bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chirality: a major issue in veterinary pharmacology
Authors: LANDONI M. F. , LEES P.
Published: April 2008

The sole purpose of this comment is to draw attention to the significance of enantiomorphism in the interpretation of pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies of drugs that are present in dosage forms as racemates. The proportion of the enantiomers formed from a racemate can vary in different animal species, and both the pharmacokinetic behaviour and pharmacodynamic activity can differ between the enantiomers. As a consequence, the pharmacological effects produced by a racemic drug represent the combined effects of the enantiomers formed in the particular species of animal. Enantiomorphism has a major influence on the prediction of dosage regimens for different animal species.
In vitro activity of fifteen antimicrobial agents against methicillin‐resistant and methicillin‐susceptible Staphylococcus intermedius
Authors: PIRIZ S. , VALLE J. , MATEOS E. M. , de la FUENTE R. , CID D. , RUIZ‐SANTAQUITERIA J. A. , VADILLO S.
Published: April 2008

In this study the susceptibility of 91 methicillin‐resistant and ‐susceptible Staphylococcus intermedius strains (MRSI and MSSI, respectively) against 15 antimicrobial agents was determined. The activity of the antimicrobial agents was studied at pH 7.2 and pH 8.5. Methicillin was more active at pH7.2 (28 strains methicillin‐resistant) than at pH 8.5 (55 strains methicillin‐resistant). Gentamicin showed excellent activity, with only 3 strains resistant at pH 8.5. However, gentamicin would have to be administered parenterally. Oxytetracy‐cline cannot be recommended for treatment of canine staphylococcal dermatitis, due to the high percentage (over 25%) of strains that were found to be resistant. Clindamycin showed little activity in inhibiting growth of the strains studied, the percent resistance at pH 7.2 was 93.4%. Rifampin behaved differently at the two pH values. However, a close relationship was noted between methicillin‐resistant and rifampin‐resistant strains, particularly at the lower pH. Of the fluoroquinolones, ciprofloxacin or enrofloxacin would be a good useful alternative for the treatment of methicillin‐resistant strains of S. intermedius. Lastly, very high resistance to sulphamethoxypyridazine was found, as was the case with trimethoprim and a combination of trimethoprim/ sulphamethoxypyridazine, against not only MRSI but also MSSI strains.
Norfloxacin nicotinate pharmacokinetics in unwearied and weaned calves
Authors: GIPS M. , SOBACK S.
Published: April 2008

The pharmacokinetics of norfloxacin nicotinate were investigated in unweaned and weaned calves. Following intravenous administration of 7.5 and 15 mg/kg (calculated as norfloxacin base) the clearance values were 8.5/pm 2.0 or 7.7/pm 1.2mL/min·kg (unweaned calves) and 11.7/pm 3.2 or 16.1/pm 3.3mL/min·kg (weaned calves). Norfloxacin mean residence time and volume of distribution values were 211/pm 33 or 227/pm 41 min (unweaned calves) and 185/pm 79 or 128/pm18 minutes (weaned calves), and 1.8/pm0.3 or 1.7/pm0.1L/kg (unweaned calves) and 2.0/pm0.7 or 2.1/pm0.7L/kg (weaned calves) following administration of the lower and higher dose, respectively. These results indicated that norfloxacin pharmacokinetics were similar at a dose range of 7.5‐15 mg/kg. However, a significant difference was observed in clearance, mean residence time and the half‐life values between the unweaned and weaned calves. The only major pharmacokinetic parameter which did not show a significant difference between the investigated groups was the volume of distribution. The pharmacokinetic differences between the non‐ruminating (unweaned) and ruminating (weaned) animals seemed to result from changes in drug clearance. The absorption rate after intramuscular administration appeared to change as a result of dose increase. Norfloxacin bioavailability following intramuscular administration ranged from 73 to 106%. The results suggested that larger injection volumes may reduce the extent of absorption.
Ceftiofur hydrochloride: plasma and tissue distribution in swine following intramuscular administration at various doses
Authors: BECONI‐BARKER M. G. , HORNISH R. E. , VIDMAR T. J. , DAME K. J. , BROWN S. A.
Published: April 2008

Twelve mixed‐breed swine (26.5‐42.5 kg) received three daily intramuscular (i.m.) doses of 14C‐ceftiofur hydrochloride. Three males and three females, received 6.76 ± 0.83 mg of 14C‐ceftiofur free acid equivalents (CFAE)/kg body weight (b.w.)/day, while the other group received 4.41 ± 0.97 mg‐CFAE/kg b.w./day. The swine were slaughtered 12 h following the last dose. Total dose accountability for the 6.76 mg dose was 91.44 ± 16.11% (72.51% in urine; 12.63% in faeces). For the 4.41 mg dose, accountability was 100.35 ± 20.45% (82.48% in urine; 12.85% in faeces). Within the tissues used for residue monitoring, the highest concentrations were observed in the kidneys (10.68 and 6.33 μg‐CFAE/g for the 6.76 and 4.41 mg doses, respectively), followed by the injection sites, lungs, liver and muscle. In a separate study, twelve mixbreed swine (23.1‐39.7 kg) received 14C‐ceftiofur hydrochloride at 3.08 mg‐CFAE/kg b.w. once daily for 3 days. Two males and two females were slaughtered at either 12, 72 or 120 h after the last dose. Total dose accountability for the 3.08 mg dose was > 83% (> 68% in urine; > 13% in faeces). In swine slaughtered 12 h after the last dose, residue concentrations closest to the safe concentrations were observed in the kidneys (3.62 μg‐CFAE/ g), followed by the injection sites, lungs, liver and muscle.
Cytochrome P4502E in vivo and in vitro in the dwarf goat: effects of enzyme induction and the applicability of chlorzoxazone as marker substrate
Authors: ZWEERS‐ZEILMAKER W. M. , MAAS R.F.M. , HORBACH G. J. , MIERT A.S.J.P.A.M. VAN , WITKAMP R. F.
Published: April 2008

Cytochrome P4502E activities, inducibility and the applicability of chlorzoxazone as a marker substrate for this enzyme were investigated in female dwarf goats. Goats were treated with either isoniazid or β‐naphthoflavone. Treatment with isoniazid resulted in a 1.4 fold increase of the chlorzoxazone hydroxylation rate in hepatic microsomes. Aniline‐ and p‐nitrophenol hydroxylation rates were increased by roughly the same extent (1.6 and 1.25 fold resp.) and increased levels of cytochrome P4502E apoproteins were found by Western blotting. Treatment with the cytochrome P4501A inducer β‐naphthoflavone resulted in a 2.5 fold induction of the in vitro chlorzoxazone hydroxylation rate, whereas the hydroxylation rates of aniline and p‐nitrophenol were not induced. After treatment with isoniazid, chlorzoxazone plasma clearance was increased from 5.0 mL/min/kg to 11.0 mL/min/kg. Chlorzoxazone was almost completely excreted in the urine as conjugated hydroxy metabolites. These results do not support the hypothesis that cytochrome P4502E is of particular importance in goats, as has been suggested earlier. Furthermore, chlorzoxazone has limited value as a marker substrate for this enzyme, since cytochrome P4501A enzymes appear to play an important role in its biotransformation.
Cardiorespiratory, endocrine and metabolic changes in ponies undergoing intravenous or inhalation anaesthesia
Authors: LUNA S.P.L. , TAYLOR P. M. , WHEELER M. J.
Published: April 2008

Six Welsh gelding ponies (weight 246 ± 6 kg) were premedicated with 0.03 mg/kg of acepromazine intravenously (i.v.) followed by 0.02 mg/kg of detomidine i.v. Anaesthesia was induced with 2 mg/kg of ketamine i.v. Ponies were intubated and lay in left lateral recumbency. On one occasion anaesthesia was maintained for 2 h using 1.2% halothane in oxygen. The same group of ponies were anaesthetized 1 month later using the same induction regime and anaesthesia was maintained with a combination of detomidine, ketamine and guaiphenesin, while the ponies breathed oxygen‐enriched air. Electrocardiogram, heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure, cardiac output, respiratory rate, blood gases, temperature, haematocrit, glucose, lactate and cortisol were measured and cardiac index and systemic vascular resistance were calculated in both groups. Beta‐endorphin, met‐enkephalin, dynorphin, arginine vasopressin (AVP), adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and catecholamines were measured in the halothane anaesthesia group only and 11‐deoxycortisol during total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA) only. Cardiorespiratory depression was more marked during halothane anaesthesia. Hyperglycaemia developed in both groups. Lactate and AVP increased during halothane anaesthesia. Cortisol increased during halothane and decreased during TIVA. There were no changes in the other hormones during anaesthesia. Recovery was smooth in both groups. TIVA produced better cardiorespiratory performance and suppressed the endocrine stress response observed during halothane anaesthesia.
Vitamin supplement use among children with Down's syndrome and risk of leukaemia: a Children's Oncology Group (COG) study
Authors: Blair Cindy K. , Roesler Michelle , Xie Yang , Gamis Alan S. , Olshan Andrew F. , Heerema Nyla A. , Robison Leslie L. , Ross Julie A.
Published: April 2008

Vitamin supplements have been proposed for children with Down's syndrome (DS) with claims of improving cognitive abilities, or immune or thyroid function. Several studies have shown decreased levels of zinc in this population. Because children with DS have a 50‐fold increased risk of developing acute leukaemia during the first 5 years of life, we explored the relation between child vitamin and herbal supplement use and the risk of leukaemia in a case‐control study. During the period 1997–2002, we enrolled 158 children with DS aged 0–18 years that were diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) (n = 97) or acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) (n = 61) at participating Children's Oncology Group institutions. We enrolled 173 DS children without leukaemia (controls), selected from the cases' primary care clinic and frequency‐matched on age. Data were collected via telephone interviews with mothers of the index child regarding use of multivitamins, zinc, vitamin C, iron and herbal supplements, including age at first use, frequency and duration.

Among controls, 57% reported regular multivitamin use (≥3 times/week for ≥3 months) compared with 48% of ALL cases and 61% of AML cases. We found no evidence of an association between children's regular multivitamin use and ALL or AML (adjusted odds ratios [OR] = 0.94 [95% CI 0.52, 1.70] and 1.90 [0.73, 4.91] respectively). There was a suggestion of an increased risk for AML associated with regular multivitamin use during the first year of life or for an extended duration (ORs = 2.38 [0.94, 5.76] and 2.59 [1.02, 6.59] respectively). Despite being the largest study of DS‐leukaemia, our sample size was small, resulting in imprecise effect estimates. Future research should include larger sample sizes as well as a full assessment of diet including vitamin supplementation to adequately examine the relation between nutritional status and childhood leukaemia.
Correspondence between Helicobacter pylori antibodies and urea breath test results in a US – Mexico birth cohort
Authors: Nurgalieva Zhannat , Goodman Karen J. , Phillips Carl V. , Fischbach Lori , De La Rosa J. Manuel , Gold Benjamin D.
Published: April 2008

The uncertain accuracy of methods for detecting Helicobacter pylori infection in young children complicates research on this infection in early life. The aim of the present report was to describe the correspondence between positive serology and positive urea breath test (UBT) in children followed from age 0 to 24 months in the Pasitos Cohort Study, conducted along the US–Mexico border at El Paso and Juarez. Children were recruited before birth during 1998–2000 and examined at target ages of 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. H. pylori infection was detected using an enzyme immunoassay for serum immunoglobulin G antibodies and the 13C‐urea breath test corrected for age‐dependent variation in CO2 production.

Of 472 children, 125 had one or more positive UBT results and 46 had one or more positive serology results. The prevalence of H. pylori infection at target ages of 6, 12, 18 and 24 months was 7%, 14%, 16% and 19%, respectively, by UBT and 8%, 2%, 3% and 3%, respectively, by serology. Few (<1%) of those tested on both tests were positive on both at any age. Among UBT‐positive children, 6% were concurrently seropositive and 6% became seropositive later. Because UBT positivity cut points were selected to minimise false positives, these results suggest that H. pylori infection occurred frequently in this cohort, but rarely produced detectable antibodies. For clinical or epidemiological investigations, serology should not be used as the sole method for detecting H. pylori infection in children aged 2 years or less.
Mobility of boron–polyol complexes in the hemiparasitic association between Rhinanthus minor and Hordeum vulgare: the effects of nitrogen nutrition
Authors: Jiang Fan , Jeschke W. Dieter , Hartung Wolfram , Cameron Duncan D.
Published: April 2008

Boron (B) is an essential nutrient required for plant growth and physiological processes. Long‐distance B transport is facilitated by the formation of B–polyol complexes. We investigated B uptake and distribution in response to differing levels of exogenous nitrogen supply in the hemiparasitic association between Rhinanthus minor and Hordeum vulgare (barley) and in unparasitised barley and single Rhinanthus plants. In this system, the polyol mannitol is the major assimilate in Rhinanthus, whereas polyols are not detectable in barley. Furthermore, previous studies have shown that the accumulation of polyols within Rhinanthus is negatively affected by the application of exogenous nitrogen. Within the association, the strongest accumulation of B was detected in lateral buds and inflorescences of Rhinanthus, consistent with the greatest B demand in strong sink organs supplied through the phloem that contain high concentrations of mannitol. In the host, the strongest B accumulation was found in xylem‐supported leaf lamellae. Roots and sheaths did not accumulate substantial amounts of B, while re‐circulation of B through the phloem vessels accounted for only 10% (unparasitised) and 8% (parasitised) of the xylem sap‐imported B in the mannitol‐free barley hosts. In contrast, 53% (attached) and 39% (in the absence of a host) of the xylem sap‐imported B was re‐circulated in the phloem in the mannitol‐rich Rhinanthus. We therefore present the first quantitative uptake and flow models of long‐distance B transport in polyol‐rich and polyol‐free plants. Our findings are consistent with a close relationship between B re‐translocation and mannitol concentrations in phloem vessels.
Preanalytical conditions for broth microdilution antifungal susceptibility of Microsporum spp.
Authors: Corrêa Biancalana Fernanda Simas , Telles Paula Fernanda Gomes , Lyra Luzia , Schreiber Angélica Zaninelli
Published: April 2008

Dermatophytoses caused by the genus Microsporum require a long‐duration therapy compared to infections caused by other genera. Treatment of these cutaneous infections includes topical and systemic antifungal agents. Tinea capitis and tinea unguium caused by M. canis and M. gypseum are the most difficult‐to‐treat dermatophytoses. There are few specific studies about corresponding antifungal susceptibility in vitro. Recently, the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute proposed the M38A document as standard to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of several antifungal agents against conidium‐forming filamentous fungi; however, dermatophytes were not included in this document. This study aimed to contribute to continuing investigations concerning the optimal antifungal susceptibility testing conditions of Microsporum spp. to terbinafine, ciclopiroxolamine and griseofulvin. The results pointed out potato dextrose agar as the best culture medium for inducing conidia sporulation, inoculum density amounting to 1 × 103 conidia ml−1, containing only microconidia, with an incubation time of 7 days at 28 °C and 100% growth inhibition serving as an endpoint. The minimum fungicidal concentration values were in accordance with the MICs values, showing a fungicidal activity of these drugs towards the tested strains. According to our results, in general, terbinafine was more active than griseofulvin and ciclopiroxolamine.
Widespread, chronic, and fluconazole‐resistant Trichophyton rubrum infection in an immunocompetent patient
Authors: Balci Didem Didar , Cetin Meryem
Published: April 2008

Chronic, widespread and invasive cutaneous dermatophytoses due to Trichopyhton rubrum are common in immunocompromised patients. In immunocompetent individuals, however, chronic widespread dermatophytoses are more often associated with onychomycosis and tinea pedis. We describe a 54‐year‐old immunocompetent female who presented with a 2‐year history of extensive erythematous and hyper‐pigmented scaly plaques involving the abdominal, gluteal and crural regions without concomitant tinea pedis, tinea manus or onychomycosis. The diagnosis was made by mycological examination including culture. The pathogen identified was T. rubrum. The patient had a history of resistance to systemic fluconazole and topical ketoconazole. After an 8‐week therapy period with systemic itraconazole and sertaconazole nitrate cream, a near‐complete clearing of all lesions was observed. Trichophyton rubrum may thus present atypical aspects in immmunocompetent patients.
Prevalence of sicca symptoms in a South Australian cohort with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Swaminathan S. , Goldblatt F. , Dugar M. , Gordon T. P. , Roberts‐Thomson P. J.
Published: April 2008

Background:  The presence of sicca symptoms is a frequent finding in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of sicca symptoms in a South Australian cohort of SSc patients and correlate this to a number of parameters, including autoantibody status, use of anticholinergic medication, age and the presence of functional anti‐muscarinic‐3 receptor (M3R)‐blocking antibodies.

Methods:  A screening questionnaire was sent out to all patients on the South Australian Scleroderma Register from the years 1998–2006 to determine the prevalence of sicca symptoms. A subset of patients on the register had ocular sicca symptoms tested by use of Schirmer’s strips to validate the accuracy of the questionnaire. Eight patients were tested for anti‐M3R‐blocking antibodies using a functional physiological assay.

Results:  One hundred and ninety‐three SSc patients took part in this study. Sicca symptoms were present in 59% of patients with the limited form of SSc, compared with 49% of patients with the diffuse form and 40% of patients with the overlap syndrome. The use of anticholinergic medication or thyroxine was associated with higher sicca scores in SSc patients. SS‐A and SS‐B autoantibodies (seen in Sjögren’s syndrome) were detected in eight patients in this study. The detection of anti‐M3R‐blocking antibodies correlated well to presence of sicca.

Conclusion:  This study confirmed that sicca symptoms are found in a high proportion of patients with SSc, especially those with the limited variant. Further testing of larger numbers of SSc patients with sicca for anti‐M3R‐blocking antibodies will be needed before more definitive conclusions can be drawn. Physicians should be made aware that sicca symptoms are a frequent cause of morbidity for SSc patients*.
Evaluation of cryoprobe deployment precision with body surface and in situ templates
Authors: Maxwell Keegan L. , Phillips Courtney , Belani Jay S. , Yan Yan , Landman Jaime
Published: April 2008

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the precision of cryoprobe targeting with a surface template, an in situ template (on the target organ), or a combined approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fourteen participants placed five 17 G cryoprobes into porcine kidneys in a laparoscopic trainer using a surface template (group 1), an in situ template (group 2) or a combination of the two templates (group 3). The distance from the ideal probe placement was measured both on the anterior and posterior aspect of the kidney. The sequence of attempts was randomized. The distances were compared across the three groups using anova with the adjustment for multiple comparisons.

RESULTS

The mean distance from the ideal probe placement was 1.58 cm (anterior) and 1.81 cm (posterior) in group 1, 0.05 cm and 0.39 cm in group 2, and 0.07 cm and 0.22 cm in group 3, respectively. The placement of the probes was significantly more accurate in groups 2 (P < 0.001 anteriorly and P < 0.002 posteriorly) and 3 (P = 0.001 anteriorly and P < 0.001 posteriorly) compared with group 1. There was no significant difference between groups 2 and 3.

CONCLUSION

In this in vitro model, the use of internal or combined internal and external templates allows for significantly more precise deployment of 17‐G cryoprobes than a standard external template alone.
When Do Employees Leave Their Job for Entrepreneurship?*
Authors: Hyytinen Ari , Maliranta Mika
Published: April 2008

Existing firms are argued to be an important source of new entrepreneurs. Yet, relatively little is known about the characteristics of firms that breed new entrepreneurs. We use a large linked employee–employer dataset to trace and characterize the types of firms which generate new entrepreneurs in Finland. We find that such transitions are rare and that smaller firms spawn new entrepreneurs more frequently than larger firms. We also find that firms' R&D intensity and, to a lesser extent, their productivity are negatively related to the probability that employees transit into entrepreneurship. These results are robust to controlling for a number of employee and employer attributes.
Age‐related Optimal Income Taxation*
Authors: Blomquist Sören , Micheletto Luca
Published: April 2008

In most countries, average income varies with age. In this paper we investigate if and how it is possible to enhance the redistributive mechanism by relating tax payments to age. Using an OLG model where some individuals are low skilled all their life while others are low skilled when young but high skilled when old, we first show how an age dependent optimal income tax can Pareto improve upon an age independent income tax. We then characterize the optimal age dependent income tax. A tax on interest income is part of the optimal tax structure.
A Transactional Model of Temperamental Development: Evidence of a Relationship between Child Temperament and Maternal Stress over Five Years
Authors: Pesonen Anu‐Katriina , Räikkönen Katri , Heinonen Kati , Komsi Niina , Järvenpää Anna‐Liisa , Strandberg Timo
Published: April 2008

Although there is growing consensus that parental stress is a risk factor in child development, longitudinal studies of its effects are few. This study tested a sample of 231 mother–child dyads in terms of whether the relations between the global experience of stress in mothers (perceived stress scale) and child temperamental characteristics (infant behavior questionnaire and child behavior questionnaire) could be conceptualized through transactional models of development. The assumption was that higher negative emotionality and lower positive affectivity in the infants would contribute to an increase in maternal stress over a five‐year period, beginning in infancy, and that higher maternal stress would contribute to an increase in child negative affectivity and a decrease in positive affectivity and self‐regulation over the same period. Evidence was found for both hypotheses, but not within the same models: the effect of maternal stress on child temperamental development was greater. The results are discussed with reference to bidirectional models of temperamental development.
Construct Validation of the Social Competence Scale in Preschool‐age Children
Authors: Gouley Kathleen Kiely , Brotman Laurie Miller , Huang Keng‐Yen , Shrout Patrick E.
Published: April 2008

This study evaluated the utility of the social competence scale (SCS)‐parent version, a measure of social competence developed for children of elementary school age, for use with preschool‐age children. Data were derived from two samples of preschoolers: a community sample assessed at enrollment to pre‐kindergarten programs and a high‐risk sample of children at familial risk for conduct problems participating in a preventive intervention trial. Using data from both samples, we assessed the factor structure, internal consistency, and stability of the SCS, and whether the SCS discriminated the high‐risk sample from the community sample. Results support the utility and construct validity of the SCS for use in preschoolers. The total SCS scale was relatively stable over 24 months during the preschool period and was correlated with other measures of social competence, parent ratings of emotion regulation, lability and behavior problems, and tests of child cognitive ability.
Pilot study of response inhibition and error processing in the posterior medial prefrontal cortex in healthy youth
Authors: Fitzgerald Kate Dimond , Zbrozek Christopher D. , Welsh Robert C. , Britton Jennifer C. , Liberzon Israel , Taylor Stephan F.
Published: April 2008

Background:  Recent neuroimaging work suggests that inhibitory and error processing in healthy adults share overlapping, but functionally distinct neural circuitries within the posterior medial frontal cortex (pMFC); however, it remains unknown whether the pMFC is differentially engaged by response inhibition compared to error commission in the developing brain. Developmental neuroimaging studies of response inhibition have found pMFC activation, but the possible contribution of error‐related activation during inhibitory processing has not been well studied in youth.

Method:  To examine the processing of correct response inhibition compared to errors in the developing brain, we performed functional magnetic resonance imaging scans in 11 healthy subjects, ages 8–14 years, during an antisaccade task while performance was monitored.

Results:  Successful antisaccades activated the pre‐supplementary motor area. In contrast, errors on the antisaccade task activated the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex.

Conclusion:  The findings suggest the functional sub‐specialization of inhibitory and error processing within the pMFC in this pilot sample of children and adolescents. Future neuroimaging studies of developing inhibitory control should examine both between correct and error trials.
Prospective evaluation of a transfusion policy of D+ red blood cells into D− patients
Authors: Gonzalez‐Porras Jose R. , Graciani Ignacio F. , Perez‐Simon Jose A. , Martin‐Sanchez Jesus , Encinas Cristina , Conde Maria P. , Nieto Maria J. , Corral Mercedes
Published: April 2008

BACKGROUND: Although D− patients should receive red blood cells (RBCs) from D− donors, the scarcity of D− blood components in certain situations makes the transfusion of D+ RBCs unavoidable. Therefore it is recommended that guidelines be developed in order to standardize transfusion policy in these scenarios.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We have prospectively evaluated a policy for the use of D+ RBCs in 905 D− patients. The amount of D− RBCs saved as well as the incidence of hemolytic reactions and anti‐D alloimmunization were assessed.

RESULTS: 554 patients received D− RBCs while 351 received a total of 1032 D+ RBCs, all of them within our criteria for the acceptable use of D+ RBCs. This strategy allowed us to save 25.6 percent of D− RBCs (1032 out of 4024 RBCs requested). No hemolytic reactions were reported. The incidence of alloimmunization was 21.4 percent. Most patients who developed anti‐D did so within the first 2 or 4 RBCs transfused (64% after the first 2 RBCs transfused and 88% after the first 4). In multivariate analysis the age of less than 77 years was the only predictor for alloimmuization (HR = 2.48 [95% CI = 1.21‐3.81]; p = 0.014).

CONCLUSION: The use of D+ RBCs in selected D− patients does not induce adverse reactions and allows the saving of a significant number of D− RBCs.
Assessing the Multidimensionality of Coastal Erosion Risks: Public Participation and Multicriteria Analysis in a Mediterranean Coastal System
Authors: Roca Elisabet , Gamboa Gonzalo , Tàbara J. David
Published: April 2008

The complex and multidimensional nature of coastal erosion risks makes it necessary to move away from single‐perspective assessment and management methods that have conventionally predominated in coastal management. This article explores the suitability of participatory multicriteria analysis (MCA) for improving the integration of diverse expertises and values and enhancing the social‐ecological robustness of the processes that lead to the definition of relevant policy options to deal with those risks. We test this approach in the Mediterranean coastal locality of Lido de Sète in France. Results show that the more adaptive alternatives such as “retreating the shoreline” were preferred by our selected stakeholders to those corresponding to “protecting the shoreline” and the business as usual proposals traditionally put forward by experts and policymakers on these matters. Participative MCA contributed to represent coastal multidimensionality, elicit and integrate different views and preferences, facilitated knowledge exchange, and allowed highlighting existing uncertainties.
A Neural Network‐Based Method for Risk Factor Analysis of West Nile Virus
Authors: Pan Leilei , Qin Lixu , Yang Simon X. , Shuai Jiangping
Published: April 2008

There is a lack of knowledge about which risk factors are more important in West Nile virus (WNV) transmission and risk magnitude. A better understanding of the risk factors is of great help in developing effective new technologies and appropriate prevention strategies for WNV infection. A contribution analysis of all risk factors in WNV infection would identify those major risk factors. Based on the identified major risk factors, measures to control WNV proliferation could be directed toward those significant risk factors, thus improving the effectiveness and efficiency in developing WNV control and prevention strategies. Neural networks have many generally accepted advantages over conventional analytical techniques, for instance, ability to automatically learn the relationship between the inputs and outputs from training data, powerful generalization ability, and capability of handling nonlinear interactions. In this article, a neural network model was developed for analysis of risk factors in WNV infection. To reveal the relative contribution of the input variables, the neural network was trained using an algorithm called structural learning with forgetting. During the learning, weak neural connections are forced to fade away while a skeletal network with strong connections emerges. The significant risk factors can be identified by analyzing this skeletal network. The proposed approach is tested with the dead bird surveillance data in Ontario, Canada. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Idiopathic Premature Closure of the Ductus Arteriosus: An Indication for Early Delivery
Authors: Soslow Jonathan H. , Friedberg Mark K. , Silverman Norman H.
Published: April 2008

Idiopathic intrauterine closure of the ductus arteriosus, distinct from intrauterine constriction associated with maternal NSAID ingestion or other secondary causes, is an uncommon event that often results in significant morbidity and mortality. We report on a 32‐week fetus with meconium pseudocyst that presented with idiopathic intrauterine constriction of the ductus arteriosus, and review the literature. We suggest that early diagnosis and judicious obstetrical management, in conjunction with pediatric cardiology consultation based on serial fetal echocardiography, can lead to timely delivery and reversal of the pathophysiology providing the potential for a favorable outcome.
Evidence of Robust Coupling of Atrioventricular Mechanical Function of the Right Side of the Heart: Insights from M‐Mode Analysis of Annular Motion
Authors: Bazaz Raveen , Edelman Kathy , Gulyasy Beth , López‐Candales Angel
Published: April 2008

Background: Extensive data exist regarding annular descent and ventricular function. We have already demonstrated significant differences in amplitude and timing of events between maximal mitral (MAPSE) and tricuspid (TAPSE) annular plane systolic excursion as well as described quantitative temporal differences in annular ascent (AA) between the right and left sides of the heart. However, whether any relationship exists between annular ascent and descent components remains uninvestigated. Methods: Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), right ventricular fractional area change (RVFAC), MAPSE, TAPSE, MV, and TV AA as well as pulsed tissue Doppler of the lateral MV and TV annuli were recorded from 53 patients. Results: In this population (age 55 ± 17 years) mean LVEF was 55 ± 19%, mean RVFAC was 47 ± 20%, mean MAPSE was 2.11 ± 0.72 cm, mean TAPSE was 1.48 ± 0.44 cm, mean MV AA was 0.52 ± 0.17 cm, TV AA was 0.96 ± 0.47, MV A‐wave 0.10 ± 0.04 cm/s, and TV A‐wave was 0.13 ± 0.05 cm/s. A more robust correlation was seen between TV AA and RVFAC than between MV AA and LVEF and also between TV AA and pulsed TDI TV A‐wave velocity than between MV AA and pulsed TDI MV A‐wave. Conclusion: Our data reveal that mechanical systolic functions of the atria and the ventricles are more closely coupled on the right than on the left side of the heart. Whether this is a result of anatomic linking or chamber geometry will require further study.
Estimation for the Optimal Combination of Markers without Modeling the Censoring Distribution
Authors: Chiang Chin‐Tsang , Huang Shr‐Yan
Published: April 2008

Summary In the time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic curve analysis with several baseline markers, research interest focuses on seeking appropriate composite markers to enhance the accuracy in predicting the vital status of individuals over time. Based on censored survival data, we proposed a more flexible estimation procedure for the optimal combination of markers under the validity of a time‐varying coefficient generalized linear model for the event time without restrictive assumptions on the censoring pattern. The consistency of the proposed estimators is also established in this article. In contrast, the inverse probability weighting (IPW) approach might introduce a bias when the selection probabilities are misspecified in the estimating equations. The performance of both estimation procedures are examined and compared through a class of simulations. It is found from the simulation study that the proposed estimators are far superior to the IPW ones. Applying these methods to an angiography cohort, our estimation procedure is shown to be useful in predicting the time to all‐cause and coronary artery disease related death.
Regional Spatial Modeling of Topsoil Geochemistry
Authors: Calder C. A. , Craigmile P. F. , Zhang J.
Published: April 2008

Summary Geographic information about the levels of toxics in environmental media is commonly used in regional environmental health studies when direct measurements of personal exposure is limited or unavailable. In this article, we propose a statistical framework for analyzing the spatial distribution of topsoil geochemical properties, including the concentrations of various toxicants. Due to the small‐scale heterogeneity of most geochemical topsoil processes, direct measurements of the processes themselves only provide highly localized information; it is thus financially prohibitive to study the spatial patterns of these processes across a large region using traditional geostatistical analyses of point‐referenced topsoil data. Instead, it is standard practice to assess geochemical patterns at a regional scale using point‐referenced measurements collected in stream sediment because, unlike topsoil data, individual stream sediment geochemical measurements are representative of the surrounding area. We propose a novel multiscale soils (MSS) model that formally synthesizes data collected in topsoil and stream sediment and allows the richer stream sediment information to inform about the topsoil process, which in environmental health studies is typically more relevant. Our model accommodates the small‐scale heterogeneity of topsoil geochemical processes by modeling spatial dependence at an aggregate resolution corresponding to hydrologically similar regions known as watersheds. We present an analysis of the levels of arsenic, a toxic heavy metal, in topsoil across the midwestern United States using the MSS model and show that this model has better predictive abilities than alternative approaches using more conventional statistical models for point‐referenced spatial data.
Racial Cognition and the Ethics of Implicit Bias
Authors: Kelly Daniel , Roedder Erica
Published: April 2008

We first describe recent empirical research on racial cognition, particularly work on implicit racial biases that suggests they are widespread, that they can coexist with explicitly avowed anti‐racist and tolerant attitudes, and that they influence behavior in a variety of subtle but troubling ways. We then consider a cluster of questions that the existence and character of implicit racial biases raise for moral theory. First, is it morally condemnable to harbor an implicit racial bias? Second, ought each of us to suspect ourselves of racial bias, and therefore correct for it in ordinary activity, such as grading student papers?
High prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection in the largest province of Pakistan
Authors: IDREES Muhammad , LAL Amreek , NASEEM Muhammad , KHALID Muhammad
Published: April 2008

OBJECTIVE:  To estimate the prevalence and spectrum of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in the general population of Pakistan.

METHODS:  A total of 6817 blood samples were collected randomly from apparently healthy people in the Punjab, Pakistan from March 1999 to April 2001 and September 2006 to August 2007. Detailed socioeconomic information for each participant was recorded. All the samples were tested for anti‐HCV antibodies and all seropositive samples were further tested for HCV RNA by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RESULTS:  Of the total 6817 serum samples tested, 998 (14.63%) were positive for anti‐HCV antibodies. HCV RNA PCR was detected in 494 (49.50%) anti‐HCV‐positive samples. The prevalence of anti‐HCV antibodies were significantly higher in males (15.09%) than in females (12.3%) (P < 0.009). A significant difference was also noted in the anti‐HCV prevalence rate among different age groups tested (P < 0.01). In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, injected drug use (adjusted OR 6.6 [95%CI 4.1–9.9]), blood transfusion (adjusted OR 5.9 [95%CI 2.9–12.3]), pricked with a needle (adjusted OR 2.2 [95%CI 1.6–3.1]), re‐use of syringes (adjusted OR 1.7 [95%CI 0.8–3.6]) and being over 35 years old (adjusted OR 1.3 [95%CI 0.9–1.9]) were independent risk factors for HCV infection.

CONCLUSION:  The study showed a high seroprevalence of anti‐HCV antibodies in a general and apparently healthy population of the Punjab province of Pakistan. Drug injection, blood transfusion and needle stuck were the factors most strongly associated with HCV infection.
Alternate Scales for Turbulent Boundary Layer on Transitional Rough Walls: Universal Log Laws
Authors: Afzal Noor
Published: April 2008

The present work deals with four new alternate transitional surface roughness scales for description of the turbulent boundary layer. The nondimensional roughness scale ϕ is associated with the transitional roughness wall inner variable ζ=Z+∕ϕ, the roughness friction Reynolds number Rϕ=Rτ∕ϕ, and the roughness Reynolds number Reϕ=Re∕ϕ. The two layer theory for turbulent boundary layers in the variables, mentioned above, is presented by method of matched asymptotic expansions for large Reynolds numbers. The matching in the overlap region is carried out by the Izakson–Millikan–Kolmogorov hypothesis, which gives the velocity profiles and skin friction universal log laws, explicitly independent of surface roughness, having the same constants as the smooth wall case. In these alternate variables, just above the wall roughness level, the mean velocity and Reynolds stresses are universal and do not depend on surface roughness. The extensive experimental data provide very good support to our universal relations. There is no universality of scalings in traditional variables and different expressions are needed for inflectional type roughness, monotonic Colebrook–Moody roughness, k-type roughness, d-type roughness, etc. In traditional variables, the velocity profile and skin friction predictions for the inflectional roughness, k-type roughness, and d-type roughness are supported well by the extensive experimental data. The pressure gradient effect from the matching conditions in the overlap region leads to the universal composite laws, which for weaker pressure gradients yields log laws and for strong adverse pressure gradients provides the half-power laws for universal velocity profiles and in traditional variables the additive terms in the two situations depend on the wall roughness.
Numerical Analysis of Cavitation Instabilities in Inducer Blade Cascade
Authors: Pouffary Benoît , Patella Regiane Fortes , Reboud Jean-Luc , Lambert Pierre-Alain
Published: April 2008

The cavitation behavior of a four-blade rocket engine turbopump inducer was simulated by the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code FINE∕TURBO™. The code was modified to take into account a cavitation model based on a homogeneous approach of cavitation, coupled with a barotropic state law for the liquid∕vapor mixture. In the present study, the numerical model of unsteady cavitation was applied to a four-blade cascade drawn from the inducer geometry. Unsteady behavior of cavitation sheets attached to the inducer blade suction side depends on the flow rate and cavitation number σ. Numerical simulations of the transient evolution of cavitation on the blade cascade were performed for the nominal flow rate and different cavitation numbers, taking into account simultaneously the four blade-to-blade channels. Depending on the flow parameters, steady or unsteady behaviors spontaneously take place. In unsteady cases, subsynchronous or supersynchronous regimes were observed. Some mechanisms responsible for the development of these instabilities are proposed and discussed.
Development of a 16-MWth Coal-Water/Heavy Oil Burner for Front-Wall Firing
Authors: Thambimuthu K. V. , Whaley H. , Bennett A. , Jonasson K. A.
Published: April 2008

The Canadian program of coal-water fuel (CWF) technology development has included the demonstration of “commercial” burners for CWF in both coal and oil-designed utility boilers. The demonstrations clearly showed that these burners were prototypes, and were, in fact, modified oil burners that were mismatched to the rheological properties of the CWF. As the demonstrations were proceeding, a simultaneous research program was undertaken by the Canada Centre for Mineral and Energy Technology (CANMET) of Energy, Mines and Resources (EMR) Canada in which the basic principles governing atomization and combustion of CWF were studied. Key results from the fundamental studies which led to the development of a novel prototype dual fuel CWF/oil burner are described. In the various stages of development, the burner was scaled up from 1.5 MWth to an industrial scale of 16MWth for demonstration in a 20-MW(e) oil-designed industrial utility boiler and for a single-burner commercial operation in an oil designed package steam boiler. A brief summary of the burner performance in these demonstrations is also given in this paper.
The Behavior of the Oil-Water Interface at a Planar Boom
Authors: Kordyban E.
Published: April 2008

It has been observed that, under certain conditions, the oil retained by planar boom will escape under it. In this work it is proposed that this escape is due to the instability of the interface brought about by the pressure gradient along the face of the boom. This instability is studied analytically and experimentally and some guidelines to prevent the escape of oil are presented.
An Improved Criterion for Moving and Positioning of Jackup Drilling Rigs
Authors: Rahman S. S.
Published: April 2008

The background knowledge of jackup structures, current methods and procedures for moving and positioning of jackups practiced by the industry and related safety performance (analysis of accident records) are reviewed. Floating stability and motion response are identified as important factors contributing to fatal accidents and weather is found to be, in general, responsible for delays in ocean transit. An improved criterion is suggested for assessing the capability of jackup structures to be moved and positioned safely. This also includes the procedure for selection of towing power in order that a move not be unduly delayed by its mobility to make desired speed.
Analysis of a Solar Space Cooling System Using Liquid Desiccants
Authors: Gandhidasan P.
Published: April 2008

For tropical countries, solar space cooling is an attractive proposition. Dehumidification of air in hot, humid climates is almost as important as cooling. Removal of moisture from the air is much easier to achieve than cooling the air. The proposed cooling system operates on the ventilation mode. The ambient air is dehumidified using liquid desiccants followed by adiabatic evaporative cooling. The desiccant soon becomes saturated with the water extracted from the air and can be regenerated by using solar energy. For this system, a simple expression is derived in this paper to predict the amount of heat removed from the space to be conditioned in terms of known initial parameters through a simplified vapor pressure correlation and effectiveness of the dehumidifier and the heat exchanger. The effect of ambient air conditions, solution concentration, the cooling water temperature and the effectiveness of the dehumidifier and the heat exchanger on the performance of the cooling system are also discussed in this paper.
A Composite Plate Theory With Rotatory Inertia, Transverse Shear, and Normal Stress Effects
Authors: Voyiadjis G. Z. , Panera P. D.
Published: April 2008

A refined theory for the flexural motions of composite plates is presented. The theory incorporates rotatory inertia in addition to the influence of transverse normal strain, transverse normal stress, and transverse shear. This is of primary interest for the analysis of offshore structures as well as piping analysis. The classical wave propagation problem is used to test the proposed theory. The results indicate the influence of the transverse normal strain on the wave speed for large values of h/λ. The shear coefficient obtained from the proposed theory has a constant magnitude as opposed to the undetermined coefficient form in previous flexural motion formulations.
Degradation of Graphite/Polymer Composites in Seawater
Authors: Tucker W. C.
Published: April 2008

Glass-reinforced plastics have a substantial history of use in seawater. With the advent of high-performance graphite fibers offering greater stiffness than glass, some marine engineering applications may be implemented where glass was unsuitable. However, the nobility of graphite in the galvanic series makes it an extremley efficient cathode when copuled with metals in seawater. Degradation of the cathodic composite material is an unexpected result of the corrosion chemistry in natural seawater. Deep submergence of composite materials introduces another potential degradative mechaism in seawater due to an increased moisture uptake by damage-dependent mechanisms. Other environmental exposure to sunlight, deep submergence and cyclic thermal changes which show potential for degradation of composites are discussed.