bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Decline in the Frequency of Neonatal Exchange Transfusions and Its Effect on Exchange-Related Morbidity and Mortality
Authors: Steiner Laurie A. , Bizzarro Matthew J. , Ehrenkranz Richard A. , Gallagher Patrick G.
Published: July 2007

OBJECTIVE. Our goal was to identify trends in patient demographics and indications for and complications related to neonatal exchange transfusion over a 21-year period in a single institution using a uniform protocol for performing the procedure.

METHODS. A retrospective chart review of 107 patients who underwent 141 single- or double-volume exchange transfusions from 1986–2006 was performed. Patients were stratified into 2 groups, 1986–1995 and 1996–2006, on the basis of changes in clinical practice influenced by American Academy of Pediatrics management guidelines for hyperbilirubinemia.

RESULTS. There was a marked decline in the frequency of exchange transfusions per 1000 newborn special care unit admissions over the 21-year study period. Patient demographics and indications for exchange transfusion were similar between groups. A significantly higher proportion of patients in the second time period received intravenous immunoglobulin before exchange transfusion. There was a higher proportion of patients in the 1996–2006 group with a serious underlying condition at the time of exchange transfusion. During that same time period, a lower proportion of patients experienced an adverse event related to the exchange transfusion. Although a similar percentage of patients in both groups experienced hypocalcemia and thrombocytopenia after exchange transfusion, patients treated from 1996–2006 were significantly more likely to receive calcium replacement or platelet transfusion. No deaths were related to exchange transfusion in either time period.

CONCLUSIONS. Improvements in prenatal and postnatal care have led to a sharp decline in the number of exchange transfusions performed. This decline has not led to an increase in complications despite relative inexperience with the procedure.
Preventable and Unpreventable Causes of Childhood-Onset Epilepsy Plus Mental Retardation
Authors: Camfield Carol , Camfield Peter
Published: July 2007

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to determine the causes of childhood epilepsy associated with mental retardation and determine whether these causes are preventable.

METHODS. We selected all patients from the Nova Scotia population-based childhood epilepsy cohort (n = 692) who had mental retardation and had epilepsy onset between 1977 and 1985. Causes and family history were determined by chart review and caregiver interview after 18.8 (SD: ±7) years of follow-up.

RESULTS. Overall, 147 patients had mental retardation and epilepsy (21% of all childhood epilepsy). Standard psychological testing was available for 57%; 38.5% were too impaired for testing, which left 4% with the degree of mental retardation assessed clinically. Severe/profound mental retardation predominated (mild: 24%; moderate: 23%, severe/profound: 53%). Fifty-nine percent had additional severe neurologic deficits, most often associated with severe mental retardation. Epilepsy syndromes were symptomatic generalized (n = 73), partial (n = 58), and other (n = 16). Most had a brain imaging study: 91% had a computed tomography scan, and 12% had an MRI scan. Sixty-three percent had a defined cause; 37% had an unknown cause. A defined cause was more likely in those with severe mental retardation (60 of 78 vs 31 of 65). Identified causes were prenatal or genetic (65%), perinatal (8%), or complications of prematurity (13%). Only 11 (7%) had an acquired cause that was potentially preventable. Many (36%) had a first- or second-degree relative with epilepsy, more often in those without a clear cause (54% vs 30%) and without additional neurologic disability (57% vs 26%).

CONCLUSIONS. Approximately 20% of children with epilepsy have mental retardation. The cause is prenatal or genetic in nearly two thirds, and only 7% have an acquired, preventable cause. Important genetic influences may be present, especially in the absence of a defined cause.
Malpractice Claims Involving Pediatricians: Epidemiology and Etiology
Authors: Carroll Aaron E. , Buddenbaum Jennifer L.
Published: July 2007

OBJECTIVE. Our goals were to examine malpractice claims data that are specific to the specialty of pediatrics and to provide a better understanding of the effect that malpractice has on this specialty.

METHODS. The Physician Insurers Association of America is a trade association of medical malpractice insurance companies. The data contained in its data-sharing project represent ∼25% of the medical malpractice claims in the United States at a given time. Although this database is not universally comprehensive, it does contain information not available in the National Practitioner Data Bank, such as information on claims that are not ultimately paid and specialty of the defendant. We asked the Physician Insurers Association of America to perform a query of its data-sharing project database to find malpractice claims reported between January 1, 1985, and December 31, 2005, in which the defendant's medical specialty was coded as pediatrics. Comparison data were collected for 27 other specialties recorded in the database.

RESULTS. During a 20-year period (1985–2005), there were 214226 closed claims reported to the Physician Insurers Association of America data-sharing project. Pediatricians account for 2.97% of these claims, making it 10th among the 28 specialties in terms of the number of closed claims. Pediatrics ranks 16th in terms of indemnity payment rate (28.13%), with dentistry ranked highest at 43.35%, followed by obstetrics and gynecology at 35.50%. Indemnity payment refers to settlements or awards made directly to plaintiffs as a result of claim-resolution process. Data are presented on changes over time, claim-adjudication status, expenses on claims, the causes of claims, and injuries sustained.

CONCLUSIONS. Malpractice is a serious issue. Some will read the results of this analysis and draw comfort; others will view the same data with alarm and surprise. Regardless of how one interprets these findings, they are important in truly informing the debate with generalizable facts.
Botulinum Toxin for Spasticity in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Comprehensive Evaluation
Authors: Bjornson Kristie , Hays Ross , Graubert Cathy , Price Robert , Won Francine , McLaughlin John F. , Cohen Morty
Published: July 2007

BACKGROUND. Spasticity is a prevalent disabling clinical symptom for children with cerebral palsy. Treatment of spasticity with botulinum toxin in children with cerebral palsy was first reported in 1993. Botulinum toxin provides a focal, controlled muscle weakness with reduction in spasticity. Interpretation of the literature is difficult because of the paucity of reliable measures of spasticity and challenges with measuring meaningful functional changes in children with disabilities.

OBJECTIVE. This study documents the effects of botulinum toxin A injections into the gastrocnemius muscles in children with spastic diplegia. Outcomes are evaluated across all 5 domains of the National Centers for Medical and Rehabilitation Research domains of medical rehabilitation.

METHODS. A randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled design was applied to 33 children with spastic diplegia with a mean age of 5.5 and Gross Motor Function Classification System Levels of I through III. Participants received either 12 U/kg botulinum toxin A or placebo saline injections to bilateral gastrocnemius muscles. Outcomes were measured at baseline and 3, 8, 12, and 24 weeks after injection.

RESULTS. Significant decreases in the electromyographic representation of spasticity were documented 3 weeks after botulinum toxin A treatment. A significant decrease in viscoelastic aspects of spasticity was present at 8 weeks, and subsequent increases in dorsiflexion range were documented at 12 weeks for the botulinum toxin A group. Improvement was found in performance goals at 12 weeks and in maximum voluntary torque and gross motor function at 24 weeks for the botulinum toxin A. There were no significant differences between groups in satisfaction with performance goals, energy expenditure, Ashworth scores, or frequency of adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS. The safety profile of 12 U/kg of botulinum toxin A is excellent. Although physiologic and mechanical effects of treatment with botulinum toxin A were documented with functional improvement at 6 months, family satisfaction with outcomes were no different. Communication is needed to ensure realistic expectations of treatment.
Preparation for Emergencies in the Offices of Pediatricians and Pediatric Primary Care Providers
Authors:   Committee on Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Published: July 2007

This Policy Statement was reaffirmed June 2011 and November 2018.

High-quality pediatric emergency care can be provided only through the collaborative efforts of many health care professionals and child advocates working together throughout a continuum of care that extends from prevention and the medical home to prehospital care, to emergency department stabilization, to critical care and rehabilitation, and finally to a return to care in the medical home. At times, the office of the pediatric primary care provider will serve as the entry site into the emergency care system, which comprises out-of-hospital emergency medical services personnel, emergency department nurses and physicians, and other emergency and critical care providers. Recognizing the important role of pediatric primary care providers in the emergency care system for children and understanding the capabilities and limitations of that system are essential if pediatric primary care providers are to offer the best chance at intact survival for every child who is brought to the office with an emergency. Optimizing pediatric primary care provider office readiness for emergencies requires consideration of the unique aspects of each office practice, the types of patients and emergencies that might be seen, the resources on site, and the resources of the larger emergency care system of which the pediatric primary care provider's office is a part. Parent education regarding prevention, recognition, and response to emergencies, patient triage, early recognition and stabilization of pediatric emergencies in the office, and timely transfer to an appropriate facility for definitive care are important responsibilities of every pediatric primary care provider. In addition, pediatric primary care providers can collaborate with out-of-hospital and hospital-based providers and advocate for the best-quality emergency care for their patients.
Molecular characterization of antimicrobial compound produced by Lactobacillus acidophilus AA11
Authors: Abo-Amer Aly
Published: July 2007

Approximately 63 strains of
Lactobacillus acidophilus
were isolated from Egyptian home-made cheese and examined for production of antagonism. Only eight strains demonstrated inhibitory activity against spoilage microorganisms (i.e.
Staphylococcus aureus
and
Bacillus cereus
) and pathogens (i.e.
E. coli, Salmonella
sp. and
Shigella
sp.).
Lactobacillus acidophilus
AA11 produced higher antimicrobial activity with a wide range of inhibition. The agent AA11 was sensitive to proteolytic enzymes and retained full activity after 30 min at 100°C. Activity against sensitive cells was bactericidal but not bacteriolytic. The compound was produced during growth phase and could be extracted from the culture supernatant fluids with n-butanol. 12% SDS-PAGE analysis of 40% ammonium sulphate precipitated agent showed two peptides with molecular weights of ∼36 kDa and ∼29 kDa. No plasmid was identified in
Lactobacillus acidophilus
AA11 indicating that the genes encoding the inhibitory agent were located on the chromosome. These characteristics identify the inhibitory substance as a bacteriocin, designated acidocin AA11 and confer the agent an application potential as a biopreservative.
Tannase production by Aspergillus aculeatus DBF9 through solid-state fermentation
Authors: Banerjee D. , Mondal K. , Pati B.
Published: July 2007

Tannase an industrially important enzyme was produced by
Aspergillus aculeatus
DBF9 through a solid-state fermentation (SSF). The organism produced good amount of enzyme and gallic acid in wheat bran among the solid substrate used in SSF. Maximum enzyme and gallic acid production occurred in 5% tannic acid after 72 h. Eighty percent initial substrate moisture and 30 °C temperature was found suitable for tannase production.
Development and standardization of cyst based liquid formulation of Azospirillum bioinoculant
Authors: Vendan Regupathy , Thangaraju Muthusamy
Published: July 2007

Azospirillum
bioinoculant is well known for its high nitrogen fixing and plant growth promoting characters. The carrier based bioinoculants generally suffer from shorter shelf life, poor quality, high contamination and low field performance. Therefore, it is necessary to develop alternative new formulation of inoculants where cyst based inoculants can play significant role. The cyst based liquid formulation was developed by inoculating
Azospirillum
into the cyst inducing minimal salts medium (MSM). One hundred per cent conversion of vegetative cells into cyst cells was noticed in 96 h. The survival of cyst cells in the MSM was observed up to one year and two months and interestingly, the population level of 10
8
was maintained till the final observation. The cyst cells of
Azospirillum
accumulated poly-
β
-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) granules and exhibited desiccation tolerance up to 20 days and temperature tolerance up to 40 °C. Thus the cyst based liquid formulation has twin advantage of longer shelf life and tolerance to harmful environmental conditions. Regeneration of cyst cells into vegetative cells in different media viz., tap water, sterile water, rice gruel and nutrient broth was studied. The changes started within 3 h and complete return of vegetative cells was observed at 24 h. Although all the media tested favoured regeneration, comparatively quicker regeneration was observed in nutrient broth and followed by rice gruel. Thus, cyst based liquid formulation of
Azospirillum
has all the survival advantages and can be used as a potential bioinoculant.
Exhaled nitric oxide in diagnostics and monitoring of lung diseases
Authors: Antus Balázs , Horváth Ildikó
Published: July 2007

Az utóbbi 10 évben ugrásszerűen megnőtt az érdeklődés a kilégzett levegő és ezen keresztül a légúti gyulladás vizsgálata iránt a különböző tüdőbetegségekben. A gyulladás monitorozása segíthet e kórképek differenciáldiagnózisában, súlyosságuk megítélésében és a megfelelő terápia beállításában. Az új, noninvazív vizsgálómódszerek közül legismertebb a kilégzett levegő nitrogén-monoxid-koncentrációjának mérése, amely napjainkban nemzetközileg elfogadott ajánlások alapján a kereskedelmi forgalomban is kapható mérőműszerek segítségével történik. Az asztmás betegekben a kilégzett nitrogén-monoxid-koncentráció jelentősen emelkedett, és szoros összefüggést mutat a légutak eozinofilsejtes gyulladásával, a légúti hiperreaktivitás mértékével és a beteg panaszaival. E betegekben a kilégzett nitrogén-monoxid mérésén alapuló gyógyszeres beállítás a klasszikus kezelési stratégiákhoz képest jobb asztmakontrollt eredményezhet. Más tüdőbetegségekben, így például a krónikus obstruktív pulmonalis megbetegedésben a kilégzett nitrogén-monoxid mérése a szteroidra való válaszkészség megjósolásában segítheti a klinikust, míg tüdőtranszplantált betegekben rejtett infekciók vagy kilökődési reakciók indikátora lehet.
Oral cancer screening: how to develop a country-wide opportunistic system in Hungary
Authors: Döbrőssy Lajos , Bánóczy Jolán , Kovács Attila , Budai András , Cornides Ágnes
Published: July 2007

Magyarországon a szájüreg rosszindulatú daganatai súlyos népegészségügyi problémát jelentenek. Jóllehet korai felismerésükre irányuló szervezett szűrővizsgálatok hatásosságára epidemiológiai bizonyítékkal nem rendelkezünk, tekintettel e betegség népegészségügyi súlyára, a Nemzeti Népegészségügyi Program lakosságszűrési komponense keretében folytatni kell a szájüregi rák előtti állapotok és korai daganatok felismerésére tett erőfeszítéseket. Az egészségügyi kormányzat döntését követően az érintett szakmák képviselőiből munkacsoport jött létre, amely javaslatokat dolgozott ki egy, az országot lefedő, a veszélyeztetett személyeket rendszeresen vizsgáló alkalomszerű szűrővizsgálati rendszer létrehozására. A fogorvosok mellett a háziorvosi és foglalkozás-egészségügyi szolgálat jelentősen hozzájárulhat a szájüregi rák okozta halálozás kívánt mérsékléséhez.
Comparative Thermal Requirements of Westslope Cutthroat Trout and Rainbow Trout: Implications for Species Interactions and Development of Thermal Protection Standards
Authors: Bear Elizabeth A. , McMahon Thomas E. , Zale Alexander V.
Published: July 2007

Water temperature appears to play a key role in determining population persistence of westslope cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii lewisi, but specific thermal performance and survival criteria have not been defined. We used the acclimated chronic exposure laboratory method to determine upper thermal tolerances and growth optima of westslope cutthroat trout and rainbow trout O. mykiss, a potential nonnative competitor that occupies much of the former range of westslope cutthroat trout. Rainbow trout had a distinct survival advantage over westslope cutthroat trout at water temperatures above 20°C. The ultimate upper incipient lethal temperature of rainbow trout (24.3°C; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 24.0–24.7°C) was 4.7°C higher than that of westslope cutthroat trout (19.6°C; 95% CI = 19.1–19.9°C). In contrast, both species had similar growth rates and optimum growth temperatures (westslope cutthroat trout: 13.6°C; rainbow trout: 13.1°C) over the temperature range of 8–20°C, although rainbow trout grew over a wider range and at higher temperatures than did westslope cutthroat trout. The rainbow trout's higher upper temperature tolerance and greater growth capacity at warmer temperatures may account for the species' displacement of westslope cutthroat trout at lower elevations. Our results indicate that maximum daily temperatures near the optimum growth temperature of 13–15°C would ensure suitable thermal habitat for westslope cutthroat trout populations. The low upper temperature tolerance and optimum growth temperature of westslope cutthroat trout relative to those of other salmonids suggest that this subspecies may be particularly susceptible to stream temperature increases associated with global warming and anthropogenic habitat disturbance.
SHAPING APPROACH RESPONSES AS INTERVENTION FOR SPECIFIC PHOBIA IN A CHILD WITH AUTISM
Authors: Ricciardi Joseph N. , Luiselli James K. , Camare Marianne
Published: July 2007

We evaluated contact desensitization (reinforcing approach responses) as intervention for specific phobia with a child diagnosed with autism. During hospital‐based intervention, the boy was able to encounter previously avoided stimuli. Parental report suggested that results were maintained postdischarge.
CONTEXTUAL CONTROL OF DELAY DISCOUNTING BY PATHOLOGICAL GAMBLERS
Authors: Dixon Mark R. , Jacobs Eric A. , Sanders Scott
Published: July 2007

The present study demonstrated the relative impact of gambling and nongambling contexts on the degree of delay discounting by pathological gamblers. We used a delay‐discounting task with 20 pathological gamblers in and out of the natural context in which they regularly gambled. For 16 of the 20 participants, it appeared that the difference of context altered the subjective value of delayed rewards, thereby producing relative changes in delay‐discounting rates that were generally consistent with a hyperbolic model of intertemporal choice. The current data suggest that empirically derived k values from delay‐discounting tasks are context sensitive and are not constant across various settings for the individual. Implications for future transitional research on addictive disorders generally, and gambling specifically, are discussed.
THE EFFECTS OF MOOD AND OPENNESS-TO-FEELING TRAIT ON CHOICE
Authors: Chuang Shih-Chieh , Chang Chwen-Li
Published: July 2007

How do mood states influence risk-taking and choice? This study was conducted to demonstrate and explain the relationship of mood, risk-taking, and choice. The results showed that participants were more likely to systematically display risk-taking behavior when in a negative mood
than when in a positive mood. The mood effect was moderated by openness to feelings (OF) in the individual personality.
GENDER DIFFERENCES IN PREDICTING DELINQUENT BEHAVIOR: DO INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES MATTER?
Authors: Cohn Ellen S. , Modecki Kathryn L.
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study was to determine the role of individual differences (i.e., belief in a just world and authoritarianism), and attitude (i.e., attitudes toward the criminal legal system), in predicting delinquent behavior. High school students (412 males, 423 females) completed
questionnaires that measured demographics, belief in a just world (BJW), authoritarianism (RWA), attitudes toward the criminal legal system (ATCLS), and delinquent behavior. Two models were assessed in this study. The first was a direct model, which assessed whether individual differences
or attitude best predicted rule-violating behavior. The second was an integrating model, which assessed the role of both factors, individual differences and attitude, as predictors of rule-violating behavior. For male adolescents, the direct model best predicted delinquency, suggesting negative
ATCLS was the sole significant predictor of rule-violating behavior. In contrast, for females, the integrating model best predicted delinquency, as negative ATCLS mediated the negative relation between BJW and delinquency, and partially mediated the negative relation between RWA and delinquency.
The implications of gender differences in predicting delinquent behavior are discussed.
FACING FEAR: EXPRESSION OF FEAR FACILITATES PROCESSING OF EMOTIONAL INFORMATION
Authors: Schnall Simone , Laird James D.
Published: July 2007

Evidence shows that manipulating the expressive component of fear can influence the processing of emotional information. Participants unobtrusively produced the expressive behaviors typical of fear, anger or happiness. Participants producing the expression of fear were faster at classifying
verbal material with emotional content than participants producing the expressions of happiness or anger. These effects were especially pronounced for participants who were generally sensitive to their own bodily cues, as indicated by their degree of field-dependence measured by the Rod-and-Frame
Task (Witkin & Asch, 1948). The results suggest that one way of eliciting the cognitive consequences of fear is by inducing the embodied expressive behavior.
SOCIAL IDENTITY THEORY AND THE REDUCTION OF INEQUALITY: CAN CROSS-CUTTING CATEGORIZATION REDUCE INEQUALITY IN MIXED-RACE GROUPS?
Authors: Goar Carla D.
Published: July 2007

A strategy to modify racial inequality in task groups was tested. Based on social identity literature: If members of a group are encouraged to think of other group members as individuals instead of representatives of a larger group, cross-cutting categorization may decrease the effects
of race. Thirty groups of one Black woman and two white women, were randomly assigned to either a condition in which group members knew only that some people did better than others on the task (baseline condition), or a condition in which individualization of group members was emphasized (cross-cutting
condition). The task was exactly the same in both conditions; only the description of it varied. Relative to the baseline condition, the cross-cutting condition does not significantly decrease the inequality between Black and white group members. Implications of these results for future research
on group racial dynamics are considered.
Antinociceptive effects of butorphanol, buprenorphine, or both, administered intramuscularly in cats
Authors: Johnson Jacob A. , Robertson Sheilah A. , Pypendop Bruno H.
Published: July 2007

Objective—To characterize the antinociceptive action of IM-administered butorphanol, buprenorphine, or a combination of both by use of a thermal threshold method in cats.

Animals—2 male and 4 female domestic cats.

Procedures—In a controlled, masked, randomized, crossover study design, thermal thresholds were measured by use of a thermal threshold–testing device developed for cats. Each cat received 4 treatments 1 week apart, consisting of 2 simultaneous IM injections in a random order (butorphanol-saline [0.9% NaCl] solution, buprenorphine-saline solution, butorphanol-buprenorphine, and saline solution-saline solution). The tester was unaware of the treatment given. Thermal thresholds were measured prior to injection, at intervals up to 12 hours, and at 22 hours after injection.

Results—There was no significant change in threshold over time after saline solution administration. All 3 opioid treatment groups had significant increases in thermal threshold, compared with pretreatment values (butorphanol, from 50 minutes to 8 hours; buprenorphine, from 35 minutes to 5 hours; and butorphanol-buprenorphine, from 50 minutes to 8 hours). Thermal thresholds did not differ significantly among opioid treatments at any time points, and thermal thesholds of only 2 opioid treatments (butorphanol at 50 minutes and butorphanol-buprenorphine at 8 hours) were significantly different from that of saline solution.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—All 3 opioid treatments provided similar antinociception, although there was considerable intercat variability in the response to the different opioid treatments. This emphasizes the importance of assessing each patient individually and applying the treatment that works best for that patient.
Kinetic gait and subjective analysis of the effects of a tachykinin receptor antagonist in dogs with sodium urate–induced synovitis
Authors: Punke John P. , Speas Abbie L. , Reynolds Lisa R. , Claxton Ralph F. , Budsberg Steven C.
Published: July 2007

Objective—To examine the ability of preemptive administration of a proprietary neurokinin-1 (NK1) receptor antagonist to attenuate limb dysfunction associated with monosodium urate–induced synovitis in the stifle joints of dogs.

Animals—16 clinically normal adult mixed-breed dogs (8 males and 8 females).

Procedures—A crossover study was conducted in 2 phases. Dogs were assigned to 2 groups (8 dogs/group) and orally administered an NK1 receptor antagonist (3 mg/kg) or a control substance once daily for 4 days. Synovitis was then induced in the left stifle joint by intra-articular injection of monosodium urate. Investigators were not aware of treatment group assignments. Dogs were evaluated by use of subjective lameness scores during standing, walking, and trotting and by use of ground reaction force data 3, 6, 9, 12, and 24 hours after urate injection. After a 21-day washout period, the experiment was repeated with each dog administered the other treatment and injected with monosodium urate in the contralateral stifle joint.

Results—No significant differences were detected between the NK1 receptor antagonist and control treatments with regard to peak vertical force, vertical impulse area, or subjective evaluations of lameness during standing, walking, or trotting, except during walking 24 hours after monosodium urate injection.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Preemptive administration of an NK1 receptor antagonist failed to significantly improve subjective or objective outcome measures in dogs with monosodium urate–induced synovitis.
Prevalence of reduced fibrinogen binding to platelets in a population of Thoroughbreds
Authors: Norris Jeffrey W. , Pratt Suzanne M. , Hunter Jessica F. , Gardner Ian A. , Tablin Fern
Published: July 2007

Objective—To measure the frequency and magnitude of reduced fibrinogen binding in a population of horses from a Thoroughbred breeding farm.

Animals—444 Thoroughbred horses, 1 to 27 years old, including 316 females, 72 geldings, and 56 sexually intact males.

Procedures—Blood was collected from horses into tubes containingacid citrate dextrose adenine, and washed platelets were examined by use of flow cytometry for their ability to bind fibrinogen.

Results—Data regarding fibrinogen binding to activated platelets were normally distributed, with nearly identical amounts of variation regardless of sex. In 3 horses, fibrinogen binding to platelets was reduced from 67.6% to 83.4%, compared with normal platelets, which indicated an inability of platelets to aggregate in response to thrombin (0.1 U/mL).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Platelet fibrinogen binding of the affected horses identified in this study was characteristic of a reported heritable bleeding disorder in which the reduction in fibrinogen binding correlated with prolonged bleeding times in template bleeding assays. The bleeding disorder is distinct from Glanzmann thrombasthenia, in which platelets fail to bind fibrinogen because of lack of αllb-β3 integrin on their surface. The prevalence of affected horses within the small sample population studied here (0.7% [n = 3]) is considerably higher than the prevalence of bleeding disorders within more genetically diverse groups.
Risk factors for proximal sesamoid bone fractures associated with exercise history and horseshoe characteristics in Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: Anthenill Lucy A. , Stover Susan M. , Gardner Ian A. , Hill Ashley E.
Published: July 2007

Objective—To assess individual and combined associations of high-speed exercise and horseshoe characteristics with risk of forelimb proximal sesamoid bone fractures and proximal sesamoid bone midbody fractures in Thoroughbred racehorses.

Animals—269 deceased Thoroughbred racehorses.

Procedures—A case-control study design was used to compare 121 horses with a fracture of at least 1 of 4 forelimb proximal sesamoid bones (75 horses had a midbody fracture) and 148 horses without a forelimb proximal sesamoid bone fracture. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate potential risk factors for association with proximal sesamoid bone fracture.

Results—Compared with horses that died without proximal sesamoid bone fractures, horses that died with proximal sesamoid bone fractures were more likely to be sexually intact males, spend more time in active trainingand racing, complete more events, train and race longer since their last layup, have higher exercise intensities during the 12 months prior to death, and have greater cumulative distances for their career. Horses with proximal sesamoid bone midbody fractures were more likely to be sexually intact males, train and race longer since their last layup, and have higher exercise intensities during the 12 months prior to death.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Limitingexercise intensity and the continuous time spent in activity duringa horse's career may decrease the frequency of forelimb proximal sesamoid bone fractures in Thoroughbred horses.
Optimization of a species-specific polymerase chain reaction assay for identification of Pentatrichomonas hominis in canine fecal specimens
Authors: Gookin Jody L. , Stauffer Stephen H. , Coccaro Maria R. , Marcotte Miriam J. , Levy Michael G.
Published: July 2007

Objective—To determine the optimum reaction conditions and detection limits of PCR assay for identification of Pentatrichomonas hominis in DNA extracted from canine feces.

Sample Population—DNA extracted from feces of 4 dogs with diarrhea from which trichomonads were observed, 81 dogs that had feces submitted to a diagnostic laboratory, and 19 dogs residing in a laboratory animal facility.

Procedures—Optimum reaction conditions and absolute and practical detection limits of 2 P hominis 18S species-specific primer pairs were determined by use of an in vitro cultivated canine isolate of P hominis in the presence and absence of canine feces. The optimized PCR assay was applied to amplification of P hominis 18S rRNA genes from DNA extracted from the feces of dogs.

Results—Under optimized conditions, a primer pair was identified as able to detect as few as 1 P hominis organism/180-mg fecal sample. The PCR assay identified P hominis in diarrheic feces of 4 dogs in which trichomonads were seen by light microscopy. The P hominis genes were not amplified from other fecal samples examined.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Molecular identification of P hominis in feces of 4 dogs with trichomonosis and diarrhea reported here validates the identity of this species in such infections. Sensitive and specific PCR amplification of P hominis 18S rRNA genes from DNA extracted from feces will directly facilitate studies examining pathogenicity of this trichomonad and enable differentiation of P hominis from other known or novel species of trichomonads that may infect the gastrointestinal tract of dogs.
Fermions as U(1) instantons
Authors: Stoilov Michail
Published: July 2007

Anomalous quantization of the electromagnetic field allows non-trivial (anti) self-dual configurations to exist in four-dimensional Euclidian space-time. These instanton-like objects are described as massless spinor particles.
Brain proteins interacting with the tetramerization region of non-erythroid alpha spectrin
Authors: Oh Younsang , Fung Leslie
Published: July 2007

The N-terminal region of non-erythroid alpha spectrin (SpαII) is responsible for interacting with its binding partner, beta spectrin, to form functional spectrin tetramers. We used a yeast-two-hybrid system, with an N-terminal segment of alpha spectrin representing the functional tetramerization site, as a bait to screen human brain c-DNA library for proteins that interact with the alpha spectrin segment. In addition to several beta spectrin isoforms, we identified 14 proteins that interact with SpαII. Seven of the 14 were matched to 6 known proteins: Duo protein, Lysyl-tRNA synthetase, TBP associated factor 1, two isoforms (b and c) of a protein kinase A interacting protein and Zinc finger protein 333 (2 different segments). Four of the 6 proteins are located primarily in the nucleus, suggesting that spectrin plays important roles in nuclear functions. The remaining 7 proteins were unknown to the protein data base. Structural predictions show that many of the 14 proteins consist of a large portion of unstructured regions, suggesting that many of these proteins fold into a rather flexible conformation. It is interesting to note that all but 3 of the 14 proteins are predicted to consist of one to four coiled coils (amphiphilic helices). A mutation in SpαII, V22D, which interferes with the coiled coil bundling of SpαII with beta spectrin, also affects SpαII interaction with Duo protein, TBP associated factor 1 and Lysyl-tRNA synthetase, suggesting that they may compete with beta spectrin for interaction with SpαII. Future structural and functional studies of these proteins to provide interaction mechanisms will no doubt lead to a better understanding of brain physiology and pathophysiology.
The complete structure of the cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) chloroplast genome: Its composition and comparative analysis
Authors: Pląder Wojciech , Yukawa Yasushi , Sugiura Masahiro , Malepszy Stefan
Published: July 2007

The complete nucleotide sequence of the cucumber (C. sativus L. var. Borszczagowski) chloroplast genome has been determined. The genome is composed of 155,293 bp containing a pair of inverted repeats of 25,191 bp, which are separated by two single-copy regions, a small 18,222-bp one and a large 86,688-bp one. The chloroplast genome of cucumber contains 130 known genes, including 89 protein-coding genes, 8 ribosomal RNA genes (4 rRNA species), and 37 tRNA genes (30 tRNA species), with 18 of them located in the inverted repeat region. Of these genes, 16 contain one intron, and two genes and one ycf contain 2 introns. Twenty-one small inversions that form stem-loop structures, ranging from 18 to 49 bp, have been identified. Eight of them show similarity to those of other species, while eight seem to be cucumber specific. Detailed comparisons of ycf2 and ycf15, and the overall structure to other chloroplast genomes were performed.
A Historical Perspective on the Use of GIS and Remote Sensing in Natural Resource Management, as Viewed through Papers Published in North American Forestry Journals from 1976 to 2005
Authors: Li Rongxia , Bettinger Pete , Danskin Scott , Hayashi Rei
Published: July 2007

Since the introduction of geographic information systems (GIS) to natural resource management in the 1970s, there has been a logical increase in the use of GIS by natural resource management organizations. This article assesses the literature in applied North American forestry journals, which are read mainly by forest practitioners, and illustrates the trends of technological adoption by natural resource management organizations. We conclude that the diversity of GIS technology use in forestry is increasing and evolving to a high and complex level. While small-scale (local) and site-specific natural resource applications predominate the use of GIS in this literature, landscape applications have gained more attention and importance in recent years, mainly in the western and north-central United States. Although several of the journals we reviewed emphasize the practical nature and value of information, few papers were located that illustrate GIS implementation in natural resource organizations or advances in GIS technology. The professions associated with natural resource management have traditionally been adopters of technology (rather than developers), but, since GIS is so closely tied to the management and assessment of landscapes, it is possible that the issues that arise in natural resource management have had a significant impact on the development of GIS analytical techniques. We suggest that surveys be performed frequently (every five years) so that the natural resource management field can stay current with changes in technology and in employer expectations. This assessment has pointed out the trends and gaps in the forestry-related literature and suggests opportunities for future dissemination of information. Research papers lead the widespread adoption of technology by a decade or more; thus, through this work, one can envision what might become commonplace a decade from now. Those unaware of the relatively short history of the technology and how it has evolved may gain some understanding from this brief history of the use of GIS in natural resource management.
Background Atmospheric Levels of Aldehydes, BTEX and PM10 Pollutants in a Medium‐Sized City of Southern Italy
Authors: Iovino Pasquale , Salvestrini Stefano , Capasso Sante
Published: July 2007

Background atmospheric levels of aldehydes, BTEX and PM10 pollutants were measured in the suburb of Caserta (Italy), 75 thousands inhabitants, 41° 04' N, on rainless weekdays and weekends during 2005. On weekdays the average daily concentrations (μg m‐3) were 41.6 PM10, 8.6 benzene, 25.2 toluene, 6.3 ethylbenzene, 14.0 (m+p)‐xylene, 11.7 o‐xylene, 6.5 formaldehyde, 3.3 acetaldehyde. All the pollutant concentrations were strictly correlated (mean correlation coefficients = 0.90). At weekends the concentrations were lower by about 1.6 times. Both on weekdays and at weekends the PM10 and benzene levels exceeded the limits set by the EU Directive 30/1999 and 69/2000, respectively.
Papaverine PVC Membrane Ion‐Selective Electrodes Based on its Ion‐Exchangers with Tetraphenylborate and Tetrathiocyanate Anions
Authors: Abbas Mohammed Noor‐Eldeen , Mostafa Gamal Abdel‐Hafiz
Published: July 2007

The construction and general performance of novel potentiometric membrane ion selective electrodes for determination of papaverine hydrochloride has been described. They are based on the formation of the ion association complexes of papaverine (PA) with tetraphenylborate (TPB)(I) or tetrathiocyanate (TTC)(II) counter anions as electro‐active material dispersed in a PVC matrix. The electrodes show fast, stable, near Nernstian response for 1×10‐2 to 6×10‐5 M and 1×10‐2 to 1×10‐5 M for PA‐TPB and PA‐TTC respectively at 25 °C over the pH range of 3‐5.0 with a cationic slope of ∼ 56.5±0.5 mV/decade for both sensors respectively. The lower detection limit is 4×10‐5 and 8×10‐6 M for PA‐ I and PA‐II respectively with fast response time ranging from 20‐45 sec. Selectivity coefficients for PA relative to a number of interfering substances were investigated. There is a negligible interference from the studied cations, anions, and pharmaceutical excipients. The determination of 4.0‐3000.0 μg/ml of PA in aqueous solutions shows an average recovery of 99.1 % and a mean relative standard deviation of 1.4 at 100 μg/ml. The direct determination of PA in some formulations (Vasorin injection) gave results that compare favorably with those obtained using the British Pharmacopoeia method. Potentiometric titration of PA with sodium tetraphenylborate and potassium thiocyanate as titrants utilizing the papaverine electrode as an end point indicator electrode has been carried out.
Controlled Release of Volatiles under Mild Reaction Conditions: From Nature to Everyday Products
Authors: Herrmann Andreas
Published: July 2007

Volatile organic compounds serve in nature as semiochemicals for communication between species, and are often used as flavors and fragrances in our everyday life. The quite limited longevity of olfactive perception has led to the development of pro‐perfumes or pro‐fragrances—ideally nonvolatile and odorless fragrance precursors which release the active volatiles by bond cleavage. Only a limited amount of reaction conditions, such as hydrolysis, temperature changes, as well as the action of light, oxygen, enzymes, or microorganisms, can be used to liberate the many different chemical functionalities. This Review describes the controlled chemical release of fragrances and discusses additional challenges such as precursor stability during product storage as well as some aspects concerning toxicity and biodegradability. As the same systems can be applied in different areas of research, the scope of this Review covers fragrance delivery as well as the controlled release of volatiles in general.
Collection of marine invertebrates for the aquarium trade in European waters: is anyone surveying?
Authors: Calado Ricardo , Dinis Maria Teresa
Published: July 2007

Recently, the snails Hinia reticulatus, Cyclope neritea and Cerithium rupestre and the hermit crabs Diogenes pugilator and Clibanarius erythropus from warm European coastal waters have started to be commercially collected and traded.

The average number (± standard deviation) of specimens captured per hour, by collectors were 475±237 for H. reticulatus, 363±112 for C. neritea, 384±173 for C. rupestre, 302±121 for D. pugilator and 210±54 for C. erythropus.

All species survived well during transportation, were popular among aquarium hobbyists and attained high retail values, ranging from €0.90 to €4.00 per specimen.

The collection and trade of these novel commercial species can either become a sole economic activity or an additional one for traditional fishermen and aquaculturists.

Although no destructive collection techniques are employed, the lack of population biology studies and legislation regulating the capture of these species is a major problem in ensuring the sustainable use of these highly valuable marine resources.

These species are currently mainly collected from natural parks areas protected by Portuguese and European Union designations.

Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk of recurrence 5 years or more after primary Lichtenstein mesh and sutured inguinal hernia repair
Authors: Bisgaard T , Bay-Nielsen M , Christensen I J , Kehlet H
Published: July 2007

Background

The risk of recurrence of inguinal hernia within 5 years of repair is lower after mesh than sutured repair in men, but no large-scale studies have compared the risk of recurrence beyond 5 years.

Methods

The Danish Hernia Database prospectively collects data on almost all primary inguinal hernia repairs in men (older than 18 years). This study used data recorded over 8 years, analysing reoperations for recurrent hernia in the intervals 0–30 months, 30–60 months and 60–96 months after operation.

Results

The reoperation rate was significantly lower after Lichtenstein open mesh repairs than open sutured repairs (Cox hazard ratio (HR) 0·45 (95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 0·39 to 0·51) for 0–30 months after surgery; HR 0·38 (95 per cent c.i. 0·29 to 0·49) for 30–60 months). In 13 674 primary inguinal hernia repairs with an observation interval of 5 years or more, the risk of reoperation after Lichtenstein repair was a quarter of that after sutured repair (HR 0·25 (95 per cent c.i. 0·16 to 0·40) for 60–96 months after surgery). After 5 years, the reoperation rate increased continuously after sutured repair but not after mesh repair.

Conclusion

Lichtenstein mesh repair for inguinal hernia prevented recurrence beyond 5 years after the primary operation, but sutured repair did not.
Steatosis predicts postoperative morbidity following hepatic resection for colorectal metastasis
Authors: Gomez D , Malik H Z , Bonney G K , Wong V , Toogood G J , Lodge J P A , Prasad K R
Published: July 2007

Background

Few studies are available on the effect of steatosis on perioperative outcome following hepatic resection for colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM).

Methods

Patients undergoing resection for CRLM from January 2000 to September 2005 were identified from a hepatobiliary database. Data analysed included laboratory measurements, extent of hepatic resection, blood transfusion requirements and steatosis.

Results

There were 386 patients with a median age of 66 (range 32–87) years, of whom 201 had at least one co-morbid condition and 194 had an American Society of Anesthesiologists grade of I. Anatomical resection was performed in 279 patients and non-anatomical resection in 107; 165 had additional procedures. Steatosis in 194 patients was classified as mild in 122, moderate in 60 and severe in 12. The overall morbidity rate was 36 per cent (139 patients) and the mortality rate was 1·8 per cent (seven patients). Admission to the intensive care unit, morbidity, infective complications and biochemical profile changes were associated with greater severity of steatosis. Independent predictors of morbidity were steatosis, extent of hepatic resection and blood transfusion.

Conclusion

Steatosis is associated with increased morbidity following hepatic resection. Other predictors of outcome were extent of hepatic resection and blood transfusion.
Charitable giving: the effectiveness of a revised theory of planned behaviour model in predicting donating intentions and behaviour
Authors: Smith Joanne R. , McSweeney Andreè
Published: July 2007

A revised theory of planned behaviour (TPB) model was used to determine the influence of attitudes, norms (injunctive, descriptive and moral norms), perceived behavioural control, and past behaviour on intentions to donate money to charitable organisations. Respondents (N = 227) completed a questionnaire assessing the constructs of the revised TPB model. Four weeks later, a subsample of respondents (N = 67) reported their donating behaviour. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed support for the revised TPB model. Attitudes, perceived behavioural control, injunctive norms, moral norms and past behaviour all predicted charitable giving intentions; however, descriptive norms did not predict donating intentions. Donating intentions were the only significant predictor of donating behaviour at Time 2. In addition, a number of beliefs differentiated between those who did and did not intend to donate to charity. Theoretical and applied implications of the results are discussed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.