bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
National evaluation of US newborn screening system components
Authors: Therrell Bradford L. , Hannon W. Harry
Published: December 2006

Newborn screening has existed as a state‐based public health service since the early 1960s. Every state and most territorial jurisdictions have comprehensive newborn screening programs in place, but in the United States a national newborn screening policy does not exist. This results in different administrative infrastructures, screening requirements, laboratory and follow‐up services, medical management approaches, and related activities across the country. Federal initiatives and support have contributed to limited evaluations of various aspects of individual newborn screening programs at the national level, but funding is an issue. The national evaluation strategies have taken various forms, all with the intent of improving the screening system through review of actions taken and suggestions for future improvements. While participation in the national evaluation effort for newborn screening laboratory practices includes all US programs, and this has aided in improving quality and harmonizing protocols, other national evaluation activities have been only moderately successful. National data reporting of quality indicators for various program elements must be comprehensive and timely, and the elements must be universally accepted in order to meet the evaluation and improvement needs of the national newborn screening system. A comprehensive real time national evaluation activity will likely require additional resources and enforcement incentives. Limited federal actions through grant incentives and selected reporting requirements provide a possible means of stimulating programs to participate in national harmonization efforts. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. MRDD Research Reviews 2006;12:236–245.
Critical role of the March of Dimes in the expansion of newborn screening
Authors: Howse Jennifer L. , Weiss Marina , Green Nancy S.
Published: December 2006

Expansion of newborn screening (NBS) has been driven primarily by a combination of advances in technology and medical treatment, and the sustained advocacy efforts of consumers and voluntary health organizations. The longstanding leadership of the March of Dimes has been credited by many as a critical factor in the expansion and improvement of state NBS programs. From the historic vantage point of four decades of March of Dimes involvement with newborn screening, this report reviews the unique origin of the first newborn screening test, and identifies from this point of origin several of the elements which still define the evolution of advocacy for NBS today. It also documents activities at the federal level and in seven states that have lead to expanded screening for newborns. Advances in NBS technology and medical treatment have informed policy development. Mobilization of volunteers and focused advocacy activities have brought about expansion of screening opportunities for newborns across the United States. But more work is needed. Continued application of the effective strategies identified in this report will help assure that all families have the best possible chance of assuring that their newborns do not have to suffer the complications of conditions that we know can be treated effectively. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. MRDD Research Reviews 2006;12:280–287.
Making the case for objective performance metrics in newborn screening by tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Rinaldo Piero , Zafari Saba , Tortorelli Silvia , Matern Dietrich
Published: December 2006

The expansion of newborn screening programs to include multiplex testing by tandem mass spectrometry requires understanding and close monitoring of performance metrics. This is not done consistently because of lack of defined targets, and interlaboratory comparison is almost nonexistent. Between July 2004 and April 2006 (N = 176,185 cases), the overall performance metrics of the Minnesota program, limited to MS/MS testing, were as follows: detection rate 1:1,816, positive predictive value 37% (54% in 2006 till date), and false positive rate 0.09%. The repeat rate and the proportion of cases with abnormal findings actually been reported are new metrics proposed here as an objective mean to express the overall noise in a program, where noise is defined as the total number of abnormal results obtained using a given set of cut‐off values. On the basis of our experience, we propose the following targets as evidence of adequate analytical and postanalytical performance: detection rate 1:3,000 or higher, positive predictive value >20%, and false positive rate <0.3%. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. MRDD Research Reviews 2006;12:255–261.
NICHD research initiative in newborn screening
Authors: Alexander Duane , Hanson James W.
Published: December 2006

Recent changes in genetics research have created new opportunities to improve the scope and quality of newborn screening services. Changes in newborn screening should be supported and directed by an organized program of research. The NICHD Research Initiative in Newborn Screening includes the development of systematic methods to identify additional conditions appropriate for newborn screening; development and testing innovative interventions and treatments to improve outcomes; education of the provider workforce; development and implementation of appropriate information and communication systems for parents and providers; and, sponsoring an ongoing program of research and research training. Future needs will include the development of a national translational research infrastructure, prevention research and research into behavioral and social sciences issues. The NICHD Research Initiative in Newborn Screening is expected to be an ongoing and vital initiative that adapts itself to new scientific findings, technological developments, changes in the public and personal health care system, and our evolving understanding of the needs of affected individuals, families and the community. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. MRDD Research Reviews 2006;12:301–304.
A prospective pilot study of a multidisciplinary home training programme for lateral epicondylitis
Authors: Nilsson Pia , Thom Eivor , Baigi Amir , Marklund Bertil , Månsson Jörgen
Published: December 2006

Objective: To evaluate a new multidisciplinary structured home training programme for patients with lateral epicondylitis compared to conventional attendance.

Design: This study utilized a prospective non‐randomized design to compare the effect of a home exercise programme against a pragmatic approach to managing patients with lateral epicondylitis in a primary care setting in Sweden.

Subjects: A total of 78 patients, presenting to their general practitioner with lateral epicondylitis were recruited from two separate geographical areas. The patients were divided into two group, 51 entered the intervention group and 27 entered the control group.

Methods: The intervention group was treated with a specific home training programme, ergonomic advice and when necessary wrist and/or night bandages. The control group was treated with conventional treatment, e.g. corticosteroid injections, stretching or no intervention. Pain and function were evaluated by the PRFEQ. An electronic hand‐power gauge measured strength and stamina. Sick‐leave absence was collected via the regional Social Insurance Office.

Results: After four weeks the intervention group experienced less sick‐leave, less pain, better function and returned to work earlier than the control group. After 16 weeks the intervention group still had significantly better function than the control group and were taking less sick‐leave. Pain decreased more in the intervention group but this was not significant. There was no difference in grip strength between the two groups.

Conclusion: A structured home training programme can improve function and reduce sick leave in patients with lateral epicondylitis. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A comparison of two Trefftz‐type methods: the ultraweak variational formulation and the least‐squares method, for solving shortwave 2‐D Helmholtz problems
Authors: Gamallo P. , Astley R. J.
Published: December 2006

Trefftz methods for the numerical solution of partial differential equations (PDEs) on a given domain involve trial functions which are defined in subdomains, are generally discontinuous, and are solutions of the governing PDE (or its adjoint) within each subdomain. The boundary conditions and matching conditions between subdomains must be enforced separately. An interesting novel result presented in this paper is that the least‐squares method (LSM) and the ultraweak variational formulation, two methods already established for solving the Helmholtz equation, can be derived in the framework of the Trefftz‐type methods. In the first case, the boundary conditions and interelement continuity are enforced by means of a least‐squares procedure. In the second, a Galerkin‐type weighted residual method is used. Another goal of the work is to assess the relative efficiency of each method for solving shortwave problems in acoustics and to study the stability of each method. The numerical performance of each scheme is assessed with reference to two 2‐D test problems; acoustic propagation in an uniform soft‐walled duct, and propagation in an L‐shaped domain, the latter involving singular behaviour at a sharp corner. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A FEM/BEM for axisymmetric electromagnetic and thermal modelling of induction furnaces
Authors: Bermúdez A. , Gómez D. , Muñiz M. C. , Salgado P.
Published: December 2006

In this paper, we propose a numerical method to solve a mathematical model for axisymmetric induction furnaces used for melting materials like metals or silicon. A finite/boundary element method (FEM/BEM) is introduced to solve the eddy current problem giving the electromagnetic field. In order to solve the non‐linear heat transfer problem involving change of state, we use an enthalpy formulation and propose an iterative algorithm to solve the corresponding finite element approximation. Numerical results for an industrial induction heating system are presented. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, characterization and nonlinear optical properties of plasma‐prepared poly(4‐biphenylcarbonitrile) thin films
Authors: Zhao Xiong‐Yan , Wang Ming‐Zhu , Zhang Bing‐Zhu , Mao Lei
Published: December 2006

A novel conjugated polymer, poly(4‐biphenylcarbonitrile) (PBPCN), was prepared using a plasma polymerization technique. The effect of the discharge power on the chemical structure and surface compositions of PBPCN thin films was investigated using Fourier transform infrared, UV‐visible absorption and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopies. A femtosecond time‐resolved optical Kerr effect technique was applied to investigate the third‐order nonlinearity of the obtained plasma PBPCN thin films. For the first time, a non‐resonant optical Kerr effect and ultrafast response for the PBPCN thin films were observed. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Fabrication of transmission holographic gratings with spiroorthoester and trimethylolpropane triacrylate
Authors: Li Ze , Cho Yeong Hee , Kawakami Yusuke
Published: December 2006

Spiroorthoester function was found to be polymerizable with visible laser light (λ = 532 nm) in the presence of diphenyliodonium hexafluorophosphate and 3,3′‐carbonylbis(7‐diethylaminocoumarin), as evidenced using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. High‐performance holographic gratings were fabricated using siloxane‐containing bis(spiroorthoester) compounds together with trimethylolpropane triacrylate. The volume shrinkage of the grating thus formed was much lower than that prepared with bis(glycidyl) compounds. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Six‐coordinate Co2+ with imidazole, NH3, and H2O ligands: Approaching spin crossover
Authors: Schmiedekamp Ann M. , Ginnetti Anthony , Piccione Brian , Cannon Kevin , Ryan M. Dominic
Published: December 2006

Octahedral, six‐coordinate Co2+ can exist in two spin states: S = 3/2 and S = 1/2. The difference in energy between high spin (S = 3/2) and low spin (S = 1/2) is dependent on both the ligand mix and coordination stereochemistry. B3LYP calculations on combinations of neutral imidazole, NH3, and H2O ligands show that low‐spin isomers are stabilized by axial H2O ligands and in structures that also include trans pairs of equatorial NH3 and protonated imidazole ligands, spin crossover structures are predicted from spin state energy differences. Occupied Co d orbitals from the DFT calculations provide a means of estimating effective ligand strength for homoleptic and mixed ligand combinations. These calculations suggest that in a labile biological system, a spin crossover environment can be created. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
On delay‐dependent LMI‐based guaranteed cost control of uncertain neutral systems with discrete and distributed time‐varying delays
Authors: Chen Jenq‐Der
Published: December 2006

In this paper, the problem of designing robust guaranteed cost control law for a class of uncertain neutral system with a given quadratic cost function is considered. Based on Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional theory, a delay‐dependent criterion for the existence of guaranteed cost controller is expressed in the form of two linear matrix inequalities (LMIs), which can be solved by using effective LMI toolbox. Moreover, a convex optimization problem satisfying some LMI constraints is formulated to solve a guaranteed cost controller which achieves the minimization of the closed‐loop guaranteed cost. An efficient approach is proposed to design the guaranteed cost control for uncertain neutral systems. Computer softwareMatlabcan be used to solve all the proposed results. Finally, a numerical example is illustrated to show the usefulness of our obtained design method. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Empirical research on the resource‐based view of the firm: an assessment and suggestions for future research
Authors: Newbert Scott L.
Published: December 2006

The resource‐based view (RBV) is one of the most widely accepted theories of strategic management. However, to date no systematic assessment of the RBV's level of empirical support has been conducted. In response, a sample of RBV‐grounded empirical articles was analyzed from which it was found that the RBV has received only modest support overall and that this support varies considerably with the independent variable and theoretical approach employed. It is therefore suggested that scholars avoid the tendency to test models reflecting early incarnations of the RBV and instead test those that incorporate its more contemporary theoretical extensions. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Deregulation and environmental differentiation in the electric utility industry
Authors: Delmas Magali , Russo Michael V. , Montes‐Sancho Maria J.
Published: December 2006

This paper analyzes how economic deregulation impacts firm strategies and environmental quality in the electric utility industry. We find evidence that the deregulation introduced to this historically staid industry has stimulated environmental differentiation. Differentiation is most likely to appear where its point of uniqueness is valued by customers, and we confirm this relationship in our sample. Specifically, utilities that served customers who exhibited higher levels of environmental sensitivity generated more ‘green’ power. The tendency for firms to differentiate in this way is lessened if they are relatively more dependent on coal‐fired generation or relatively more efficient. Thus, there is evidence that firms sort themselves into either differentiation or low‐cost strategies as the competitive realities of a deregulated world unfold. Deregulation and the ensuing environmental differentiation illustrate how utilities exploited formerly unmet customer demand for green power. The result has been greater levels of renewable generation and, hence, a cleaner environment. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immunocontraception and increased longevity in equids
Authors: Kirkpatrick Jay F. , Turner Allison
Published: December 2006

Intensive population management by means of fertility control has been shown to change the age profile of a wild horse herd. The primary change has been an increase in the number and percent of older animals, as expected, but also the appearance of new and older age classes. An examination of direct effects of fertility control on two groups of treated animals shows a significant increase in longevity over non‐treated animals that is associated with contraceptive treatment. The mean age at death (MAD) was calculated for 128 wild horses for which precise birth and death dates were known, including 56 stallions, 42 untreated mares, 11 mares treated with a porcine zona pellucida contraceptive vaccine for 1–2 years, and 19 mares treated with the same vaccine for ≥3 years. The MAD for stallions (10.3±0.84 [SEM] years), and mares treated for 1–2 years (10.2±0.56), was significantly greater (P<0.05) than for untreated mares (6.4±0.85), and significantly <19.9±1.66 for mares treated ≥3 years (19.9±1.66). Zoo Biol 26:237–244, 2007. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rat neutrophil function, and leukotriene generation in essential fatty acid deficiency
Authors: Gyllenhammar Hans , Palmblad Jan , Ringertz Bo , Hafström Ingiäld , Borgeat Pierre
Published: January 2007

Since the essential fatty acid linoleic acid is the precursor of arachidonic acid and thus of leukotriene B4 (LTB4), essential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD) may result in decreased synthesis of this stimulator of neutrophil granulocyte functions. Peritoneal and blood neutrophils from rats fed a diet with only 0.3% of energy requirements as linoleic acid and exhibiting biochemical evidence of EFAD showed substantial functional impairments compared to neutrophils from rats maintained on a diet with 3% of the energy requirement as linoleic acid. Oxidative burst activation (assessed by chemiluminescence), chemotaxis and aggregation were impaired upon stimulation with formylpeptides or the ionophore A23187. In contrast, these functions were intact on stimulation with exogenous LTB4. Chemiluminescence was slightly but not significantly enhanced in EFAD rat neutrophils compared to controls when stimulated with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA). There were no differences between EFAD and control peritoneal neutrophils in the number of f‐metleu‐phe (fMLP) receptors, or in their affinity for the ligand, assessed with fML(3H)P. The fraction of responding cells also were similar, assessed with dichlorofluorescein diacetate fluorescence. Moreover, the endogenous LTB4 production in response to A23187 or fMLP was decreased by 57.7% and 63.5%, respectively, in EFAD peritoneal neutrophils. Thus, EFAD was associated with reductions of LTB4 production and neutrophil responsiveness to A23187 and formylpeptides but not to LTB4 or PMA, which supports the hypothesis that endogenous LTB4 may contribute to the activation of neutrophil functions involved in inflammation and host defense.
New oxidation products of α‐tocopherol
Authors: Suarna Cacang , Southwell‐Keely Peter T.
Published: January 2007

A major product of the reaction between α‐tocopherol andt‐butyl hydroperoxide in chloroform is 5‐ethoxymethyl‐7,8‐dimethyl tocol, the source of the ethoxy group being the ethanol that is used to stabilize the chloroform. Two new products of this oxidation have now been identified as 2‐(3′‐hydroxy‐3′,7′,11′,15′‐tetramethylhexadecyl), 3‐ethoxymethyl‐5,6‐dimethylbenzo‐1,4‐quinone and 5‐ethoxycarbonyl‐7,8‐dimethyl tocol. These two compounds and another major product, 5‐formyl‐7,8‐dimethyl tocol appear to be formed by further oxidation of 5‐ethoxymethyl‐7,8‐dimethyl tocol.
The effect of alfalfa‐corn diets on cholesterol metabolism and gallstones in prairie dogs
Authors: Cohen Bertram I. , Mosbach Erwin H. , Matoba Naoguki , Suh Sung Ock , McSherry Charles K.
Published: January 2007

Cholesterol gallstones were present in prairie dogs fed alfalfa plus corn with and without exogenous cholesterol (0.4%). The diets fed to the animals for eight weeks contained alfalfa plus corn in fixed proportions of 50∶50, 85∶15 and 15∶85 (w/w). At sacrifice, all animals were healthy but had not gained weight; no deaths occurred during the experiment. Cholesterol gallstones were present in all groups. In the absence of exogenous cholesterol, the highest stone incidence was found in the animals which received the lowest fiber (highest corn) diets (alfalfa plus corn, 50∶50, 67%; alfalfa plus corn, 15∶85, 83%). Cholesterol gallstone incidence was 100% when exogenous cholesterol was added to the alfalfa plus corn diets (50∶50 and 15∶85). No pigment gallstones were detected in any animal. Liver and plasma cholesterol concentrations were highest in the animals receiving alfalfa plus corn (15∶85) plus 0.4% cholesterol (4.29 mg/g, and 356 mg/dl, respectively). These values were lowest in animals receiving 85% alfalfa plus 15% corn without cholesterol (2.19 mg/g and 88 mg/dl, respectively). Lithogenic indices were below 1.00 in all groups. Biliary bile acids were mainly amidates of cholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid, with the former predominating. Thus, gallstones can be formed in prairie dogs in the absence of exogenous cholesterol; gallstone incidence is reduced by dietary fiber.
Reduced glutathione effects on α‐tocopherol concentration of rat liver microsomes undergoing NADPH‐dependent lipid peroxidation
Authors: Graham Kenneth S. , Reddy C. Channa , Scholz Richard W.
Published: January 2007

Factors involved in reduced glutathione (GSH) and vitamin E‐mediated inhibition of NADPH‐dependent rat liver microsomal lipid peroxidation were examined. Lipid peroxidation was monitored over a time‐course of 180 min by thiobarbituric acid reactive product formation. The addition of 5 mM GSH to the reaction system containing microsomes from rats fed a diet supplemented with 150 IU/kg of α‐tocopherol acetate for eight weeks produced a lag in peroxidation of >30 min. This effect was not observed for microsomes prepared from rats fed a diet deficient in vitamin E. Indeed, a prooxidant effect of 5 mM GSH was observed in assays containing microsomes from rats fed a diet deficient in vitamin E. The inhibition by GSH of lipid peroxidation in microsomes prepared from livers of vitamin E supplemented rats was not restricted by its availability, for it was found that approximately 92% of the GSH remained in the reduced form after 60 min. Additional experiments revealed that the α‐tocopherol content of peroxidizing microsomes decreased rapidly in the absence of GSH. The addition of 5 mM GSH to the assay system markedly depressed the loss of microsomal α‐tocopherol. The results ofin vivo labeling of liver microsomes with [14C] α‐tocopherol demonstrated that i) GSH addition to thein vitro peroxidizing medium reduced the disappearance of α‐tocopherol, and ii) a compound that interfered with the determination of α‐tocopherol was separated by HPLC and was not an oxidation product of α‐tocopherol. A portion of the microsomal14C‐labeled α‐tocopherol was converted to an unidentified product with HPLC retention characteristics that was similar, but not identical, to α‐tocopherol quinone.
Activity of fatty acyl CoA‐lysophospholipid acyltransferases in liver microsomes of rats fed a choline‐deficient diet
Authors: Chen S. ‐H. , Lombardi B.
Published: January 2007

Feeding a choline‐deficient diet to rats has no effect on the activity of fatty acyl CoA‐lysophospholipid acyltransferases, even though liver microsomes are severely depleted of lecithins. Thus lecithins appear to have no functional role in the activity of these transferases. It can be excluded that the latter enzymes are involved in the production of the changes in the fatty acid composition of liver phospholipids occurring in choline‐deficient rats. These changes result most likely from alterations in the biosynthesis of liver lecithins and cephalins.
Clinical, enzymatic and molecular characterization of nine new patients with malonyl‐coenzyme A decarboxylase deficiency
Authors: Salomons G. S. , Jakobs C. , Pope L. Landegge , Errami A. , Potter M. , Nowaczyk M. , Olpin S. , Manning N. , Raiman J. A. J. , Slade T. , Champion M. P. , Peck D. , Gavrilov D. , Hillman R. , Hoganson G. E. , Donaldson K. , Shield J. P. H. , Ketteridge D. , Wasserstein M. , Gibson K. M.
Published: December 2006

We report nine new patients with malonic aciduria associated with enzyme‐confirmed malonyl‐CoA decarboxylase (MCD) deficiency in eight. Clinical details were available on eight, and molecular genetic characterization was obtained for nine. As for 15 previously described patients, cardinal clinical manifestations included developmental delay and cardiomyopathy; metabolic perturbations (e.g. acidosis) and seizures, however, were infrequent or not observed in our patients. For all, detection of elevated malonic acid in urine (± increased C3DC acylcarnitine by analysis employing tandem mass spectrometry) led to pursuit of enzyme studies. MCD activities (nmol/h PER mg protein) revealed: control (n = 22), 16.2 ± 1.8 (SEM; range 5.7–46.2); patients (n = 8, assayed in duplicate), 1.7 ± 0.3 (10% of parallel control; range 0.6–2.8). Molecular characterization by DNA sequence analysis and multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification revealed nine novel mutations (c.796C>T; p.Gln266X, c.481delC; p.Leu161CysfsX18, c.1367A>C; p.Tyr456Ser, c.1319G>T; p.Ser440Ile, c.1430C>T; p.Ser477Phe, c.899G>T; p.Gly300Val, c.799–1683_949–1293del3128, and two other large genomic deletions comprising exons 1 or the complete gene) and two known mutations in the MLYCD gene. Our findings increase the number of enzyme‐confirmed MCD‐deficient patients by >50%, and expand our understanding of the phenotypic and molecular heterogeneity of this rare disorder.
Study on Production of Lanonol Phosphates by a Sustained‐Release Method
Authors: Taotao Qiang , Xuechuan Wang , Longfang Ren
Published: December 2006

Lanonol phosphate was synthesized by a sustained‐release phosphorylation reaction method using P2O5 dispersed in lanonol phosphate. The phosphorylation reaction studies confirmed the best condition was a reaction temperature of 75 °C, a reaction time of 2.5 h and a molar ratio of hydroxyl and P2O5 of 3.0:1.0. The mole fraction of monoalkyl phosphate made by the sustained‐release method increased by 14.3% compared to that obtained by the direct addition of P2O5. Preparation of lanonol phosphates by this method overcomes the agglomeration problem of phosphorus pentoxide, and the reaction rate is steady. Since lanonol phosphate was used as the dispersant for P2O5 powder, impurities due to the presence of other dispersants were eliminated, allowing synthesis of a nearly pure product. A mixture of monoalkyl phosphate and dialkyl phosphate with high monoalkyl content is obtained with light color. It is an eco‐friendly reaction with minimal waste.
What can be learnt from the natural history of anxiety disorders?
Authors: Rubio Gabriel , López-Ibor Juan José
Published: December 2006

Background

There is insufficient knowledge of the long-term course of panic disorder (PD).

Aim

To determine the long-term course and prognostic variables in patients diagnosed with PD.

Methods

Patients who were diagnosed of anxiety states between 1950 and 1961, were examined using a structured clinical interview (SCID-DSM-III-R) between 1984 and 1988 (n = 144). A re-examination was performed in the period 1997–2001 (N = 125). Mean length of follow-up from onset was 47 years.

Results

PD tends to be chronic. Among those who recovered, 93% had done so already by the 1980s. Lack of regular treatment compliance, progression to agoraphobia and number of episodes of panic disorder were associated with worse outcome. Agoraphobia without panic attacks and somatization symptoms were the most prevalent clinical status at follow-up.

Conclusion

After several decades, participants improve with regard to number of panic attacks, though most continue to have residual symptoms.
Anaesthetic and cardiopulmonary effects of intramuscular morphine, medetomidine and ketamine administered to telemetered cats
Authors: Wiese Ashley J. , Muir William W.
Published: January 2007

The quality and duration of anaesthesia, cardiorespiratory effects and recovery characteristics of a morphine, medetomidine, ketamine (MMK) drug combination were determined in cats. Six healthy, adult female cats were administered 0.2 mg/kg morphine sulphate, 60 μg/kg medetomidine hydrochloride, and 5 mg/kg ketamine hydrochloride intramuscularly. Atipamezole was administered intramuscularly at 120 min after MMK administration. Time to lateral recumbency, intubation, extubation and sternal recumbency were recorded. Cardiorespiratory variables and response to a noxious stimulus were recorded before and at 3 min and 10 min increments after drug administration until sternal recumbency. The time to lateral recumbency and intubation were 1.9±1.2 and 4.3±1.2 min, respectively. Body temperature and haemoglobin saturation with oxygen remained unchanged compared to baseline values throughout anaesthesia. Respiratory rate, tidal volume, minute volume, heart rate, and blood pressure were significantly decreased during anaesthesia compared to baseline values. One cat met criteria for hypotension (systolic blood pressure <90 mmHg). End tidal carbon dioxide increased during anaesthesia compared to baseline values. All but one cat remained non-responsive to noxious stimuli from 3 to 120 min. Time to extubation and sternal recumbency following atipamezole were 2.9±1.1 and 4.7±1.0 min, respectively. MMK drug combination produced excellent short-term anaesthesia and analgesia with minimal cardiopulmonary depression. Anaesthesia lasted for at least 120 min in all but one cat and was effectively reversed by atipamezole.
Clinical and molecular analysis of GM2 gangliosidosis in two apparent littermate kittens of the Japanese domestic cat
Authors: Hasegawa Daisuke , Yamato Osamu , Kobayashi Masanori , Fujita Michio , Nakamura Shinichiro , Takahashi Kimimasa , Satoh Hiroyuki , Shoda Toru , Hayashi Daisuke , Yamasaki Masahiro , Maede Yoshimitsu , Arai Toshiro , Orima Hiromitsu
Published: January 2007

This case report documents clinical and molecular findings in two littermate kittens of the Japanese domestic cat with GM2 gangliosidosis variant 0. Analysis included detailed physical, magnetic resonance imaging, biochemical, pathological and genetic examinations. At first, these littermate kittens showed typical cerebellar signs at approximately 2 months of age. About 2 months later, they progressively showed other neurological signs and subsequently died at about 7 months of age. Magnetic resonance imaging just before the death showed an enlarged ventricular system, T1 hyperintensity in the internal capsule, and T2 hyperintensity in the white matter of the whole brain. Histological findings suggested a type of lysosomal storage disease. Biochemical studies demonstrated that the kittens were affected with GM2 gangliosidosis variant 0, and a DNA assay finally demonstrated that these animals were homozygous for the mutation, which the authors had identified in a different family of the Japanese domestic cat. The findings in the present cases provide useful information about GM2 gangliosidosis variant 0 in Japanese domestic cats.
Interpreting genotype×environment interaction in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)
Authors: LAURENTIN H. , MONTILLA D. , GARCIA V.
Published: December 2006

An understanding of genotype by environment (G×E) interaction would be useful for establishing breeding objectives, identifying the best test conditions, and finding areas of optimal cultivar adaptation. Data from field assays including eight environments and eight elite lines were analysed to identify environmental and genotypic variables related with G×E interaction for yield in sesame multi-environment trials in Venezuela. Both predictable and unpredictable environmental variables were recorded. Yield components were recorded as genotypic variables. Yield and yield components were used to perform additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analysis. Significant differences (P<0·01) for G×E interaction were observed for all variables examined, except for the number of branches per plant. For yield, 0·28 of the total sum of squares corresponded to G×E interaction. Using environmental and genotypic data, correlation analysis was carried out between genotypic and environmental scores of the first interaction principal component axis (IPCA 1) for all variables examined. Significant correlations (P<0·05) were observed between IPCA 1 for yield and content of sand and silt in soil. No significant correlation was found between IPCA 1 score for yield and genotypic variables. These results indicate that edaphic properties at the trial locations play an important role in yield G×E interaction in Venezuelan sesame. These results should help select test sites for sesame in Venezuela to minimize G×E interaction and make selection of superior genotypes easier. Two strategies can be recommended: multi-environment trials at sites with average, not extreme, sand and silt content, or stratification of sites according to sand and silt content.
The surface topography of a magnetic fluid: a quantitative comparison between experiment and numerical simulation
Authors: GOLLWITZER CHRISTIAN , MATTHIES GUNAR , RICHTER REINHARD , REHBERG INGO , TOBISKA LUTZ
Published: January 2007

The normal field instability in magnetic liquids is investigated experimentally by means of a radioscopic technique which allows a precise measurement of the surface topography. The dependence of the topography on the magnetic field is compared to results obtained by numerical simulations via the finite-element method. Quantitative agreement has been found for the critical field of the instability, the scaling of the pattern amplitude and the detailed shape of the magnetic spikes. The fundamental Fourier mode approximates the shape to within 10% accuracy for a range of up to 40% of the bifurcation parameter of this subcritical bifurcation. The measured control parameter dependence of the wavenumber differs qualitatively from analytical predictions obtained by minimization of the free energy.
SIGNALING AND COMMITMENT: MONETARY VERSUS INFLATION TARGETING
Authors: GERSBACH HANS , HAHN VOLKER
Published: December 2006

The article compares the social efficiency of monetary targeting and inflation targeting when central banks may have private information on shocks to money demand and the transparency solution is not feasible because of verifiability problems. Under inflation targeting and monetary targeting, central banks may have an incentive to signal their private information in order to influence the public's expectations about future inflation. We show that inflation targeting is superior to monetary targeting, as it makes it easier for central banks to commit to low inflation. Moreover, central banks that are weak on inflation prefer inflation targeting to monetary targeting.
Women's Experiences and Perceptions of Age Discrimination in Employment: Implications for Research and Policy
Authors: Walker Helen , Grant Diane , Meadows Mark , Cook Ian
Published: January 2007

This paper reports on pilot study research for an ESF funded project. It examines the experiences and perceptions of 12 women in relation to the concept of ageism in paid employment. The women were all aged 50 or over at the time. The results show that whilst most of the women had faced (to differing degrees) or observed gender and age based discrimination, the experiences and interpretations revealed were not static, nor isolated from the wider historical, cultural and social contexts in which these women had grown up and grown older. It is therefore argued that policy attempts to combat age discrimination will need to take account of the gender dimension of ageism as well as the different ways in which it impacts on older women. For this to occur, more research and debate are needed on the issues raised in this paper.
Ist zu niedriges oder zu hohes Körpergewicht auch ein Risiko für Neuralrohrdefekte?
Authors: Eichholzer
Published: December 2006

Die perikonzeptionelle Einnahme von 0.4 mg Folsäure reduziert das Risiko von Neuralrohrdefekten (NRD) wesentlich, aber nicht 100%ig. Das Körpergewicht könnte eine zusätzliche Rolle spielen. Perikonzeptionell eingeschränkte Energiezufuhr erhöhte in einer Fall-Kontroll-Studie das NRD-Risiko. Andere Studien berichteten über ein höheres NRD-Risiko bei ungenügender Gewichtszunahme in der Schwangerschaft. Niedriges Körpergewicht vor der Schwangerschaft ergab widersprüchliche Resultate, was Ausdruck der Heterogenität von Untergewichtigen sein könnte. Zusätzliche Studien sind notwendig, um das Risiko einer reduzierten Energiezufuhr definitiv beurteilen zu können. Mütter, die vor der Schwangerschaft adipös sind, weisen ein rund zweimal höheres NRD-Risiko auf, unabhängig von der Folsäurezufuhr oder einem Diabetes. Der Bedarf adipöser Frauen an perikonzeptioneller Folsäure könnte allerdings erhöht sein. Die Ergebnisse zur Adipositas müssen in Kohorten- und Interventionsstudien bestätigt werden. Empfehlungen zum Körpergewicht von potentiell schwangeren Frauen sollten einen adäquaten Ernährungsstatus gewährleisten. Zusätzlich ist die Einnahme von Folsäuresupplementen zu propagieren.
European weather satellite launches
Authors: Zielinski Sarah
Published: December 2006

The first of three planned, European, polar‐orbiting meteorological satellites, MetOp‐A (Meteorological Operational satellite), successfully launched from Baikonur, Kazakhstan, on 19 October.The satellite—which was developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Meteorological Satellite Organisation—will travel in a sun‐synchronous, morning orbit, circling the Earth from pole to pole 14 times a day while always crossing the equator at 9:30 A.M. local time. MetOp‐A carries 12 instruments for collecting various types of data, such as: atmospheric temperature and humidity profiles; concentrations of ozone and other trace gases; wind speed and direction; and imagery of cloud cover and ocean and land surfaces.
New insight into the disappearing Arctic sea ice
Authors: Francis Jennifer A. , Hunter Elias
Published: December 2006

The dramatic loss of Arctic sea ice is ringing alarm bells in the minds of climate scientists, policy makers, and the public. The extent of perennial sea ice—ice that has survived a summer melt season—has declined 20% since the mid‐1970s [Stroeue et al., 2005]. Its retreat varies regionally, driven by changes in winds and heating from the atmosphere and ocean.

Limited data have hampered attempts to identify which culprits are to blame, but new satellite‐derived information provides insight into the drivers of change. A clear message emerges. The location of the summer ice edge is strongly correlated to variability in longwave (infrared) energy emitted by the atmosphere (downward longwave flux; DLF), particularly during the most recent decade when losses have been most rapid. Increasing DLF, in turn, appears to be driven by more clouds and water vapor in spring over the Arctic.
Tracking climate forcing: The annual greenhouse gas index
Authors: Hofmann David J. , Butler James H. , Conway Thomas J. , Dlugokencky Edward J. , Elkins James W. , Masarie Kenneth , Montzka Stephen A. , Schnell Russell C. , Tans Pieter
Published: December 2006

Global monitoring of atmospheric greenhouse gases, in particular carbon dioxide (CO2),has been a goal of the U.S. government for over 30 years.The monitoring program evolved into high‐precision measurements of global, long‐lived greenhouse gases that are used to calculate changes in radiative climate forcing. The change in global radiative forcing caused by increases in atmospheric abundances of long‐lived greenhouse gases has been used to define the Annual Greenhouse Gas Index Lsqb;Hofmann et al., 2006].

This article presents a brief history of global greenhouse gas measurements of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),and how these data are being made accessible and user‐friendly.
Dombeck receives 2006 F.L. Scarf Award
Authors: Anonymous
Published: December 2006

John Dombeck has been awarded the E L. Scarf Award, which is given annually to a recent Ph.D. recipient for outstanding dissertation research that contributes directly to solar‐planetary sciences. Dombeck's thesis is entitled "“roperties of Alfvén waves in the magnetotail below 9 RE and their relation to auroral acceleration and major geomagnetic storms.” He will be formally presented with the award during the 2006 AGU Fall Meeting, which will be held 11–15 December in San Francisco, Calif., at the Space Physics and Aeronomy Section dinner.

Dombeck received a B.S. in electrical engineering from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee in 1992 with a second major in physics in 1995. He also received an M.S. in 2001 and a Ph.D. in 2005 in physics under the supervision of Cynthia Cattell at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (Minneapolis). He has held various engineering and technical positions including positions at Eaton Corporation, IBM, and the U.S. National Weather Service. Dombeck is currently a researcher at the University of Minnesota's Space Physics Group, and his research interests include major storm‐related magnetospheric processes, auroral particle acceleration, and solitary waves.
Developing marine protected areas
Authors: Anonymous
Published: December 2006

A draft framework for the development of a national system of marine protected areas (MPA) has been released for public comment by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the U.S. Department of the Interior. Under the proposed framework, an MPA is any area of the marine environment that has been reserved by U.S. federal, state, local, or other government regulations “to provide lasting protection for part or all of the natural and cultural resources therein.” About 1500 marine conservation areas initially would qualify as MPAs.The national system is intended to guide cooperative efforts among various parties and thus increase protection of these areas.
Cassini images Saturn storm
Authors: Anonymous
Published: December 2006

The Cassini spacecraft has spotted an 8000‐kilometer‐wide, hurricane‐like storm around Saturn's South Pole, NASA announced on 9 November. The storm has a dark ‘eye’ at the South Pole along with eye‐wall clouds and spiral arms, but it is not known if moist convection—the driver of hurricanes on Earth—drives the Saturn storm. A movie taken by Cassini's camera indicates that the winds are blowing clockwise at about 560 kilometers per hour. Although large storms have been observed on other planets in the past—most notably, Jupiter's Great Red Spot—this is the first storm found to have eye‐wall clouds and a relatively calm center.
A new flood monitoring system
Authors: Zielinski Sarah
Published: December 2006

A system of ‘intelligent’ sensors linked in a grid could provide rapid, low‐cost flood forecasts. The system's designers, scientists from the University of Lancaster (U.K.), recently installed the sensors at 13 locations across a Yorkshire (U.K.) flood plain. At each location, researchers placed a depth sensor and digital camera that can measure the speed of flotsam in the water. Computers incorporated into the sensors link them together wirelessly in a grid that allows the system to adapt as flood waters rise or if some sensors cease working or wash away In addition, the sensors can adjust their power management so that, for example, they use less power during dry times. Flood forecasting models are run on the computer grid and adjust their predictions as the information from the sensors changes.
Past millennia climate variability
Authors: Mann Michael E. , Briffa Keith R. , Jones Philip D. , Kiefer Thorsten , Kull Christoph , Wanner Heinz
Published: December 2006

Human influences on climate operate against a background of long‐term natural climate variability. Our ability to characterize this long‐term variability and to distinguish it from climate change due to human activities is limited by the relative shortness of the instrumental record. Thus, investigators turn to a combination of indirect paleoclimate proxy evidence and theoretical climate models to ascertain the nature and causes of climate changes on centennial and longer timescales.

Particularly relevant in this context is the time frame of the last few millennia, which is termed the ‘Late Holocene.’ During this period, the fundamental external boundary conditions on the climate, such as the configuration of the continents, the size and locations of the major ice sheets, and the mean radiative forcing due to changes in Earth‐orbital geometry, are similar to those today. Study of this interval thus allows insights into the natural variability that might be expected today in the absence of human influences.
Continental breakup and sedimentary basin formation
Authors: Coffin Millard F. , Sawyer Dale S. , Reston Timothy J. , Stock Joann M.
Published: December 2006

Earth history is punctuated by continents breaking apart and births of oceans, phenomena occurring today in places such as the high Arctic, East Africa/Red Sea, the Gulf of California, and the western Pacific near Papua New Guinea.

The tectonic, magmatic, geodynamic, and sedimentary processes associated with continental rifting and breakup interact to produce a variety of margin styles of rifting and breakup, ranging from narrow to hyperextended margins, from weakly to strongly magmatic margins, and from sedimentstarved to thickly sedimented margins. The wide variety of styles has puzzled and inspired Earth scientists for generations, who have employed an increasingly diverse and sophisticated set of observational tools to investigate, and conceptual models to explain, continental rifting and breakup.
On “Earth sciences and public schools”
Authors: Narasimhan T. N.
Published: December 2006

Earlier this year, Robert Kitchen (Eos, 87(24), 235,2006) drew attention to declining interest in Earth science education in public schools. The reason for a lack of interest in teaching Earth sciences in public schools may involve more than just the attitudes of parents who may wish for their children a better preparation for advanced placement courses later on. Part of the problem may lie with our present mind‐set that technology can solve all the world's problems, from poverty, to better health, and to prosperity.

Underlying this mindset is an implicit belief in the primacy of the physical sciences. A corollary is that Earth sciences do not have an independent existence within human knowledge, but exist merely as an adjunct to physical‐mathematical sciences. Given sufficient time, and bigger computers, it is believed, science can and will know everything there is to know about the Earth. This perception probably has an influence on school administrators who feel that students need a demanding curriculum, comprising rigorous training in the physical sciences.
Uncertainty Underground: Yucca Mountain and the Nation's High‐Level Nuclear Waste
Authors: Hinze William J. , Hornberger George M.
Published: December 2006

How many projects with major issues involving geophysics, geochemistry, hydrology, and essentially every other Earth science discipline have had expenditures of approximately U.S.$8 billion over the past 25 years? No wonder characterization of Yucca Mountain, Nevada, is a subject that inspires awe, admiration, concern, disbelief, and other reactions from Earth scientists.

Finding a suitable site for geological disposal of spent nuclear fuel and high‐level radioactive waste in the United States has been a tortuous process at best. Scientists, engineers, laypersons, and policy makers need access to information about this important venture, but heretofore no book has been available summarizing the project. The central theme of Uncertainty Underground: Yucca Mountain and the Nation's High‐Level Waste is the technical issues and related uncertainties underlying evaluation of Yucca Mountain as an underground repository with a subtheme of potential problems in performance assessment of the repository resulting from these uncertainties.