bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deforestation and avian infectious diseases
Authors: Sehgal R. N. M.
Published: February 2010

In this time of unprecedented global change, infectious diseases will impact humans and wildlife in novel and unknown ways. Climate change, the introduction of invasive species, urbanization, agricultural practices and the loss of biodiversity have all been implicated in increasing the spread of infectious pathogens. In many regards, deforestation supersedes these other global events in terms of its immediate potential global effects in both tropical and temperate regions. The effects of deforestation on the spread of pathogens in birds are largely unknown. Birds harbor many of the same types of pathogens as humans and in addition can spread infectious agents to humans and other wildlife. It is thought that avifauna have gone extinct due to infectious diseases and many are presently threatened, especially endemic island birds. It is clear that habitat degradation can pose a direct threat to many bird species but it is uncertain how these alterations will affect disease transmission and susceptibility to disease. The migration and dispersal of birds can also change with habitat degradation, and thus expose populations to novel pathogens. Some recent work has shown that the results of landscape transformation can have confounding effects on avian malaria, other haemosporidian parasites and viruses. Now with advances in many technologies, including mathematical and computer modeling, genomics and satellite tracking, scientists have tools to further research the disease ecology of deforestation. This research will be imperative to help predict and prevent outbreaks that could affect avifauna, humans and other wildlife worldwide.
Crucial knowledge gaps in current understanding of climate change impacts on coral reef fishes
Authors: Wilson S. K. , Adjeroud M. , Bellwood D. R. , Berumen M. L. , Booth D. , Bozec Y.-Marie , Chabanet P. , Cheal A. , Cinner J. , Depczynski M. , Feary D. A. , Gagliano M. , Graham N. A. J. , Halford A. R. , Halpern B. S. , Harborne A. R. , Hoey A. S. , Holbrook S. J. , Jones G. P. , Kulbiki M. , Letourneur Y. , De Loma T. L. , McClanahan T. , McCormick M. I. , Meekan M. G. , Mumby P. J. , Munday P. L. , Öhman M. C. , Pratchett M. S. , Riegl B. , Sano M. , Schmitt R. J. , Syms C.
Published: February 2010

Expert opinion was canvassed to identify crucial knowledge gaps in current understanding of climate change impacts on coral reef fishes. Scientists that had published three or more papers on the effects of climate and environmental factors on reef fishes were invited to submit five questions that, if addressed, would improve our understanding of climate change effects on coral reef fishes. Thirty-three scientists provided 155 questions, and 32 scientists scored these questions in terms of: (i) identifying a knowledge gap, (ii) achievability, (iii) applicability to a broad spectrum of species and reef habitats, and (iv) priority. Forty-two per cent of the questions related to habitat associations and community dynamics of fish, reflecting the established effects and immediate concern relating to climate-induced coral loss and habitat degradation. However, there were also questions on fish demographics, physiology, behaviour and management, all of which could be potentially affected by climate change. Irrespective of their individual expertise and background, scientists scored questions from different topics similarly, suggesting limited bias and recognition of a need for greater interdisciplinary and collaborative research. Presented here are the 53 highest-scoring unique questions. These questions should act as a guide for future research, providing a basis for better assessment and management of climate change impacts on coral reefs and associated fish communities.
Insect overwintering in a changing climate
Authors: Bale J. S. , Hayward S. A. L.
Published: February 2010

Insects are highly successful animals inhabiting marine, freshwater and terrestrial habitats from the equator to the poles. As a group, insects have limited ability to regulate their body temperature and have thus required a range of strategies to support life in thermally stressful environments, including behavioural avoidance through migration and seasonal changes in cold tolerance. With respect to overwintering strategies, insects have traditionally been divided into two main groups: freeze tolerant and freeze avoiding, although this simple classification is underpinned by a complex of interacting processes, i.e. synthesis of ice nucleating agents, cryoprotectants, antifreeze proteins and changes in membrane lipid composition. Also, in temperate and colder climates, the overwintering ability of many species is closely linked to the diapause state, which often increases cold tolerance ahead of temperature-induced seasonal acclimatisation. Importantly, even though most species can invoke one or both of these responses, the majority of insects die from the effects of cold rather than freezing. Most studies on the effects of a changing climate on insects have focused on processes that occur predominantly in summer (development, reproduction) and on changes in distributions rather than winter survival per se. For species that routinely experience cold stress, a general hypothesis would be that predicted temperature increases of 1°C to 5°C over the next 50-100 years would increase winter survival in some climatic zones. However, this is unlikely to be a universal effect. Negative impacts may occur if climate warming leads to a reduction or loss of winter snow cover in polar and sub-polar areas, resulting in exposure to more severe air temperatures, increasing frequency of freeze—thaw cycles and risks of ice encasement. Likewise, whilst the dominant diapause-inducing cue (photoperiod) will be unaffected by global climate change, higher temperatures may modify normal rates of development, leading to a decoupling of synchrony between diapause-sensitive life-cycle stages and critical photoperiods for diapause induction. In terms of climate warming and potential heat stress, the most recent predictions of summer temperatures in Europe of 40°C or higher in 50-75 years, are close to the current upper lethal limit of some insects. Long-term data sets on insect distributions and the timing of annual migrations provide strong evidence for ‘positive’ responses to higher winter temperatures over timescales of the past 20-50 years in North America, Europe and Asia.
Variation in the heat shock response and its implication for predicting the effect of global climate change on species' biogeographical distribution ranges and metabolic costs
Authors: Tomanek L.
Published: February 2010

The preferential synthesis of heat shock proteins (Hsps) in response to thermal stress [the heat shock response (HSR)] has been shown to vary in species that occupy different thermal environments. A survey of case studies of aquatic (mostly marine) organisms occupying stable thermal environments at all latitudes, from polar to tropical, shows that they do not in general respond to heat stress with an inducible HSR. Organisms that occupy highly variable thermal environments (variations up to >20°C), like the intertidal zone, induce the HSR frequently and within the range of body temperatures they normally experience, suggesting that the response is part of their biochemical strategy to occupy this thermal niche. The highest temperatures at which these organisms can synthesize Hsps are only a few degrees Celsius higher than the highest body temperatures they experience. Thus, they live close to their thermal limits and any further increase in temperature is probably going to push them beyond those limits. In comparison, organisms occupying moderately variable thermal environments (<10°C), like the subtidal zone, activate the HSR at temperatures above those they normally experience in their habitats. They have a wider temperature range above their body temperature range over which they can synthesize Hsps. Contrary to our expectations, species from highly (in comparison with moderately) variable thermal environments have a limited acclimatory plasticity. Due to this variation in the HSR, species from stable and highly variable environments are likely to be more affected by climate change than species from moderately variable environments.
Predicting the impacts of climate change on a globally distributed species: the case of the loggerhead turtle
Authors: Witt M. J. , Hawkes L. A. , Godfrey M. H. , Godley B. J. , Broderick A. C.
Published: February 2010

Marine turtles utilise terrestrial and marine habitats and several aspects of their life history are tied to environmental features that are altering due to rapid climate change. We overview the likely impacts of climate change on the biology of these species, which are likely centred upon the thermal ecology of this taxonomic group. Then, focusing in detail on three decades of research on the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta L.), we describe how much progress has been made to date and how future experimental and ecological focus should be directed. Key questions include: what are the current hatchling sex ratios from which to measure future climate-induced changes? What are wild adult sex ratios and how many males are necessary to maintain a fertile and productive population? How will climate change affect turtles in terms of their distribution?
Organismal climatology: analyzing environmental variability at scales relevant to physiological stress
Authors: Helmuth Brian , Broitman Bernardo R. , Yamane Lauren , Gilman Sarah E. , Mach Katharine , Mislan K. A. S. , Denny Mark W.
Published: February 2010

Predicting when, where and with what magnitude climate change is likely to affect the fitness, abundance and distribution of organisms and the functioning of ecosystems has emerged as a high priority for scientists and resource managers. However, even in cases where we have detailed knowledge of current species' range boundaries, we often do not understand what, if any, aspects of weather and climate act to set these limits. This shortcoming significantly curtails our capacity to predict potential future range shifts in response to climate change, especially since the factors that set range boundaries under those novel conditions may be different from those that set limits today. We quantitatively examine a nine-year time series of temperature records relevant to the body temperatures of intertidal mussels as measured using biomimetic sensors. Specifically, we explore how a ‘climatology’ of body temperatures, as opposed to long-term records of habitat-level parameters such as air and water temperatures, can be used to extrapolate meaningful spatial and temporal patterns of physiological stress. Using different metrics that correspond to various aspects of physiological stress (seasonal means, cumulative temperature and the return time of extremes) we show that these potential environmental stressors do not always occur in synchrony with one another. Our analysis also shows that patterns of animal temperature are not well correlated with simple, commonly used metrics such as air temperature. Detailed physiological studies can provide guidance to predicting the effects of global climate change on natural ecosystems but only if we concomitantly record, archive and model environmental signals at appropriate scales.
The cause of global amphibian declines: a developmental endocrinologist's perspective
Authors: Hayes T. B. , Falso P. , Gallipeau S. , Stice M.
Published: February 2010

Greater than 70% of the world's amphibian species are in decline. We propose that there is probably not a single cause for global amphibian declines and present a three-tiered hierarchical approach that addresses interactions among and between ultimate and proximate factors that contribute to amphibian declines. There are two immediate (proximate) causes of amphibian declines: death and decreased recruitment (reproductive failure). Although much attention has focused on death, few studies have addressed factors that contribute to declines as a result of failed recruitment. Further, a great deal of attention has focused on the role of pathogens in inducing diseases that cause death, but we suggest that pathogen success is profoundly affected by four other ultimate factors: atmospheric change, environmental pollutants, habitat modification and invasive species. Environmental pollutants arise as likely important factors in amphibian declines because they have realized potential to affect recruitment. Further, many studies have documented immunosuppressive effects of pesticides, suggesting a role for environmental contaminants in increased pathogen virulence and disease rates. Increased attention to recruitment and ultimate factors that interact with pathogens is important in addressing this global crisis.
Development of a quadrant photodiode plate for machine tool positioning performance testing
Authors: Chen C-J , Jywe W , Pan C-M
Published: February 2010

A position test is frequently implemented during a precision machine test for a machine tool and a coordinate measurement machine (CMM). Since implementing a complete test using traditional methods takes a great deal of time and some reference parts, this paper describes the development of a novel quadrant photodiode (QPD) plate, which does not need highly accurate reference parts, and is also faster and cheaper than traditional systems. It consists of 16 QPDs, 16 signal processors for the QPDs, one laser diode, one analogue-to-digital converter, and one personal computer. In this paper, in order to reduce the noise of the QPDs, each QPD has individual signal processors. Calibration, stability test, and machine tool repeatability test have been performed. The accuracy of the QPD plate has reached ±0.5 μm.
Effect of datum surface roughness on parallelism and perpendicularity tolerances in milling of prismatic parts
Authors: Hazarika M , Dixit U S , Deb S
Published: February 2010

Surface roughness of the datum face is an important criterion to be considered for the selection of the datum during set-up planning as it can affect the tolerances among features. In this work, an experimental study on the effect of datum surface roughness on parallelism and perpendicularity tolerances in machining of prismatic parts by milling is carried out. A simplified mathematical model is developed to analyse the experimental findings. Statistical analysis of the experimental results has also been carried out. It is observed that sometimes a rough datum can provide better parallelism and perpendicularity than the smooth datum. Thus, the surface roughness of the datum should be decided judiciously considering the prescribed geometric tolerances and machining characteristics on a particular machine tool as well as the required surface integrity.
Tool-Path Generation Based on Angle-Based Flattening
Authors: Li W , Yin Z , Huang Y , Xiong Y
Published: February 2010

Free-form surfaces represented by triangular meshes are widely used in modern product design and manufacture. However, most existing methods are very limited to machining mesh surfaces. In this paper, a new tool-path generation method is presented for machining mesh surfaces by three-axis ball-end milling. First, angle-based flattening, a recently emerging parameterization technique, is used to map triangular meshes from a three-dimensional (3D) physical space to a two-dimensional (2D) parametric plane. Then, the cutter contact points are calculated by continuously offsetting a drive curve. The main advantage of the method is that it reduces the task of tool-path generation from 3D to 2D space. Therefore, the tool-path generation can be analysed and calculated in a plane. This results in an efficient tool-path generation method, without complex geometric calculation such as determining drive plane, surface slicing, and intersection, in a 3D space. Its feasibility and efficiency are demonstrated by several experiments.
Finite element analysis and experimental validation of flashless cold forging of propeller hubs and blade of autonomous underwater vehicle
Authors: Khaleed H M T , Samad Z , Othman A R , Mujeebu M A , Arshad M R , Ab-Kadir A R , Hussaini M Ab , Abdullah A B
Published: February 2010

In this paper three-dimensional finite element method analysis and experimental flashless cold forging of aluminium front and back hubs, and the blade of an autonomous underwater vehicle propeller are presented. The rigid—plastic finite element simulation is performed using Deform F-3V6.0, to estimate the optimum load required for the flashless cold forging. The complex profiles of the hubs and blade are modelled using Solidworks SP4.02007, which is also used for the modelling of the workpiece and die-punch assembly. The workpiece used is of AISI AL6061 and the die material is die steel (AISI D2). The process is optimized to form the propeller back and front hubs, and the blade. For all the models, three workpieces with different specifications are selected and investigated to obtain the optimum workpiece that gives flashless cold forging with no underfilling. Based on the simulation results, the flashless cold forging is successfully done on a 100 tonne C-type machine. The experimental forged samples conform well with the simulated models.
Effects of thickness ratio and length ratio on deformation uniformity of tailor-welded tube hydroforming
Authors: Chu G N , Liu G , Yuan S J , Liu W J
Published: February 2010

Both experimental and simulation studies were run to investigate the deformation uniformity of tailor-welded tube hydroforming with dissimilar thickness. The effects of weld-seam location and difference in thickness were analysed in detail. There are indications that obvious differences in deformation states appear between thinner and thicker tubes owing to poor deformation uniformity, which induces fluctuation in axial strain distribution, especially in the weld-seam zone nearby. Consequently, excessive thinning takes place on the thinner tube. Deformation uniformity improves as the length ratio increases or the thickness ratio decreases. However, it is more sensitive to the thickness ratio, and hence more effective for improving deformation uniformity by optimizing structure design.
Numerical analysis of Miller-premixed charge compression ignition combustion on a dynamic φ—T map
Authors: Murata Y , Nishio Y , Kusaka J , Daisho Y , Kawano D , Suzuki H , Ishii H , Goto Y
Published: February 2010

A variable valve timing mechanism has been applied in a high-speed direct injection diesel engine. The effective compression ratio ( εeff) is lowered by means of late intake valve closing, while keeping the expansion ratio constant. Premixed charge compression ignition (PCCI) combustion, adopting the Miller cycle, was experimentally realized and numerically analysed. Significant improvements in NO x (nitrogen oxides) and soot emissions were achieved for a wide range of engine speeds and loads frequently used in a transient mode test. The operating range of the Miller-PCCI combustion has been expanded up to an indicated mean effective pressure of 1.3 MPa.
Continuous regeneration of an electrically heated diesel particulate trap: Mechanism of particulate matter trapping and improvement of trapping efficiency
Authors: Saito M , Hoshino H , Furuhata T , Arai M
Published: February 2010

The mechanisms of trapping and continuous regeneration of soot particles in a newly developed diesel particulate trap based on static-electric trapping (electrical diesel particulate trap, E-DPT) are investigated. It is found from a visualization experiment that soot particles trapped on the electro-plates form soot bridges over the 1.5 mm narrow space between the electro-plates and burn out by Joule's heating, due to the direct electrification through the bridges. The burning soot bridges trigger the burning of soot particles deposited throughout the electro-plates, achieving continuous regeneration. An experiment on the effect of particle charging on trapping efficiency showed that particle charging by corona discharge increases soot bridge formation, leading to a dramatic increase in soot trapping efficiency from 45 per cent for the case without particle charging to 85 per cent with particle charging. Size distribution measurements showed that the accumulation mode particles are trapped efficiently, but soot particles smaller than 80 nm increase at the exit of the E-DPT.
Autoregulatory systems controlling translation factor expression: Thermostat-like control of translational accuracy
Authors: Betney Russell , de Silva Eric , Krishnan Jawahar , Stansfield Ian
Published: February 2010

In both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, the expression of a large number of genes is controlled by negative feedback, in some cases operating at the level of translation of the mRNA transcript. Of particular interest are those cases where the proteins concerned have cell-wide function in recognizing a particular codon or RNA sequence. Examples include the bacterial translation termination release factor RF2, initiation factor IF3, and eukaryote poly(A) binding protein. The regulatory loops that control their synthesis establish a negative feedback control mechanism based upon that protein's RNA sequence recognition function in translation (for example, stop codon recognition) without compromising the accurate recognition of that codon, or sequence during general, cell-wide translation. Here, the bacterial release factor RF2 and initiation factor IF3 negative feedback loops are reviewed and compared with similar negative feedback loops that regulate the levels of the eukaryote release factor, eRF1, established artificially by mutation. The control properties of such negative feedback loops are discussed as well as their evolution. The role of negative feedback to control translation factor expression is considered in the context of a growing body of evidence that both IF3 and RF2 can play a role in stimulating stalled ribosomes to abandon translation in response to amino acid starvation. Here, we make the case that negative feedback control serves primarily to limit the overexpression of these translation factors, preventing the loss of fitness resulting from an unregulated increase in the frequency of ribosome drop-off.
Genome-wide analysis reveals distinct substrate specificities of Rrp6, Dis3, and core exosome subunits
Authors: Kiss Daniel L. , Andrulis Erik D.
Published: February 2010

The RNA processing exosome complex was originally defined as an evolutionarily conserved multisubunit complex of ribonucleases responsible for the processing and/or turnover of stable RNAs. The exosome complex is also involved in the surveillance of mRNAs in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm, including nonsense-mediated decay (NMD) targets. The detailed mechanisms for how individual exosome subunits participate in each of these RNA metabolic pathways remains unclear. Here, we use RNAi to deplete exosome subunits, the exonucleases Rrp6 and Dis3, and an exosome cofactor in Drosophila melanogaster S2 tissue culture cells and assay the effects on global mRNA levels using gene expression microarrays. Consistent with the RNA degradative activities ascribed to the exosome, most mRNAs are increased. Notably, these stabilized mRNAs possess 3′ untranslated regions that are longer than the representative transcriptomic average. Moreover, our results reveal substantial differences in the pools of affected mRNAs for each depleted subunit. For example, ∼25% of the affected transcripts in Rrp6 depleted cells represent NMD substrates. While the affected mRNAs were dissimilar, they encode proteins that function in similar cellular pathways. We conclude that individual exosome subunits are largely functionally independent at the transcript level, but are interdependent on a transcriptomic level.
RNase R is a highly unstable protein regulated by growth phase and stress
Authors: Chen Chenglu , Deutscher Murray P.
Published: February 2010

RNase R is an important exoribonuclease that participates in the degradation of structured RNAs in Escherichia coli. In earlier work, it was shown that RNase R levels increase dramatically under certain stress conditions, particularly during cold shock and stationary phase. However, the regulatory processes that lead to this elevation are not well understood. We show here that the increase in RNase R in stationary phase is unaffected by the global regulators, RpoS and (p)ppGpp, and that it occurs despite a major reduction in rnr message. Rather, we find that RNase R is a highly unstable protein in exponential phase, with a half-life of ∼10 min, and that the protein is stabilized in stationary phase, leading to its relative increase. RNase R is also stabilized during cold shock and by growth in minimal medium, two other conditions that lead to its elevation. These data demonstrate that RNase R is subject to regulation by a novel, posttranslational mechanism that may have important implications for our complete understanding of RNA metabolism.
Priapism and Risperidone; Psoriasis after Certolizumab Therapy; Bruxism with Two Different SSRIs; Nasal Septum Deviation Associated with Bevacizumab Treatment; Hepatic Failure with Another Herbal Weight Loss Supplement; Bupropion-Related Dystonia and Parkinsonism; Bendamustine-Associated Hemolytic Anemia
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: February 2010

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), discuss methods of prevention, and promote reporting of ADRs to the US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) MedWatch program (800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting, preventable ADR to MedWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers.
Hospital-Acquired Venous Thromboembolism: A Retrospective Analysis of Risk Factor Screening and Prophylactic Therapy
Authors: Qazizada Maryam , McKaba James , Roe Michael
Published: February 2010

Purpose

To identify the incidence of hospital-acquired venous thromboembolism (HAVTE), evaluate the VTE risk factor screening, and evaluate the use and effectiveness of prophylactic agents used in HAVTE patients at St Vincent's Medical Center (SVMC).

Methods

The SVMC's database was queried from January 2005 to December 2006 for all the discharges with a secondary diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and/or pulmonary embolism (PE) and patients with a primary diagnosis of DVT and/or PE who were readmitted within 30 days of their previous admission from SVMC.

Results

A total of 421 charts were screened and 91 charts, representing patients with HAVTE, were included. Among these patients, 56% of subjects suffered from a DVT, 31% had a PE, and 13% had both a DVT and PE. Thirty-five percent of the patients' prophylactic therapy was noncompliant with the American College of Chest Physician's (ACCP) 2004 VTE prophylaxis guideline recommendations. Documentation of patient risk factors was present in 8.8% of all the patients with HAVTE. Twenty-one percent of the patients were not prescribed any VTE prophylactic agent, of which 89% qualified for VTE prophylaxis.

Conclusions

The incidence of HAVTE was found to be 2.24 cases per 1000 discharges from SVMC. The prophylactic therapy among the patients with HAVTE was compliant with the ACCP's VTE guideline recommendations in 65% of cases. The documentation of risk factor screening was found to be 8.8%. The current DVT/PE protocol at SVMC needs revision to provide a more consistent assessment of patient risk factor, and implementation of DVT/PE prophylaxis throughout the continuum of care based on the current guidelines.
Telavancin
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri L. , Baker Danial E.
Published: February 2010

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive five to six well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing inservices. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent in print and are also available online. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. Subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The February 2010 monograph topics are on tranexamic acid tablets; human papillomavirus bivalent vaccine, recombinant; romidepsin, diclofenac sodium solution 1.5%; and ecallantide injection. The DUE is on vigabatrin.
New Drugs Approved by the FDA; New Dosage Forms and Indications Approved by the FDA; Agents Pending FDA Approval; New Drug/Biologics License Applications Filed by Manufacturer; Supplemental Applications Filed by Manufacturer; Significant Labeling Changes or “Dear Health Professional” Letters Related to Safety
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: February 2010

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drug, new indications, dosage forms and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Efforts have been made to assure the accuracy of this information; however, if there are any questions, please let us know at bakerdan@wsu.edu .
Motorola Droid: Impressions after a Month
Authors: Felkey Bill G. , Fox Brent I.
Published: February 2010

After owning, discussing, and downloading applications for almost a month, we decided it was time to give you our take on Verizon's newest entry into the smartphone market. This device, which offers the Google-backed Android 2.0 operating system, is being chased by drug reference publishers and should be supported by at least two information suites by the time this column is published.
Order Scanning Systems may Simultaneously Pull Multiple Pages; Through the Scanner, Leading to Drug Omissions; Dangerous Name Pair; Be Clear When Teaching People to Use Their Inhalers; Inaccurate Dosing If Insulin Withdrawn from a Pen Cartridge
Authors: Cohen Michael R. , Smetzer Judy L.
Published: February 2010

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them at your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) Medication Errors Reporting Program. Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.

Errors, close calls, or hazardous conditions may be reported directly to ISMP through the ISMP Web site ( www.ismp.org ), by calling 800-FAIL-SAFE, or via e-mail at ismpinfo@ismp.org . ISMP guarantees the confidentiality and security of the information received and respects reporters' wishes as to the level of detail included in publications.
Risk Factors for Near-Term Myocardial Infarction in Apparently Healthy Men and Women
Authors: Nordestgaard Børge G , Adourian Aram S , Freiberg Jacob J , Guo Yu , Muntendam Pieter , Falk Erling
Published: February 2010

Background: Limited information is available regarding risk factors for the near-term (4 years) onset of myocardial infarction (MI). We evaluated established cardiovascular risk factors and putative circulating biomarkers as predictors for MI within 4 years of measurement.

Methods: We conducted a matched, nested case-control study (252 cases and 499 controls) drawing on 45 735 men and women participating in the Copenhagen City Heart Study and the Copenhagen General Population Study. Established risk factors and 17 putative biomarkers, including inflammation-sensitive plasma proteins (C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, αl-antitrypsin, complement 3), apolipoproteins (A1, B, E, B/A1 ratio), markers of iron overload (iron, transferrin, transferrin saturation), creatinine, alkaline phosphatase, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, and leukocytes (lymphocyte count, neutrophil count, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio) were assessed.

Results: Among women and men, only 13% and 50%, respectively, of those with near-term MI were classified as high risk by Framingham risk score at baseline. After adjustment for established risk factors, odds ratios for near-term MI, which compared highest to lowest quintiles, were 2.87(95% CI 1.51–5.48; P = 0.001) for αl-antitrypsin, 2.84(1.42–5.67; P = 0.003) for C-reactive protein, 1.97(1.09–3.57; P = 0.03) for creatinine, 1.99(1.09–3.65; P = 0.03) for fibrinogen, and 0.37(0.19–0.73; P = 0.004) for iron. The corresponding odds ratio for all biomarkers combined was 7.24 (3.28–16.0; P < 0.001).

Conclusions: We identified 5 biomarkers associated with increased near-term risk of MI independently of established risk factors. All putative biomarkers combined explained a 7-fold increase in the odds of near-term MI.
Extensive off-shore meadows ofPenicillus capitatus(Udoteaceae, Chlorophyta) in the Canary Islands (eastern Atlantic Ocean)
Authors: Sangil Carlos , Sansón Marta , Afonso-Carrillo Julio , Martín-García Laura
Published: February 2010

Our finding of extensive off-shore meadows ofPenicillus capitatusin the Canary Islands is the first direct observation of this species off the eastern Atlantic islands. Populations form scattered patches between 20 and 27 m depths, leading to denser meadows between 28 and 50 m depths. Total population coverage is ca 11.16 ha. Plant morphology, cover and density changed through the year. In September, well-developed individuals were dominant whereas theEspera-phase was dominant in January and March. The highest mean cover and density values were 75.42% cover and 1245 well-developed individuals m-2, respectively. Specimens reach only 6 cm in height, which is shorter than individuals from the Mediterranean Sea and the Western Atlantic, and they often grow intermixed with species ofCaulerpaandHalophila decipiens. It is difficult to determine whether this is a recent introduction, because the species may have been overlooked in the past. Nevertheless, the extensive meadows found in La Palma may be related to recent increases in sea water temperature, and the tropicalization of the marine flora and fauna of the Canary Islands detected during the past decade.
Habitat-related allelic variation revealed by an anonymous DNA locus in reef-dwelling Turbinaria ornata (Fucales, Phaeophyceae)
Authors: Rohfritsch Audrey , Payri Claude , Stiger Valérie , Bonhomme François
Published: February 2010

We assessed genetic polymorphism of a bi-allelic anonymous DNA locus in otherwise highly homogeneous Turbinaria ornata populations in French Polynesia, Hawaii, Solomon, Wallis and La Réunion Islands. Large heterozygote deficiencies occurred in almost all populations, which may be related to possible self-fertilisation and short dispersal distance of zygotes. There was a high genetic differentiation among samples (Fst=0.5269***) and this was correlated with a gradient of hydrodynamic conditions prevailing on French Polynesian coral reefs. This correlation is tentatively associated with balancing selection acting on, or on the vicinity of, this anonymous DNA locus.
Evaluation of C-reactive protein and serum amyloid A in the detection of inflammatory and infectious diseases in children
Authors: dos Anjos Bárbara L. , Grotto Helena Z.W.
Published: February 2010

Background:Various biomarkers have been proposed to help diagnose inflammatory and infectious diseases. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of some of these markers in children seen in an emergency service, and to compare a number of routinely used tests with measurements of serum amyloid A (SAA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels.

Methods:A total of 83 children with clinically suspected inflammation (n=17) or infection (n=66) who had been seen at the emergency department were evaluated. Complete blood count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), CRP (using two methods) and SAA measurements were performed.

Results:There was no difference in the parameters studied between the inflammation and infectious groups. However, when the infectious group was subdivided into bacterial (n=21) and viral infections (n=43), significantly higher leukocyte, CRP and SAA values were observed in the former group. CRP was the most accurate indicator of inflammatory and infectious processes [Kappa concordance index (KCI)=0.89], followed by SAA (KCI=0.73) and ESR (KCI=0.73). The worst results were obtained for the immature/total neutrophil ratio (KCI=0.02).

Conclusions:Measurement of CRP showed the best performance for indicating infectious or inflammatory processes. ESR and SAA had good concordance and yielded very similar results. CRP may be included in protocols for pediatric assessment in emergency departments.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:493–9.
Immunoglobulin M antibodies to aquaporin-4 in neuromyelitis optica and related disorders
Authors: Jarius Sven , Franciotta Diego , Bergamaschi Roberto , Wildemann Brigitte , Wandinger Klaus-Peter
Published: February 2010

Background: Neuromyelitis optica (NMO, Devic syndrome) is an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system of putative autoimmune etiology that primarily affects the optic nerves and spinal cord. NMO is frequently associated with immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to aquaporin-4 (AQP4-IgG), which are thought to be involved in the patho-genesis of the disease. The frequency and diagnostic relevance of immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies to aquaporin-4 (AQP4-IgM) in patients with NMO is essentially not known. Testing for AQP4-IgM may be of importance since 20%–30% of patients with NMO are negative for AQP4-IgG. Moreover, IgM antibodies are more potent activators of complement compared with IgG, and are detectable at NMO lesional sites.

Methods: Serum samples from 42 patients with NMO spectrum disorders (NMOSD) and from 66 controls were tested for IgM AQP4-Ab using a cell-based assay employing HEK293 cells transfected with human full length AQP4. To control for possible interactions between IgG and IgM, serum was depleted of IgG prior to testing by indirect immunofluorescence.

Results: IgM AQP4-Ab were detectable in 4/42 samples from patients with NMOSD, but in none of the 66 control samples. In three patients, titers were higher following depletion of total IgG from the samples. One sample was positive only after precipitation of total IgG.

Conclusions: AQP4 antibodies of the IgM class exist in almost 10% of patients with NMO and might contribute to lesion pathology. Routine testing for AQP4-IgM appears to not be justified, as all AQP4-IgM positive patients were also positive for AQP4-IgG, and none of the AQP4-IgG negative samples were positive for AQP4-IgM.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:659–63.
Biological performance of copper azole-treated wood and wood-based composites
Authors: Tascioglu Cihat , Tsunoda Kunio
Published: February 2010

Vacuum-impregnation with copper azole was applied as a post-treatment to five commercially available wood-based composites with thicknesses of approximately 12 mm, such as softwood plywood (SWP), hardwood plywood (HWP), medium density fiberboard (MDF), oriented strand board (OSB), and particleboard (PB). Untreated and treated composites were tested for their resistance to decay fungi (brown rot fungus Fomitopsis palustris and white rot fungus Trametes versicolor) and the subterranean termite Coptotermes formosanus by Japanese standardized laboratory test methods. Untreated MDF was highly resistant to both biological attacks and seemed to require no preservative treatment under less hazardous conditions, i.e., under protected and above-ground applications, with possible occasional wetting. PB was ranked second, and needed further protection only against C. formosanus. Copper azole did not adequately protect SWP from F. palustris and termite. OSB was not protected either against F. palustris and T. versicolor even at a concentration level of 1 kg copper azole per m3 in contrary to blocks of Cryptomeria japonica sapwood, which was protected at these concentration levels. The biological resistance of HWP was reasonably improved by copper azole. The performance of wood-based composites treated with copper azole, which was inferior to the biological resistance of treated C. japonica sapwood blocks, might depend on the thickness or layer profile, density as a result of porosity, uneven distribution of the preservative in the composites, and the susceptibility of the component raw materials.
The effects of subthreshold loadings of tebuconazole, DDAC, and boric acid on wood decay by Postia placenta
Authors: Robinson Sara C. , Laks Peter E.
Published: February 2010

Tebuconazole, didecyldimethylammonium chloride (DDAC), and boric acid are co-biocides frequently added to copper-based wood preservative systems. Although the performance thresholds of these biocides are well known, there is currently little information on the effects of subthreshold loadings of the co-biocides on common wood decay fungi. We tested five strains ofPostia placentaon white pine cubes (Pinus strobus) treated with subthreshold retentions of tebuconazole, DDAC, or boric acid. No stimulatory effects were observed on blocks treated with DDAC or boric acid. Decay stimulation, as measured by weight loss, occurred between loadings of 1.0×10-5to 1.0×10-3 kg m-3on blocks treated with tebuconazole. This effect should be taken into account during the design and use of wood preservative systems containing this fungicide.
Development of wood decay in wound-initiated discolored wood of eastern red cedar
Authors: Shortle Walter C. , Dudzik Kenneth R. , Smith Kevin T.
Published: February 2010

Logs of eastern red cedar, Juniperus virginiana L., with well-developed bands of light-colored wood (“included sapwood”) within heartwood can be unsuitable for sawn wood products. This finding is in contrast to published information that the “included sapwood” is (1) a heartwood anomaly rather than sapwood and (2) its occurrence is not a reason to exclude this type of wood from commercial use. The alternative view presented here is that “included sapwood” is wound-initiated discolored wood which is the starting point for wood decay in living trees and which has adversely altered wood properties before the development of decay symptoms. Our study of the patterns of discoloration and decay, electrical resistance properties, elemental analysis, wood acidity, solubility in dilute NaOH, total phenol content, and tests of wood decay resistance indicated that the so-called included sapwood was discolored wood. This light-colored discolored wood had no greater decay resistance than sapwood, a common finding in other tree species in which “included sapwood” is found. Half the sample disks sent to our laboratory had symptomatic decay within the bands of light-colored discolored wood bounded by a phenol-enriched protective layer on the bark side and phenol-enriched heartwood on the pith side of the band. This ring-rot, even in its pre-symptomatic stage, can cause problems during processing for sawn wood products. Therefore, logs with well-developed bands of light-colored discolored wood should be considered high-risk material for some products, although they could be useful for others.
Distribution, abundance, and individual movements of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) in the Pearl River Estuary, China
Authors: Chen Tao , Hung Samuel K. , Qiu Yongsong , Jia Xiaoping , Jefferson Thomas A.
Published: February 2010

To obtain critical information on distribution and abundance of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) residing in the Pearl River Estuary (PRE), systematic line-transect surveys and photo-identification studies were conducted in the eastern and western sections of the estuary in 2005–2006 and 2007–2008, respectively. Dolphins in the eastern section occurred throughout Lingding Bay, whereas their distribution in the western section extended from the mouth of Modaomen to the channel between Shangchuan and Xiachuan islands. Variations in dolphin distribution during the wet and dry seasons were evident and probably associated with movements of their prey species. Photo-identification of individuals confirmed exchange of at least some individuals between the western and eastern sections of PRE, and thus dolphins from both areas almost certainly comprise a single population. Using line-transect analysis, the total population size of the PRE humpback dolphins was estimated to be 2555 during the wet season and 2517 during the dry season. However, these should be considered preliminary as the coefficients of variation in some survey areas were high. Further studies should focus on refining these estimates and working towards understanding the western boundary of the PRE population.
Regulation of hyperactivation by PPP2 in hamster spermatozoa
Authors: Suzuki Tatsuya , Fujinoki Masakatsu , Shibahara Hiroaki , Suzuki Mitsuaki
Published: February 2010

It has been widely accepted that serine/threonine protein phosphatases (PPPs) are associated with the regulation of sperm hyperactivation. In the present study, we examined the types of PPPs associated with the regulation of hamster sperm hyperactivation. Protein phosphatases PPP1CA, PPP1CC, PPP2, and PPP3 are present in hamster sperm. In the experiments using several inhibitors, sperm hyperactivation was enhanced when PPP2 was inhibited at least, although inhibition of PPP1 also enhanced sperm hyperactivation. Interestingly, sperm were hyperactivated after PPP2 became an inactive form. And then, PPP1CA became an active form after sperm were hyperactivated. It has also been widely accepted that tyrosine phosphorylation is closely associated with the regulation of sperm hyperactivation. When PPP2 was inhibited, tyrosine phosphorylation was not enhanced at all. On the other hand, inhibition of PPP1 enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation. From the results, it is likely that PPP2 is closely associated with the regulation of sperm hyperactivation, although it is not associated with the regulation of tyrosine phosphorylation.
Incidence of Use of Acid Suppression Medications in Infants with Oral Clefting
Authors: Koltz Peter F. , Albino Frank P. , Hyatt Brad , Fargione Robert A. , Katzel Evan , Girotto John A.
Published: February 2010

Objective

Less than 1% of the general pediatric population needs pharmacologic therapy for reflux symptoms; yet, the co-existence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with oral clefting remains unclear. The purpose of this retrospective study was to appreciate the difference in the incidence of anti-GERD pharmacotherapy in a sample population of infants with oral clefting compared to the general pediatric population.

Materials and Methods

One hundred ninety-six consecutive patients diagnosed with cleft lip only, cleft lip and palate, and isolated cleft palate were analyzed through clinical record review. Demographic and clinical information including but not limited to the type of oral cleft present at birth, reported signs and symptoms of GERD, and anti-GERD medications used were compiled for all subjects. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Sixty-four (33%) of 196 infants with oral clefts had documented signs and symptoms of GERD. Nine percent (18 of 196) of the subjects received anti-GERD medications. The infant subgroup with treated GERD consisted of 11 out of 62 (18%) patients with isolated cleft palate, 5 of 112 (4.5%) with cleft lip and palate, and 2 of 17 (11%) with cleft lip only.

Conclusions

The incidence of anti-GERD pharmacologic therapy among infants with oral clefts (9%) is significantly higher than among the general pediatric population (<1%). Furthermore, palatal clefts impart a greater risk of GERD symptoms than clefts of the alveolus, lip, or nose. In order to minimize the long-term consequences of GERD, a standardized interdisciplinary clinical protocol is necessary for evaluating infants with oral clefts.