bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Two Parathyroid Hormone Assays in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Donati Gabriele , Cianciolo Giuseppe , Capelli Irene , Baraldi Olga , Gambaretto Camilla , Demelas Valentina , Marchetti Antonio , La Manna Gaetano
Published: December 2015

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) determination is essential for the diagnosis of renal osteodystrophy, but differences between the laboratory assays can lead to different therapies. This study compared the new Tosoh ST AIA‐Pack Intact PTH assay (Tosoh Bioscience, San Francisco, CA, USA) with the Elecsys Intact PTH Roche assay (Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Mannheim, Germany), currently considered the gold standard. Nineteen chronic stable hemodialysis patients were enrolled to check PTH levels with the two assays. Median age was 71 years (range 26–84), M/F = 10/9. Blood samples were taken before the start of the same midweek dialysis session. Two blood vacuettes were collected and immediately transported to the central laboratory. The median PTH value was 268 (range 35–901 pg/dL) with the AIA‐Pack versus 184 (range 39–552 pg/dL) with Elecsys. The Wilcoxon test showed a significant difference between the two methods (P < 0.0001). AIA‐Pack showed a delta value of +38% in comparison with Elecsys and a median bias of 27.4%. For PTH values <150 pg/dL, nine patients were detected with AIA‐Pack (47.4%) versus nine patients detected with Elecsys (47.4%). For PTH values between 150 and 300 pg/dL, six patients were detected with AIA‐Pack (31.6%) versus four patients with Elecsys (21.0%). For PTH values >300 pg/dL four patients were detected with AIA‐Pack (21.0%) versus six patients with Elecsys (31.6%). The two assays showed no differences for each of the three PTH ranges considered. The two PTH assays tested are different and the attending physician should be aware of the differences when patients change their dialysis facility.
Language Use and Coalition Formation in Multiparty Negotiations
Authors: Sagi Eyal , Diermeier Daniel
Published: December 2015

The alignment of bargaining positions is crucial to a successful negotiation. Prior research has shown that similarity in language use is indicative of the conceptual alignment of interlocutors. We use latent semantic analysis to explore how the similarity of language use between negotiating parties develops over the course of a three‐party negotiation. Results show that parties that reach an agreement show a gradual increase in language similarity over the course of the negotiation. Furthermore, reaching the most financially efficient outcome is dependent on similarity in language use between the parties that have the most to gain from such an outcome.
Plasma uric acid effects on glomerular haemodynamic profile of patients with uncomplicated Type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Lytvyn Y. , Škrtić M. , Yang G. K. , Lai V. , Scholey J. W. , Yip P. M. , Perkins B. A. , Cherney D. Z. I.
Published: December 2015

Aims

Increased plasma uric acid (PUA) levels are associated with impaired renal function in patients with Type 1 diabetes, but the mechanisms are not well understood. Our aim was to evaluate whether higher PUA levels are associated with increased afferent arteriolar resistance in patients with Type 1 diabetes vs. healthy controls, thereby influencing renal function.

Methods

PUA, GFR (inulin) and effective renal plasma flow (ERPF; para‐aminohippurate) were measured in 70 otherwise healthy patients with Type 1 diabetes and 60 healthy controls. Gomez's equations were used to estimate afferent (RA) and efferent (RE) arteriolar resistances, glomerular hydrostatic pressure (PGLO) and filtration pressure (ΔPF). The relationships between PUA and glomerular haemodynamic parameters were evaluated by univariable linear regression correlation coefficients.

Results

In patients with Type 1 diabetes, higher PUA correlated with lower PGLO (P = 0.002) and ΔPF (P = 0.0007), with higher RA (P = 0.001), but not with RE (P = 0.55). These associations were accompanied by correlations between higher PUA with lower GFR (P = 0.0007), ERPF (P = 0.008), RBF (P = 0.047) and higher RVR (P = 0.021). There were no significant correlations between PUA and renal haemodynamic parameters in the healthy controls.

Conclusions

The association between higher PUA with lower GFR and lower ERPF in patients with Type 1 diabetes is driven by alterations in the estimated RA. PUA‐mediated RA may be caused by increased tone or thickening of the afferent renal arteriole, which might potentiate renal injury by causing ischaemia to the renal microcirculation.
Differences in peripheral oxidative stress markers in Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia and mixed dementia patients
Authors: Hatanaka Hirokuni , Hanyu Haruo , Fukasawa Raita , Hirao Kentaro , Shimizu Soichiro , Kanetaka Hidekazu , Iwamoto Toshihiko
Published: December 2015

Aims

We determined whether the possible roles of oxidative stress differ in the pathophysiology and cognitive decline of Alzheimer's disease (AD), vascular dementia (VaD) and mixed Alzheimer's/vascular dementia (MD).

Methods

We measured the levels of diacron reactive oxygen metabolite (dROM), reflecting the amount of organic hydroperoxides, and biological anti‐oxidant potential (BAP), measuring the ferric reducing ability of blood plasma, in 72 patients with AD, 27 with VaD, 24 with MD and 53 non‐demented outpatients (control group). In addition, endogenous plasma anti‐oxidants, such as albumin, total bilirubin and uric acid, were compared among the groups. All participants with VaD and MD showed extensive white matter hyperintensity, in addition to multiple lacunes.

Results

The dROM levels were significantly higher in the AD and MD groups than in the control group. The BAP levels were significantly lower in the MD group than in the control, AD and VaD groups. The AD group showed significantly lower levels of bilirubin and uric acid than the control group. The MD group showed a significantly lower level of albumin than the control and AD groups, and a significantly lower level of bilirubin than the control group. The Mini‐Mental State examination scores correlated significantly with dROM levels and BAP/dROM ratios in the AD group.

Conclusions

An imbalance in pro‐oxidant and anti‐oxidant defenses is apparently involved in the pathophysiology of the AD and MD groups. The extent of oxidative stress damage might differ in subtypes of dementia by being greater in the MD group than in other types of dementia. Synergic effects of the degenerative element of AD and white matter lesions might be associated with oxidative stress damage in the MD group. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; (Suppl. 1): 53–58.
Impact of cerebral white matter changes on functionality in older adults: An overview of the LADIS Study results and future directions
Authors: Pantoni Leonardo , Fierini Fabio , Poggesi Anna ,   LADIS Study Group
Published: December 2015

The evidence on the clinical significance of cerebral white matter changes (WMC) has mounted over the past few decades. WMC are recognized as one of the neuroimaging features of cerebral small vessel disease, and are associated with various disturbances and a poor prognosis. The Leukoaraiosis and Disability (LADIS) Study has contributed substantially to this body of knowledge. LADIS is a European multicenter collaboration aimed at assessing the role of WMC as an independent predictor of the transition to disability in initially non‐disabled patients aged 65–84 years. Besides the demonstration that severe WMC cause a more than double risk of transition from an autonomous to a dependent status after 3 years of follow‐up, the LADIS Study has also provided evidence on the role of WMC in relation to the decline of cognitive and motor performances, depressive symptoms associated with aging and cerebrovascular diseases, the presence of urinary disturbances, and various neurological abnormalities. The possible role of other lesions (lacunar infarcts, cerebral atrophy, corpus callosum morphology) and microstructural abnormalities (diffusion‐weighted imaging changes in normal appearing brain tissue and in WMC) has also been investigated. In the present article, we review the main results of the LADIS Study and offer some considerations for future developments in the field, paying attention to the potential use of WMC progression as a surrogate marker in intervention trials in cerebral small vessel diseases. We also discuss some therapeutic perspectives regarding the beneficial impact of physical activity on the risk of vascular cognitive impairment in patients with WMC. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15 (Suppl. 1): 10–16.
White matter hyperintensities and geriatric syndrome: An important role of arterial stiffness
Authors: Saji Naoki , Ogama Noriko , Toba Kenji , Sakurai Takashi
Published: December 2015

White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are defined as cerebral white matter changes presumed to be of vascular origin, bilateral and mostly symmetrical. They can appear as hyperintense on T2‐weighted and fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery sequences, and as isointense or hypointense on T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging of the brain. WMH have been focused on because of their clinical importance as a risk factor for cerebrovascular diseases and cognitive impairment. WMH are associated with geriatric syndrome, which is defined by clinical symptoms characteristic of older adults, including cognitive and functional impairment and falls.

Cerebral small vessel diseases, such as WMH, might play an important role as risk factors for cerebrovascular diseases, cognitive impairment and geriatric syndrome through the mechanism of arterial stiffness. However, the vascular, physiological and metabolic roles of arterial stiffness remain unclear. Basically, arterial stiffness indicates microvessel arteriosclerosis presenting with vascular endothelial dysfunction. These changes might arise from hemodynamic stress as a result of a “tsunami effect” on cerebral parenchyma. In the present article, we review the clinical characteristics of WMH, focusing particularly on two associations: (i) those between cerebral small vessel diseases including WMH and arterial stiffness; and (ii) those between WMH and geriatric syndrome. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15 (Suppl. 1): 17–25.
Challenges in shared decision making in advanced cancer care: a qualitative longitudinal observational and interview study
Authors: Brom Linda , De Snoo‐Trimp Janine C. , Onwuteaka‐Philipsen Bregje D. , Widdershoven Guy A. M. , Stiggelbout Anne M. , Pasman H. Roeline W.
Published: December 2015

Background

Patients' preferences and expectations should be taken into account in treatment decision making in the last phase of life. Shared decision making (SDM) is regarded as a way to give the patient a central role in decision making. Little is known about how SDM is used in clinical practice in advanced cancer care.

Objective

To examine whether and how the steps of SDM can be recognized in decision making about second‐ and third‐line chemotherapy.

Methods

Fourteen advanced cancer patients were followed over time using face‐to‐face in‐depth interviews and observations of the patients' out‐clinic visits. Interviews and outpatient clinic visits in which treatment options were discussed or decisions made were transcribed verbatim and analysed using open coding.

Results

Patients were satisfied with the decision‐making process, but the steps of SDM were barely seen in daily practice. The creation of awareness about available treatment options by physicians was limited and not discussed in an equal way. Patients' wishes and concerns were not explicitly assessed, which led to different expectations about improved survival from subsequent lines of chemotherapy.

Conclusion

To reach SDM in daily practice, physicians should create awareness of all treatment options, including forgoing treatment, and communicate the risk of benefit and harm. Open and honest communication is needed in which patients' expectations and concerns are discussed. Through this, the difficult process of decision making in the last phase of life can be facilitated and the focus on the best care for the specific patient is strengthened.
Effect of high power ultrasonic treatment on whey protein foaming quality
Authors: Tan Mei C. , Chin Nyuk L. , Yusof Yus A. , Abdullah Jaafar
Published: December 2015

High power ultrasonic energy at 20%, 40% and 60% amplitude was applied on whey protein suspension at concentrations of 100, 150 and 200 g kg−1 for 5, 15 and 25 min to improve its foaming quality. Ultrasound‐treated whey protein suspension at 200 g kg−1 showed improvement in terms of increased foaming capacity by 18%, foam stability by 35%, consistency index by 18%, storage modulus by 17%, loss modulus by 26% and viscosity by 21% compared with untreated whey protein. For maximally ultrasound‐treated samples of 60% amplitude treated for 25 min, the improved whey protein foams also had a 46% increase in the number of more evenly distributed fine bubbles which had a size smaller than 0.0025 mm3 as imaged using X‐ray microtomography.
Herbal and nutrient complementary medicines for weight loss: community pharmacists' practices, attitudes, recommendations, information and education needs
Authors: Taing Meng-Wong , Tan Eunice Tze Xin , Williams Gail M , Clavarino Alexandra M , McGuire Treasure M
Published: December 2015

Objectives

To investigate pharmacists' herbal/nutrient weight loss complementary medicine (WLCM) practices in the context of other pharmacist weight management support practices (provision of lifestyle advice, orlistat and meal replacement treatments); and gain insight into their attitudes, recommendations, information and education needs.

Methods

Pharmacists from a randomly selected sample of 214 community pharmacies from different socioeconomic areas in the Greater Brisbane region, Australia, were invited to complete a survey to explore their weight management practices, with a specific focus on herbal/nutrient WLCM practices. Data collected from the sample group represented pharmacist practices within the metropolitan Greater Brisbane region.

Key findings

This survey achieved a 51% response rate. During weight management consultations, a high proportion of customers (37%) sought advice from community pharmacists relating to WLCMs relative to other weight management practices; however, only a small proportion (10%) of pharmacists recommended them. Most were also found to be using resources that may not be evidence-based or do not provide sufficient WLCMs' information.

Conclusion

Study results highlight the need for pharmacy professional bodies to develop evidence-based continuing education programmes to assist consumers with popular and widely available WLCMs products.
Evaluation of the general public's knowledge, views and practices relating to appropriate antibiotic use in Qatar†
Authors: Moienzadeh Atefeh , Massoud Tasnim , Black Emily
Published: December 2015

Objective

Studies completed internationally have demonstrated an alarming number of patients believed antibiotics are indicated in the treatment of viral infections and other self-limited illnesses. Evaluation of patient practices relating to antibiotics have also demonstrated inappropriate use. Antibiotic misuse by patients and practitioners has been identified as a factor in the development of resistance. Current knowledge, views and practices relating to antibiotic use in Qatar is unknown. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the general population's current antimicrobial knowledge, views and practices in Qatar.

Methods

This study was designed as a self-administered cross-sectional survey. Eligible participants were residents of Qatar who were over the age of 18 and spoke English or Arabic. The questionnaire was developed based on previously published literature and objectives of this study. Data were collected at community pharmacies in Doha, Qatar.

Key findings

The majority of participants (95.8%) had taken antibiotics in the past. The median knowledge score of the study population was 4/8. Misconceptions relating to use of antibiotics for treatment of viral infections were common. Inappropriate use as evident by hoarding of antibiotics for future use and sharing antibiotics with family or friends was also identified in this study population.

Conclusion

Community pharmacists in Qatar have an opportunity to improve knowledge of the general population regarding appropriate indications of antibiotics and risk of resistance with inappropriate use.
Incidence and risk factors associated with iron deficiency anaemia among hospitalised Lebanese infants
Authors: Mhanna Razan Ghattas , Rahal Mohamad , Iskandarani Mohamad , Hammoudi Dalal
Published: December 2015

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) in hospitalised 6- to 24-month-old infants in rural versus urban settings. The secondary objective was to determine associated risk factors in rural versus urban settings.

Methods

A 6-month prospective multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted in paediatrics departments of three Lebanese hospitals. Preterm to term infants aged 6–24 months were included. Infants with blood disorders, chronic infections, congenital immunodeficiency and mental or congenital growth retardation were excluded. Incidence of IDA was assessed using haematologic laboratory values, while risk factors were assessed using questionnaires addressed to infants' caregivers. For data analysis, P values, chi-squared and logistic regression were used.

Key findings

Among 520 screened infants, a total of 100 patients were selected. Thirty-seven per cent of patients were anaemic with haemoglobin levels <11 g/dl. Significant risk factors included: exclusive breastfeeding for more than 6 months (95% CI, 1.03 to 8.9; P = 0.043), low family income (95% CI, 0.19 to 0.98; P = 0.045), residing in rural areas (95% CI, 0.064 to 0.0509; P < 0.001), inadequate maternal iron supply (95% CI, 1.01 to 8.26; P = 0.05), low maternal education level (95% CI, 0.07 to 0.88; P = 0.03) and lack of infant iron supply (95% CI, 1.39 to 8.41; P = 0.007).

Conclusion

Incidence of IDA among Lebanese infants is moderate and multifactorial. High maternal education level, urban residence, giving iron supplements to exclusively breastfed infants starting from 6 months of age, adequate family income and iron supplementation in both mother and infant are significant protective factors against anaemia in this population.
A haemostatic technique using silicone gel dressing for burn surgery
Authors: Osuka Akinori , Kuroki Yuichi , Ueyama Masashi
Published: December 2015

Significant blood loss and high rates of transfusion remain ongoing concerns in burn surgery. We have reported a haemostatic technique using silicone gel dressing to minimise bleeding during tangential excision in burn surgery. The purpose of this study was to identify the efficacy of our novel haemostatic technique for burn surgery. This study was a retrospective observational study. From 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2015, we collated data including pre‐ and 24‐hour postoperative haemoglobin levels from patients over 15 years of age who underwent tangential excision for burn injuries. We also collected data on the amounts of measured blood loss, blood transfusions, excised areas, harvest areas and duration of surgeries. The collected data were divided into a conventional group and a silicone gel dressing group. Then, we analysed the differences between the two groups. During the study period, 357 patients were admitted to our burn centre, and 60 operations (44 patients) were performed by tangential excision. The conventional group comprised 28 operations (20 patients), and the silicone gel dressing group comprised 32 operations (26 patients). Excised areas and harvested areas were significantly larger in the silicone gel dressing group than in the conventional group. The amount of blood loss per percent excised and the number of units of blood transfused were significantly lower in the silicone gel dressing group. Duration of the surgeries was almost the same between the two groups. Application of our new technique during tangential excision for burn injuries resulted in a remarkable reduction in blood loss and transfusion requirements.
Demonstration of TARC and CCR4 mRNA Expression and Distribution Using In situ RT‐PCR in the Lesional Skin of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Zheng Xueyi , Nakamura Koichiro , Furukawa Hirotoshi , Nishibu Akiko , Takahashi Masabumi , Tojo Michiko , Kaneko Fumio , Kakinuma Takashi , Tamaki Kunihiko
Published: December 2015

Thymus‐ and activation‐regulated chemokine (TARC/CCL17) and its receptor, CC chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4), have been proven to be involved in a number of allergic diseases, especially atopic dermatitis (AD). The purpose of this study was to examine the expression and distribution of TARC and CCR4 mRNAs in samples of AD (n=15, acute lesions 8, chronic lesions 7) and normal skin (n=6). The expression and distribution of TARC and CCR4 mRNAs were detected with the in situ reverse transcription (RT) ‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. TARC mRNA was expressed in epidermal keratinocytes, dermal endothelial cells and infiltrating cells. CCR4 mRNA was expressed in dermal endothelial cells and infiltrating cells. In acute AD lesional skin, there were more positive cells, and the staining intensity was stronger than in chronic lesions (p<0.05). The distribution of positive cells was as follows: In the epidermis, keratinocytes in the basal layer showed the strongest staining, and keratinocytes in the spinous layer showed moderate staining; the superficial area showed faint staining. In the dermis, infiltrating cells located in the superficial area of the dermis showed the strongest staining, positive staining intensity became weaker and the percentage of positive cells became less as the location became deeper. There were no positive cells in normal skin. These data further substantiate the role of TARC/CCR4 in the pathogenesis of AD.
Indomethacin in rheumatoid arthritis: comparison of oral and rectal dosing.
Authors: Baber N , Sibeon R , Laws E , Halliday L , Orme M , Littler T
Published: December 2015

1 Indomethacin 100 mg nightly for 1 week has been administered to 13 patients with rheumatoid arthritis by both oral and rectal routes in a double‐blind, randomized, cross‐over study. 2 Clinical assessments were performed at 09.00 and 14.00 h on the last 3 days of each active treatment period and compared to the results on the last 2 days of the placebo control period. 3 Indomethacin produced significant improvements in the clinical assessments at both 09.00 and 14.00 h compared to placebo but not differences were seen between the two routes of administration. 4 No significant difference was seen in the side effects experienced in the two periods. 5 The mean (+/‐ s.e. mean) plasma indomethacin concentration at 09.00 h in the oral period was 200.3 +/‐ 27.4 ng/ml, not significantly different from that in the suppository period (220.0 +/‐ 28.9 ng/ml). 6 Indomethacin 100 mg nightly by mouth is as effective as a 100 mg suppository and easier to administer.
Comparative efficacy of salbutamol by pressurized aerosol and wet nebulizer in acute asthma.
Authors: Tarala RA , Madsen BW , Paterson JW
Published: December 2015

1 Cumulative dose‐response curves (FEV1) to pressurized aerosol salbutamol were established in 17 patients admitted to hospital with acute severe asthma. After the maximal pressurized aerosol effect had been achieved, a further dose (5 mg) of salbutamol was given by wet nebulizer and any further increment recorded. 2 Baseline FEV1 was 1.16 +/‐ 0.55 (mean +/‐ s.d.), an average of 36% of predicted, and the maximal aerosol induced change in FEV1 was 0.435 +/‐ 0.330 1 (t = 5.72, P < 0.01). There was an additional, small increment in FEV1 after nebulizer of 0.043 +/‐ 0.085 1 (t = 2.26, P < 0.05). 3 Detailed analysis of the data according to a theoretical dose‐response relationship showed that the nebulizer‐aerosol increment was unrelated to asthma severity.
Gallamine disposition in surgical patients with chronic renal failure.
Authors: Ramzan MI , Shanks CA , Triggs EJ
Published: December 2015

1 Plasma levels of gallamine and the elicited neuromuscular response have been measured in seven patients with compromised renal function who received a single 2 mg/kg dose and in a further patient who received an initial dose of 2 mg/kg followed by two additional doses of 1 mg/kg. 2 The plasma level‐time data from all patients was adequately explained by a biexponential equation interpreted as a two‐compartment open mammillary model. 3 Comparison of the model‐independent pharmacokinetic parameters for gallamine between these patients and a group of normal patients revealed that the elimination phase half‐life (T and one‐half beta) was significantly prolonged in renal failure with a marked reduction in the plasma clearance of gallamine. 4 Gallamine had larger apparent volumes of distribution in the presence of renal failure than those found in normal patients. 5 The peak paralysis levels attained and the associated plasma concentrations of gallamine were similar in patients with and without renal failure. 6 At this low dosage the rate of recovery from paralysis in renal failure patients, though similar to that noted normally, appeared to be somewhat slower in some patients. 7. The results suggest that gallamine is not to be preferred to other nondepolarizing muscle relaxants in patients with renal failure.
Once daily beta‐adrenoceptor blockade in hypertension: an ambulatory assessment.
Authors: Mann S , Craig MW , Balasubramanian V , Raftery EB
Published: December 2015

1 The ambulant intra‐arterial blood pressure of eighteen hypertensive subjects was monitored before and again after 3 months treatment with thrice daily sotalol (six patients), twice daily pindolol (six patients) and once daily pindolol (six patients). 2 Three patients in the sotalol group underwent a third study having changed to a once daily regimen; similarly six patients in the pindolol groups were restudied having crossed over to the alternative pindolol dosing regimen, total daily dosage being maintained in all cases. 3 Comparison of 24 h blood pressure curves before and after treatment showed effective daytime reduction but less consistent effects at night. 4 In the crossover experiments once daily and multiple daily dosing regimens produced identical patterns of reduction over 24 h in both blood pressure and heart rate. 5 It is inferred that in the treatment of hypertension, once daily dosing with standard preparations of beta‐ adrenoceptor blocking agents is probable adequate.
Triazolam: monitored release in the United Kingdom.
Authors: Macleod N
Published: December 2015

1 A monitored release for triazolam was carried out in the United Kingdom during 1979. Three thousand and ten patients were involved‐ approximately one‐third were males and two‐thirds were females. 2 The majority of patients (71.3%) took 0.25 mg triazolam: 24.1% took 0.125 mg and only 4.4% took 0.5 mg and above. There were no differences between the sexes, but there were differences according to age. In the group over 60 y, 45.4% took 0.25 mg and 50.7% took 0.125 mg. 3 The majority of patients (84.7%) reported an adequate night's sleep, and the overall incidence of side effects in patients taking the drug was 12.2%.
The use of short‐ and long‐acting hypnotics in clinical medicine.
Authors: Nicholson AN
Published: December 2015

1 Activity of short‐ and long‐acting benzodiazepines is reviewed with reference to pharmacokinetics and residual sequelae, and to efficacy and adverse effects. 2 Some benzodiazepines may not lead to obvious effects on performance, such as nordiazepam and clobazam, and the persistence of residual sequelae may not relate obviously to elimination half‐lives (as with diazepam and possibly flunitrazepam). However, benzodiazepines with mean half‐lives less than 8 h may have residual sequelae, whereas hypnotics with mean half‐lives greater than 16 h are likely to lead to impared performance and/or anxiolytic effects the next day. 3 Potassium chlorazepate 15 mg, with its long‐ acting metabolite nordiazepam, would seem to be the drug of choice for insomnia secondary to anxiety. For the insomniac without significant psychopathology, temazepam 10‐20 mg, triazolam 0.125‐0.25 mg and for occasional use, diazepam 5‐10 mg, provide the initial approach. Flurazepam hydrochloride 15‐30 mg, nitrazepam 5‐10 mg and flunitrazepam 1 mg and above, have persistent residual effects and should be reserved for refractory patients, and for those in whom some impairment of performance the next day would be acceptable. 4 There is little or no evidence to suggest that the proper use of the short‐acting hypnotics, triazolam and temazepam, leads to a worsening of sleep on withdrawal. However, some benzodiazepines may lead to disturbances of sleep and/or rebound insomnia, and nitrazepam and flunitrazepam may be implicated.
Special clinics for hypertension‐the role of the hypertension detection‐and follow‐up programme.
Authors: Kass EH
Published: December 2015

The hypertension detection and follow up programme of the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute has been briefly described, the basis given for dividing the participants into two groups, one referred to the conventional care system (referred care) and the other referred to intensive care in special clinics in which treatment was administered according to protocol in a series of graded steps in response to the therapeutic effect observed with the preceding steps (stepped care). Substantial reductions in mortality from all cardiovascular causes, including acute myocardial infarction, stroke, and other major evidences of mortality and morbidity were observed. The effect was uniform for all groups, irrespective of presence or absence of target organ damage and irrespective of race, age, and sex. Although a certain number of anomalies exist in the data, as might be expected from a study involving some 11,000 participants, the overall implication that a carefully graded and carefully developed programme of therapy confers major benefits to a population, in terms of morbidity and mortality, seems warranted. The degree to which the conventional care system can provide similar care to the hypertensive population, and experience similar benefits, represents a major challenge for the immediate future.
Antihypertensive effect of diacetolol in essential hypertension.
Authors: Thibonnier M , Flabeau C , Thouvenin M , Roux A , Flouvat B , Pasquier P , Menard J
Published: December 2015

1 Diacetolol is the N‐acetylated metabolite of acebutolol and possesses beta‐adrenergic receptor blocking properties. 2 Its antihypertensive action was assessed in accordance with a double‐blind randomised cross‐ over scheme in 17 patients with moderate essential hypertension previously well controlled with acebutolol. 3 Significant reductions in lying mean arterial blood pressure were observed with daily doses of 200 mg (‐ 9%), 400 mg (‐ 10%) and 800 mg (‐ 14%), and were associated with significant decreases in heart rate and plasma renin activity. 4 The diacetolol mean plasma level measured 8 to 10 h after drug ingestion was proportional to the dose (207 +/‐ 27, 394 +/‐ 63 and 823 +/‐ 135 ng/ml for respectively 200, 400 and 800 mg/day).
A radioreceptor assay to study the affinity of benzodiazepines and their receptor binding activity in human plasma including their active metabolites.
Authors: Dorow RG , Seidler J , Schneider HH
Published: December 2015

1 A radioreceptor assay has been established to measure the receptor affinities of numerous benzodiazepines in clinical use. 2 The time course of receptor binding activity was studied by this method in the plasma of eight healthy subjects randomly treated with 1 mg lormetazepam (Noctamid, 2 mg flunitrazepam (Rohypnol, and 10 mg diazepam (Valium, and placebo on a cross‐over basis. Blood samples were collected up to 154 h after treatment. 3 Receptor affinities of numerous benzodiazepines on vitro show good correlation with therapeutic human doses (r = 0.96) and may be predictive of drug potency in man. 4 Mean peak plasma levels of lormetazepam binding equivalents were 4.8 +/‐ 1 ng/ml at 2 h after lormetazepam, 7.2 +/‐ 1.8 ng/ml at 8 h after flunitrazepam, and 17.9 +/‐ 2.7 ng/ml at 15 h after diazepam. Plasma elimination half‐lives of benzodiazepine binding equivalents were 9.3, 23 and 63 h, respectively. 5 Slow elimination of benzodiazepine binding equivalents following flunitrazepam and diazepam may be due to persistent active metabolites.
A Field Study of Social Dominance, Plasma Levels of Luteinizing Hormone and Steroid Hormones in Wintering Harris' Sparrows
Authors: Rohwer Sievert , Wingfield John C.
Published: December 2015

Plasma levels of corticosterone, testosterone, and LH were compared with the social status signaled by plumage variations among winter Harris' Sparrows, Zonotrichia querula. Both duration of capture stress and weather conditions had highly significant effects on corticosterone titers. With these variables statistically controlled, corticosterone was inversely related to dominance status in blood samples taken under snow‐free conditions, but positively (though not significantly) related to dominance status in another group of samples taken soon after a heavy snow fall. There was no correlation between dominance status and testosterone, even when significant weather effects were statistically controlled, or between dominance and LH, for which there were no significant effects of weather.

Überwinternde Harris‐Ämmerlinge (Zonotrichia querula) geben ihre Ranghöhe durch den individuellen Grad des Schwarz ihrer Kehl‐ und Scheitel‐federn zu erkennen. Deshalb haben wir die Vögel auf die Beziehung zwischen der Ranghöhe und dem Plasmatiter von LH und Steroidhormonen unter‐sucht. 34 Vögel im Jahr 1974 zeigten keine Beziehung zwischen Ranghöhe und den Bluttitern von LH oder Testosteron. Während Testosteronimplantate, wie bekannt, die Angriffsbereitschaft überwinternder Harris‐Ämmerlinge heben, gibt es wahrscheinlich keine Beziehung zwischen Testosteron und Ranghöhe, weil Harris‐Ämmerlingsschwärme eine stabile Rangordnung haben, die auf‐grund der Unterschiede im Aussehen der Schwarmmitglieder voraussagbar ist.

In einer Stichprobe von Vögeln unter schneefreien Bedingungen war der Corticosteron‐Gehalt um so höher, je niedriger die Ranghöhe war (r = −0,41); doch in einer anderen Stichprobe, bei mächtiger Schneedecke, waren die Cor‐ticosteron‐Titer um so beträchtlicher, je höher der Rang eines Vogels war (r = 0,41; allerdings nicht signifikant). Der Unterschied zwischen Überlegenen und Rangtiefen im relativen Streß in beiden Stichproben kann aufgrund einer neuen Hypothese zur Erklärung der Evolutionsstabilität des Ranghöhensignals des Harris‐Ämmerlings verstanden werden. Ranghohe verteidigen offenbar Unterlegene gegen andere Ranghohe, weil die Unterlegenen als Nahrungs‐sucher für sie wertvoll sind. Starke Schneedecke streßt Ranghohe offenbar relativ mehr als Unterlegene, weil sie ein wenig größer sind und die Nahrung so plötzlich infolge Schneefalls versiegt ist, daß Unterlegene vorübergehend ihren Wert als Nahrungssucher verloren haben.
Vigilance and Flock Size in Brent Geese: The Edge Effect
Authors: Inglis I. R. , Lazarus John
Published: December 2015

We report a test of the hypothesis that the commonly observed decline in vigilance with increasing flock size in birds is a result of the greater vigilance of birds on the edge of the flock (due to their greater risk of predation rather than to the influence of flock size per se). Greater vigilance by edge birds would produce this effect because as flock size increases the proportion of birds on the perimeter of the flock declines. Observations on wild flocks of dark‐bellied brent geese (Branta bernicla bernicla) support the hypothesis.

Bei einer Reihe von Vögeln nimmt der wachsame Anteil des Schwarmes mit der Schwarmgröße ab. Lazarus(1978) nahm an, daß dies die Folge erhöhter Wachsamkeit der Randvögel gegenüber Räubern ist (wegen der höheren Feind‐Gefährdung), da der Anteil von Vögeln am Schwarmrand mit der Schwarmgröße abnimmt. Um diese Hypothese zu prüfen, wurde die Zeit, die die Vögel in Kopf hoch‐, Kopf extrem hoch‐ und Kopf unten‐Haltungen ver‐brachten, bei Rand‐ und Zentrumsvögeln weidender Schwärme von Ringel‐gänsen (Branta bernicla bernicla) gemessen. Randvögel verbrachten wesentlich mehr Zeit in der Kopf hoch‐ und weniger in der Kopf unten‐Position als Vögel im Schwarmzentrum, jedoch gab es in der extremen Kopf hoch‐Position keinen bedeutenden Zeitunterschied. Diese Beobachtungswerte, ein Schwarm‐formindex und ein Maß für den Individuenabstand im Schwarm waren Grundlage eines Modells um zu prüfen, wie weit der Randeffekt allein die Schwarm‐größe—Wachsamkeitsbeziehung erklären kann. Vom Modell abgeleitete Kurven paßen gut zu den Daten, abgesehen von einer Überschätzung der Wach‐samkeitswerte in einem kleinen Bereich der Schwarmgröße. Die Folgen der Verletzung der Annahmen des Modelles wurden erörtert. Der Rand/Mitte‐Unterschied kann kaum dadurch erklärt werden, daß Wachsamkeit eher der Entdeckung von Artgenossen oder Weideflächen als der von Räubern dient.
Social Organisation in an Enclosed Group of Red Deer (Cervus elaphus L.) on Rhum
Authors: HALL MARION J.
Published: December 2015

Primate social organisation is often considered to be more complex than that of ‘lower’ mammals. The dominance hierarchy, which is given especial emphasis in most studies of social species, has been criticised on the grounds that rank is poorly related to other aspects of social organisation. These two ideas were investigated in an enclosed group of red deer by looking at the relationships between four aspects of social organisation: the dominance hierarchy; social grooming behaviour; non‐copulatory mounting behaviour; spatial organisation. The last three aspects have frequently been studied in primates, but rarely in ungulates.
Marking Fish Eggs and Fry by Feeding Dyes to the Female Parent
Authors: Bartos Joachim , Wirtz Peter
Published: December 2015

Abstract and Summary

After ingesting Solvent black, Solvent black 3, Solvent blue, and Canthaxanthine with their food, several species of fish produced eggs stained blue or yellow. Young developing from these eggs were also marked for up to 10 days. The method of marking eggs and young by feeding dyes to the female parent is probably applicable to other animals such as birds or reptiles. We mention a number of possible uses in ethological and ecological studies.

Nachdem sie mit der Nahrung Sudanschwarz, Sudantiefschwarz, Sudanblau und Canthaxanthin aufgenommen hatten, legten mehrere Fischarten Eier, die blau oder gelb gefärbt waren. Die Jungfische, die sich aus solchen Eiern entwickelten, waren bis zu 10 Tage lang ebenfalls gefärbt. Eine Reihe von ethologischen und ökologischen Anwendungsmöglichkeiten der Methode wird diskutiert.
The Vocal Range of Alarm Calls in Thirteen‐lined Ground Squirrels
Authors: Brown C. H. , Schwagmeyer P. L.
Published: December 2015

Abstract and Summary

Sound propagation measurements and background noise measurements were conducted to assess the optimal frequency of sounds for long‐range vocal communication in thirteenlined ground squirrels (Spermophilus tridecemlineatus). The results show that when the source and receiver are elevated above the ground 18 cm and 6 cm respectively (elevations typically achieved by erect vocalizing and foraging ground squirrels), and the amplitude of the signal matches that produced by ground squirrels, signals 4 kHz to 8 kHz in frequency are optimal for long‐range communication. This frequency region matches that of the ground squirrel alarm call. Sound propagation measurements and estimates of sound perception suggest that the effective communicative range of the alarm call is 80–100 m. Demographic data on marked squirrels indicate that over 80 % of known close genetic relatives would reside within the vocal range of alarm calls (Schwagmeyer 1979).

Laut‐Reichweite und Hintergrundgeräusche wurden gemessen, um die optimale Frequenz für vokale Kommunikation über größere Entfernung beim Erdhörnchen Spermophilus tridecemlineatus zu bestimmen. Befindet sich die Schallquelle 18 cm über dem Boden (wie typischerweise beim rufenden Hörnchen) und der Empfänger 6 cm über dem Boden (wie typischerweise beim futtersuchenden Hörnchen), dann reicht ein Signal von der Amplitude eines Erdhörnchen‐Warnrufes am weitesten, wenn es zwischen 4 und 8 kHz liegt. In diesem Bereich liegen die Warnrufe, und sie sind, gemessen an der Beantwortung, 80–100 m weit hörbar. Demographische Daten von markierten Hörnchen zeigen, daß über 80 % der genetisch verwandten und einander bekannten Hörnchen innerhalb der Stimmreichweite des Warnrufes wohnen (Schwagmeyer 1979).
Courtship, Spawning and Social Organization of the Pipefish, Corythoichthys intestinalis (Pisces: Syngnathidae) with Notes on two Congeneric Species
Authors: Gronell Ann M.
Published: December 2015

Abstract and Summary

Pipefishes (Syngnathidae) in the coral reef associated genus Corythoichthys were observed to provide field information on social organization that is subsequently compared with previously published observations of confamilials in aquaria. A second goal was to examine the hypothesis that, due to extensive male parental care, males are a resource limiting female reproductive success. Courtship, spawning, and social organization are described for Corythoichthys intestinalis and in lesser detail for C. paxtoni. Notes are also provided on the behavior of C. amplexus. At least the first and probably all three species have a social organization based on permanent pairing and monogamy. The selective factors that may have led to this social system are discussed.

Balz und Ablaichen von Corythoichthys intestinalis bestehen aus 9 Verhaltensweisen. Abfolge und Kompliziertheit des Balzverhaltens ändern sich mit dem Heranrücken der Laichablage. Die Übertragung der Eier in den Hautsack des Männchens geschieht frühmorgens über dem Riff. Jede Laichablage endet mit dem Wackeltanz, währenddem die Eier im Hautsack festhaften. Männliche und weibliche Beteiligung an der Balz sind gleich stark.

Balz und Laichablage der Arten C. paxtoni und C. amplexus sind ähnlich.

C. intestinalis, und möglicherweise C. paxtoni, bilden monogame Paare. Obwohl die Laichablage nur alle 9–12 Tage stattfindet, veranstalten die Paare täglich zu Sonnenaufgang eine kurze Balz oder Begrüßung.

Vermännlichung des weiblichen Verhaltens kommt vor, ist aber nicht so extrem wie bei anderen beschriebenen Arten. Ein Vergleich in mehreren Familien von Riff‐Fischen, deren Männchen Brutpflege betreiben, deutet auf einen Zusammenhang hin zwischen männlicher Brutpflege und dem Grad der weiblichen Maskulinisation.

Monogamie bei C. intestinalis ist anscheinend das Resultat mehrerer Besonderheiten der Laichablage: a) Männchen können nur eine Brut Eier auf einmal tragen, b) Weibchen legen alle Eier eines Geleges gleichzeitig, c) die Periode der weiblichen Eiproduktion gleicht der männlichen Brutperiode, und d) verschiedene Paare laichen nicht gleichzeitig, so daß die Partnerauswahl begrenzt ist. Aus diesen Gründen scheint für diese Fische Monogamie das tauglichste System der Fortpflanzung zu sein.
Structural Variation in the Zebra Finch Distance Call
Authors: Zann Richard
Published: December 2015

Abstract and Summary

The distance calls (DC) of free‐living and recently captured zebra finches (ZF) were investigated in order to establish the extent of variation in the structure within and between individuals, colonies, sexes, geographic localities and subspecies. Most work was carried out on the Australian subspeciesP. g. castanotisin south‐eastern Australia. The calls were analysed sonographically and analysis of two frequency and two temporal parameters were undertaken. The spectral structure of the calls was also assessed subjectively. The main findings are as follows:

Each individual has its own uniquely structured DC. The calls of males are more distinct than those of females.

The differences between individuals are sufficiently large to expect that they could probably be perceived by individuals.

The DCs differ between the sexes. The female call is significantly longer. InP. g. castanotisthe male call has two elements — a tonal element followed by a noise element; it also has fewer harmonics. The differences could be detected by ear. The Timor subspecies is thought to have lost the noise element.

Adjacent colonies have DCs that are not significantly different.

DCs from different and distant geographic localities are not significantly different except for a few locations where distinct local forms of the DC exist. The changing composition of colonies is thought to erode the development of dialects.

The DCs of both subspecies have the same basic complex tone with the same harmonic configuration. The calls of males are of the same duration in both subspecies but those of females are longer inP. g. castanotis. The calls ofP. g. guttatahave a higher fundamental frequency, fewer harmonics and a higher emphasized frequency (FMA).

The DC inP. g. castanotisis probably used to keep pairs together in the large flocks. It may also be used to detect relatives.
Reproductive Behaviour inZonocerus elegans(Orthoptera: Pyrgomorphidae) with Special Reference to Nuptial Gift Guarding
Authors: Wickler Wolfgang , Seibt Uta
Published: December 2015

Egglaying aggregations, mate fidelity and male and female mate choice and mating behaviour of the African pyrgomorphid grasshopperZonocerus elegansare described from the field. Several hundred males and females were individually marked at oviposition sites. Pairs remained stable over days, during egglaying and presumably also over the weeks prior to egglaying. In addition to long‐term consorting with a female, males may try to obtain inseminations by “footpad”–tactics at oviposition sites.

It is suggested that prolonged consorting and repeated copulations increase the female's reproductive output as well as the male's share in it. Our data and the literature indicate that males are involved not only in rival competition but also in a “battle of the sexes” which females are likely to win. The intra– and intersexual “war on two fronts” results behaviourally in elaborate mating tactics and anatomically in highly developed internal female genitalia and male copulatory organs (well known taxonomic characters). This applies not only to grasshoppers but also to other insects and arthropods.
Blue Tails and Autotomy: Enhancement of Predation Avoidance in Juvenile Skinks
Authors: Cooper William E. , Vitt Laurie J.
Published: December 2015

Blue tail coloration in hatchling skinks (Eumeces fasciatus and E. laticeps) appears to be an antipredatory adaptation that distracts attention away from the body to the tail. The tail itself serves as a decoy that may be autotomized as a final defense against capture. The effectiveness of intact tails in deflecting attacks from the body was 50% against scarlet kingsnakes in the experimental conditions used. Brightness rather than hue presumably accounts for the higher attack frequency on blue than black tails in this study, but the blue color may have evolved in response to avian predation.

Repeated predation without ill effects by several predators allows rejection of the hypothesis that the blue tail is aposematic for the predators tested. The hypothesis that blue tails provide stimuli inhibiting aggression or predation by adult male conspecifics is untenable for E. laticeps because adult males readily eat intact hatchlings. Although this study provides no statistical evidence that blue tail coloration inhibits attack by female E. laticeps on hatchlings, the trend of predation rates on blue‐ and black‐tailed hatchlings is in the direction predicted for inhibition.