , Moine Alexandre , Diene Gwenaelle , Molinas Catherine , Pinto Graziella , Tauber Maïthé , Gomes Bruno , de Gauzy Jérôme Sales , Glorion Christophe
Published: July 2008

OBJECTIVE. Our goals were to determine the prevalence and estimate the evolution of spinal deformities in patients suffering from Prader-Willi syndrome; find out which kind of spine deformity predominates regarding genotype and clinical patterns; and evaluate the affect of growth-hormone treatment on the onset and progression of spinal deformities.

PATIENTS AND METHODS. This was a retrospective longitudinal, clinical, and radiologic study. One hundred forty-five children followed between 1980 and 2006 were studied in 2 referral centers for Prader-Willi syndrome. Genetic testing confirmed the diagnosis in 133 patients. Ninety-three patients (64%) received growth-hormone therapy. For statistical analysis, age-adjusted comparison between groups was performed by using multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS. Mean age of the patients was 10.2 ± 6.2 years. Sixty-three (43.4%) patients were afflicted with scoliosis. Scoliosis frequency steadily rose with age, and a large majority of patients were affected at skeletal maturity (66.7%). Scoliosis prevalence was not affected by the genotype or by growth-hormone treatment. Patients with higher BMI values had an increased risk of developing a kyphotic deformity in association with scoliosis. We found a statistical association between kyphotic deformity and the need for surgical treatment.

CONCLUSIONS. Scoliosis is a major concern for patients with Prader-Willi syndrome, and a regular (annual) systematic back examination is mandated. The role of growth-hormone treatment on the natural history of scoliosis could not be determined, and careful monitoring during treatment is recommended.
Reliability, responsibility and reality in structural engineering
Authors: Nethercot D. A.
Published: July 2008

For a person to be described as reliable or for a service to be regarded as something that can be relied upon is an easily recognised and highly desirable description. Yet when reliability is mentioned within the structural engineering community, it provokes decidedly mixed reactions. For the enthusiasts—found almost entirely within the academic community—it is a key tool in the quest to understand and describe ever more challenging aspects of structural behaviour, but to the practitioner it is largely an irrelevance: something that belongs elsewhere with no real place in their everyday activities. They may have read something about ‘the improved levels of reliability’ assured by newly introduced codes of practice, recall that it is somehow related to risk or note increased use of the word in project specification documents. Why this difference in attitude? What are the reasons? Can the divide be bridged? Does it matter? This paper presents a largely personal view on these issues.
Effects of diazinon on larvae of the Asian common toad (Bufo melanostictus, Schneider 1799)
Authors: Sumanadasa Dulangi M , Wijesinghe Mayuri R , Ratnasooriya Wanigasekara D
Published: July 2008

Continuous subchronic exposure experiments were conducted to assess the effects of diazinon, an organophosphate pesticide, on the survival, growth and activity of larvae of the Asian common toad Bufo melanostictus. Two larval stages, the gill stage (Gosner stages 21 and 22) and gill-atrophy stage (Gosner stages 24 and 25), were continuously exposed to 4 μg/L, 400 μg/L, and 10 mg/L of commercial-grade diazinon for 30 d. Treatments and untreated controls were maintained in triplicate with water changed and pesticide concentrations renewed every 3 d. Observations showed that subchronic exposure to 400 μg/L and 10 mg/L diazinon caused a significant dose-dependent increase in mortality compared to the control, regardless of the age at which larvae were exposed. One hundred percent mortality was observed in larvae exposed to 10 mg/L. No clear age-related sensitivity was evident in this study. The lethal concentrations at which 50% of the tadpoles (LC50) died during 30 d of continuous exposure were 6 and 7.5 mg/L for gill stage and gill-atrophy stage larvae, respectively. Diazinon impaired larval growth and activity. Tail abnormalities were apparent in larvae exposed to 400 μg/L and 10 mg/L of diazinon. This investigation provides the first empirical evidence of the negative effects of diazinon on the survival, growth and activity of B. melanostictus. The high degree of diazinon toxicity in this study highlights the need to consider important nontarget groups when recommending safe levels of pesticide application.
Assessment of environmental risks from toxic and nontoxic stressors; A proposed concept for a risk-based management tool for offshore drilling discharges
Authors: Smit Mathijs GD , Jak Robbert G , Rye Henrik , Frost Tone Karin , Singsaas Ivar , Karman Chris C
Published: June 2008

In order to improve the ecological status of aquatic systems, both toxic (e.g., chemical) and nontoxic stressors (e.g., suspended particles) should be evaluated. This paper describes an approach to environmental risk assessment of drilling discharges to the sea. These discharges might lead to concentrations of toxic compounds and suspended clay particles in the water compartment and concentrations of toxic compounds, burial of biota, change in sediment structure, and oxygen depletion in marine sediments. The main challenges were to apply existing protocols for environmental risk assessment to nontoxic stressors and to combine risks arising from exposure to these stressors with risk from chemical exposure. The defined approach is based on species sensitivity distributions (SSDs). In addition, precautionary principles from the EU-Technical Guidance Document were incorporated to assure that the method is acceptable in a regulatory context. For all stressors a protocol was defined to construct an SSD for no observed effect concentrations (or levels; NOEC(L)-SSD) to allow for the calculation of the potentially affected fraction of species from predicted exposures. Depending on the availability of data, a NOEC-SSD for toxicants can either be directly based on available NOECs or constructed from the predicted no effect concentration and the variation in sensitivity among species. For nontoxic stressors a NOEL-SSD can be extrapolated from an SSD based on effect or field data. Potentially affected fractions of species at predicted exposures are combined into an overall risk estimate. The developed approach facilitates environmental management of drilling discharges and can be applied to define risk-mitigating measures for both toxic and nontoxic stress.
Development of a numerical model for calculating exposure to toxic and nontoxic stressors in the water column and sediment from drilling discharges
Authors: Rye Henrik , Reed Mark , Frost Tone Karin , Smit Mathijs GD , Durgut Ismail , Johansen Øistein , Ditlevsen May Kristin
Published: June 2008

Drilling discharges are complex mixtures of chemical components and particles which might lead to toxic and nontoxic stress in the environment. In order to be able to evaluate the potential environmental consequences of such discharges in the water column and in sediments, a numerical model was developed. The model includes water column stratification, ocean currents and turbulence, natural burial, bioturbation, and biodegradation of organic matter in the sediment. Accounting for these processes, the fate of the discharge is modeled for the water column, including near-field mixing and plume motion, far-field mixing, and transport. The fate of the discharge is also modeled for the sediment, including sea floor deposition, and mixing due to bioturbation. Formulas are provided for the calculation of suspended matter and chemical concentrations in the water column, and burial, change in grain size, oxygen depletion, and chemical concentrations in the sediment. The model is fully 3-dimensional and time dependent. It uses a Lagrangian approach for the water column based on moving particles that represent the properties of the release and an Eulerian approach for the sediment based on calculation of the properties of matter in a grid. The model will be used to calculate the environmental risk, both in the water column and in sediments, from drilling discharges. It can serve as a tool to define risk mitigating measures, and as such it provides guidance towards the “zero harm” goal.
Approaches for derivation of environmental quality criteria for substances applied in risk assessment of discharges from offshore drilling operations
Authors: Altin Dag , Frost Tone Karin , Nilssen Ingunn
Published: June 2008

In order to achieve the offshore petroleum industries “zero harm” goal to the environment, the environmental impact factor for drilling discharges was developed as a tool to identify and quantify the environmental risks associated with disposal of drilling discharges to the marine environment. As an initial step in this work the main categories of substances associated with drilling discharges and assumed to contribute to toxic or nontoxic stress were identified and evaluated for inclusion in the risk assessment. The selection were based on the known toxicological properties of the substances, or the total amount discharged together with their potential for accumulation in the water column or sediments to levels that could be expected to cause toxic or nontoxic stress to the biota. Based on these criteria 3 categories of chemicals were identified for risk assessment the water column and sediments: Natural organic substances, metals, and drilling fluid chemicals. Several approaches for deriving the environmentally safe threshold concentrations as predicted no effect concentrations were evaluated in the process. For the water column consensus were reached for using the species sensitivity distribution approach for metals and the assessment factor approach for natural organic substances and added drilling chemicals. For the sediments the equilibrium partitioning approach was selected for all three categories of chemicals. The theoretically derived sediment quality criteria were compared to field-derived threshold effect values based on statistical approaches applied on sediment monitoring data from the Norwegian Continental Shelf. The basis for derivation of predicted no effect concentration values for drilling discharges should be consistent with the principles of environmental risk assessment as described in the Technical Guidance Document on Risk Assessment issued by the European Union.
An assessment of the application factor used to derive the saltwater acute ambient water quality copper criterion
Authors: Arnold W Ray , Cotsifas Jeffrey S
Published: June 2008

The basis for all US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) acute ambient water quality criteria is the chemical specific final acute value (FAV; an estimate of the concentration of the chemical corresponding to a cumulative probability of 0.05 of acute toxicity values for all genera with which acceptable acute tests have been conducted). The acute criterion for all chemicals is equal to the chemical's FAV divided by an application factor of 2. The intention of dividing the FAV by a factor of 2 is to convert the acute toxicity value to an incipient acute toxicity value, resulting in an acute criterion concentration that will protect against toxic effects to aquatic organisms. In the case of copper (Cu) in saltwater, the FAV is reduced from the normal 0.05 probability to equal to the genus mean acute value (GMAV; the geometric mean of copper effect concentration 50% [EC50] values) of the economically important marine bivalves of the genus Mytilus. Analyses to determine an application factor specific to Mytilus and copper were performed to assess the adequacy of the application factor of 2. An estimate of a dissolved copper application factor that is specific to and protective of Mytilus was determined using the results of sixty-four 48-h embryo survival and shell development copper toxicity tests of natural water samples collected from sites around the United States. A variety of point-estimate effects concentrations (EC1, EC5, EC10, EC20, and chronic values [ChV]) and statistical toxic-effect endpoints (no observed effect concentration [NOEC] and lowest observed effect concentration [LOEC]) were derived from the test results and compared. The most similar toxic effect endpoint estimates were EC1 ≈︁ NOEC, EC10 ≈︁ ChV, and EC20 ≈︁ LOEC. Probabilistic methods were used to determine a specific application factor with a high probability of providing protection. This analysis suggests that an application factor of 1.5 (rather than 2) is adequate to provide a high degree of protection against acute effects of dissolved copper to Mytilus. In context, this translates to an acute saltwater dissolved copper criterion of 6.4 μg Cu/L compared to the current acute criterion of 4.8 μg Cu/L.
Critical evaluation of the sediment effect concentrations for polychlorinated biphenyls
Authors: Becker D Scott , Ginn Thomas C
Published: June 2008

In 2000, a set of sediment effect concentrations (SECs) was published for evaluating the toxicity of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in freshwater, estuarine, and marine sediments. According to the developers, these consensus-based SECs reconcile existing sediment quality guidelines (SQGs) that have been developed using various approaches, reflect causal rather than correlative effects, and can be used to determine the spatial extent of injury to sediment-dwelling organisms. In the present study, a critical evaluation of the SECs was conducted based on the original documents and databases used to develop the underlying SQGs for the SECs, as well as the original documents and data sets used to determine the predictive ability of the SECs. Results of the critical evaluation indicated that the SECs are simple mathematical constructs that share the same limitations as their underlying SQGs. The SECs are questionable “consensus” values, because many of their underlying SQGs are dissimilar, misclassified, or redundant with other SQGs. Because nearly all of the data sets included in the databases used to calculate the underlying SQGs, or to validate the SECs, were affected by elevated concentrations of multiple co-occurring chemicals, it was not possible to conclusively identify PCBs as the cause of any of the observed sediment toxicity. The SECs, and most of their underlying SQGs, are likely biased by the fact that their underlying databases are composed primarily of PCB concentrations less than 0.5 mg/kg dry weight. Comparisons between the SECs and bioaccumulation-based SQGs calculated using the equilibrium partitioning approach provide no information on whether the SECs are causally related to sediment toxicity. The primary available median lethal concentration (LC50) value for PCBs, determined using spiked-sediment toxicity tests, has limited applicability to most contaminated aquatic environments, because it was determined using an unusually low total organic carbon content. Finally, site-specific application of the SECs indicated that their predictive ability was very low, that concentration-response relationships were not found for a variety of test species and toxicity endpoints at PCB concentrations greater than the SECs, and that some of the highest survival and growth values in the toxicity tests were found at PCB concentrations considerably greater than the SECs. Based on the results of this study, we conclude that the SECs for PCBs should be used only in the screening-level evaluations that typically precede more direct assessments of sediment toxicity at individual study sites, and should not be used to predict the presence of sediment toxicity. Contrary to the conclusions of the SEC developers, the SECs do not reconcile existing SQGs, do not reflect causal effects, and should not be used to determine the spatial extent of injury to sediment-dwelling organisms.
Comparison of a score-based approach with risk-based ranking of in-use agricultural pesticides in canada to aquatic receptors
Authors: Whiteside Mélanie , Mineau Pierre , Morrison Clare , Knopper Loren D
Published: June 2008

The purpose of this paper is to present a new risk-based approach developed by Environment Canada for ranking pesticides and their potential risk to aquatic life. These rankings are compared to those generated using a more traditional score-based approach. Two hundred and twelve active ingredients registered in Canada for use in agricultural field crops were included in this assessment. For each major aquatic taxon assessed (fish, insects, crustaceans, algae, and macrophytes), risk was calculated by dividing the 96-h estimated environmental concentration (modeled using parameters such as the application rate and method as well as physicochemical properties) by HC5 values (obtained through calculations of species sensitivity distribution — based toxicity endpoints). The traditional approach assigned scores based on toxicity endpoints in standard test species as well as physicochemical properties associated with the potential for aquatic contamination. A number of similarities were observed between the rankings but also notable differences. Only 22 active ingredients were common to the top 50 ranking positions from both approaches. The main reasons that accounted for the discrepancies between both rankings were the choice of toxicity endpoints, whether based on single or multiple species; the taxonomic breadth of retained data; the use of scores versus risk quotients; and the choices made in situations where multiple data points were available. We conclude that a risk-based approach that considers a broad representation of species toxicity data and estimates of runoff and drift concentration in receiving aquatic systems (even from generic application scenarios) is a more realistic representation of potential toxicological effects and a superior method of ranking products for the risk they pose to the aquatic environment.
Stripping Analysis at Bismuth-Based Electrodes
Authors: Kokkinos Christos , Economou Anastasios
Published: July 2008

This article is intended as an overview of bismuth-based electrodes as applied to electrochemical stripping analysis. These electrodes rely on a bismuth or bismuth-modified active surface and, while they have analytical performance comparable to mercury electrodes, are characterized by negligible toxicity in comparison to their mercury counterparts. These properties make them ideally suited as sensors for trace monitoring by electrochemical stripping analysis. Topics covered in this review are the main types of bismuth electrodes and their fabrication, the analytical characteristics and common interferences of bismuth-based electrodes in stripping analysis and typical applications of these sensors in industrial, food, clinical and environmental analysis by stripping techniques. Finally, the future prospects of bismuth electrodes in conjunction with stripping analysis are critically discussed.