bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probabilistic ecological hazard assessment of parabens using Daphnia magna and Pimephales promelas
Authors: Dobbins Laura L. , Usenko Sascha , Brain Richard A. , Brooks Bryan W.
Published: July 2009

Parabens are common antimicrobial agents found in thousands of pharmaceuticals and personal care products. Parabens are introduced into aquatic ecosystems from wastewater treatment plant effluents and have been detected in surface waters in the low microgram per liter range. Although these compounds display low toxicity in mammals, paraben toxicity to aquatic organisms has not been investigated. Standardized acute and subchronic endpoints in larval fish (Pimephales promelas) and cladoceran (Daphnia magna) models were examined for seven different parabens (methyl-, ethyl-, isopropyl-, propyl-, isobutyl-, butyl-, benzylparaben), which encompassed a range of log P values. Paraben 48 h median lethal concentration values (LC50) ranged from 4.0 to 24.6 mg/L in D. magna and 3.3 to > 160.0 mg/L in fathead minnow. Growth and reproduction in D. magna had lowest-observed-effect concentrations (LOECs) ranging from 0.12 to 9.0 mg/L and 1.5 to 6.0 mg/L, respectively. Fathead minnow growth was adversely affected at levels ranging from 1.0 to 25.0 mg/L. Aquatic toxicity of the parabens was inversely related to lipophilicity, suggesting that responses using standardized endpoints resulted from narcosis. Utilizing toxicity benchmark concentrations (e.g., LC50s, LOECs) for each compound, chemical toxicity distributions, a probabilistic hazard assessment technique, were developed to assess the probabilities of detecting parabens that elicit a response at or below a given concentration. For the responses assessed in the present study, the 5th centile values (the concentration at which 5% of parabens elicit a response) ranged from 15 μL to 2.43 mg/L, with D. magna growth eliciting the lowest 5th centile value and acute D. magna mortality eliciting the highest. The distributions demonstrated that at environmentally relevant concentrations in developed countries there is limited acute or subchronic aquatic hazard of parabens to the organisms and responses examined.
Modeling zinc regulation in small mammals
Authors: Loos Mark , Ragas Ad M. J. , Tramper Julian J. , Hendriks A. Jan
Published: July 2009

Due to large zinc discharges into the global environment, both terrestrial and aquatic environments have been polluted with zinc. The embanked floodplains of the lower Rhine River in the Netherlands contain large amounts of heavy metals, including zinc. These large amounts of heavy metals may pose risks to flora and fauna by accumulation in food webs, and risk assessment may be required. However, toxicokinetic models for zinc metabolism in mammalian wildlife species are currently lacking. The present study describes the development of a zinc kinetics model that predicts internal zinc concentrations in small mammals by modeling zinc absorption and excretion dependent on the dietary zinc intake using adapted Michaelis-Menten equations. The equations were parameterized based on experimental data reported in the scientific literature. Within the dietary zinc range of 3 to 104 mg/kg dry weight, the model predicts internal zinc concentrations and shows that the internal zinc is regulated within this range. Outside this range, the model could not be calibrated due to a lack of data. Validation of the model with four small mammal species living in an embanked floodplain along a distributary of the Rhine River illustrated that the model predicts internal zinc concentrations differing up to a factor of 1.6 (Common shrew) to 1.7 (Common vole) from field measurements.
A decision-analysis approach for contaminated dredged material management in South Korea
Authors: Hong Gi Hoon , Kim Suk Hyun , Suedel Burton C , Clarke Joan U , Kim Jongbum
Published: July 2009

To meet London Protocol requirements, South Korea is preparing to reduce the need for disposal of dredged material at sea. The new requirements controlling ocean disposal of dredged material pose significant challenges to the South Korean government, because the previous practice of offshore disposal of contaminated dredged material is no longer permitted. Hence, other alternatives for treating and disposing of contaminated dredged material are being evaluated and selected for implementation. A new management and decision approach is therefore needed for regulators and implementers to show what information and what decision-making processes were used to make the decision, to increase administrative transparency for such projects in the public domain. To address this need, an iterative approach was developed for dredged material management that includes the essential elements of process, people, and tools needed for successful environmental decision making. The approach has 6 steps: problem definition, developing objectives and criteria, identifying alternatives, performing the evaluation, comparing alternatives, and selecting the preferred alternative. The primary objective of the approach is to provide a systematic means of exploring contaminated dredged material management alternatives in South Korea using criteria that integrate risk with economic and stakeholder value information. The approach incorporates the desired decision-making attributes of transparency, comparative analysis, and inclusion of public input. Although it was developed for South Korea, the approach can be applied in any situation in which dredged material management alternatives are being considered to manage contaminated sediment risks. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2010; 6:72–82. © 2009 SETAC
Private Lands Programs and Lessons Learned in Illinois
Authors: KAMMIN LAURA A. , HUBERT PATRICK D. , WARNER RICHARD E. , MANKIN PHILIP C.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT  State wildlife agencies commonly offer private landowners cost‐share and technical assistance to improve habitat, but the cost‐effectiveness and long‐term outcomes of these efforts are rarely evaluated. In 1998, we began a 3‐part, statewide evaluation of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ (IDNR; USA) Private Land Wildlife Habitat Management Program (hereafter the program) as it functioned from 1986 to 1996. We sent a mail‐back questionnaire to IDNR biologists to collect information on their perceptions of the program. We sent a separate mail‐back questionnaire to private landholders who participated in the program to ascertain their demographic profile, motivations for participation, and attitudes regarding the program. We also conducted on‐site evaluations of private properties that were managed under the guidance of the program. We conducted our study to 1) assess if the program effectively assisted participants in establishing and maintaining wildlife habitat, and 2) determine factors associated with optimal management of wildlife habitat on private lands to refine the program and improve effectiveness. We found significant differences between participants in their land use priorities and motivations for managing wildlife and in the resources available to participants to establish and maintain habitat. Our results indicate that although financial incentives may increase participation in private lands initiatives, improving technical and material assistance to landholders is essential for maintaining quality wildlife habitat over the long‐term.
Effects of Roads on Endangered San Joaquin Kit Foxes
Authors: CYPHER BRIAN L. , BJURLIN CURTIS D. , NELSON JULIA L.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT San Joaquin kit foxes (Vulpes macrotis mutica) occur in central California, USA, and are endangered due to habitat loss and degradation. As the human population of California grows, more roads are being constructed in remaining kit fox habitat. We examined effects of 2‐lane roads on demographic and ecological patterns of kit foxes on the Lokern Natural Area (LNA) from August 2001 to June 2004. Of 60 radiocollared kit foxes, only one was struck by a vehicle. Foxes were assigned to 1 of 3 risk categories (high, medium, or low) based on proportion of time spent in road‐effect zones, which were defined by the probability of a fox encountering a road during nocturnal movements. Fox survival probabilities, reproductive success, litter size, nocturnal movements, and den placement all were similar among risk categories. Nocturnal locations of foxes were closer to roads than were den locations, and den fidelity was lowest for medium‐risk foxes and highest for low‐risk foxes but intermediate for high‐risk foxes. Food availability and use were not affected by proximity to roads. We were unable to detect any significant detrimental effects from 2‐lane roads on kit fox demography and ecology. Our results suggest that standard mitigation strategies, such as crossing structures and exclusionary fencing, would not benefit kit foxes on the LNA.
Lesser Scaup Breeding Probability and Female Survival on the Yukon Flats, Alaska
Authors: MARTIN KATE H. , LINDBERG MARK S. , SCHMUTZ JOEL A. , BERTRAM MARK R.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT  Information on the ecology of waterfowl breeding in the boreal forest is lacking, despite the boreal region's importance to continental waterfowl populations and to duck species that are currently declining, such as lesser scaup (Aythya affinis). We estimated breeding probability and breeding season survival of female lesser scaup on the Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge, Alaska, USA, in 2005 and 2006. We captured and marked 93 lesser scaup with radiotransmitters during prelaying and nesting periods. Although all marked lesser scaup females were paired throughout prelaying and incubation periods, we estimated breeding probability over both years as 0.12 (SE = 0.05, n = 67) using telemetry. Proportion of lesser scaup females undergoing rapid follicle growth at capture in 2006 was 0.46 (SE = 0.11, n = 37), based on concentration of yolk precursors in blood plasma. By combining methods based on telemetry, yolk precursors, and postovulatory follicles, we estimated maximum breeding probability as 0.68 (SE = 0.08, n = 37) in 2006. Notably, breeding probability was positively related to female body mass. Survival of female lesser scaup during the nesting and brood‐rearing periods was 0.92 (SE = 0.05) in 2005 and 0.86 (SE = 0.08) in 2006. Our results suggest that breeding probability is lower than expected for lesser scaup. In addition, the implicit assumption of continental duck‐monitoring programs that all paired females attempt to breed should be reevaluated. Recruitment estimates based on annual breeding‐pair surveys may overestimate productivity of scaup pairs in the boreal forest.
Residence Probability and Population Size of Red Knots During Spring Stopover in the Mid‐Atlantic Region of the United States
Authors: COHEN JONATHAN B. , KARPANTY SARAH M. , FRASER JAMES D. , WATTS BRYAN D. , TRUITT BARRY R.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT  Weekly counts of western Atlantic red knots (Calidris canutus rufa) at their Delaware Bay migration stopover site have suggested a major decline since the 1980s. We estimated red knot spring passage population size in the New Jersey Coast‐Delaware Bay region (DENJ; 2004 and 2006) and Virginia (VA; 2006 and 2007), USA, by correcting weekly aerial counts for mean daily residence probability between counts in a Monte‐Carlo simulation. We used daily telemetry relocations in mark‐resight models to estimate mean daily residence probability. Average daily residence probability was approximately 1.0 in mid‐May, 0.96–0.97 in the week of 22 May, and 0.64–0.77 after May 28 in DENJ in 2004 and 2006 and in VA in 2006. Average daily residency was approximately 0.88 in VA in 2007 from 22 May to 5 June. No birds moved from VA to DENJ in 2006 and only 2 birds (5.5%) moved in 2007. Stopover population sizes (±SE) in DENJ were 17,108 ± 1,322 in 2004 and 19,555 ± 831 in 2006, and in VA were 7,224 ± 389 in 2006 and 8,332 ± 718 in 2007, significantly greater than peak aerial counts. Years with similar peak counts had different residence probabilities; hence, adjustments for turnover should be used in the future to assess annual population changes. Our results suggest that VA can support a significant portion of this red knot subspecies during migration in at least some years. Managing red knots for recovery should entail improving our understanding of the use of other Atlantic Coast sites and protecting key coastal habitat from disturbance and development.
Habitat Assessment for Giant Pandas in the Qinling Mountain Region of China
Authors: FENG TIAN‐TIAN , VAN MANEN FRANK T. , ZHAO NA‐XUN , LI MING , WEI FU‐WEN
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT Because habitat loss and fragmentation threaten giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), habitat protection and restoration are important conservation measures for this endangered species. However, distribution and value of potential habitat to giant pandas on a regional scale are not fully known. Therefore, we identified and ranked giant panda habitat in Foping Nature Reserve, Guanyinshan Nature Reserve, and adjacent areas in the Qinling Mountains of China. We used Mahalanobis distance and 11 digital habitat layers to develop a multivariate habitat signature associated with 247 surveyed giant panda locations, which we then applied to the study region. We identified approximately 128 km2of giant panda habitat in Foping Nature Reserve (43.6% of the reserve) and 49 km2in Guanyinshan Nature Reserve (33.6% of the reserve). We defined core habitat areas by incorporating a minimum patch‐size criterion (5.5 km2) based on home‐range size. Percentage of core habitat area was higher in Foping Nature Reserve (41.8% of the reserve) than Guanyinshan Nature Reserve (26.3% of the reserve). Within the larger analysis region, Foping Nature Reserve contained 32.7% of all core habitat areas we identified, indicating regional importance of the reserve. We observed a negative relationship between distribution of core areas and presence of roads and small villages. Protection of giant panda habitat at lower elevations and improvement of habitat linkages among core habitat areas are important in a regional approach to giant panda conservation.
Assessment of Predictive Habitat Models for Bighorn Sheep in California's Peninsular Ranges
Authors: RUBIN ESTHER S. , STERMER CHRIS J. , BOYCE WALTER M. , TORRES STEVEN G.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT  We developed predictive habitat models for a bighorn sheep (Ovis Canadensis) population in the Peninsular Ranges of southern California, USA, using 2 Geographic Information System modeling techniques, Ecological Niche Factor Analysis (ENFA) and Genetic Algorithm for Rule‐set Production (GARP). We used >16,000 Global Positioning System locations from 34 animals in 5 subpopulations to develop and test ENFA and GARP models, and we then compared these models to each other and to the expert‐based model presented in the United States Fish and Wildlife Service's Recovery Plan for this population. Based on a suite of evaluation methods, we found both ENFA and GARP to provide useful predictions of habitat; however, models developed with GARP appeared to have higher predictive power. Habitat delineations resulting from GARP models were similar to the expert‐based model, affirming that the expert‐based model provided a useful delineation of bighorn sheep habitat in the Peninsular Ranges. In addition, all 3 models identified continuous bighorn sheep habitat from the northern to southern extent of our study area, indicating that the Recovery Plan's recommendation of maintaining habitat connectivity throughout the range is an appropriate goal.
Spatial Partitioning of Predation Risk in a Multiple Predator‐Multiple Prey System
Authors: ATWOOD TODD C. , GESE ERIC M. , KUNKEL KYRAN E.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT  Minimizing risk of predation from multiple predators can be difficult, particularly when the risk effects of one predator species may influence vulnerability to a second predator species. We decomposed spatial risk of predation in a 2‐predator, 2‐prey system into relative risk of encounter and, given an encounter, conditional relative risk of being killed. Then, we generated spatially explicit functions of total risk of predation for each prey species (elk [Cervus elaphus] and mule deer [Odocoileus hemionus]) by combining risks of encounter and kill. For both mule deer and elk, topographic and vegetation type effects, along with resource selection by their primary predator (cougars [Puma concolor] and wolves [Canis lupus], respectively), strongly influenced risk of encounter. Following an encounter, topographic and vegetation type effects altered the risk of predation for both ungulates. For mule deer, risk of direct predation was largely a function of cougar resource selection. However, for elk, risk of direct predation was not only a function of wolf occurrence, but also of habitat attributes that increased elk vulnerability to predation following an encounter. Our analysis of stage‐based (i.e., encounter and kill) predation indicates that the risk effect of elk shifting to structurally complex habitat may ameliorate risk of direct predation by wolves but exacerbate risk of direct predation by cougars. Information on spatiotemporal patterns of predation will be become increasingly important as state agencies in the western United States face pressure to integrate predator and prey management.
Marten Fur Harvests and Landscape Change in West‐Central Alberta
Authors: WEBB SHEVENELL M.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT Trapping for furbearers remains an important outdoor activity in Alberta, Canada, despite low fur prices and extensive industrial development. We investigated the influence of landscape change on furbearer harvests using 30 years of marten (Martes Americana) harvest records, interviews with trappers, and Geographic Information System maps of industrial activity and vegetation types. We used an information‐theoretic approach to explore variation in trapper success. Cover type and landscape metrics apparently influenced trapper success, because traplines where martens were consistently caught had less vehicle and all‐terrain vehicle access, fewer oil and gas wells, and greater proportion of mature conifer forests than traplines where martens were infrequently caught. We identified an important cutoff value or statistical threshold that identified 45% closed‐conifer cover, suggesting that a minimum amount of forest cover is crucial for trappers to catch martens. We conclude that the nature and extent of industrial disturbance is contributing to the decision by trappers to trap as well as influencing their success. We recommend that wildlife managers collect trapping effort information (i.e., species‐specific no. of trap‐nights) on fur reports in association with landscape changes to monitor furbearer harvests more effectively.
Strategies for Nest‐Site Selection by King Eiders
Authors: BENTZEN REBECCA L. , POWELL ABBY N. , SUYDAM ROBERT S.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT  Nest site selection is a critical component of reproduction and has presumably evolved in relation to predation, local resources, and microclimate. We investigated nest‐site choice by king eiders (Somateria spectabilis) on the coastal plain of northern Alaska, USA, 2003–2005. We hypothesized that nest‐site selection is driven by predator avoidance and that a variety of strategies including concealment, seclusion, and conspecific or inter‐specific nest defense might lead to improved nesting success. We systematically searched wetland basins for king eider nests and measured habitat and social variables at nests (n = 212) and random locations (n = 493). King eiders made use of both secluded and concealed breeding strategies; logistic regression models revealed that females selected nests close to water, on islands, and in areas with high willow (Salix spp.) cover but did not select sites near conspecific or glaucous gull (Larus hyperboreus) nests. The most effective nest‐placement strategy may vary depending on density and types of nest predators; seclusion is likely a mammalian‐predator avoidance tactic whereas concealment may provide protection from avian predators. We recommend that managers in northern Alaska attempt to maintain wetland basins with islands and complex shorelines to provide potential nest sites in the vicinity of water.
Loss of Butt‐End Leg Bands on Male Wild Turkeys
Authors: DIEFENBACH DUANE R. , CASALENA MARY JO , SCHIAVONE MICHAEL V. , SWANSON DAVID , REYNOLDS MICHAEL , BOYD ROBERT C. , ERIKSEN ROBERT , SWIFT BRYAN
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT  We estimated loss of butt‐end leg bands on male wild turkeys (Meleagris gallapavo) captured in New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania (USA) during December‐March, 2006–2008. We used aluminum rivet leg bands as permanent marks to estimate loss of regular aluminum, enameled aluminum, anodized aluminum, and stainless steel butt‐end leg bands placed below the spur. We used band loss information from 887 turkeys recovered between 31 days and 570 days after release (x̄ = 202 days). Band loss was greater for turkeys banded as adults (>1 yr old) than juveniles and was greater for aluminum than stainless steel bands. We estimated band retention was 79–96%, depending on age at banding and type of band, for turkeys recovered 3 months after release. Band retention was <50% for all age classes and band types 15 months after banding. We concluded that use of butt‐end leg bands on male wild turkeys is inappropriate for use in mark‐recapture studies.
A Note on Opportunism and Parsimony in Data Collection
Authors: BISCHOF RICHARD , ZEDROSSER ANDREAS , BRUNBERG SVEN , SWENSON JON E.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT  Out of precaution, opportunism, and a general tendency towards thoroughness, researchers studying wildlife often collect multiple, sometimes highly correlated measurements or samples. Although such redundancy has its benefits in terms of quality control, increased resolution, and unforeseen future utility, it also comes at a cost if animal welfare (e.g., duration of handling) or time and resource limitation are a concern. Using principle components analysis and bootstrapping, we analyzed sets of morphometric measurements collected on 171 brown bears in Sweden during a long‐term monitoring study (1984–2006). We show that of 11 measurements, 7 were so similar in terms of their predictive power for an overall size index that each individual measurement provided little additional information. We argue that when multiple research objectives or data collection goals compete for a limited amount of time or resources, it is advisable to critically evaluate the amount of additional information contributed by extra measurements. We recommend that wildlife researchers look critically at the data they collect not just in terms of quality but also in terms of need.
Evaluation of Diabetic Foot Ulcer Healing With Hyperspectral Imaging of Oxyhemoglobin and Deoxyhemoglobin
Authors: Nouvong Aksone , Hoogwerf Byron , Mohler Emile , Davis Brian , Tajaddini Azita , Medenilla Elizabeth
Published: July 2009

OBJECTIVE

Foot ulceration remains a major health problem for diabetic patients and has a major impact on the cost of diabetes treatment. We tested a hyperspectral imaging technology that quantifies cutaneous tissue hemoglobin oxygenation and generated anatomically relevant tissue oxygenation maps to assess the healing potential of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A prospective single-arm blinded study was completed in which 66 patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes were enrolled and followed over a 24-week period. Clinical, medical, and diabetes histories were collected. Transcutaneous oxygen tension was measured at the ankles. Superficial tissue oxyhemoglobin (oxy) and deoxyhemoglobin (deoxy) were measured with hyperspectral imaging from intact tissue bordering the ulcer. A healing index derived from oxy and deoxy values was used to assess the potential for healing.

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients with 73 ulcers completed the study; at 24 weeks, 54 ulcers healed while 19 ulcers did not heal. When using the healing index to predict healing, the sensitivity was 80% (43 of 54), the specificity was 74% (14 of 19), and the positive predictive value was 90% (43 of 48). The sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive values increased to 86, 88, and 96%, respectively, when removing three false-positive osteomyelitis cases and four false-negative cases due to measurements on a callus. The results indicate that cutaneous tissue oxygenation correlates with wound healing in diabetic patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperspectral imaging of tissue oxy and deoxy may predict the healing of DFUs with high sensitivity and specificity based on information obtained from a single visit.
How Do We Reduce the Number of Cases of Missed Postpartum Diabetes in Women With Recent Gestational Diabetes Mellitus?
Authors: Schaefer-Graf Ute M. , Klavehn Silke , Hartmann Reinhard , Kleinwechter Helmut , Demandt Norbert , Sorger Marianne , Kjos Siri L. , Vetter Klaus , Abou-Dakn Michael
Published: July 2009

OBJECTIVE

Up to 30% of women with recent gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) remain glucose intolerant after delivery. However, the rate of postpartum oral glucose tolerance tests (ppOGTTs) is low. Our aim in this study was to develop a model for risk assessment to target women with high risk for postpartum diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In 605 Caucasian women with GDM, antenatal obstetrical and glucose data and the glucose data of the ppOGTTs performed 13 weeks (median) after delivery were prospectively collected.

RESULTS

A total of 132 (21.8%) women had an abnormal ppOGTT (2.8% impaired fasting glucose, 13.6% impaired glucose tolerance, and 5.5% diabetes). Independent risk factors were BMI ≥30 kg/m2 (prevalence of abnormal ppOGTT 36.0 vs. 17.3%), gestational age at diagnosis <24 weeks (32.4 vs. 18.0%), 1-h antenatal value >200 mg/dl (11.1 mmol/l) (35.2 vs. 14.8%), and insulin therapy (30.3 vs. 14.5%). The prevalence of an abnormal ppOGTT was assessed according to the number of risk factors: 0, 9.2% (14 of 153); 1, 13.4% (25 of 186); 2, 28.5% (43 of 151); 3, 45.6% (26 of 57); and 4, 68.4% (13 of 19). Subjects were divided according to a significant increase of prevalence and risk for a ppOGTT: low risk (59.9% of subjects), <2 risk factors, 11.6%, odds ratio 1.3; intermediate risk, 2 risk factors, 28.5%, 4.0; and high risk, >2 risk factors, 51.3%, 10.5. The intermediate/high-risk group included 86.6% of those with diabetes and 67% of all those with abnormal ppOGTTs.

CONCLUSIONS

Women with ≥2 risk factors have a high risk for an abnormal ppOGTT, and 86% of postpartum diabetes is diagnosed within this group. Targeting women for ppOGTTs based on a risk assessment using available antenatal risk factors might reduce the number of missed cases of postpartum diabetes.
Fetal Inflammatory Response is Often Present at Early Stages of Intra-amniotic Infection, and its Distribution along Cord is Variable
Authors: Katzman Philip J. , Metlay Leon A.
Published: July 2009

This study investigates the hypotheses that (1) the fetal inflammatory response to intra-amniotic infection can occur in early stages of maternal inflammatory response and (2) a difference in early cord inflammation exists at different sites in the cord. Placentas accessioned in our department over a 4-year period with a differential in umbilical vessel inflammation between proximal and distal sections were evaluated for cord inflammation using a 0 to 4 graded scale. Cases were also evaluated for acute chorionic vasculitis and extent of maternal inflammatory response. Of 5566 placentas, 1004 (18%) had some degree of cord inflammation; 120 (12%) had a differential in inflammation between the 2 cord sites. Greater cord inflammation was divided almost equally between proximal (59) and distal (61) sections. Twenty-two cases had 1 or both arteries involved in 1 cord section only. The proximal section had the greater degree of inflammation in 21 (95%) of these cases. Early or no maternal inflammatory response was seen in 63 of 120 cases (52%). Acute chorionic vasculitis was identified in 57 of 106 cases (54%) with at least 2 chorionic vessels present. Fetal inflammatory response can be seen in early amniotic infection, occasionally without finding maternal inflammatory response. The absence of differences in cord vein inflammation depending on cord site and the finding that arteritis occurs close to the placental cord insertion site suggest that cord vessel blood flow dynamics play a role in neutrophil margination. At least 2 cord sections representing proximal and distal sites are recommended to exclude fetal inflammatory response.
Placenta Accreta in a Separate Uterine Horn
Authors: Baughn Mariah R. , Vaux Keith , Masliah Eliezer
Published: July 2009

We report the case of a 30-year-old woman who presented with intrauterine fetal demise of a 17–2/7-week male fetus. The patient failed misoprostol induction and was taken for surgical evaluation. At the time of surgery an ectopic pregnancy in a noncommunicating rudimentary uterine horn was found. Histologic examination of the excised remnant uterine horn showed there was a placenta accreta.
La valorisation des prestations non-bois: particularités genevoises (essai) | Commercialization of non-wood forest services: the case of Geneva (essay)
Authors: Fouvy Patrik
Published: July 2009

The history of the forests in canton Geneva, having led to these being disconnected from productive functions, provides a symptomatic demonstration that the services provided by the forest eco-system are common goods. Having no hope of financial returns in the near future and faced with increasing social demands, the state has invested in the purchase of forest land, financed projects for forest regeneration and improvement of biological diversity and developed infrastructures for visitors. In doing this the state as a public body takes on the provision of services in the public interest. But the further funding for this and for expenses for the private forests, which must be taken into account, are not secured for the future.
Valorisation économique des différentes prestations de la forêt: entre espoir et réalisme (essai) | The commercialization of services provided by the forest: between hopes and reality (essay)
Authors: Eschmann Patrice
Published: July 2009

The value of environmental services provided by the forest is enormous, and is likely to increase in the future. Very high figures are quoted by researchers. The sums involved have led forest owners and forest practitioners alike to hope that in the end non-wood products and services provided by the forest could begin to bring some returns into the forestry accounts. Many arguments can, however, be brought to speak against this idea. Taking into account the socio-economic characteristics of the country, its traditions and the legal bases for these, any benefits from the public services provided by the forest are likely to continue to evade Swiss forest owners in the near future. In spite of this fact, in the more distant future, a payment for these public services could presumably be shown to be profitable to all concerned.
Quale valore attribuire alle prestazioni del bosco? (Saggio) | What value should be placed on services provided by the forest? (Essay)
Authors: David Roland
Published: July 2009

Nature, mountains and forest, these were the essential elements which for many hundreds of years provided a living for a large proportion of the Ticino population. Alpine valley communities lived in close relationship with their environment and were aware of the importance of the forest which protected their settlements. Within a very few years the socioeconomic changes which took place in the second half of the twentieth century have reduced to a minimum the pressure of human intervention on the forest. These changes also led to a modification of the relationship and a loosening of the ties between people and their environment. Nature, mountains and forest have become a synonym for leisure and pleasure, meanwhile other services provided by the forest, with the exception of the protective function, have become, within the last three decades, of secondary importance.

Over the last ten years there has been a steadily growing interest in the various services provided by the forest. The forestry plan in canton Ticino, which was approved in 2007, has as its main objective an intensification of the forest management, on account of the numerous consequences in the general interest that this can bring. In this connection, the local authorities are required to actively support the Patriziati, being the main forest owners in the canton, in assuring the functions of the forest and encouraging the use of wood resources for energetic purposes.

Taking as an example the positive influence of the forest in safeguarding springs of drinking water, together with the efforts made to revive traditional management of the sweet chestnut groves, the article indicates some possibilities for the commercialization of services provided by the forests in Ticino.
Un péage à l'orée du bois? (Essai) | A tollbooth at the forest edge? (Essay)
Authors: Guex Olivier
Published: July 2009

Does the principle of multifunctionality mean that the forest must fulfill every requirement put forward? Does the modern notion of “commodity”, drawn from the laws of supply and demand, give forest owners the right to expect payment for every service provided? In view of the current difficult economic situation and the increase and diversification of these requirements, the questions are justified. This article does not have the pretension to provide all the answers. However, by means of further questions and through the introduction of various examples, the reader is invited to consider the subtly differentiated proportions of the importance of the public interest on the one hand as opposed to that of private interests on the other, and thus to be able to draw conclusions. Thanks to this comparative assessment, possibilities concerning the magnitude and the source of these payments should become clear.
Neighborhood Environment and Self-Rated Health among Adults in Southern Sri Lanka
Authors: Perera Bilesha , Østbye Truls , Jayawardana Chandramali
Published: July 2009

The prevalenceof different neighborhood environmental stressors and associations between the stressors and self-rated health are described in a representative sample of 2,077 individuals, aged 18-85 years, in southern Sri Lanka. Mosquito menace (69.4%), stray dog problems (26.8%), nuisance from neighbors (20.3%), and nuisance from drug users (18.7%) were found to be the most prevalent environmental stressors. None of the stressors investigated were associated with self-rated physical health, but nuisance from neighbors, nuisance from drug users, shortage of water and having poor water/ sewage drainage system were associated with self-rated mental health among the respondents.
Inhibition of Citrinin-Induced Apoptotic Biochemical Signaling in Human Hepatoma G2 Cells by Resveratrol
Authors: Chen Chia-Chi , Chan Wen-Hsiung
Published: July 2009

The mycotoxin citrinin (CTN), a natural contaminant in foodstuffs and animal feeds, exerts cytotoxic and genotoxic effects on various mammalian cells. CTN causes cell injury, including apoptosis, but its precise regulatory mechanisms of action are currently unclear. Resveratrol, a member of the phytoalexin family found in grapes and other dietary plants, possesses antioxidant and anti-tumor properties. In the present study, we examined the effects of resveratrol on apoptotic biochemical events in Hep G2 cells induced by CTN. Resveratrol inhibited CTN-induced ROS generation, activation of JNK, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), as well as activation of caspase-9, caspase-3 and PAK2. Moreover, resveratrol and the ROS scavengers, NAC and α-tocopherol, abolished CTN-stimulated intracellular oxidative stress and apoptosis. Active JNK was required for CTN-induced mitochondria-dependent apoptotic biochemical changes, including loss of MMP, and activation of caspases and PAK2. Activation of PAK2 was essential for apoptosis triggered by CTN. These results collectively demonstrate that CTN stimulates ROS generation and JNK activation for mitochondria-dependent apoptotic signaling in Hep G2 cells, and these apoptotic biochemical events are blocked by pretreatment with resveratrol, which exerts antioxidant effects.
2-(4-Heptyloxyphenyl)benzothiazole
Authors: Ha Sie-Tiong , Koh Teck-Ming , Ong Siew-Teng , Lee Teck-Leong , Sivasothy Yasodha
Published: July 2009

2-(4-Heptyloxyphenyl)benzothiazole was synthesized and its IR, 1H NMR and MS spectroscopic data are presented.
Meat Quality Assessment by Electronic Nose (Machine Olfaction Technology)
Authors: Ghasemi-Varnamkhasti Mahdi , Mohtasebi Seyed Saeid , Siadat Maryam , Balasubramanian Sundar
Published: July 2009

Over the last twenty years, newly developed chemical sensor systems (so called “electronic noses”) have made odor analyses possible. These systems involve various types of electronic chemical gas sensors with partial specificity, as well as suitable statistical methods enabling the recognition of complex odors. As commercial instruments have become available, a substantial increase in research into the application of electronic noses in the evaluation of volatile compounds in food, cosmetic and other items of everyday life is observed. At present, the commercial gas sensor technologies comprise metal oxide semiconductors, metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors, organic conducting polymers, and piezoelectric crystal sensors. Further sensors based on fibreoptic, electrochemical and bi-metal principles are still in the developmental stage. Statistical analysis techniques range from simple graphical evaluation to multivariate analysis such as artificial neural network and radial basis function. The introduction of electronic noses into the area of food is envisaged for quality control, process monitoring, freshness evaluation, shelf-life investigation and authenticity assessment. Considerable work has already been carried out on meat, grains, coffee, mushrooms, cheese, sugar, fish, beer and other beverages, as well as on the odor quality evaluation of food packaging material. This paper describes the applications of these systems for meat quality assessment, where fast detection methods are essential for appropriate product management. The results suggest the possibility of using this new technology in meat handling.
Self-Reported Medical Errors in 7 Countries: Implications for Pharmacy
Authors: MacKinnon Neil J. , O'Hagan Joshua , Persaud David , Etchegary Holly
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the rate of self-reported errors in Canada compared with other countries, and to identify risk factors for medical error.

Methods

In 2007, the Commonwealth Fund surveyed a sample of adults in 7 industrialized nations: Australia, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States. The surveys were conducted by telephone by Harris Surveys and country affiliates, with an average interview time of 17 minutes. Data from this source was used to perform a bivariate analysis comparing those individuals who reported having experienced a medical error to those who had not, followed by a logistic regression model in order to delineate the relationship between medical error and several explanatory variables. The goodness of fit of the final model was assessed, as was the possible presence of multicollinearity. All data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 16.0.

Results

Overall, 11,910 respondents from 7 countries were included in the analysis. The rate of self-reported medical error ranged from 12%– 20% in the 7 nations. Approximately 1 in 6 (17%) Canadians reported having experienced at least 1 error in the previous 2 years, which translates to 4.2 million adult Canadians. Several variables were found to have a statistically significant relationship to self-reported medical errors in the final regression model, including high prescription drug use (4 or more medications), presence of a chronic condition, lack of physician time with the patient, age under 65, lack of patient's involvement in care, perceived inadequate nursing staffing and absence of a regular doctor.

Conclusions

This study has demonstrated that medical error is a commonly occurring problem from the perspective of patients in 7 industrialized countries. The risk factors for self-reported medical error that have been identified in this study should aid clinicians, including pharmacists, in the design and implementation of targeted strategies to address this issue. By proactively identifying patient, provider and system-related risk factors for medical error, the opportunity for improving the safety of Canada's health care system could be greatly enhanced. While not all of the errors identified in this study are related to medications, there are implications for pharmacy practice. More specifically, our results suggest that pharmacists should be extra vigilant with patients with high prescription drug use and chronic conditions and ensure that patients are given the opportunity to be involved in their care.
Managing Migraines: Options for Acute Abortive Treatment
Authors: Namaka Mike , Leong Christine , Grossberndt Amy , Klowak Meghann , Louizos Chris , Drummond Jenny , Leligdowicz Ewa , Lichkowski Melanie , Melanson Maria
Published: July 2009

Introduction

Triptans, ergotamine derivatives and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are front-line agents used in the acute abortive therapy of migraines. In this article, these medications are reviewed and a treatment algorithm suggested.

Methods

A comprehensive review of the literature from 1990 to 2008 was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE and The Cochrane Library to explore the underlying pathophysiology of migraines and comparatively assess the acute and chronic treatment options available in their management. The information obtained from all literature searches was further categorized as level 1, 2 or 3 based on pre-defined peer-reviewed criteria.

Conclusion:

This review is able to present a relatively preliminary but practical migraine treatment algorithm. Although there is no standard universal treatment strategy to manage migraine headaches in all patients, this review has been put forth to serve as a clinical guideline to assist health professionals in deciding the most appropriate treatment for migraine headaches.
La accessibilidad de las webs de las universidades españolas. Balance 2001-2006
Authors: Ribera Mireia , Térmens Miquel , Frías Amparo
Published: July 2009

El estudio analiza el nivel de cumplimiento que el año 2006 hacían las sedes web de las universidades españolas de las Pautas de accesibilidad al contenido de la web (WCAG), versión 1.0, en su nivel A. Los resultados del análisis se comparan con los obtenidos el año 2001. Por el lado positivo se observa una mayor implantación de las alternativas a gráficos, hojas de estilo CSS y de las alternativas a Flash y PDF; y que un número mayor de universidades (10 en total) logra en 2006 un cumplimiento al 100 % del nivel A de las WCAG. Por el lado negativo se observa una peor calidad de los textos y un menor cumplimiento de las normas de accesibilidad, respecto a los resultados del año 2001, en las páginas de los planes de estudio, usualmente generadas de forma automática. El estudio, de forma complementaria, también analiza el nivel de seguimiento de los indicadores de la norma 508 de Estados Unidos y de otros 5 indicadores adicionales de usabilidad. En cuanto al cumplimiento de la norma 508, no obligatoria en España, ninguna universidad logra el 100 % de cumplimiento. Respecto a los otros indicadores el cumplimiento es de un 65 %. Como resultado global se constata que el nivel de accesibilidad sigue en niveles bajos, similar al del año 2001, y con grandes diferencias entre centros; estos resultados indican un nivel de cumplimiento menor del que cabría esperar por los cambios aplicados en la legislación española a favor de la accesibilidad de los sitios web.
Análisis estructural de la web académica iberoamericana
Authors: Ortega José Luis , Aguillo Isidro F.
Published: July 2009

El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar de una forma visual la red de dominios web universitarios más importantes de Iberoamérica. En él se muestra las características topológicas y se describe las relaciones web entre universidades de diferentes países y continentes. Se seleccionaron las primeras 350 instituciones iberoamericanas de educación superior del Ranking Web of World Universities y se extrajeron sus enlaces a partir de Yahoo! Search. Se construyeron con estos datos mapas geográfi cos y gráfi cos de redes. Se utilizaron técnicas de Análisis de Redes Sociales para analizar y describir las propiedades estructurales de toda la red y sus nodos. Los resultados muestran que la red iberoamericana está constituida por subredes nacionales que se fusionan en un núcleo central. La subred española domina la red iberoamericana, la cual está dividida en dos regiones lingüísticas: portugués (Brasil y Portugal) y español (los restantes países hispanoamericanos).
Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1), Not MCP-3, Is the Primary Chemokine Required for Monocyte Recruitment in Mouse Peritonitis Induced with Thioglycollate or Zymosan A
Authors: Takahashi Munehisa , Galligan Carole , Tessarollo Lino , Yoshimura Teizo
Published: July 2009

MCP-1/CCL2 plays a critical role in monocyte recruitment into sites of immune responses and cancer. However, the role of other MCPs remains unclear. In this study, we generated a novel MCP-1-deficient (designated as MCP-1Δ/Δ) mouse model by deleting a 2.3-kb DNA fragment from the mouse genome using the Cre/loxP system. MCP-1 was not produced by LPS-activated MCP-1Δ/Δ macrophages; however, the production of MCP-3, coded by the immediate downstream gene, was significantly increased. In contrast, macrophages from another mouse line with a neo-gene cassette in intron 2 produced a significantly lower level of MCP-1 and MCP-3. Decreased MCP-3 production was also detected in previously generated MCP-1-deficient mice in which a neo-gene cassette was inserted in exon 2 (designated as MCP-1 knockout (KO)). Altered MCP-1 and/or MCP-3 production was also observed in vivo in each mouse model in response to i.p. injection of thioglycolate or zymosan. The up- and down-regulation of MCP-3 production in MCP-1Δ/Δ and MCP-1 KO mice, respectively, provided us with a unique opportunity to evaluate the role for MCP-3. Despite the increased MCP-3 production in MCP-1Δ/Δ mice, thioglycolate- or zymosan-induced monocyte/macrophage accumulation was still reduced by ∼50% compared with wild-type mice, similar to the reduction detected in MCP-1 KO mice. Thus, up-regulated MCP-3 production did not compensate for the loss of MCP-1, and MCP-3 appears to be a less effective mediator of monocyte recruitment than MCP-1. Our results also indicate the presence of other mediators regulating the recruitment of monocytes in these models.