bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel technique for the analysis of volatiles in aqueous and nonaqueous systems
Authors: Legendre M. G. , Fisher G. S. , Schuller W. H. , Dupuy H. P. , Rayner E. T.
Published: August 2007

A simple, efficient, external inlet assembly is described for analyzing volatile components in raw and processed foods by direct gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. The device comprises three sections: a sample inlet, a condenser, and a six‐port rotary valve. The versatility and effectiveness of this assembly is demonstrated by the analysis and identification of volatiles from diverse food products as salad oils, vinegar, and corn‐soy food blends. The procedure is rapid, efficient, and offers the following desirable features: it is compatible with all commonly used chromatographs and can accomodate samples of different size; sample volatiles are obtained without use of prior enrichment techniques, at ambient or elevated temperatures; uniform heating enhances volatiles elution, thereby improving sensitivity; moisture and air are removed to facilitate mass spectral analysis; the closed nature of the system minimizes loss of low molecular weight volatiles during elution, thus producing a highly reliable pro‐file of volatiles.
Pilot‐plant scale grinding and pressing of jojoba seeds
Authors: Miller R. E. , Edwards R. H. , Kohler G. O.
Published: August 2007

Jojoba seeds were successfully milled at ambient temperature using a modified 8 in. single disk attri‐tion mill. Rates to 4000 lb/hr at low energy input (1.7 kwh/ton) were achieved. The oil was expressed with a laboratory screw press at yields from 27. to 33.6%. Multiple linear regression analysis showed the oil yield to be a function of the motor amperage and feed moisture content. The press throughput rate was a function of the motor amperage and the amount of fine and coarse particles in the milled feed.
Studies on tamarind kernel oil II1L : analysis of phospholipids
Authors: Pitke P. M. , Singh P. P. , Srivastava H. C.
Published: August 2007

Phosphatidyl choline, phosphatidyl ethanolamine, phosphatidyl serine, phosphatidyl inositol, phospha‐tidic acid, and lyso derivatives of phosphotidyl choline and phosphatidyl ethanolamine were identi‐fied from phospholipids of Tamarind kernel oil. Phosphatidyl choline and phosphatidyl ethanolamine were isolated and their fatty acid composition was determined by GLC.
Removal of deleterious glucosides from safflower meal
Authors: Lyon C. K. , Gumbmann M. R. , Betschart A. A. , Robbins D. J. , Saunders R. M.
Published: August 2007

Safflower meal is a source of high quality protein for animal feeds but has not been used for human consumption because it is bitter and mildly cathartic. Deleterious glucosides in the meal were removed or modified by extraction with either water at the iso‐electric point or with methanol, enzymatic treatment with β‐glucosidase, dialysis, or by processing to pre‐pare protein isolates. Analytical procedures were de‐vised for quantitative measurement of two phenolic glucosides reported to be associated with bitterness and cathartic activity in safflower meal, and for es‐timating the cathartic activity of safflower meals and fractions.
Regeneration of used nickel catalyst
Authors: Massouml1 A. , Kajbaf M. A.
Published: August 2007

Regeneration of used nickel catalyst from a hydrogenation plant has been achieved by converting the nickel content of slurry into NiO and Ni(OH)2, and the subsequent reduction of these compounds by hydrogen gas at temperatures of 450 C and 290 C respectively. A laboratory and plant apparatus for reduction are designed. Activity of regenerated catalyst was measured in comparison with reference catalyst (G15). Pretreatment of discarded catalyst prior to reduction is described.
Studies in Estolides, Part III : Plasticizer for Polyvinyl Chloride
Authors: Venkatesan T. K.
Published: August 2007

Acetoxy butyl esters prepared from estolides (derived from castor oil fatty acids) were evaluated as plasticizers for poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC) resin. They showed limited compatibility. They were useful as secondary plasticizers for PVC along with dioctyl phthalate plasticizer. The properties of the plasticized stocks were generally comparable to the ones obtained by incorporating 12‐acetoxy butyl oleate, the commercial secondary plasticizer. Among the estolides derivatives tried, the acetoxy butyl ester obtained from estolides of acid value 83 showed better performance.
Palladium‐ catalyzed hydrogenation of soybean oil
Authors: Ahmad M. M. , Priestley T. M. , Winterbottom J. M.
Published: August 2007

The hydrogenation of soybean oil has been studied using charcoal‐supported palladium catalysts at hydrogen pressures between ambient and 70 psig and at temperatures between 80 C and 160 C in three types of stirred reactor. The catalysts employed were 1‐10% w/w Pd supported on charcoal and represented differing metal placement on the support. The structure of the catalysts was confirmed by metal surface area measurements, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA). Comparative studies also were carried out under similar conditions using samples of commercial nickel catalysts. Palladium catalysts with the metal placed on the exterior of the charcoal support were the most active and selective at ambient pressure, and although palladium catalysts with metal placed within the charcoal pore system became the most active at higher hydrogen pressures, only the former type of catalyst retained high selec‐tivity over the whole temperature and pressure range. Palladium catalysts gave rise to moretrans‐ acids than nickel, particularly under conditions normally em‐ployed with the latter, but if diffusion limitation was avoided, especially at lower temperatures, palladium gave lower quantities oftrans‐ acid than nickel. In addition, the selectivity of a well designed palladium catalyst was superior to that of nickel and its activity was 15‐20 times greater. It is concluded that if palladium is deposited on the exterior of the charcoal so that it is accessible to the triglyceride molecules, then its selectivity and activity is superior to that of nickel, even at low temperatures, at which nickel is inactive. This underlines the importance of choosing the correct preparative route to give optimum metal placement, and it is suggested that when previous studies have indicated that palladium is unselective for fat hardening, it is likely that the metal was not dispersed on the exterior surface of the support. Furthermore, whereas nickel is best used under diffusion‐controlled conditions because its selectivity is better in the latter situation palladium should be used under diffusion‐free conditions, which implies that very careful attention should be paid to the reactor design.
Effect of the position of linoleic acid in triacylglycerols on its hydrogenation rate
Authors: Kaimal T. N. B. , Lakshminarayana G.
Published: August 2007

Cottonseed, sesame, soybean and safflower oils were partially hydrogenated under selective condi‐tions using Rufert nickel catalyst. Samples drawn at intervals were subjected to pancreatic lipase hydroly‐sis, and the positional distribution of fatty acids was determined. Results indicate preferential hydrogena‐tion of linoleic acid present in the 1,3‐position over that present in the 2‐position of the triacylgly‐cerols.
Alterations in glyceride composition during directed interesterification of lard
Authors: Chobanov D. G. , Topalova M. R.
Published: August 2007

A detailed study on directed interesterification is presented based on triglyceride group analysis by argentation thin layer chromatography. The process is illustrated by the curves for the changes of six trigly‐ceride groups with different unsaturation using lard as a suitable model fat. The deviation of the triglyceride types away from their theoretical change levels is presented. The influence of the temperature on the rearrangement is examined towards trisaturated and disaturated triglycerides, respectively. Appropriate conditions are shown which can be used by analogy for other fats and triglyceride mixtures.
Spectrophotometric Determination of Calcium‐Complexing Ability
Authors: Weil Ira
Published: August 2007

A convenient and reliable spectrophotometric technique for the quantitative determination of calcium‐complexing constants is presented. A cal‐cium‐ion sensitive dye, Calmagite, at a pH between 10 and 10.6, was found to be suitable for these deter‐minations. The theoretical and practical bases for the use of Calmagite are described.
Study on Skin‐Irritating and Biological Properties of Monoalkyl Phosphate Anionic Surfactants
Authors: Imokawa G.
Published: August 2007

Monoalkyl phosphate type of low irritating anionic surfactants were investigated with respect to their effect on various biological systems including proteins, enzymes, and lysosomes. Our results indicated that a remarkably weak membrane rupture effect at a concentration less than critical micellar concentration is important for low irritating feature. Mechanism by which irritation is caused by surfact‐ants is discussed.
The Brazilian soybean situation and its impact on the world oils market
Authors: Thompson Robert L.
Published: August 2007

Brazil has come from obscurity to become the worlds second largest producer and exporter of soybeans. Internal crushing has also expanded rapidly and become more specialized in soybean crushing. In 1978 Brazilian soybean crushing capacity reached about 14 million metric tons (MT). Domestic oil and meal price ceilings and bean export restric‐tions have had a significant effect on the growth in Brazil’s crushing capacity. Since 1975 exports of both soybean meal and oil have received favored export treatment relative to soybeans. Brazil is likely to continue restrictions on bean exports to ensure availability of beans to their crushers. Brazil’s annual soybean production is likely to grow from the 12 million metric tons in 1977 to over 15 million tons by 1982, with exports of 1‐2 million tons. Meal exports are expected to grow by 1‐2 million tons and oil exports marginally from 1978 levels by 1982. The long run soybean production will depend on how much expansion occurs in the Central West, where the soil is less fertile and production and transport costs are much higher. Substantial expansion there will require higher world soybean prices, construction of marketing and transportation infrastructure, and subsidization of input costs.
Comparison of various analytical techniques for the determination of essential fatty acids in hardened fats
Authors: Zmachinski Helen , Waltking Arthur , Miller James D.
Published: August 2007

In partially hydrogenated fats containing residual linoleic acid, linoleic acid isomers are found which have no essential fatty acid activity but contribute to the C‐18 diene acid values; i.e., to the so‐called linoleic acid values obtained by the usual physicochemical methods. Such hydrogenated fats and oil blends, particularly margarine oils, have now been analyzed by a biochemical procedure in the attempt to measure specifically the essential fatty acid content by a direct method. The latter procedure makes use of a lipoxidase enzyme specific for thecis, cis, methylene interrupted diene structure in polyunsaturated fatty acids having two or more double bonds. It is concluded that the biochemical method is equally as reliable as the combined use of the spectrophotometric and thiocyanometric procedures for estimating with precision the essential fatty acid content of hydrogenated fats containing residual dienes; the simplicity and speed of the biochemical method make it the procedure of choice.
Physicochemical studies on the composition and stability of metal‐gossypol complexes. I. Fe+++ gossypol complex
Authors: Muzaffaruddin M. , Saxena E. R.
Published: August 2007

The complex formation of Fe+++ with gossypol has been investigated at constant ionic strength 0.15. The formation of only one complex, metal: gossypol (1:1) is detected by Job舗s method of continuous variation, conductometric titration and chemical analysis of the isolated complex. It appears that the two perihydroxyls are the most plausible sites where the ferric ions are chelated. The pK‐value as calculated by the method of Turner and Anderson is 6.75 and free energy change of combination is 蜢9.208 kcal.
Improved preparation of 9‐octadecenes
Authors: Dyen Martin E. , Hamann Herman C. , Swern Daniel
Published: August 2007

cis‐ andtrans‐9‐Octadecenes have been obtained in about 55舑60% yield on a preparative scale by an improved procedure from commercially pure oleyl alcohol (90舑95%) and elaidyl alcohol, respectively, by conversion to the tosylates followed by reduction with lithium aluminum hydride (LAH). The improvement consists in using saturated sodium chloride solution to coagulate the slimy, intractable, insoluble salts obtained after the LAH reduction and destruction of excess LAH with water, prior to ether extraction of the crude hydrocarbons. Total time required for the preparation is about three days.
Physical properties of fatty acid methyl esters. VI. Viscosity
Authors: Gouw T. H. , Vlugter J. C. , Roelands C. J. A.
Published: August 2007

Kinematic viscosities at 20C, 40C and at 70C have been measured for methyl oleate, linoleate, linolenate, erucate, and for the saturated fatty acid methyl esters acetate through nonadecanoate. Using a recently developed dynamic viscosity‐temperature criterion, log (1.200+log ॑)=A蜢S log (1+t/135), the viscosity‐temperature behavior of the saturated compounds could be characterized by one single parameter.
Correlation of nonionic surfactant structure and solubility with textile wetting
Authors: Komor Joseph A. , Beiswanger John P. G.
Published: August 2007

The effect of nonionic surfactant structure with respect to textile wetting efficiency has been studied. A correlation has been shown to exist between wetting speed and molecular diffusion rate, critical micelle concentration, area per molecule (as deduced from surface tension versus concentration measurements), extent of adsorption and temperature. The slope of the log wetting time versus log concentration curve is dependent upon temperature, cloud point, critical micelle concentration and area per molecule. Log concentration for ten‐second wetting is shown to be inversely proportional to the diffusion constant which in turn is a function of the critical micelle concentration. Concentration coefficients of wetting indicate that the most efficient wetting is obtained at or very near to the critical micelle concentration.
Component distribution of alcohol ethylene oxide adducts
Authors: Weimer D. R. , Cooper D. E.
Published: August 2007

The relative reaction constants for the base‐catalyzed ethoxylation of primary straight chain alcohols have been determined for the unreacted alcohol and the first three ethylene oxide adducts. The distribution of the ethoxylates was found using molecular distillation, nuclear magnetic resonance analysis and gas liquid partition chromatography.

A mathematical model describing the distributions was set up and programmed on a 7090 digital computer. Solution of the program gave the relative reaction constants for the alcohol and the first three adducts.

The relative reactivities of the adducts in the base‐catalyzed ethoxylation of primary straight chain alcohols are shown to increase with adduct number, but tend to a constant value as the adduct number increases. Results also show that alcohols from C6 to C18 are equally reactive to ethylene oxide on a molar basis.
Anionic surfactant biodegradability studies by Warburg respirometry
Authors: Brink Robert H. , Meyers Joseph A.
Published: August 2007

A series of alkylbenzene sulfonates and alkyl sulfates was prepared and examined for biodegradability by measuring the oxygen uptake when exposed to substrate adapted microorganisms in the Warburg respirometer. The Warburg results showed that certain linear alkylate alkylbenzene sulfonates and alcohol sulfates are oxidized completely to carbon dioxide and water. The use of radioactive carbon compounds confirmed the Warburg results.
Wax compositions from N‐allylstearamide and N‐allyl hydrogenated tallow amides, by reaction with benzoyl peroxide
Authors: Jordan Edmund F. , Artymyshyn Bohdan , Wrigley A. N.
Published: August 2007

When either pure N‐allylstearamide or mixed allylamides, made by the aminolysis of hydrogenated tallow, were heated at 90C for 3 hr with benzoyl peroxide, the reaction products were medium‐hard, high‐melting (ca. 70舑80C) waxes of light color suitable for use in polish applications. Hardness increased with increase in benzoyl peroxide, reaching an optimum for 3 to 8 g of peroxide per 100 g amide. Qualitative floor‐wear tests on films obtained from paste and emulsion compositions showed the allylamide waxes to be inferior to carnauba and a Fisher‐Tropsch wax, but superior to several other synthetic waxes including polyethylene. No special property advantage was found using pure allylsteara‐mide. Resistance to oxidation at 90C was good and the waxes emulsified readily.

In the reaction of allylstearamide with benzoyl peroxide, polymer formation depends strongly on catalyst concentration (d M/dP=2, compared to 14舑50 for allyl esters) and some products of substitution and induced decomposition are formed. Wax properties were related to polyallylstearamide content.
Saturated keto esters from lesquerolic, dimorphecolic, and densipolic acids
Authors: Freedman Bernard , Binder R. G. , Applewhite T. H.
Published: August 2007

The naturally occurring, unsaturated, hydroxy fatty esters, methyl lesquerolate (methyl 14‐hydroxy‐cis‐11‐eicosenoate), methyl dimorphecolate (methyl 9‐hydroxy‐trans, trans‐10,12‐octadecadienoate), and methyl densipolate (methyl 12‐hydroxy‐cis,cis‐9,15‐octadecadienoate) have been converted to the corresponding saturated keto esters by tow routes. The unsaturated esters were subjected to a hydrogenation‐dehydrogenation reaction in the presence of Raney nickel or their saturated derivatives were dehydrogenated by copper chromite catalysis. Yields of the keto esters are 65舑82% in the nickel‐catalyzed reactions, and 71舑94% by copper chromite‐catalyzed dehydrogenation. In the hydrogenation‐dehydrogenation system the order of reactivity is: methyl lesquerolate>methyl dimorphecolate>methyl densipolate. Relationships between structure and reactivity of these compounds, methyl 12‐hydroxystearate, and methyl ricinoleate are discussed.
Euphorbia lagascae Spreng. Enzyme activity in the seed
Authors: Scott W. E. , Krewson C. F.
Published: August 2007

The enzyme system ofEuphorbia lagascae Spreng. seed was found to be somewhat similar to that ofVernonia anthelmintica (L.) Willd. seed. The enzymes which were active only after the seed was crushed were deactivated by steam heat without alteration of the epoxy content of the oil. Enzyme activity was accelerated to produce changes in the composition of the oil as evidenced by changes in free fatty acid content, iodine values, and oxirane oxygen (epoxy) content, but the changes were not as great inEuphorbia as inVernonia. Thin‐layer chromatographic studies showed that dihydroxyoleic acid was formed during incubation of crushed seed indicating the presence of a hydrating principle inEuphorbia.
A simple quantitative procedure for obtaining the unsaponifiable matter from butteroil
Authors: Schwartz D. P. , Burgwald L. H. , Brewington C. R.
Published: August 2007

A simple, relatively rapid quantitative procedure for obtaining the unsaponifiable matter from butteroil is described. The oil is saponified without a solvent by merely blending the oil with aqueous KOH in a mortar and heating. The unsaponifiable matter is extracted from the soaps with benzene after grinding the soaps onto Celite.
Key factors and recent advances in the flavor stability of soybean oil
Authors: Cowan J. C.
Published: August 2007

This review of research at the Northern Regional Research Laboratory covers the effect of metallic impurities, their inactivation, proper protection for the oil, hydrogenation‐winterization and other new aspects. Commercial application of this information has shown that soybean oil stability can be improved. These improvements in quality of the soybean oil extend its usefulness. Selective hydrogenation catalysts that may lead to still further improvements have been discovered.
Thoracoscopic Sympathectomy for Primary Palmar Hyperhidrosis: Resection Versus Transection—A Prospective Trial
Authors: Assalia Ahmad , Bahouth Hany , Ilivitzki Anat , Assi Zaki , Hashmonai Moshe , Krausz Michael M.
Published: August 2007

Upper dorsal sympathectomy is the only successful therapeutic method for idiopathic palmar hyperhidrosis (IPHH). However, the techniques for sympathetic ablation are still debated. The aim of this study was to compare prospectively two accepted methods for endoscopic sympathetic ablation: resection of T2‐T3 ganglia versus transection of the chain over the second to fourth ribs. During the period September 2000 to June 2002, a total of 32 patients with IPHH were operated on. Operations were performed under general anesthesia through two 5‐mm trocars using electrocautery. Resection was done on one side and transection on the other, with both sides being addressed during the same operation. The sides of resection/transection were alternated at each operation. There were 14 men and 18 women aged 18.8 ± 4.7 years. The mean operating times for sympathectomy were 12.0 ± 3.1 minutes for resection and 6.6 ± 1.9 minutes for transection (p = 1.38). All patients were examined at 2 weeks postoperatively and again at 1 month. During November–December 2005, patients were approached by telephone questionnaire, the mean follow‐up period being 4.3 ± 0.9 years. Altogether, 26 of the 32 patients could be located (15 women, 11 men). There was no significant difference with regards to perioperative complications, immediate or long‐term pain. All but two hands were warm and dry 1 month after operation and remained so at follow‐up. The exceptions included one hand with recurrent hyperhidrosis after 1.5 years and one that became less dry and cold at 3 years. Both were on the transected sides. Our results suggest that sympathetic resection may achieve slightly better long‐term results than transection in patients with IPHH. Large‐scale prospective studies are needed to confirm these results.
Extent of Routine Central Lymph Node Dissection With Small Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Lee Yong Sang , Kim Seok Won , Kim Sun Wook , Kim Seok Ki , Kang Han‐Sung , Lee Eun Sook , Chung Ki‐Wook
Published: August 2007

The indications for and extent of routine lymph node dissection in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) are unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the extent of central lymph node dissection (CLND) and the therapeutic effects and potential risks in patients with a small PTC. A total of 103 patients with a PTC <2 cm who underwent total thyroidectomy with routine CLND were divided into those who underwent routine bilateral CLND (group I) and those with ipsilateral CLND (group II). Therapeutic efficacy was evaluated by the extent of lymph node metastasis and postthyroidectomy serum thyroglobulin concentration. Patients with postoperative symptomatic hypocalcemia were considered to have postoperative hypoparathyroidism and received calcium/vitamin D therapy. Altogether, 12 of 21 patients (57.1%) in group I and 48 of 75 (64.0%) in group II had postthyroidectomy serum thyroglobulin concentrations <1.0 ng/ml; furthermore, 17 of 21 (81.0%) in group I and 60 of 75 (80.0%) in group II had concentrations <2.0 ng/ml. Hypocalcemia symptoms were identified in 12 of 25 patients (48.0%) in group I and in 16 of 78 (20.5%) in group II (p = 0.009). The extent of the CLND did not influence the therapeutic effects in patients with small PTCs, but those who underwent bilateral CLND showed an increased rate of transient hypoparathyroidism. These findings indicate that the more conservative routine CLND is as safe as more extensive CLND for patients with a small PTC.
Deletion of the MTO2 gene related to tRNA modification causes a failure in mitochondrial RNA metabolism in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Wang Xinjian , Yan Qingfeng , Guan Min-Xin
Published: August 2007

We report here the characterization of the yeast mto2 null mutants carrying wild‐type mitochondrial DNA or 15S rRNA C1049G allele. The amounts of mitochondrial tRNALys, tRNAGlu, tRNAGln, tRNALeu, tRNAGly and tRNAMet were markedly decreased but those of tRNAArg and tRNAHis were not affected in mto2 strains. The mto2 strains exhibited significant reduction in the aminoacylation of tRNALys, tRNALeu but almost no effect in those of tRNAHis. Interestingly, the strain carrying the C1049G allele exhibited an impairment of aminoacylation of those tRNAs. Furthermore, the steady‐state levels of mitochondrial mRNA CYTB, COX1, COX2, COX3, and ATP6 were markedly decreased in mto2 strains. These data strongly indicate that unmodified tRNA caused by the deletion of MTO2 caused the instability of mitochondrial tRNAs and mRNAs and impairment of aminoacylation of tRNAs.
The Natural History of Untreated Dorsal Wrist Ganglia and Patient Reported Outcome 6 Years after Intervention
Authors: DIAS J. J. , DHUKARAM V. , KUMAR P.
Published: August 2007

We have evaluated the long-term outcome of excision, aspiration and no treatment of dorsal wrist ganglia prospectively in 236 (83%) of 283 patients who responded to a postal questionnaire at a mean of 70 months. The resolution of symptoms was similar between the treatment groups ( p>0.3). Pain and unsightliness improved in all three treatment groups. The prevalence of weakness and stiffness altered only slightly in all three treatment groups. More patients with a recurrent, or persistent ganglion complained of pain, stiffness and unsightliness ( p<0.0001). Patient satisfaction was higher after surgical excision ( p<0.0001), even if the ganglion recurred. Twenty-three of 55 (58%) untreated ganglia resolved spontaneously. The recurrence rate was 58% (45/78) and 39% (40/103) following aspiration and excision, respectively. Eight out of 103 patients had complications following surgery. In this study, neither excision nor aspiration provided significant long-term benefit over no treatment.
A Simple Model for Hand Trauma Training
Authors: MALIC C. , JIVAN S. , MAJUMDER S.
Published: August 2007

This paper introduces the use of fresh, uncooked chickens as a simple, easily accessible and inexpensive teaching model to simulate the conditions met in cases of human hand injury.
Locking of the Metacarpophalangeal Joint as a Result of the Shape of the Metacarpal Head in Achondroplasia
Authors: HAMADA Y. , SAIRYO K. , YASUI N.
Published: August 2007

A 21 year-old woman with achondroplasia exhibited locking of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the right index finger which required surgery to release the joint. Locking was confirmed to be due to entrapment of the fan-like part of the radial collateral ligament on a metacarpal head prominence arising from epiphysial thickening.
Long Oblique/Spiral Mid-Shaft Metacarpal Fractures of the Fingers: Treatment with Cerclage Wire Fixation and Immediate Post-Operative Finger Mobilisation in a Wrist Splint
Authors: AL-QATTAN M. M. , AL-LAZZAM A.
Published: August 2007

The cerclage wire technique of internal fixation for displaced long oblique/spiral metacarpal shaft fractures has not gained popularity for two reasons: many believe that wire migration is a real possibility and that the fixation technique is not rigid enough to allow immediate postoperative finger mobilisation. In this report, the authors review the results of 19 cases of long oblique/spiral mid-shaft metacarpal shaft fractures of the fingers treated by cerclage wires and immediate postoperative mobilisation of all finger joints. The study included 17 men and two women with a mean age of 35 (range 18–45) years. After a mean follow-up of 8 weeks, all patients regained full range of motion of the fingers and no complications were noted. It is concluded that cerclage wire fixation of long oblique/spiral mid-shaft metacarpal fractures requires neither scoring of the bone (a technique recommended by other authors to prevent wire migration) nor finger immobilisation and that the technique consistently achieves good functional results.
The Inflammatory Response and Hyaluronan Synthases in the Rabbit Flexor Tendon and Tendon Sheath Following Injury
Authors: BERGLUND M. , HART D. A. , WIIG M.
Published: August 2007

Using a rabbit model of flexor tendon injury, mRNA levels for a subset of relevant molecules involved in inflammatory and fibrotic processes were assessed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction 3, 6, 12 and 24 days after injury. Increased levels of COX-2, IL-1β, MMP-13 and TIMP-1 mRNA were detected in both tendon and tendon sheath following injury, with each molecule exhibiting tissue and time-dependent changes. MMP-13 and TIMP-1 mRNA levels were markedly upregulated in both tissues, whereas COX-2 and IL-1β predominantly increased in tendon. Both hyaluronan synthase (HAS) 2 and 3 exhibited increases in mRNA levels in tendon tissue after injury, HAS 2 being more pronounced. These findings support the concept that healing in the flexor tendon and the sheath involve different molecular events and that each tissue may require unique modifications if healing is to be enhanced and adhesions reduced.
The Branching Pattern and Communications of the Musculocutaneous Nerve
Authors: KRISHNAMURTHY A. , NAYAK S. R. , PRABHU L. VENKATRAYA , HEGDE R. P. , SURENDRAN S. , KUMAR M. , PAI M. M.
Published: August 2007

Anatomical variations of peripheral nerves are important and can help explain otherwise incomprehensible clinical findings. A study of 26 right and 18 left formalin-preserved upper limbs identified the fact that the musculocutaneous nerve is subject to considerable anatomical variation, including communication with the median nerve. A study of its branching pattern made us aware of why debility after trauma to the lateral aspect of the upper arm may be more than expected, and this study considers the clinical and surgical importance of these variations of the musculocutaneous nerve.
Wrist Flexion Contracture: An Unusual Complication Following Palmaris Longus Tendon Harvest
Authors: HATTORI Y. , WAHEGAONKAR A. , ADDOSOOKI A. , DOI K.
Published: August 2007

We describe a case of 3-year-old girl in whom flexion contracture of the wrist developed following harvest of the palmaris longus tendon with a tendon stripper.
Dorsoradial Avulsion of the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex with an Avulsion Fracture of the Sigmoid Notch of the Radius
Authors: MORISAWA Y. , NAKAMURA T. , TAZAKI K.
Published: August 2007

We report two extremely rare cases of dorsal radial avulsion injury of the triangular fibrocartilage complex accompanied by an avulsion fracture of the sigmoid notch of the radius. Anatomical reduction of the bone fragment in conjunction with reattachment of the dorsal portion of the radioulnar ligament to the radial sigmoid notch were necessary to restore stability of the distal radioulnar joint and tension of the triangular fibrocartilage proper.
Closing the Childcare Gap: The Interaction of Childcare Provision and Mothers' Agency in Norway
Authors: ELLINGSÆTER ANNE LISE , GULBRANDSEN LARS
Published: August 2007

In most European countries a ‘childcare gap’ exists: that is, a discrepancy between the demand for and provision of childcare. Among the countries that are succeeding in closing the gap are the Nordic welfare states. Hence, knowledge abouthowchildcare provision in these countries has developed is of wide interest. This article stresses the importance of studying how the interactive processes of changing provision and demand explain the building up and the closing of national childcare gaps. Although there are similarities in the development of Nordic childcare services, some differences stand out. The comparison indicates that complex societal processes interact in shaping provision and demand. These dynamics are explored in more detail in the Norwegian case, where the interactive processes have produced an ever-increasing demand for childcare. The demand side is crucial, particularly the role of mothers in generating momentum for policy change. Mothers' changing labour market patterns and their demand for childcare are important driving forces for policy change.
ADJUSTED VITERBI TRAINING
Authors: Lember Jüri , Koloydenko Alexey
Published: August 2007

Viterbi training (VT) provides a fast but inconsistent estimator of hidden Markov models (HMM). The inconsistency is alleviated with a little extra computation when we enable VT to asymptotically fix the true values of the parameters. This relies on infinite Viterbi alignments and associated with them limiting probability distributions. First in a sequel, this article is a proof of concept; it focuses on mixture models, an important but special case of HMM where the limiting distributions can be calculated exactly. A simulated Gaussian mixture shows that our central algorithm (VA1) can significantly improve the accuracy of VT with little extra cost. Next in the sequel, we present elsewhere a theory of the adjusted VT for the general HMMs, where the limiting distributions are more challenging to find. Here, we also present another, more advanced correction to VT and verify its fast convergence and high accuracy; its computational feasibility requires additional investigation.
Breast-feeding in South Korea: factors influencing its initiation and duration
Authors: Chung Woojin , Kim Hanjoong , Nam Chung-Mo
Published: August 2007

Objective

To investigate factors influencing the practices of partial breast-feeding (PBF) and exclusive breast-feeding (EBF).

Design

A national, cross-sectional survey was conducted among married women aged 15–49 years from May to August 2003.

Setting

South Korea.

Subjects

A total of 865 mothers answered questions regarding the feeding practices of their youngest baby, born between January 2001 and May 2003.

Results

The initiation rates of PBF and EBF were 81% and 63%, respectively. However, the median durations of PBF and EBF were very short: 12 and 8 weeks, respectively. According to stepwise logistic and Cox regression analyses, the more prenatal care women received, the more likely they were to initiate PBF and EBF but the less likely to continue EBF. Delivery by Caesarean section decreased the initiation of PBF and EBF. The mother’s education level and employment status before marriage, the amount of prenatal care, delivery method and baby’s status at birth affected breast-feeding initiation, whereas the amount of prenatal care influenced breast-feeding duration.

Conclusion

To promote breast-feeding, education and campaigning on the importance of continued breast-feeding should be provided to the general public, particularly to health workers in maternity units.
A pilot study investigating the relationship between perceived and actual workload and estimated energy intake in riding centre horses
Authors: Dekker H , Marlin D , Alexander L , Bishop R , Harris P
Published: August 2007

Feeding regimens for horses are usually based on perceived workload (PW) together with body condition. This can lead to inappropriate energy intake and, in particular, excess weight. Therefore, a more detailed understanding of the factors influencing individual energy needs under practical field conditions would be valuable. The purpose of this study was to evaluate to what extent the variations in actual versus PW may influence the estimated energy intake required to maintain body weight (BW) in individual animals. Eight mature, experienced riding school horses, chosen at random and maintaining a constant BW, were observed in standard flat work lessons with four different instructors at an equine training college. Heart rate (HR) and the structure of the lessons were recorded. Relative workload (RW) was determined for each horse by dividing its average HR per lesson by its estimated maximum HR (HRmax). PW was estimated by each instructor for each horse using a scale of 1–5. One-way ANOVA andt-test were used to determine the differences and Spearman's and Pearson's correlations were used to determine the correlations. The mean estimated RW was 39.1% of the estimated HRmax( ± 5.7%) and was not significantly different between instructors (P>0.05). Rider weight as a percentage of BW showed a weak but statistically significant positive correlation with mean HR (r2 = 0.14,P < 0.05). Estimated energy intake was negatively correlated with BCS (r2 = 0.65,P < 0.001) and differed significantly (P < 0.05) between light (BW = 455–532 kg) horses (mean 0.18 ± 0.04 MJ kg− 1BW) and heavy (BW = 622–660 kg) horses (mean 0.15 ± 0.03 MJ kg− 1BW). No difference was found in estimated energy intake between different workloads (flat work only or flat work and jumping) (P>0.05). When BW was compared with estimated energy intake, no relation was found either (P>0.05). These results suggest that the amount of energy needed to maintain BW in individual horses cannot necessarily be estimated simply on the basis of the intensity and the duration of structured exercise. Other factors including age, individual digestive and metabolic efficiency, body condition and possibly the energy utilized through non-structured activity (e.g. box walking) may need to be taken into account.
Describing workload and scientific information on conditioning horses
Authors: Rogers C W , Rivero J L L , van Breda E , Lindner A , Sloet van Oldruitenborgh-Oosterbaan M M
Published: August 2007

At the International Conference on Equine Exercise Physiology (ICEEP7), about 70 people attended the workshop on workload and conditioning guided by the authors. Most of the audience were involved in Thoroughbred or Standardbred racing, and only a limited number of people were mainly involved in FEI equestrian disciplines (sport horses). The workshop and this review article address the measurement of workload and conditioning of the Thoroughbred racehorse. It was proposed that workload could be quantified using a few selected parameters commonly recorded in the racing industries, such as velocity and distance, to generate a cumulative workload index. The review of conditioning focuses on the Thoroughbred racehorse and examines what can be modified with training, how training programmes should be designed based upon scientific methods and how training programmes should be routinely designed in current practice. It would appear that, in general, the methods used in practice for training Thoroughbred racehorses are quite similar to those used in a set of recent scientific studies, particularly in young (2–3-years-old) Thoroughbreds. Nevertheless, both the length of the training programme and the total amount of exercise are usually shorter/lower than ideal in order to maximize physiological adaptations within the animal's body. In planning the training programme, it is very important to recognize that different adaptations occur at different rates, and this will affect the relative amount of training that should be applied to achieve specific adaptations.
Practical assessment of heart rate response to exercise under field conditions
Authors: Harris Pat , Marlin David J. , Davidson Helen , Rodgerson Jean , Gregory Anna , Harrison David
Published: August 2007

Regular monitoring of the heart rate (HR):speed relationship may help evaluate response to training and aid in the early detection of problems. This relationship is normally determined using a treadmill or via a ridden test conducted outside on a track. Simple practical alternative methods to obtain this relationship without access to a treadmill or a track could be of value in the field. To evaluate whether the HR:speed relationship could be determined via an indoor ridden test or a lunge test, HR was monitored on two occasions at least 3 h apart, in 12 adult horses (mixed breed) in a familiar environment during a 5 or 7 m radius circle lunge (unridden) test (5LT or 7LT) and an incremental (ridden) test (RT) on the same day. The RT comprised two ridden laps of the perimeter of a 60 × 40 m indoor school at walk, three laps at trot, three at medium canter and four at fast canter (all on the right rein). The speed of each lap was recorded. The LT comprised lunging for 2 min on each rein at walk, trot and canter. Speed was determined from the number of laps completed and measurement of the distance travelled. HR and speed were highly correlated in both lunge and ridden tests (bothr = 0.99 ± 0.01).V140on the ridden test (5.2 ± 0.6 m s− 1) was significantly greater than on the pooled lunge test data (4.4 ± 0.6;P < 0.0001). There was a negative correlation between recovery HR at 2 min following either the LT or RT andV140(P < 0.05). The slope of the HR versus speed relationship andV140were not different between RT and 7LT, but were significantly different from those of the 5LT (P < 0.05).V140was always lower on the lunge tests compared with the ridden test. This suggests that, in this study, lunging without a rider increased the metabolic demand above that for being ridden at a similar speed.V140determined by the 7LT gave the closest approximation to theV140determined by the RT. The HR:speed relationship can be obtained either from riding an incremental test in an indoor school or from an unridden lunge test.
Evolution of some biochemical markers of growth in relation to osteoarticular status in young horses: results of a longitudinal study in three breeds
Authors: Valette J P , Robert C , Toquet M P , Denoix J M , Fortier G
Published: August 2007

Osteocalcin (OC), bone fraction of alkaline phosphatases (BAP) and hydroxyproline (HOP) are markers of bone cell activity. The kinetics of these markers and the analysis of their variations could be related to the osteoarticular status (OAS) of young horses. The growth of Thoroughbreds, French Trotters and Selle Français horses was followed up to 18 months. Blood samples were taken regularly to measure OC, HOP and BAP by standardized techniques. The OAS was evaluated by radiographic examination of the limbs. Based on radiographic findings, two groups of horses were investigated, with no lesions or severely affected. Analysis of variance was used to detect the effects of age and breed, and OAS on parameters. The logarithmic model was used to determine the kinetics of the markers. A rapid decrease in marker concentrations with age and differences between breed was observed. At birth, BAP, OC and HOP concentrations were significantly higher in normal horses (1910 UI l− 1, 192 ng ml− 1and 35 mg l− 1, respectively) than in horses with severe lesions (1620 UI l− 1, 149 ng ml− 1and 24 mg l− 1, respectively). During the first 6 months, OC, HOP and BAP remained lower in severely affected horses.
Three-dimensional kinematic analysis of head and limb movements of lame and non-lame colts
Authors: Christovão F G , Barros R M L , Martins C B , Silva M A G , Freitas E V V , Lacerda Neto J C , Queiroz-Neto A
Published: August 2007

Lameness manifests itself during the movement of the animal or at rest, indicating a structural or functional disturbance in one or more limbs. Videographic analyses allow the qualitative and quantitative investigation of the movement, reducing the subjectivity of evaluations. The objective was to record the alterations in the movement of the head and limbs of horses in a lame and non-lame condition. Video cameras (60 Hz) and computational methods were used. Six Purebred Arabian colts were filmed on a treadmill, at walk and at trot, before and after induction of lameness. Lameness was induced in the left forelimb utilizing a transient lameness model. Markers were placed on the zygomatic process of the temporal bone, spiny process of the sixth thoracic and first lumbar vertebrae and on the proximal phalange. Nine strides were analysed. At walk and at trot, the animals demonstrated two vertical head movements per stride, while after induction of lameness only one head movement was observed per stride, where this movement was of greater amplitude. The head was shown to be in a more elevated position when the lame limb made first contact with the treadmill belt, which was not observed in the case of the healthy limbs. Only with trotting did the lame animals manifest a prolonged duration of the stance phase for all limbs. The lame animals had a longer support time, lifted the non-lame limbs and showed a shorter stride. Videographic analyses offered details of the alterations in the movement of horses, which are important in the diagnosis of lameness.
Crop and cattle responses to tillage systems for integrated crop–livestock production in the Southern Piedmont, USA
Authors: Franzluebbers A.J. , Stuedemann J.A.
Published: August 2007

Integration of crops and livestock has the potential to provide a multitude of benefits to soil and water conservation and nutrient cycling efficiency, while reducing economic risk and increasing profitability. We conducted a field study from May 2002 to October 2005 to determine crop and cattle responses to three management factors on a Typic Kanhapludult in Georgia, USA. Summer grain/winter cover [sorghum (Sorghum bicolorL. Moench) or corn (Zea maysL.)/rye (Secale cerealeL.)] and winter grain/summer cover [wheat (Triticum aestivumL.)/pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucumL. R. Br.)] were managed with either conventional tillage (CT) or no tillage (NT) and with or without cattle grazing of cover crops. All crops were successfully established, irrespective of tillage and cover crop management. Although pearl millet was often lower in the plant stand with NT than with CT, plants compensated with greater biomass on an area basis. Across years, grain yield of sorghum (1.9 Mg ha−1during three seasons) and corn (7.3 Mg ha−1in one season) was 25% greater under NT than under CT when the cover crop was not grazed. Wheat grain yield (2.7 Mg ha−1during three seasons) was unaffected by tillage and cover crop management. Unharvested stover production of summer grain crops was greater with NT than with CT (6.5 versus 4.1 Mg ha−1;P<0.001). Grazing rye rather than allowing it to accumulate as surface residue reduced summer grain yield 23% and reduced standing grain-crop dry matter 26% under NT, but had no effect under CT. In contrast, grazing pearl millet rather than allowing it to accumulate as surface residue increased wheat standing dry matter yield by 25±14% (mean±standard deviation among 3 years and two tillage systems). Ungrazed cover crop production was greater under NT than under CT for rye (7.0 versus 6.0 Mg ha−1;P=0.03) and pearl millet (10.2 versus 7.6 Mg ha−1;P=0.01). Calf daily gain was either greater or tended to be greater under NT than under CT on rye (2.27 versus 2.09 kg head−1d−1;P=0.15) and pearl millet (2.05 versus 1.81 kg head−1d−1;P=0.05). Total cattle gain per grazing season was either greater or tended to be greater with NT than with CT on rye (350 versus 204 kg ha−1;P=0.01) and pearl millet (324 versus 277 kg ha−1;P=0.15). Net return over variable costs was greater with grazing than without grazing of cover crops (US$302 versus −US$63 ha−1;P<0.001). Livestock grazing of cover crops had variable effects on subsequent crop production, but increased economic return and diversity overall. Therefore, an integrated crop–livestock production system with conservation tillage is recommended as a viable option for producers to diversify farming operations to avoid risk, improve ecological production of crops, and potentially avoid environmental damage from soil erosion and nutrient loss.