bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of three dielectric moisture sensors for measurement of water in saline sandy soil
Authors: Inoue M. , Ould Ahmed B. A. , Saito T. , Irshad M. , Uzoma K. C.
Published: May 2008

The number of sensor types available for measuring soil water content has increased but investigations to compare their performance in saline soils needs clarification. In this study the performance of commercially available, low‐cost soil moisture sensors [time domain reflectometry (TDR), PR1 and WET], all measuring changes in the dielectric constant of the soil water, was evaluated under laboratory conditions in a saline sandy soil. The three sensors were also tested in the same sandy soil growing drip irrigated sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. cv. Moench) in a greenhouse. Plants were irrigated daily with either saline water (ECw: 9.4 dS/m) or fresh water (0.11 dS/m). The volume of irrigation was equivalent to 100% of the pan evaporation. The results showed that measurement accuracy was strongly dependent on the salinity of the soil. The PR1 sensor overestimated volumetric water content (θ) when the salinity level exceeded 4 dS/m [root mean square of the standard error (RMSE) = 0.009 cm3/cm3]. The WET sensor significantly overestimated θ irrespective of the salinity level (RMSE = 0.014 cm3/cm3). The TDR sensor estimated θ with more accuracy (RMSE = 0.007 cm3/cm3) and thus can be considered as more reliable than the other two sensors. The calibrations were strongly affected by the salinity level of the water, so we recommend that calibration equations are modified to take account of salinity.
Obstetricians’ and Midwives’ Attitudes toward Cesarean Section
Authors: Monari Francesca , Di Mario Simona , Facchinetti Fabio , Basevi Vittorio
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT:  Background:
The cesarean section rate has increased worldwide over the past 20 years; in Italy, it is now more than 35 percent. Although clinical factors are important, the attitudes of health practitioners toward cesarean section need further investigation to correctly identify facilitators and barriers to changes. The objective of this study was to explore the attitudes toward cesarean section of midwives and obstetricians who worked in the same geographical area.
Methods:
Face‐to‐face structured interviews using an adaptation of the Survey of Clinicians’ Views on Caesarean Section, an anonymous questionnaire with 35 open and closed answers on practitioners’ views on cesarean section, were conducted. The questionnaire was given to the entire group of midwives and obstetricians working in Modena, a northern Italian district.
Results:
Of 262 eligible practitioners, 248 were interviewed (response rate 94.6%). The midwives’ attitudes toward cesarean section differed from those of the obstetricians. Sixty‐five percent of midwives considered the rates of cesarean section in their hospitals to be too high compared with 34 percent of obstetricians (p < 0.001). Midwives were also less inclined to believe that cesarean section provides benefits to the mother (p = 0.02) or that it is indicated by previous cesarean delivery (p < 0.001). No differences were observed between male and female obstetricians. Conclusions: In this survey, the attitudes toward cesarean section were correlated more with professional role than with gender. This information can help policy makers to shape interventions aimed at providing better care for pregnant and childbearing women. (BIRTH 35:2 June 2008)
Do Women with Epilepsy Have More Fear of Childbirth During Pregnancy Compared with Women without Epilepsy? A Case‐Control Study
Authors: Turner Katherine , Piazzini Ada , Franza Albertina , Canger Raffaele , Canevini Maria Paola , Marconi Anna Maria
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT:  Background:
Although anxiety and depression in populations with epilepsy have been studied, no research on fear of childbirth in women with epilepsy have been conducted. The purposes of this study were to examine whether a significant difference occurred in fear of childbirth between pregnant women with epilepsy and pregnant healthy controls and to evaluate the most common fears.
Methods:
Fifty pregnant women with epilepsy and 50 pregnant women without epilepsy were assessed at a gestational age between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, using two questionnaires for the measurement of fear of childbirth, an open question, and a clinical interview.
Results:
We found that during pregnancy, women with epilepsy experienced a significantly higher rate of fear of childbirth when compared with healthy controls, whereas after delivery, the experiences and feelings about childbirth are almost the same as those of women without epilepsy.
Conclusions:
Our findings signify the importance of the assessment of the fear of childbirth, especially in women with epilepsy, and the need to offer professional and ad hoc support to those who suffer from it. (BIRTH 35:2 June 2008)
Marginalization of Midwives in the United States: New Responses to an Old Story
Authors: Rooks Judith P , Ernst Eunice K.M. , Norsigian Judy , Guran Larissa A.
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT:  This column addresses issues raised by an intensive study of the circumstances and actions that resulted in the closure of two long‐standing, successful nurse‐midwifery services in a large United States city in 2003. Dr. Steffie Goodman of the School of Nursing, University of Colorado Health Science Center in Denver, USA, conducted 52 in‐depth interviews with midwives, nurses, administrators, childbirth educators, policymakers, and physicians in an effort to understand how and why these two services were closed and what their closures revealed about the general underutilization of midwives in contemporary U.S. health care. Goodman concluded that economics, power, and authority converge in a way that allows persons in positions of institutional power and authority to make self‐serving decisions that diminish access to midwifery services and that they can do so without any public accountability for their actions. (BIRTH 35:2 June 2008)
Segmental Pulmonary Vein Ablation: Success Rates with and without Exclusion of Areas Adjacent to the Esophagus
Authors: KETTERING KLAUS , WEIG HANS‐JOERG , BUSCH MATHIAS , LASZLO ROMAN , SCHREIECK JUERGEN
Published: May 2008

Background: Catheter ablation has become the first line of therapy in patients with symptomatic recurrent, drug‐refractory atrial fibrillation (AF). The occurrence of an atrioesophageal fistula is a rare but serious complication after AF‐ablation procedures. This risk is even present during segmental pulmonary vein (PV) ablation procedures because the esophagus does frequently have a very close anatomical relationship to the right or left PV ostia. The aim of the present study was to analyze whether the exclusion of areas adjacent to the esophagus does have a significant effect on the success rates after segmental pulmonary vein ablation procedures.

Methods: Forty‐three consecutive patients with symptomatic paroxysmal AF were enrolled in this study. In all patients, a segmental PV ablation procedure was performed. The procedures were facilitated by a 3D real‐time visualization of the circumferential mapping catheter placed in the pulmonary veins using the NavX™ system (St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN, USA; open irrigated tip ablation catheter; 43°C; 30 W). In 21 patients, a complete ostial PV isolation was attempted regardless of the anatomical relationship between the ablation sites and the esophagus (group A). In the remaining 22 patients, the esophagus was marked by a stomach tube and areas adjacent to the esophagus were excluded from the ablation procedure (group B). After discharge, patients were scheduled for repeated visits at the arrhythmia clinic at 1, 3, and 6 months after the ablation procedure.

Results: The segmental pulmonary vein ablation procedure could be performed as planned in all patients. In group A, all pulmonary veins could be isolated successfully in 14 out of 21 patients (67%). A mean number of 3.7 pulmonary veins (SD ± 0.5 PVs) were isolated per patient. The main reasons for an incomplete PV isolation were: small diameter of the PVs, side branches close to the ostium, or poorly accessible PV ostia. In group B, all PVs could be isolated successfully in only 12 out of 22 patients (55%; P = 0.54). A mean number of 3.2 PVs (SD ± 0.9 PVs) were isolated per patient (P = 0.05). This was mostly due to a close anatomical relationship to the esophagus. The ablation strategy had to be modified in 16/22 patients in group B because of a close anatomical relationship between the left (n = 10) or right (n = 6) PV ostia and the esophagus. After 3 months, the percentage of patients free from an AF recurrence was not significantly different between the two groups (90% vs 95%; P = 0.61). After 6 months, there was no significant difference between the success rates either (81% vs 82%; P = 1.0). There were no major complications in both groups.

Conclusions: The exclusion of areas adjacent to the esophagus results in a moderately higher percentage of incompletely isolated PVs. However, it does not have a significant effect on the AF recurrence rate during short‐term and mid‐term follow‐up.
The COGNITION Study Rationale and Design: Influence of Closed Loop Stimulation on Cognitive Performance in Pacemaker Patients
Authors: WIEGAND UWE , NUERNBERG MICHAEL , MAIER SEBASTIAN K.G. , WEISS CHRISTIAN , SANCHO–TELLO MARÍA–JOSÉ , HARTMANN ANDREAS , SCHUCHERT ANDREAS , MAIER PETRA , CHAN NGAI‐YIN
Published: May 2008

Background: Several studies showed the beneficial effect of pacemaker implantation on cognitive performance in patients with bradycardia. But it has never been investigated if patients with chronotropic incompetence may improve their cognitive performance if treated by a rate‐adaptive system reacting to mental stress in comparison to the most frequently used accelerometer‐driven pacing.

Methods: The randomized, single‐blind, multicenter COGNITION study evaluates if closed loop stimulation (CLS) offers incremental benefit in the speed of cognitive performance and the overall well‐being of elderly patients with bradycardia compared with accelerometer‐based pacing. Four hundred chronotropically incompetent patients older than 55 years will be randomized 3–6 weeks after implantation to CLS or accelerometer sensor. Follow‐up visits are performed after 12 and 24 months. The speed of cognitive performance, which is the underlying function influencing all other aspects of cognitive performance, will be assessed by the number connection test, a standardized psychometric test for the elderly. Secondary endpoints include patient self‐assessment of different aspects of health (by visual analogue scales), quality of life (by SF‐8 health survey), the incidence of atrial fibrillation (episodes lasting for longer than 24 hours), and the frequency of serious adverse events.

Conclusion: In the ongoing COGNITION study, we aim at long‐term comparison of two rate‐adaptive systems, focusing on the cognitive performance of the patients, which was neglected in the past evaluation of pacemaker sensors.
B‐Cell Lymphoproliferative Disorder of an ICD Pocket: A Diagnostic Puzzle in an Immunosuppressed Patient
Authors: NEMEC JAN , SWERDLOW STEVEN H , BAZAZ RAVEEN , SABA SAMIR F , SHALABY ALA A
Published: May 2008

We present a case of a patient with lymphoma in an ICD pocket in the setting of posttransplant immune suppression. Infection of the ICD system was suspected and the correct diagnosis was established by biopsy.
Concomitant‐Acquired Long QT and Brugada Syndromes Associated with Indapamide‐Induced Hypokalemia and Hyponatremia
Authors: MOK NGAI‐SHING , TONG CHAK‐KWAN , YUEN HO‐CHUEN
Published: May 2008

Electrolyte disturbances are known to cause acquired Long QT syndrome (LQTS) and Brugada syndrome. While a reduction in INa due to SCN5A mutation is implicated as the underlying mechanism in Brugada syndrome, hyponatremia, which can give rise to a reduced INa, has never been reported in literature as a cause or precipitating factor in this syndrome. We detailed a case in which concomitant‐acquired LQTS and Brugada syndrome were associated with severe hypokalemia and hyponatremia following indapamide use for treatment of hypertension and highlighted the potential role of hyponatremia in the pathogenesis of the acquired form of Brugada syndrome.
Differential Equation Modeling of HIV Viral Fitness Experiments: Model Identification, Model Selection, and Multimodel Inference
Authors: Miao Hongyu , Dykes Carrie , Demeter Lisa M. , Wu Hulin
Published: May 2008

Summary Many biological processes and systems can be described by a set of differential equation (DE) models. However, literature in statistical inference for DE models is very sparse. We propose statistical estimation, model selection, and multimodel averaging methods for HIV viral fitness experiments in vitro that can be described by a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODE). The parameter identifiability of the ODE models is also addressed. We apply the proposed methods and techniques to experimental data of viral fitness for HIV‐1 mutant 103N. We expect that the proposed modeling and inference approaches for the DE models can be widely used for a variety of biomedical studies.
Testing Marginal Homogeneity Against Stochastic Order in Multivariate Ordinal Data
Authors: Klingenberg B. , Solari A. , Salmaso L. , Pesarin F.
Published: May 2008

Summary Many assessment instruments used in the evaluation of toxicity, safety, pain, or disease progression consider multiple ordinal endpoints to fully capture the presence and severity of treatment effects. Contingency tables underlying these correlated responses are often sparse and imbalanced, rendering asymptotic results unreliable or model fitting prohibitively complex without overly simplistic assumptions on the marginal and joint distribution. Instead of a modeling approach, we look at stochastic order and marginal inhomogeneity as an expression or manifestation of a treatment effect under much weaker assumptions. Often, endpoints are grouped together into physiological domains or by the body function they describe. We derive tests based on these subgroups, which might supplement or replace the individual endpoint analysis because they are more powerful. The permutation or bootstrap distribution is used throughout to obtain global, subgroup, and individual significance levels as they naturally incorporate the correlation among endpoints. We provide a theorem that establishes a connection between marginal homogeneity and the stronger exchangeability assumption under the permutation approach. Multiplicity adjustments for the individual endpoints are obtained via stepdown procedures, while subgroup significance levels are adjusted via the full closed testing procedure. The proposed methodology is illustrated using a collection of 25 correlated ordinal endpoints, grouped into six domains, to evaluate toxicity of a chemical compound.
Evaluation of Injury Databases as a Preliminary Step to Developing a Triage Decision Rule
Authors: Scheetz Linda J. , Zhang Jane , Kolassa John E. , Allen Patricia , Allen Michael
Published: May 2008

Purpose:

To evaluate accessibility and appropriateness of the Crash Outcomes Data Evaluation Systems (CODES) databases for prehospital trauma triage decision‐rule development for people age 65 years and older.

Design and Methods:

This informatics feasibility study included five steps for evaluating the accessibility of CODES databases. Eight criteria were used to evaluate the appropriateness of these databases for older person prehospital trauma triage decision‐rule development.

Findings:

Only 4 of the 33 states funded for CODES database development released their data to the study team during the 13‐month data‐acquisition period. Potential predictor variables (of life‐threatening injury) and outcome variables (need for trauma center care) were identified for each database. Several databases had large amounts of missing data. Codebooks were available but descriptions of data validation procedures were unavailable.

Conclusions:

At this time, limited access to and development of CODES databases and missing data preclude the usefulness of these databases for older person triage decision rule development. Although adequate funding must be appropriated for continued CODES development, and commitment from individual states is essential, these databases offer great promise as a mechanism for decision‐rule development to guide triage decision‐making. Investigators should systematically evaluate large databases before using them in secondary analyses for clinical decision rule development.

Clinical Relevance:

Nurses participate in the planning, development, and implementation of health information systems in various settings. They also assume important roles in prehospital care as direct care providers, EMS administrators, participants of local and state EMS councils where emergency care problems are discussed and policies are formulated, and through use at state and federal levels.
Predictors of Home Healthcare Nurse Retention
Authors: Ellenbecker Carol Hall , Porell Frank W. , Samia Linda , Byleckie James J. , Milburn Michael
Published: May 2008

Purpose:

To examine the level of job satisfaction and test a theoretical model of the direct and indirect effects of job satisfaction, and individual nurse and agency characteristics, on intent to stay and retention for home healthcare nurses.

Design:

A descriptive correlation study of home healthcare nurses in six New England states.

Methods:

Home healthcare nurse job satisfaction self‐report data was collected with the HHNJS survey questionnaire & Retention Survey Questionnaire.

Findings:

Based on a structural equation model, job tenure and job satisfaction were the strongest predictors of nurse retention.

Conclusions:

Understanding the variables associated with home healthcare nurse retention can help agencies retain nurses in a time of severe nurse shortages and increased patient demand.

Clinical Relevance:

Predicted nursing shortages and increasing demand have made the retention of experienced, qualified nursing staff essential to assure access to high‐quality home healthcare services in the future.
Health Beliefs and Mammography Rates of Turkish Women Living in Rural Areas
Authors: Avci Ilknur Aydin , Kurt Hatice
Published: May 2008

Objectives

: Breast cancer is the most frequently occurring cancer among women globally as well as in Turkey and mammography is known to be an effective screening tool for this disease. This study was undertaken to characterize health beliefs and practices related to mammography of women in Turkey and also to survey mammography rates.

Design

: Cross‐sectional. The study was performed between September 2006 and January 2007 in Samsun, Turkey. Of 503 women, aged 35 years or older and registered at a local Health Center, 387 (76.94%) agreed to participate in this study.

Methods

: A self‐administered descriptive questionnaire and the Champion Revised Health Belief Model Scale for breast cancer screening (CHBMS) were used as data collection instruments. Analysis included descriptive statistics, Chi‐square, and independent t test. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify the extent to which individual variables significantly predicted mammography use.

Results

: Study participants did not undergo mammography at optimal rates (23.5%), but perceived benefits were higher than were perceived barriers to the procedure after education about mammography. Consequently women reported they were likely to adopt the practice of regular mammography in the future.

Conclusions

: Mammography rates were low in this rural area in Turkey, but may improve after education about the procedure.

Clinical Relevance

: Mammography is an important tool in the early diagnosis of breast cancer. Many women still do not understand the benefit of mammograms and further education may help increase rates of early screening.
The Experiences of Western Expatriate Nursing Educators Teaching in Eastern Asia
Authors: Melby Carolyn S. , Dodgson Joan E. , Tarrant Marie
Published: May 2008

Purpose

: To describe the lived experience of English‐speaking Western nurse educators teaching in East Asian countries.

Design

: The study design was an application of existential phenomenological approach to qualitative data collection and analysis. Eight expatriate nurse educators who had taught more than 2 years in an East Asian country were interviewed about their experiences between January 2004 and November 2005.

Methods

: Narrative data were analyzed using a phenomenological approach aimed at distilling the experience of the educators. Each member of the research team analyzed the data, then through group discussions a consensus was reached, paying close attention to developing clear understandings of language nuances and maintaining the participants' voices.

Findings

: Four themes emerged from the data: (a) differing expectations, (b) the cost of the expatriate experience, (c) bridging pedagogies, and (d) adapting and finding purpose. The tacit meanings of cultural differences affecting participants' experiences are presented.

Conclusions

: The ways that a collectivist‐oriented culture may affect nurse educators coming from a Western individualist worldview needs to continue to be researched to develop better mutual understandings that will lead to culturally collaborative models of nursing practice, education and research.

Clinical Relevance

: Nurses providing direct care and nurse educators who work with people from cultures other than their own will find the discussion of cross‐cultural misunderstandings useful.
ASNE Delaware Valley Chapter Teaches Students Naval Engineering through the Sea Perch Underwater Robotics Program
Authors: WALLACE SARA E.
Published: May 2008

Sea Perch is an underwater robotics program sponsored by the Office of Naval Research as part of the National Naval Responsibility for Naval Engineering aimed at recruiting the next generation of naval architects and marine engineers. ASNE Delaware Valley (DV) and Naval Surface Warfare Center, Philadelphia, embraced the outreach opportunity as an educational, challenging, and fun way to get kids excited about naval engineering. ASNE‐DV has received an overwhelmingly positive feedback from both teachers and students. Teachers have said their students are excited to learn about remotely operated vehicles and cannot wait to work on their Sea Perch robots. During the past 3 years, ASNE‐DV has teamed with Drexel University and the school district of Philadelphia to successfully implement a sustainable, local Sea Perch competition program for middle and high school students. ASNE‐DV is encouraging expansion of the program to additional areas. This article discusses how the DV Sea Perch program evolved from two schools building the robots in the winter of 2005, to over 40 teams from a diverse range of schools participating in a Sea Perch competition in the spring of 2007.
Graph Trace Analysis and Generic Algorithms for Interdependent Reconfigurable System Design and Control
Authors: FEINAUER LYNN R. , RUSSELL KEVIN J. , BROADWATER ROBERT P.
Published: May 2008

This paper discusses current research for development of model‐based generic algorithms for design and control of reconfigurable interdependent systems. This work is based on extension of Graph Trace Analysis (GTA), which was originally developed in the 1990s for power distribution system design. Because of GTA's ability to combine and restructure analysis methodologies from a variety of problem domains, it is now being used for integrated power distribution and transmission system design, operations, and control. Over the last few years research has begun to formalize GTA into a multidiscipline approach that uses generic algorithms and a common model‐based analysis framework. The paper provides an overview of the concepts used in GTA, and then discusses how GTA and generic algorithms can be used together for design and control of multidiscipline systems. This new approach includes decoupling component and system level equations, using iterators to structure iterative analysis that simplifies coordination of discrete events and also eliminates the need for large matrices, using composition to implement polymorphism and simplify data management, using dependency components to structure analysis across different systems types, and implementation of hot‐swappable algorithms.
Intelligent Tools Used in the Design of Navy Ships
Authors: DRAKE KIMBERLY J. , ROBINSON MICHAEL , VIOLANTE PATRICK , WALLACE SARA E. , WOODWARD DAVID
Published: May 2008

The first step in implementing an intelligent ship is designing the ship intelligently. Naval ship design is becoming an interactive process where designers on different sites can work collaboratively and simultaneously, connected through virtual design environments. In this paper we introduce two such design environments. The first is an immersive, virtual reality environment enabling rapid design of ship space arrangements, exploration of Human System Integration issues, and reduced cost of test and evaluation through the use of modeling and simulation. The second is a systems engineering application capable of evaluating the benefit of spiral technology insertions, identifying areas for research and development investment, and evaluating the performance, risk, and affordability of proposed technologies in current and future ship systems, by conducting trade space analysis and optimization. Applications of these tools will be discussed.
The Cost of Requirements and Emerging Technologies
Authors: LAVIS DAVID R. , FORSTELL BRIAN G.
Published: May 2008

The paper describes a ship design synthesis process and the engineering model that has been successfully used to help assess the cost of requirements, and the cost versus capability of new technologies, for naval and commercial surface ships. An overview of the approach is followed by descriptions of numerous examples. Assessing and understanding the cost of escalating requirements and technology options via “what if” games early in the design process has been the principal key to minimizing or eliminating the potential for spiraling cost overruns.
U‐2973, a novel B‐cell line established from a patient with a mature B‐cell leukemia displaying concurrent t(14;18) and MYC translocation to a non‐IG gene partner
Authors: Boström Hans , Leuchowius Karl‐Johan , Hallböök Helene , Nordgren Ann , Thörn Ingrid , Thorselius Mia , Rosenquist Richard , Söderberg Ola , Sundström Christer
Published: May 2008

B‐cell lymphomas/leukemias with simultaneous t(14;18)(q32;q21) and MYC rearrangements have recently been shown to constitute a separate diagnostic entity, presenting with a rapid clinical course and a very poor prognosis. We describe the establishment of an Epstein–Barr virus negative cell line, designated U‐2973, from a male patient with a de novo aggressive B‐cell lymphoma/leukemia and very high peripheral blast cell count. Flow cytometry of bone marrow cells and U‐2973 displayed a mature B‐cell phenotype, and immunostaining showed expression of MYC and BCL2. IG gene rearrangement data were consistent with a lymphoid neoplasm of germinal centre derivation. Cytogenetic studies using conventional G‐banding, fluorescent in situ hybridization, spectral karyotyping and single nucleotide polymorphism array demonstrated a complex karyotype with both a t(14;18) and double translocations between MYC and a non‐IG gene partner located at chromosome 12p12.1.
Rituximab therapy in adult patients with relapsed or refractory immune thrombocytopenic purpura: long‐term follow‐up results
Authors: Medeot Marta , Zaja Francesco , Vianelli Nicola , Battista Marta , Baccarani Michele , Patriarca Francesca , Soldano Franca , Isola Miriam , De Luca Stefano , Fanin Renato
Published: May 2008

Objective:  To evaluate the long‐term activity and toxicity profile of rituximab in adult patients with idiopathic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP).

Patients and methods:  Twenty‐six patients with active and symptomatic ITP relapsed or refractory received weekly infusions of rituximab 375 mg/m2 for 4 wk. Median time from diagnosis to rituximab was 34.5 months. The following parameters of efficacy and toxicity were considered: complete response (CR) and partial response (PR), relapse rate, relapse‐free survival (RFS), therapy‐free survival (TFS), short‐ and long‐term toxicity.

Results:  CR and PR were 14/26 (54%) and 4/26 (15%), respectively. Median time of observation was 56.5 months (range 39–77). Nine of the 18 responding patients relapsed after a median of 21 months (range 8–66); 9/26 patients (35%) maintained the response, with a median follow‐up of 57 months (range 39–69), and 11/26 (42%) did not necessitate further therapy; estimated 5 yr RFS and TFS were 61% and 72%, respectively. Younger age and shorter interval from diagnosis to rituximab appeared indicators of better outcome. Rituximab administration was associated with two episodes of short‐term toxicity, with one case of serum sickness syndrome; no infectious or other significant long‐term complications were documented.

Conclusion:  Rituximab therapy may achieve long‐lasting remission in nearly one‐third of patients with relapsed or refractory ITP, with a good safety profile.
Etoposide‐initiated MLL rearrangements detected at high frequency in human primitive hematopoietic stem cells with in vitro and in vivo long‐term repopulating potential
Authors: Libura Jolanta , Ward Maureen , Solecka Joanna , Richardson Christine
Published: May 2008

Rearrangements initiating within the well‐characterized break‐point cluster region of the mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) gene on 11q23 are a hallmark of therapy‐related leukemias following treatment with topoisomerase II poisons including etoposide. Hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) are believed to be the target cell for leukemia‐initiating MLL rearrangement events. Although etoposide treatment is sufficient to induce readily detectable MLL rearrangements in primary human CD34+ cells, the majority of cells that gain translocations do not proliferate in culture possibly due to reduced proliferative capacity of most CD34+ cells during normal differentiation [Blood 2005;105:2124]. We characterized the impact of etoposide on primary human long‐term repopulating HSC that represent only a minor portion of CD34+ cells. The proliferative capacity of HSC is dramatically increased following both a single and multiple exposures to etoposide as determined by their ability to engraft bone marrow of immune‐deficient non‐obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficient mice and to initiate hematopoiesis in long‐term initiating cultures. Similar to results in CD34+ cells, a significant proportion of etoposide‐treated HSC‐derived clones harbored stable MLL rearrangements, including duplications, inversions and translocations. These results indicate HSC are highly susceptible to etoposide‐induced and potentially oncogenic rearrangements initiating within MLL, and these HSC are particularly proficient for continued long‐term proliferation both in vivo and in vitro.
Trouble in Eden
Authors: Martin John Hilary
Published: May 2008

In response to the Wild-Anderson Report, Little Children are Sacred (June 2007) that outlined a pattern of widespread sexual abuse of small children and chronic alcoholism among aboriginals in the Australians' N.T. (Northern Territory), the federal government launched a major Intervention there sending in teams of doctors and health workers to examine all aboriginal children for abuse and special police and army units to stabilise the situation in remote communities. Moving beyond the recommendations contained in the Report the Howard government announced it would use compulsory acquisition powers and appoint administrators over aboriginal townships and centres (about 73 of them) for five years. These officials would be charged with building up local infrastructures and could assign individuals to work for their welfare payments at jobs assigned to them. More disturbing to aboriginal leaders and communities was a government plan to allow individual aboriginals to lease small plots of land on traditional community owned reserves for the purpose, it was said, of owning their home and/or to start a small business. Furthermore, traditional owners would be allowed to enter into long term leases (for 99 years) on their lands in order to attract outside investment and capitol. There was considerable fear among aboriginals that these unilateral moves by the government would undermine the basis of aboriginal culture and lead inevitably to the loss by aboriginal people of real control over their traditional land.
Experimental validation of metabolic pathway modeling
Authors: Moreno‐Sánchez Rafael , Encalada Rusely , Marín‐Hernández Alvaro , Saavedra Emma
Published: May 2008

In the search for new drug targets in the human parasite Entamoeba histolytica, metabolic control analysis was applied to determine, experimentally, flux control distribution of amebal glycolysis. The first (hexokinase, hexose‐6‐phosphate isomerase, pyrophosphate‐dependent phosphofructokinase (PPi‐PFK), aldolase and triose‐phosphate isomerase) and final (3‐phosphoglycerate mutase, enolase and pyruvate phosphate dikinase) glycolytic segments were reconstituted in vitro with recombinant enzymes under near‐physiological conditions of pH, temperature and enzyme proportion. Flux control was determined by titrating flux with each enzyme component. In parallel, both glycolytic segments were also modeled by using the rate equations and kinetic parameters previously determined. Because the flux control distribution predicted by modeling and that determined by reconstitution were not similar, kinetic interactions among all the reconstituted components were experimentally revised to unravel the causes of the discrepancy. For the final segment, it was found that 3‐phosphoglycerate was a weakly competitive inhibitor of enolase, whereas PPi was a moderate inhibitor of 3‐phosphoglycerate mutase and enolase. For the first segment, PPi was both a strong inhibitor of aldolase and a nonessential mixed‐type activator of amebal hexokinase; in addition, lower Vmax values for hexose‐6‐phosphate isomerase, PPi‐PFK and aldolase were induced by PPi or ATP inhibition. It should be noted that PPi and other metabolites were absent from the 3‐phosphoglycerate mutase and enolase or aldolase and hexokinase kinetics experiments, but present in reconstitution experiments. Only by incorporating these modifications in the rate equations, modeling predicted values of flux control distribution, flux rate and metabolite concentrations similar to those experimentally determined. The experimentally validated segment models allowed ‘in silico experimentation’ to be carried out, which is not easy to achieve in in vivo or in vitro systems. The results predicted a nonsignificant effect on flux rate and flux control distribution by adding parallel routes (pyruvate kinase for the final segment and ATP‐dependent PFK for the first segment), because of the much lower activity of these enzymes in the ameba. Furthermore, modeling predicted full flux‐control by 3‐phosphoglycerate mutase and hexokinase, in the presence of low physiological substrate and product concentrations. It is concluded that the combination of in vitro pathway reconstitution with modeling and enzyme kinetics experimentation permits a more comprehensive understanding of the pathway behavior and control properties.
Sequence analysis of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacers region in spider mites (Prostigmata: Tetranychidae) occurring in citrus orchards in Eastern Spain: use for species discrimination
Authors: Hurtado M.A. , Ansaloni T. , Cros‐Arteil S. , Jacas J.A. , Navajas M.
Published: May 2008

Tetranychus urticae is a polyphagous mite which is an important pest of citrus worldwide. This mite can be found feeding on many plant species occurring in the citrus agrosystem moving from weeds to trees. Because field samples consist of a mixture of different Tetranychidae species, as a first step necessary to further implement population characterisation of T. urticae, species‐discriminating criteria based on molecular techniques are needed. In this study, the nucleotide variation of the internal transcribed spacers (ITS) 1 and 2 and the intergenic 5.8S fragment of nuclear rDNA of T. urticae, Tetranychus turkestani, Tetranychus evansi, Tetranychus ludeni and Panonychus citri have been determined. Results demonstrate that for these species, the rDNA ITS2 regions are much more conserved than the corresponding rDNA ITS1. The high homogeneity of the ITS2 sequence observed among the specimens of T. urticae obtained from the same ecoregion makes this DNA sequence an excellent tool for species discrimination. ITS sequences differentiate not only species but also specimens from different geographical origin. Furthermore, polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of the ITS2 proved adequate for a quick screening of high numbers of field samples.
Is Ignorance Bliss? Consumer Accuracy in Judgments about Credit Ratings
Authors: PERRY VANESSA GAIL
Published: May 2008

There is considerable evidence to suggest that consumers are often misinformed about basic financial and economic principles. The purpose of this study was to examine the accuracy of consumers’ self‐assessments of their credit ratings. Findings suggest that approximately 32 percent of consumers overestimate their credit ratings, while only 4 percent underestimate their credit ratings. Those who overestimate their credit quality are less knowledgeable about financial matters in general and are more likely to have acquired their financial knowledge from difficult past experiences. In addition, consumers who overestimate their credit ratings are less likely to budget, save, or invest regularly.
Saving for Retirement: The Effects of Fund Assortment Size and Investor Knowledge on Asset Allocation Strategies
Authors: MORRIN MAUREEN , BRONIARCZYK SUSAN , INMAN J. JEFFREY , BROUSSARD JOHN
Published: May 2008

We report the results of a decision simulation conducted among 211 adults whose task was to invest in a 401(k) retirement plan. We varied the number of mutual funds (three vs. twenty‐one) offered for investment and assessed investing knowledge with a self‐report measure. The results indicate that less knowledgeable (but not more knowledgeable) investors change their asset allocation strategies as a function of fund assortment size, such that a significantly higher proportion of dollars invested by the less knowledgeable investors is allocated to stocks when choosing from the larger assortment.
The Role of Self‐Regulation, Future Orientation, and Financial Knowledge in Long‐Term Financial Decisions
Authors: HOWLETT ELIZABETH , KEES JEREMY , KEMP ELYRIA
Published: May 2008

This research examines potential explanations of why consumers have difficulty making personal financial decisions that will be most beneficial in the long run. Within the decision context of retirement savings, results from an experiment suggest that self‐regulatory state, future orientation, and financial knowledge can influence consumer evaluations and intentions related to retirement investments (i.e., a 401(k) plan). Findings suggest that consumers who express higher levels of future orientation are more likely to participate in a retirement plan, an effect moderated by self‐regulatory state. Results also suggest that financial knowledge and orientation toward the future can interact to influence the likelihood of 401(k) plan participation. Among consumers with a basic level of financial knowledge, future‐oriented consumers expressed a greater likelihood to participate in a retirement plan than less future–oriented consumers. However, in the absence of knowledge, consumers’ orientation toward the future did not influence the likelihood of 401(k) plan participation.
Consumer Financial Literacy and the Impact of Online Banking on the Financial Behavior of Lower‐Income Bank Customers
Authors: SERVON LISA J. , KAESTNER ROBERT
Published: May 2008

This article analyzes a demonstration program mounted by a major bank to understand whether access to information and communications technologies, combined with financial literacy training and training on how to use the Internet, can help low‐ and moderate‐income individuals in inner‐city neighborhoods be more effective financial actors. While quantitative analysis turns up few significant program effects, qualitative work implies that implementation issues likely compromised the effectiveness of the program. There was evidence of a potential link between information and communications technologies and financial literacy. Overall, urban low‐ and moderate‐income individuals are interested in becoming technologically and financially literate and an intensive intervention may enable these goals.
The Use of Perphenazine* in Preventing Motion Sickness in Dogs
Authors: D'ARCY P. F. , NELSON A. M. R.
Published: May 2008

Abstract— In the dog, intramuscular perphenazine (5 mg/20 lb body weight) was markedly effective in preventing motion sickness.
An Investigation into Liver Function Tests in Dogs
Authors: HOE CELIA M. , HARVEY D. G.
Published: May 2008

Abstract— Results of transaminase estimations' which have been made on some 70 canine sera are discussed, and an assessment given of their use as indices of liver function in dogs.
Otitis Externa in the Dog*
Authors: FRASER G. , WITHERS A. R. , SPREULL J. S. A.
Published: May 2008

Abstract— The findings of two recent surveys of external ear disease in dogs are summarized, with particular reference to the aetiology of the condition and the results obtained with some methods of treatment.

The commonest predisposing factors to otitis were clinical skin disease and ectoparasitic infestation, in that order. The appearance of the discharge in affected ears appeared to be related to the tissue changes present and to the nature of the infectious agents.

Antibiotic sensitivity tests were of value and most cases responded promptly to appropriate medical treatment. In the more chronic cases, which were usually associated with considerable changes of the epithelium, treatment was often prolonged and about one in ten showed no improvement.

Where medical treatment failed, thorough cleaning of the ear, under general anesthesia, was of value.

A surgical technique is described which has been used with success in a number of cases and which, in certain circumstances, appears to have some advantage over the methods described by Zepp and Singh and Rao.
Contagious Rhino‐Tonsillitis (C.R.T.): A New Virus Entity Unrelated to other Infectious Diseases in the Dog
Authors: FONTAINE M. , GORET P. , BRION A.
Published: May 2008

Abstract— A new virs entity causing a specific disease in the dog is described. This virus, because of the specificity and preference it shows in attacking the tissues of the tonsil and rhino‐pharyngeal mucosa, has been named Contagious Rhino‐Tonsillitis virus (C.R.T.). Adult dogs in rural habitats appear to be more frequently attacked with a mortality of 50 per cent. The fox is the only other animal, so far known, which is susceptible to the virus. Man appears to develop a slight sensitivity to repeated doses. The virus is resistant to antibiotics, but is destroyed by disinfectants. Immunity is not obtained except by repeated doses and is preceded by a period of hypersensitivity taking the form of an allergic reaction.
Current Diseases of Cage Birds*
Authors: HASHOLT JENS
Published: May 2008

Abstract— During the 5 year period 1954–58 the Animal Hospital in Copenhagen, Denmark, received 1,592 birds for treatment. Because of the tendency towards self‐medication in the birdowning public, the majority of cases presented for attention were of a surgical nature. The author reports the statistical details of these birds together with a review of the conditions encountered and the methods of treatment employed.
An Investigation into Liver Function Tests in Dogs: Part 2. Tests other than Transaminase Estimations
Authors: HOE CELIA M. , HARVEY D. G.
Published: May 2008

Abstract— This paper describes the results obtained by using some of the “classical” liver function tests (alluded to in the previous paper on Serum Transaminases, Hoe and Harvey, 1961) on a wide range of clinical cases. The tests include the measurement of Serum Bilirubin, Serum Alkaline Phosphatase, Serum Cholinesterase and Uric Acid; also the estimation of Total Serum Cholesterol and the Cholesterol Ester Ratio. Serum proteins were studied by paper electrophoresis and by empirical turbidity tests.
The Connection Between Toxoplasmosis in Small omestic Animals and Man—A Review*
Authors: VERLINDE J. D.
Published: May 2008

Abstract— A review of diagnostic methods and disease symptomatology of toxoplasmosis in man and small domestic animals (cats and dogs). The problems associated with diagnosis, in particular by serological means are discussed. A programme of investigation in the Netherlands to discover the relationship between infection in man and animals living in the family group is reviewed and some observations made on the findings.
Dog Tear Secretion and Tear Proteins
Authors: ROBERTS S. R. , ERICKSON OLIVE FEDDE
Published: May 2008

Abstract— Methods of collecting, analyzing and interpreting tear secretion of dogs is described.

The rate of tear secretion in normal and abnormal dogs was measured by means of Schirmer filter papers. The tear samples collected on filter papers were subjected to electrophoretic analysis.

It was found that dogs with epiphora have consistently low protein concentration in the tear fluid. This does not appear to result from dilution alone. Dogs with chronic kerato‐conjunctivitis have low tear fluid rates. In such “dry” eyes the proportion of protein is greatly increased.

Lysozyme concentrations in all dog tear samples were very low or absent.

Tear fluid rates below 2·5 μl/min should be considered inadequate in the dog.

Zusammenfassung— Es werden Methoden und analyse der Traenenfluessigkeit des Hundes beschrieben.

Der Grad der Traenenausscheidung normaler und abnormaler Hunde wurde mittels der Schirmer schen Filtrierpapiermethode gemessen. Proben von Traenenfluessigkeit wurden auf dem Filtrierpapier gesammelt und einer elektrophoretischen Analyse unterworfen.

Es zeigte sich dass Hunde mit Epiphora durchwegs einen geringen Proteingehalt in der Traenenfluessigkeit aufwiesen. Das scheint nicht allein eine Folge der Verduennung zu sein. Bei Hunden mit chronischer Keratokonjunktivitis war der Grad der Traenenausscheidung gering. In solchen “trockenen” Augen ist die Konzentration des Proteins wesentlich erhoeht.

In saemtlichen Proben der Traenenfluessigkeit von Hunden war Konzentration von Lysozym entweder sehr gering oder es war ueberhaupt nicht nachweisbar.

Traenenfluessigkeitsmengen unter 2·5 μl/Min beim Hund sind als abnormal zu betrachten.
Apparatus for Continuous Intravenous Infusion in the Dog
Authors: AUSTAD ROLV
Published: May 2008

Abstract— An apparatus is described for continuous intravenous infusion in the dog. This equipment has been developed to allow for easy and reliable medication even when the dog is alone in a cage or kennel.
Thoraco‐Lumbar Myelography with Water‐Soluble Contrast Medium in Dogs I. Technique of Myelography; Side‐effects and Complications
Authors: FUNKQUIST B.
Published: May 2008

Abstract— A technique previously devised by the author for filling the greater part of the spinal subarachnoid space with water‐soluble contrast medium (Kontrast UR) has been tested for myelographic localization, of thoracic and lumbar compression of the spinal cord in the dog. The principle for the myelographic examination has been to inject the medium in the lumbar region in a sufficient dose for it to be forced beyond the compressed part of the subarachnoid space, to permit demonstration of both the posterior and anterior limit of the compression. A single injection of 20 per cent Kontrast U into the subarachnoid space in the dose generally used (0·3 ml/kg of body weight) does not seem to have any detrimental effect on the spinal cord. On the other hand, morphologic lesions of the spinal cord, presumably to be ascribed to the preparation in question, have been observed after repeated injections of contrast medium at the same examination.