bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of renal autograft ischemia and reperfusion associated with renal transplantation on arterial blood pressure variables in clinically normal cats
Authors: Schmiedt Chad W. , Mercurio Andrew D. , Glassman Mathieu M. , McAnulty Jonathan F. , Brown Cathy A. , Brown Scott A.
Published: November 2009

Objective—To evaluate the effect of renal autograft ischemia and reperfusion associated with renal transplantation on pulse rate and pressure and arterial blood pressure variables in clinically normal cats.

Animals—10 cats.

Procedures—A radiotelemetric implant was placed in each cat to measure hemodynamic variables; baseline data were recorded before surgery. Standard heterotopic renal implantation and contralateral nephrectomy were performed (day 0). Autografts were stored in cold sucrose phosphate solution for 30 minutes (n = 5) or 3 hours (5); cats were anephric during this period. Hemodynamic variables were recorded every 5 minutes for up to 16 days after surgery; mean daily values were calculated.

Results—Data from 6 cats were available for analysis. Two cats developed ureteral obstructions and became azotemic at 111 and 197 hours after kidney reperfusion. Mean serum creatinine and BUN concentrations were greater than baseline values on days 1 and 2. Although changes from baseline hemodynamic values were detected in some cats, arterial blood pressure measurements did not change significantly from baseline at any time point. Compared with baseline data, mean pulse rate was increased on days 1 and 2 and days 6 through 12; mean pulse pressure was increased on days 1 and 2.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In clinically normal cats, hypertension was not induced by clinically relevant periods of ischemia-reperfusion injury of renal autografts and was not an inherent consequence of the transplantation process. Causes of marked posttransplantation hypertension in cats with chronic kidney disease require further investigation.
Radiographic features of cardiogenic pulmonary edema in dogs with mitral regurgitation: 61 cases (1998–2007)
Authors: Diana Alessia , Guglielmini Carlo , Pivetta Mauro , Sanacore Antonina , Di Tommaso Morena , Lord Peter F. , Cipone Mario
Published: November 2009

Objective—To evaluate radiographic distribution of pulmonary edema (PE) in dogs with mitral regurgitation (MR) and investigate the association between location of radiographic findings and direction of the mitral regurgitant jet (MRJ).

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—61 dogs with cardiogenic PE and MR resulting from mitral valve disease (MVD; 51 dogs), dilated cardiomyopathy (9), and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (1).

Procedures—Thoracic radiographs of dogs with Doppler echocardiographic evidence of MR were reviewed for location (diffuse, perihilar, or focal) of PE. Also, direction (central or eccentric) of the MRJ, as evaluated by Doppler color flow mapping (DCFM), and distribution (symmetric or asymmetric) of radiographic findings were evaluated.

Results—Diffuse, perihilar, and focal increases in pulmonary opacity were observed in 11 (18.0%), 7 (11.5%), and 43 (70.5%) of 61 dogs, respectively. Radiographic evidence of asymmetric PE in a single lung lobe or 2 ipsilateral lobes was found in 21 dogs, with involvement of only the right caudal lung lobe in 17 dogs. Doppler color flow mapping of the MRJ was available for 46 dogs. Of 31 dogs with a central MRJ, 28 had radiographic findings indicative of symmetric PE. Of 15 dogs with eccentric MRJ, 11 had radiographic evidence of asymmetric PE, and all of these dogs had MVD.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In dogs with cardiogenic PE, a symmetric radiographic distribution of increased pulmonary opacity was predominantly associated with a central MRJ, whereas an asymmetric radiographic distribution was usually associated with eccentric MRJ, especially in dogs with MVD.
Infection with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius masquerading as cefoxitin susceptible in a dog
Authors: Weese J. Scott , Faires Meredith , Brisson Brigette A. , Slavic Durda
Published: November 2009

Case Description—A 2-year-old dog was evaluated because of complications that developed following tibial plateau leveling osteotomy. Infection of the surgical site developed following removal of the failed implant.

Clinical Findings—The dog was lame with evidence of a deep surgical site infection, and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius was isolated from the surgical site. Results of in vitro testing indicated that the isolate was resistant to multiple antimicrobials but susceptible to cefoxitin. Subsequent testing confirmed that the isolate was methicillin-resistant S pseudintermedius and was in fact resistant to cefoxitin.

Treatment and Outcome—On the basis of results of follow-up testing, doxycycline was administered before and after surgery to remove the surgical implant. The dog recovered without further complications.

Clinical Relevance—Findings suggested that certain strains of methicillin-resistant S pseudintermedius, which appears to be an emerging pathogen in dogs, may be falsely identified as methicillin susceptible on the basis of results of testing for cefoxitin susceptibility because cefoxitin may not induce the mecA gene as reliably in S pseudintermedius as it does in Staphylococcus aureus. Isolates of S pseudintermedius should be considered to likely be methicillin resistant when multidrug resistance is identified, even if susceptibility to some β-lactam antimicrobials is reported.
Diversion of the urine stream by surgical modification of the preputial ostium in a dog
Authors: Pavletic Michael M. , Brum Douglas E.
Published: November 2009

Case Description—A 1.4-year-old sexually intact male Standard Poodle was evaluated with a history of urinating on its left forelimb and lower portion of the thorax.

Clinical Findings—Physical examination revealed that the dog had an unusually elevated (tucked) abdominal wall and prominent dome-shaped thoracic wall. These anatomic changes altered the angle of the urine stream, resulting in the dog's soiling the xiphoid region of the thorax and left forelimb.

Treatment and Outcome—The dorsal half of the preputial ostium was closed surgically to divert the urine stream in a ventral direction. The ventral portion of the ostium was reciprocally enlarged. Postoperatively, the dog urinated in a downward direction, eliminating urine contact with the body.

Clinical Relevance—The preputial orifice (ostium) plays an important role in the shape and direction of the urine stream exiting the penile urethra. Dogs with an elevated abdominal wall and prominent dome-shaped thorax may be prone to contamination of the lower portion of the thorax and forelimbs with urine during normal micturition. Partial closure of the dorsal preputial ostium, with reciprocal enlargement of the lower half of the orifice, can create a deflective barrier that effectively diverts the urine stream in a ventral direction.
Comparison of survival rates for geriatric horses versus nongeriatric horses following exploratory celiotomy for colic
Authors: Krista Kathryn M. , Kuebelbeck K. Leann
Published: November 2009

Objective—To determine how survival rates in geriatric horses (≥ 20 years old) undergoing abdominal exploratory surgery for colic compare with survival rates for younger (nongeriatric) horses.

Design—Retrospective case-control study.

Animals—56 geriatric horses and 487 nongeriatric horses undergoing exploratory celiotomy for colic.

Procedures—Medical records of all horses undergoing emergency abdominal exploratory surgery for primary gastrointestinal tract lesions over a 10-year period were reviewed. Data retrieved included signalment, primary gastrointestinal tract lesion, whether the horse was discharged from the hospital alive, and reason (if applicable) for euthanasia or death either during surgery or prior to hospital discharge. Survival rates were calculated and compared between the geriatric and nongeriatric populations for strangulating and nonstrangulating small intestinal, cecal, large colon, and small colon lesions. Information on long-term outcome was obtained via telephone contact with owners or referring veterinarians.

Results—Survival rate at the time of hospital discharge was 50% (28/56) for geriatric horses and 72% (352/487) for nongeriatric horses. Of horses that survived surgery and anesthetic recovery, 82% (28/34) of geriatric horses and 89% (352/396) of nongeriatric horses were discharged from the hospital alive. Seventy percent (14/20) of geriatric horses and 84% (108/129) of nongeriatric horses with long-term follow-up information survived > 1 year after surgery.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Survival rate at the time of hospital discharge was significantly lower for geriatric horses, compared with that for nongeriatric horses. The primary reason for this difference in survival rates between the 2 groups appeared to be related to the significantly higher number of geriatric horses euthanized during surgery.
Evaluation of athletic performance in horses with jugular vein thrombophlebitis: 91 cases (1988–2005)
Authors: Moreau Peggy , Lavoie Jean-Pierre
Published: November 2009

Objective—To evaluate effects of thrombophlebitis of 1 or both jugular veins on athletic performance of horses.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—91 horses with jugular vein thrombophlebitis.

Procedures—Medical records of horses with jugular vein thrombophlebitis examined between 1988 and 2005 were reviewed for signalment, history, clinical signs, diagnosis, and treatment. Performance was evaluated in 2 ways. A questionnaire was used to obtain a subjective assessment from the owner or trainer of the horse's performance after thrombophlebitis, compared with the performance before thrombophlebitis. Racing records from before and after thrombophlebitis were also evaluated.

Results—Thrombophlebitis was diagnosed in 37 horses at the time of admission (group 1), and 54 horses developed thrombophlebitis during hospitalization for an unrelated medical condition (group 2). Twenty-seven of 81 (33%) owners answered the questionnaire, and racing records were available for 31 horses. Performance data were available for 48 horses. Owners reported that all nonracing horses, except 1, had equivalent or better performances after discharge. Twenty-six of 31 (84%) Standardbreds resumed racing; in these horses, there was no significant difference between racing times before and after thrombophlebitis. No significant difference in performance was detected regardless of the primary disease, whether a horse had unilateral or bilateral thrombophlebitis, or the treatment administered.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that the athletic performance of horses used for nonracing events was not affected by thrombophlebitis. Thrombophlebitis in racing Standardbreds was associated with a decreased chance of return to racing; however, performance was not impaired in those that resumed racing.
Comparison of two different rest intervals on drop jump: effects on muscle damage markers
Authors: Eiras Alexandre , Reis Rodrigo , Silva Pierre , Monteiro André , Machado Marco
Published: November 2009

Comparison of two different rest intervals on drop jump: effects on muscle damage markers

Study aim: To determine the effects of 60- or 180-s rest intervals between sets of drop jump (DJ) exercise on serum creatine kinase (CK) activity and perceived muscle soreness.

Materials and methods: A group of 36 healthy male subjects aged 18 - 19 years performed 4 sets of 10 DJ, the rest intervals between sets amounting to 60 (Group A) or 180 s (Group B). Before, as well as 3, 24, 48, and 72 h post-exercise, blood was sampled for determining the activity of in serum CK activity and the perceived muscle soreness was reported. Two-way ANOVA (time x rest interval) was used in data analysis.

Results: The DJ sessions induced muscle soreness and elevated serum CK activity (p<0.05). No significant between-group differences were found.

Conclusion: Rest intervals of 1 - 2 min duration had no effect on the magnitude of changes in CK activity or perceived muscle soreness. This may be of practical importance when designing training which includes drop jumps.
Traceability of Chemical Measurement Results
Authors: Güttler Bernd , Richter Wolfgang
Published: November 2009

Traceability to recognised references, ultimately to the SI units, is an indispensable prerequisite for measurement results to be comparable and trustworthy and hence accepted worldwide. This holds also for chemical measurement results, particularly as these are often used as a basis
for important decisions and agreements, for example in health care and environmental protection. The concept of traceability and the special problems associated with its application to chemical analysis as compared to metrology in general are described. Current approaches to establish traceability
of chemical measurement results are reported. The most important development in the last two decades was the establishment of the Consultative Committee for Metrology in Chemistry under the Metre Convention, which provided the basis for an international reference framework for chemical measurements.
In order to link up laboratory results anywhere in the world with this international reference framework, traceability structures on the national level are required. It is shown, using the demand for traceable chemical measurements in Germany as an example, how such structures can be established
and efficiently used.
Field Intercomparison of Air Quality Measurements in Switzerland
Authors: Brunner Jürg
Published: November 2009

As part of a national quality assurance programme of the Cercl'Air in cooperation with the Swiss Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) and the Swiss Federal Office of Metrology (METAS) there have been intercomparisons of air quality monitoring stations of interested institutions
in regular intervals since 1988. The former approach, alternating between calibrations with test gases of measuring stations on site and gathering mobile measuring units for additional comparative measurements every second year, had to be modified as mobile measuring stations have become increasingly
sparse over the last years. The idea was to find a solution to combine the two types of intercomparison in one campaign. The problem was solved by assembling a mobile reference station for measuring air pollution, with the addition of equipment to provide test gases for the candidate instruments.
With this mobile measuring unit, calibration with test gases and comparative measurements could be performed on site at the candidate air pollution monitoring stations. The results of the 2007 intercomparison campaign showed that the achieved quality improvements in air pollution measurements
over the last twenty years – decrease of expanded uncertainties in intercomparisons by a factor of 4 to 7 depending on the type of pollutant – could be sustained.
Neutron Activation Analysis: A Primary (Ratio) Method to Determine SI-Traceable Values of Element Content in Complex Samples
Authors: Bode Peter , Greenberg Robert R. , De Nadai Fernandes Elisabete A.
Published: November 2009

The metrological principles of neutron activation analysis are discussed. It has been demonstrated that this method can provide elemental amount of substance with values fully traceable to the SI. The method has been used by several laboratories worldwide in a number of CCQM key comparisons
– interlaboratory comparison tests at the highest metrological level – supplying results equivalent to values from other methods for elemental or isotopic analysis in complex samples without the need to perform chemical destruction and dissolution of these samples. The CCQM accepted
therefore in April 2007 the claim that neutron activation analysis should have the similar status as the methods originally listed by the CCQM as 'primary methods of measurement'. Analytical characteristics and scope of application are given.
Accreditation of Chemical, Criminal Investigation, and Other Laboratories
Authors: Ulrich Hans-Jakob , Straub Rolf
Published: November 2009

Scientific progress in chemical, medical, criminal investigation and in other chemical and physical laboratories demands an increasing number of complex testing procedures. Therefore, adequate quality control processes are required to guarantee the reliability of the test results. For
the quality assurance in testing laboratories, inspection and certification bodies, the worldwide accreditation system establishes reliable and internationally recognised standards.
Nonulcerative bullous keratitis associated with Pseudomonas alcaligenes infection in a Thoroughbred mare
Authors: Utter M. E. , Wotman K. L.
Published: November 2009

A 5‐year‐old Thoroughbred mare presented with an intermittently mildly painful right eye with a nonulcerative corneal opacity of several weeks' duration that had improved with topical steroids but recurred when steroids were withdrawn. Ophthalmic examination demonstrated a focal region of moderate corneal oedema and midstromal corneal infiltrate centrally but no other significant ocular abnormalities, and suggested a diagnosis of immune‐mediated keratitis. Empirical courses of both topical and systemic anti‐inflammatory drugs, both nonsteroidal and steroidal, led to initial improvement but bullous keratopathy developed when corneal oedema became profound. Due to the rapidly progressive nature of the bullous keratopathy combined with poor response to medical therapy, a keratectomy and conjunctival graft were performed under general anaesthesia. Intraoperative corneal culture of the keratectomy site grewPseudomonas alcaligenes, a common soil and water contaminant. Histopathology of the keratectomy specimen revealed neutrophilic inflammation. Keratectomy and conjunctival graft led to resolution of ocular pain and inflammation, with an acceptable cosmetic and visual outcome. This report describes an unusual case of a nonulcerativePseudomonaskeratitis that responded well to surgical therapy, and underscores the complicated nature of nonulcerative keratitis in horses.
Evaluation of a vessel‐sealing device to assist eye enucleation and exenteration in the horse
Authors: Launois M. T. , Vandeweerd J. M. E. F. , Perrin R. A. R. , Brogniez L. , Gabriel A. , Coomer R. , Clegg P. D. , Desbrosse A. M. , Desbrosse F. G.
Published: November 2009

This study describes and evaluates the LigaSure for eye enucleation or exenteration in horses. According to the medical records of the Clinique Desbrosse, 17 horses underwent eye removal using the LigaSure between April 2005 and March 2009. It was applied at 7 different steps of the procedure and accounted for the different possible sources of bleeding. The Ligasure was also used to transect the optic pedicle in the 5 most recent cases. Very few complications were encountered with the technique described. Reliable vessel sealing and haemostasis was achieved in all horses.
Remediation and Respect: Do Remediation Technologies Alter Our Responsibility?
Authors: Hale Benjamin , Grundy W.P.
Published: November 2009

In this paper we examine the relation between technologies that aim to remediate pollution and moral responsibility. Contrary to the common view that successful remediation technologies will permit the wheels of industry to turn without interruption, we argue that such technologies do not exculpate polluters of responsibility. To make this case, we examine several environmental and non-environmental cases. We suggest that some strategies for understanding the moral problem of pollution, and particularly those that emphasise harms, exclude an important dimension of morality. In lieu of these strategies, we employ the concept of respect to characterise the type of attitude that underlies many of our judgments about responsibility.
Darwin and the Meaning in Life
Authors: Holland Alan
Published: November 2009

It has often been thought, and has recently been argued, that one of the most profound impacts of Darwin's theory of evolution is the threat that it poses to the very possibility of living a meaningful, and therefore worthwhile, life. Three attempts to ground the possibility of a meaningful life are considered. The first two are compatible with an exclusively Darwinian worldview. One is based on the belief that Darwinian evolution is, in some sense, progressive; the other is based on the belief that the natural world is a thing of value and hence, that our lives are lived in the presence of value. The third is based on a belief in providence, and holds that we must transcend the exclusively Darwinian worldview if we are to find meaning. All three are, for different reasons, rejected. The conclusion reached is that, contrary to what has often been thought and recently argued, the impact of Darwin's theory is precisely to liberate us to lead the most meaningful of lives.
Brazilian Federal Conservation Units: A Historical Overview of their Creation and of their Current Status
Authors: Drummond José Augusto , de Andrade Franco José Luiz , Bortoni Ninis Allesandra
Published: November 2009

This paper provides a historical overview of the formation of the system of federal conservation units existent in Brazil as of 2006 and examines selected aspects of their current status. The text focuses on the following dimensions of these units - the creation of multiple categories, legal bases, age, number, absolute and average sizes, distribution by regions and by biomes, according to groups and categories. Major findings are that (1) much progress has been attained in the creation of conservation units, in terms of legal bases, diversified categories, numbers and areas, and coverage of Brazilian regions and biomes; (2) there is a deficit to be filled by the creation of numerous units, in order to make the system more efficient and encompassing and to honour the commitments made in international forums; (3) despite this need for physical expansion, the rather extensive set of existing conservation units already demands more than the existing energy, expertise and funding to be adequately managed.
Book Reviews
Authors: Harvey David , Niewojt Lawrence , Simmons Ian
Published: November 2009

Brian Short, Charles Watkins and John Martin, eds., The Front Line of Freedom: British Farming in the Second World War (DAVID HARVEY)
David R. Montgomery, Dirt: The Erosion of Civilizations (LAWRENCE NIEWOJT)
T. C. Smout, Exploring Environmental History. Selected Essays (IAN SIMMONS)
Alcoholic Pancreatitis: Pathogenesis, Incidence and Treatment with Special Reference to the Associated Pain
Authors: Pezzilli Raffaele , Morselli-Labate Antonio M.
Published: November 2009

Alcoholic pancreatitis continues to stir up controversy. One of the most debated points is whether from onset it is a chronic disease or whether it progresses to a chronic form after repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis. Histological studies on patients with alcoholic pancreatitis have shown that the disease is chronic from onset and that alcoholic acute pancreatitis occurs in a pancreas already damaged by chronic lesions. Genetic factors may also play a role in the pathogenesis of alcoholic disease. The incidence of chronic alcoholic pancreatitis seems to have decreased in the last twenty years. Finally, recent therapeutic studies which have shown medical or surgical approaches capable of reducing the pain episodes in chronic pancreatitis patients will be described.
Feedback Power Control Strategies inWireless Sensor Networks with Joint Channel Decoding
Authors: Abrardo Andrea , Ferrari Gianluigi , Martalò Marco , Perna Fabio
Published: November 2009

In this paper, we derive feedback power control strategies for block-faded multiple access schemes with correlated sources and joint channel decoding (JCD). In particular, upon the derivation of the feasible signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) region for the considered multiple access schemes, i.e., the multidimensional SNR region where error-free communications are, in principle, possible, two feedback power control strategies are proposed: (i) a classical feedback power control strategy, which aims at equalizing all link SNRs at the access point (AP), and (ii) an innovative optimized feedback power control strategy, which tries to make the network operational point fall in the feasible SNR region at the lowest overall transmit energy consumption. These strategies will be referred to as “balanced SNR” and “unbalanced SNR,” respectively. While they require, in principle, an unlimited power control range at the sources, we also propose practical versions with a limited power control range. We preliminary consider a scenario with orthogonal links and ideal feedback. Then, we analyze the robustness of the proposed power control strategies to possible non-idealities, in terms of residual multiple access interference and noisy feedback channels. Finally, we successfully apply the proposed feedback power control strategies to a limiting case of the class of considered multiple access schemes, namely a central estimating officer (CEO) scenario, where the sensors observe noisy versions of a common binary information sequence and the AP’s goal is to estimate this sequence by properly fusing the soft-output information output by the JCD algorithm.
Sensor for High Speed, High Precision Measurement of 2-D Positions
Authors: Luna Carlos  A. , Lázaro José  L. , Mazo Manuel , Cano Angel
Published: November 2009

A sensor system to measure the 2-D position of an object that intercepts a plane in space is presented in this paper. This sensor system was developed with the aim of measuring the height and lateral position of contact wires supplying power to electric locomotives. The sensor comprises two line-scans focused on the zone to be measured and positioned in such a way that their viewing planes are on the same plane. The report includes a mathematical model of the sensor system, and details the method used for calibrating the sensor system. The procedure used for high speed measurement of object position in space is also described, where measurement acquisition time was less than 0.7 ms. Finally, position measurement results verifying system performance in real time are given.
Ferromagnetic Mass Localization in Check Point Configuration Using a Levenberg Marquardt Algorithm
Authors: Alimi Roger , Geron Nir , Weiss Eyal , Ram-Cohen Tsuriel
Published: November 2009

A detection and tracking algorithm for ferromagnetic objects based on a two stage Levenberg Marquardt Algorithm (LMA) is presented. The procedure is applied to localization and magnetic moment estimation of ferromagnetic objects moving in the vicinity of an array of two to four 3-axis magnetometers arranged as a check point configuration. The algorithms first stage provides an estimation of the target trajectory and moment that are further refined using a second iteration where only the position vector is taken as unknown. The whole procedure is fast enough to provide satisfactory results within a few seconds after the target has been detected. Tests were conducted in Soreq NRC assessing various check point scenarios and targets. The results obtained from this experiment show good localization performance and good convivial with “noisy” environment. Small targets can be localized with good accuracy using either a vertical “doorway” two to four sensors configuration or ground level two to four sensors configuration. The calculated trajectory was not affected by nearby magnetic interference such as moving vehicles or a combat soldier inspecting the gateway.
WU Polyomavirus (WUPyV): A Recently Detected Virus Causing Respiratory Disease?
Authors: Kleines Michael , Häusler Martin , Krüttgen Alexander , Scheithauer Simone
Published: November 2009

The WU polyomavirus (WUPyV) is a novel member of the family Polyomaviridae recently detected in respiratory tract specimens by shotgun sequencing. Intriguingly, viral genome has been detected in 0.4% to 11.5% of respiratory tract specimens from children with respiratory disease. The levels of co-infection with established respiratory viruses were in the range between 30.8% and 91.7%. Moreover, some studies report detection of WUPyV in stool or serum. So far, WUPyV infections can not be distinguished from other viral infections by means of clinical symptoms. Respiratory tract disease like pneumonia or bronchitis is frequently observed in patients harbouring WUPyV. Detection of viremia suggests systemic infections. However, the available data do not prove WUPyV to be a human pathogen. Further investigations are necessary.
The Relationship Between Resident Attitudes Toward Tourism and Support for Further General and Forest-Related Tourism Development
Authors: Kuvan Yalçin
Published: November 2009

This study explores resident reactions to tourism at the local level in Turkey with the case study of Antalya-Belek. More specifically, it tests the relationship between resident attitudes toward tourism and support for further general and forest-related tourism development. The reactions
were measured by resident attitude toward general and forest-related tourism's impacts, and opinions about general and forest-related tourism development in the future. In this context, the main objective of the study was to investigate resident attitudes toward tourism's impacts and how they
related to general and forest-related tourism development. Although residents in Belek recognized the existence of tourism's environmental and economic costs, more specifically forest-related costs, they supported further tourism development without the expansion on the forest lands resulting
from mass tourism activities.
Center/Periphery Imbalance in Tourism Development: The Case of Taiwan
Authors: Morais Duarte B. , Lin Chung-Hsien , Hou Jing-Shoung
Published: November 2009

Many authors have examined the spatial distribution of tourism sites in an attempt to inform tourism planning and policy. Most of their work, however, has focused on physical planning issues and has overlooked the role of those tourism sites in transforming land into desirable or undesirable
places to live for the host communities. This study attempts to address this concern from an environmental justice perspective by examining whether tourism development is evenly distributed across geographic regions and fairly distributed across sociodemographic groups in Taiwan. The results
indicated that there is spatial inequality in the distribution of tourist sites. As predicted in literature examining tourism flows, tourist numbers were concentrated in peripheral areas with lower household incomes—the pleasure periphery. For example, Chomalai farm in Tainan County
is a very popular destination but is located in one of the poorest regions in Taiwan. In addition, size of the local population and the average amount of money local people received from tourism appeared to be unrelated to numbers of tourists visiting the area. Due to the geographic clustering
of most of the variables examined, it is recommended that subsequent studies consider using spatial regression instead of the traditional OLS regression, which is more frequently found in the literature. In conclusion, the findings support the current emphasis in sustainable tourism, suggesting
that planners should consider whether tourism results in local undesirable or desirable land use because the tourism industry tends to disproportionably affect less-developed peripheral regions.
Evaluating Central Venous Catheter Care in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Hatler Carol , Buckwald Linda , Salas-Allison Zoraida , Murphy-Taylor Cathleen
Published: November 2009

Background Catheter-related bloodstream infection remains an important health problem for hospitalized children. Although placement of a central venous catheter is a life-saving intervention for critically ill children, these same central catheters are a potential source of infection.

Objectives Few studies that directly address care of central venous catheters for children in intensive care units have been reported. This evaluation was designed to describe the extent of evidence-based practices for care of insertion sites of central venous catheters in the pediatric intensive care unit of an urban tertiary care center. Another goal was to determine the influence of 2 different regimens for dressing changes on rates of catheter-related bloodstream infections and costs.

Methods A convenience sample and an exploratory design were used to collect data in 2 phases, including 30 days to establish baseline information and 30 days each during which patients received dressing care for a central venous catheter with a transparent dressing alone and with a transparent dressing plus a chlorhexidine-impregnated dressing. Nurses also participated in a survey of knowledge about infection control practices related to central catheters.

Results Few differences were found between the transparent dressing alone and a chlorhexidine-impregnated dressing plus the transparent dressing. A serendipitous finding was the number of times that central catheters were accessed daily.

Conclusions The results of this project suggest that infection control efforts may be most appropriately focused on processes rather than on products.
Prolonged Paralysis and Apnea After Receiving a Neuromuscular Blocking Agent: What Nurses Should Know
Authors: Jaramillo Kathryn S. , Scruth Elizabeth , Cheng Eugene
Published: November 2009

After receiving mivacurium, a short-acting neuromuscular blocking agent used for intubation before surgery, a patient experienced prolonged paralysis and prolonged apnea that required ventilator support. Although this complication is rare, all critical care nurses should be aware of it so they can be competent in managing and providing holistic and comprehensive nursing care to the patient and the patient’s family. Although this complication has been documented in the anesthesia literature, it has received little mention in critical care nursing journals.
Scales for Evaluating Self-Perceived Anxiety Levels in Patients Admitted to Intensive Care Units: A Review
Authors: Perpiñá-Galvañ Juana , Richart-Martínez Miguel
Published: November 2009

Objective To review studies of anxiety in critically ill patients admitted to an intensive care unit to describe the level of anxiety and synthesize the psychometric properties of the instruments used to measure anxiety.

Methods The CUIDEN, IME, ISOC, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and PSYCINFO databases for 1995 to 2005 were searched. The search focused on 3 concepts: anxiety, intensive care, and mechanical ventilation for the English-language databases and ansiedad, cuidados intensivos, and ventilación mecánica for the Spanish-language databases. Information was extracted from 18 selected articles on the level of anxiety experienced by patients and the psychometric properties of the instruments used to measure anxiety.

Results Moderate levels of anxiety were reported. Levels were higher in women than in men, and higher in patients undergoing positive pressure ventilation regardless of sex. Most multi-item instruments had high coefficients of internal consistency. The reliability of instruments with only a single item was not demonstrated, even though the instruments had moderate-to-high correlations with other measurements.

Conclusion Midlength scales, such the anxiety subscale of the Brief Symptom Inventory or the shortened state version of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory are best for measuring anxiety in critical care patients.
Reducing Use of Indwelling Urinary Catheters and Associated Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Elpern Ellen H. , Killeen Kathryn , Ketchem Alice , Wiley Amanda , Patel Gourang , Lateef Omar
Published: November 2009

Background Use of indwelling urinary catheters can lead to complications, most commonly catheter-associated urinary tract infections. Duration of catheterization is the major risk factor. These infections can result in sepsis, prolonged hospitalization, additional hospital costs, and mortality.

Objectives To implement and evaluate the efficacy of an intervention to reduce catheter-associated urinary tract infections in a medical intensive care unit by decreasing use of urinary catheters.

Methods Indications for continuing urinary catheterization with indwelling devices were developed by unit clinicians. For a 6-month intervention period, patients in a medical intensive care unit who had indwelling urinary catheters were evaluated daily by using criteria for appropriate catheter continuance. Recommendations were made to discontinue indwelling urinary catheters in patients who did not meet the criteria. Days of use of a urinary catheter and rates of catheter-associated urinary tract infections during the intervention were compared with those of the preceding 11 months.

Results During the study period, 337 patients had a total of 1432 days of urinary catheterization. With use of guidelines, duration of use was significantly reduced to a mean of 238.6 d/mo from the previous rate of 311.7 d/mo. The number of catheter-associated urinary tract infections per 1000 days of use was a mean of 4.7/mo before the intervention and zero during the 6-month intervention period.

Conclusions Implementation of an intervention to judge appropriateness of indwelling urinary catheters may result in significant reductions in duration of catheterization and occurrences of catheter-associated urinary tract infections.
Trait Anger, Hostility, Serum Homocysteine, and Recurrent Cardiac Events After Percutaneous Coronary Interventions
Authors: Song Eun Kyeung , Son Youn-Jung , Lennie Terry A.
Published: November 2009

Background Trait anger, hostility, and serum level of homocysteine are associated with recurrent cardiac events after percutaneous coronary interventions. However, whether trait anger or hostility influences the association between serum level of homocysteine and recurrent cardiac events is unknown.

Objectives To examine the relationships among trait anger, hostility, serum level of homocysteine, and recurrent cardiac events after percutaneous coronary interventions.

Methods This prospective study included 135 consecutive patients (68% male, mean age 61 [SD, 10] years) undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions during an index hospitalization. Trait anger and hostility were measured with the Spielberger Trait Anger Scale and the Cynical Hostility Scale, respectively. Blood samples were obtained to measure serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and homocysteine. Recurrent cardiac events (emergency department visits and rehospitalization) were noted for 6 months after discharge and confirmed by review of hospital records. Hierarchical Cox hazard regression was used for statistical analysis.

Results Trait anger (hazard ratio = 1.11, 95% confidence interval = 1.03–1.20) and homocysteine level (hazard ratio = 1.10, 95% confidence interval = 1.01–1.21) were independent predictors of recurrent cardiac events after other risk factors were controlled for. Patients with high trait anger (score ≥ 24) and high serum level of homocysteine (≥ 11.3 μmol/L) had the shortest time to recurrent cardiac events (P = .01).

Conclusion Trait anger had a combined effect on the link between serum level of homocysteine and recurrent cardiac events. Interventions to reduce trait anger may improve health outcomes by influencing both trait anger and homocysteine level.
Purification, Characterization, and Effect of Thiol Compounds on Activity of theErwinia carotovoraL-Asparaginase
Authors: Warangkar Suchita C. , Khobragade Chandrahas N.
Published: November 2009

L-asparaginase was extracted fromErwinia carotovoraand purified by ammonium sulfate fractionation (60–70%), Sephadex G-100, CM cellulose, and DEAE sephadex chromatography. The apparent Mr of enzyme under nondenaturing and denaturing conditions was 150 kDa and  kDa, respectively. L-asparaginase activity was studied in presence of thiols, namely, L-cystine (Cys), L-methionine (Met), N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), and reduced glutathione (GSH). Kinetic parameters in presence of thiols (10–400 M) showed an increase in values (2000, 2223, 2380, 2500, and control 1666.7 moles ) and a decrease in values (0.086, 0.076, 0.062, 0.055 and control 0.098 mM) indicating nonessential mode of activation. values displayed propensity to bind thiols. A decrease in ratio in concentration plots showed inverse relationship between free thiol groups (NAC and GSH) and bound thiol group (Cys and Met). Enzyme activity was enhanced in presence of thiol protecting reagents like dithiothreitol (DTT), 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME), and GSH, but inhibited by p-chloromercurybenzoate (PCMB) and iodoacetamide (IA).
Chronic passive exposure to aggression escalates aggressiveness of rat observers
Authors: Suzuki Hideo , Lucas Louis R.
Published: November 2009

Previous studies have documented that exposure to aggression increases aggressiveness of human witnesses. However, the question of whether passive exposure to aggression can exclusively cause a risk of aggressive inclination for observers through a learning process, rather than mimicry effect, has not been readily addressed in the clinical literature. This study aimed to investigate this question by using a simple animal model to test the behavioral effect of chronic passive exposure to aggression. Our results indicate that observer rats that had been passively exposed to aggression for 10 min per day for 23 consecutive days exhibited more aggressive behavior than controls or those groups undergoing a single exposure to passive aggression. Furthermore, aggression levels in the group of 23‐day chronic exposure to aggression lasted 16 days after the recovery from exposure to aggression. These data suggest that the development of aggression in this model occurred through a learning process because only chronic exposure to aggression resulted in this behavioral outcome in the long run. Aggr. Behav. 36:54–66, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Real‐Time Liquid Crystal pH Sensor for Monitoring Enzymatic Activities of Penicillinase
Authors: Bi Xinyan , Hartono Deny , Yang Kun‐Lin
Published: November 2009

A liquid crystal (LC)‐based pH sensor for real‐time monitoring of changes in localized pH values near a solid surface is reported, along with its application for the detection of enzymatic activities. It is found that 4‐cyano‐4′‐pentylbiphenyl (5CB), when doped with 4′‐pentyl‐biphenyl‐4‐carboxylic acid (PBA), shows a bright‐to‐dark optical response to a very small change in pH (from 6.9 to 7.0). The pH‐driven optical response can be explained by using orientational transitions of 5CB induced by the protonation and deprotonation of PBA at the aqueous/LC interface. Because of its high pH sensitivity, the LC‐based sensor is further exploited for monitoring local pH changes resulting from enzymatic reactions. As a proof of concept, the hydrolysis of penicillin G by surface‐immobilized penicillinase is monitored using the system, even when the concentration of penicillin G is as low as 1 nM. This type of LC‐based sensor may find potential utilities in high‐throughput screening of enzyme substrates and enzyme inhibitors.
Robustness of Spin Polarization in Graphene‐Based Spin Valves
Authors: Shiraishi Masashi , Ohishi Megumi , Nouchi Ryo , Mitoma Nobuhiko , Nozaki Takayuki , Shinjo Teruya , Suzuki Yoshishige
Published: November 2009

The decrease of spin polarization in spintronics devices under the application of a bias voltage is one of a number of currently important problems that should be solved. Here, an unprecedented robustness of the spin polarization in multilayer‐graphene spin valves at room temperature is revealed. Surprisingly, the spin polarization of injected spins is constant up to a bias voltage of +2.7 V and −0.6 V in positive‐ and negative‐bias voltage applications at room temperature, respectively, which is superior to all spintronics devices. This finding is induced by suppression of spin scattering due to an ideal‐interface formation. Furthermore, an important accordance between theory and experiment in molecular spintronics is found by observing the fact that the signal intensity in a local scheme is double that in a nonlocal scheme, as theory predicts, which provides construction of a steadfast physical basis in this field.
Liquid‐Crystalline Polymer with a Block Mesogenic Side Group: Photoinduced Manipulation of Nanophase‐Separated Structures
Authors: Okano Kunihiko , Mikami Yasuyuki , Yamashita Takashi
Published: November 2009

In this report, a novel type of photoresponsive liquid crystalline polymer with a block mesogenic side‐group is demonstrated. The block mesogene is an amphipathic molecule containing a hydrophobic mesogene (azotolane moiety) and hydrophilic oligooxyethylene moieties in the same unit. The block mesogene in the polymer plays a role in liquid crystalline, amphiphilic and photoresponsive properties. As expected, a film prepared from the polymer exhibits phase separation of a lamellar structure due to cooperative motion between liquid crystal assembly and nanophase separation. The morphology of the lamellae can be aligned upon irradiation of linearly polarized light. Moreover, a photochemical phase transition induced by unpolarized UV irradiation erases the surface morphology. The erased nanostructure can be recovered by annealing or irradiation of linearly polarized light, meaning that the surface morphology is rewritable via a photochemical process.
980‐nm Laser‐Driven Photovoltaic Cells Based on Rare‐Earth Up‐Converting Phosphors for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Chen Zhigang , Zhang Lisha , Sun Yangang , Hu Junqing , Wang Dayang
Published: November 2009

A prerequisite for designing and constructing wireless biological nanorobots is to obtain an electrical source that is continuously available in the operational biological environment. Herein the first preparation of 980‐nm laser‐driven photovoltaic cells (980LD‐PVCs) by introducing of a film of rare‐earth up‐converting nanophosphors in conventional dye‐sensitized solar cells is reported. Under the irradiation of a 980‐nm laser with a power of 1 W, the visible up‐converting luminescence of rare‐earth nanophosphors can be efficiently absorbed by the dyes in 980LD‐PVCs so that they exhibit a maximal output power of 0.47 mW. In particular, after being covered with 1 to 6 layers of pig intestines (thickness: ca. 1 mm per layer) as a model of biological tissues, 980LD‐PVCs still possess a maximal output power of between 0.28 and 0.02 mW, which is efficient enough to drive many kinds of biodevices. This research opens up the possibility of preparing and/or developing novel electrical sources for wireless biological nanorobots and many other biodevices.
An improved independent component regression modeling and quantitative calibration procedure
Authors: Zhao Chunhui , Gao Furong , Wang Fuli
Published: November 2009

An improved independent component regression (M‐ICR) algorithm is proposed by constructing joint latent variable (LV) based regressors, and a quantitative statistical analysis procedure is designed using a bootstrap technique for model validation and performance evaluation. First, the drawbacks of the conventional regression modeling algorithms are analyzed. Then the proposed M‐ICR algorithm is formulated for regressor design. It constructs a dual‐objective optimization criterion function, simultaneously incorporating quality‐relevance and independence into the feature extraction procedure. This ties together the ideas of partial‐least squares (PLS), and independent component regression (ICR) under the same mathematical umbrella. By adjusting the controllable suboptimization objective weights, it adds insight into the different roles of quality‐relevant and independent characteristics in calibration modeling, and, thus, provides possibilities to combine the advantages of PLS and ICR. Furthermore, a quantitative statistical analysis procedure based on a bootstrapping technique is designed to identify the effects of LVs, determine a better model rank and overcome ill‐conditioning caused by model over‐parameterization. A confidence interval on quality prediction is also approximated. The performance of the proposed method is demonstrated using both numerical and real world data. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010