bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing VLBW Deliveries at Subspecialty Perinatal Centers via Perinatal Outreach
Authors: Binder Stephanie , Hill Kathryn , Meinzen-Derr Jareen , Greenberg James M. , Narendran Vivek
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVES:

To test the hypothesis that the promotion of national guidelines recommending the transfer of high-risk mothers to subspecialty perinatal centers reduces mortality and morbidity through the reduction of preterm infants delivered at nontertiary maternity hospitals.

METHODS:

After implementation of hospital-based educational and communication programs emphasizing the importance of maternal transfer to subspecialty perinatal centers, we conducted a population-based cohort study of all live births delivered at maternity hospitals in greater Cincinnati from 2003 through 2007 (n = 1825). Birth weights measured between 500 and 1499 g and gestational ages were less than 32 weeks. Risk-adjusted outcomes were measured by multivariate logistic regression in 2 stages. We compared these findings with those from a similar study conducted at our institution that included infants with birth weights less than 1500 g born between September 1, 1995, and December 31, 1997 (n = 848). The primary outcome was the percentage decrease in infants born with very low birth weights at nontertiary centers compared with our previous study.

RESULTS:

The number of infants born with birth weights less than 1500 g and at less than 32 weeks' gestation delivered at hospitals without tertiary perinatal and neonatal care decreased from 25% to 11.8% between the 2 study periods. The odds of death or major morbidity for infants born with very low birth weights at nontertiary perinatal centers is 3 times that of infants born at subspecialty perinatal centers after controlling for demographic variations (odds ratio: 3.05 [95% confidence interval: 2.1–4.4]).

CONCLUSIONS:

Local promotion of national guidelines by neonatologists coincided with a significant reduction in the percentage of infants born with birth weights less than 1500 g and at less than 32 weeks' gestation who were not delivered at subspecialty perinatal centers, and, at 88.2%, this nearly achieves the Healthy People 2010 objective to deliver 90% of infants born with very low birth weights in subspecialty perinatal centers.
Kingella kingae: An Emerging Pathogen in Young Children
Authors: Yagupsky Pablo , Porsch Eric , St Geme Joseph W.
Published: February 2011

Kingella kingae is being recognized increasingly as a common etiology of pediatric osteoarticular infections, bacteremia, and endocarditis, which reflects improved culture methods and use of nucleic acid–amplification techniques in clinical microbiology laboratories. K kingae colonizes the posterior pharynx of young children and is transmitted from child to child through close personal contact. Day care attendance increases the risk for colonization and transmission, and clusters of K kingae infections among day care center attendees have been reported. Key virulence factors in K kingae include type IV pili and a potent RTX toxin. In previously healthy children, >95% of K kingae infections are diagnosed between the ages of 6 and 48 months. Among children with underlying medical conditions, K kingae disease may occur at older ages as well. The clinical presentation of K kingae disease is often subtle and may be associated with normal levels of acute-phase reactants, which underscores the importance of a high index of suspicion. K kingae is usually susceptible to ß-lactam antibiotics, and infections typically respond well to medical treatment, with the exception of cases of endocarditis.
A New Risk-Based Screening Criterion for Treatment-Demanding Retinopathy of Prematurity in Denmark
Authors: Slidsborg Carina , Forman Julie Lyng , Rasmussen Steen , Jensen Hanne , Nissen Kamilla Rothe , Jensen Peter Koch , Bangsgaard Regitze , Fledelius Hans Callø , Greisen Gorm , la Cour Morten
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study was to uncover the most effective and safe criterion to implement for retinopathy of prematurity screening in Denmark.

METHODS:

This retrospective national cohort study is based on data from 3 national registers. These registers provided on infants treated for retinopathy of prematurity, infants in need of treatment but missed by the present screening program, and the candidate neonates for advanced retinopathy of prematurity development A nonlinear logistic regression model was fitted to the data, and various screening criteria were evaluated.

RESULTS:

During the study period (2002–2006), 116 infants were treated for retinopathy of prematurity, no treatment-demanding retinopathy of prematurity infants were missed by the screening program, and 182 premature infants were candidates for developing treatment-demanding retinopathy of prematurity. Screening criteria combining gestational age at delivery and birth weight limits and new risk-based criteria were compared with regards to their effectiveness. The risk-based criteria were the most effective. Use of the 0.13% risk-based criterion to define the population to be screened resulted in the detection of all treated infants in the study period and 17.4% fewer infants to screen. The model predicted this criterion to result in 1 missed case of treatment-demanding retinopathy of prematurity every 11 years and 1 case of blindness every 18 years in Denmark.

CONCLUSIONS:

Screening criteria based on risk estimates of developing treatment-demanding retinopathy of prematurity are the most effective for retinopathy-of-prematurity screening. The risk-based criterion of 0.13% can safely be implemented for future retinopathy-of-prematurity screening in Denmark.
Microbiology and Antibiotic Management of Orbital Cellulitis
Authors: Seltz L Barry , Smith Jesse , Durairaj Vikram D , Enzenauer Robert , Todd James
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVES:

Orbital infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus may be increasing. Because Staphylococcus aureus infections have important treatment implications, our objective was to review the microbiology and antibiotic management of children hospitalized with orbital cellulitis and abscesses.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

This study was a retrospective chart review of all patients admitted to a tertiary care children's hospital between 2004 and 2009 with orbital infections confirmed by a computed tomography scan. Patients with preceding surgery or trauma, anatomic eye abnormalities, malignancy, immunodeficiency, or preseptal infections were excluded.

RESULTS:

There were 94 children with orbital infections. A true pathogen was recovered in 31% of patients. The most commonly identified bacteria was the Streptococcus anginosus group (14 of 94 patients [15%]). Staphylococcus aureus (1 patient with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) was identified in 9% of patients. Combination antimicrobial agents were frequently used (62%), and vancomycin use increased from 14% to 57% during the study period. Patients treated with a single antibiotic during hospitalization (n = 32), in contrast to combination therapy (n = 58), were more likely to be discharged on a single antibiotic (P < .001). Twenty-five (27%) patients were discharged on combination antibiotics. Thirteen (14%) patients were discharged on intravenous therapy.

CONCLUSIONS:

The Streptococcus anginosus group is an emerging pathogen in pediatric orbital infections. Although methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was uncommon, patients frequently received vancomycin and combination antibiotics. A simplified antibiotic regimen may help limit the development of resistant organisms and facilitate transition to an oral agent.
Interventions to Improve Parental Communication About Sex: A Systematic Review
Authors: Akers Aletha Y. , Holland Cynthia L. , Bost James
Published: February 2011

CONTEXT:

The relative effectiveness of interventions to improve parental communication with adolescents about sex is not known.

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the effectiveness and methodologic quality of interventions for improving parental communication with adolescents about sex.

METHODS:

We searched 6 databases: OVID/Medline, PsychInfo, ERIC, Cochrane Review, Communication and Mass Media, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature. We included studies published between 1980 and July 2010 in peer-reviewed English-language journals that targeted US parents of adolescents aged 11 to 18 years, used an experimental or quasi-experimental design, included a control group, and had a pretest/posttest design. We abstracted data on multiple communication outcomes defined by the integrative conceptual model (communication frequency, content, skills, intentions, self-efficacy, perceived environmental barriers/facilitators, perceived social norms, attitudes, outcome expectations, knowledge, and beliefs). Methodologic quality was assessed using the 11-item methodologic quality score.

RESULTS:

Twelve studies met inclusion criteria. Compared with controls, parents who participated in these interventions experienced improvements in multiple communication domains including the frequency, quality, intentions, comfort, and self-efficacy for communicating. We noted no effects on parental attitudes toward communicating or the outcomes they expected to occur as a result of communicating. Four studies were of high quality, 7 were of medium quality, and 1 was of lower quality.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our review was limited by the lack of standardized measures for assessing parental communication. Still, interventions for improving parent-adolescent sex communication are well designed and have some targeted effects. Wider dissemination could augment efforts by schools, clinicians, and health educators.
Newborns With Sonographically Dysplastic and Potentially Unstable Hips: 6-Year Follow-up of an RCT
Authors: Brurås Kari Røine , Aukland Stein Magnus , Markestad Trond , Sera Francesco , Dezateux Carol , Rosendahl Karen
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To examine the long-term outcome of early abduction splinting versus active sonographic surveillance in newborns with mildly dysplastic hips.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Between 1997 and 2003, 128 newborns with mildly dysplastic and potentially unstable hips on ultrasound (43° ≤ α-angle < 50°) were randomly assigned to immediate abduction treatment or sonographic surveillance. All were invited for a radiographic follow-up at 6 years. The radiographs were analyzed by a single radiologist masked to the randomization allocation, and markers of hip dysplasia (acetabular index, center-edge angle of Wiberg) and avascular necrosis were reported.

RESULTS:

Eighty-three participants (65%) agreed to participate in the follow-up (42 participants from the treatment group). The mean acetabular index was 14.7° (SD: 5.6°) for the treatment group and 13.9° (SD: 3.9°) for the control group (mean difference: −0.8° [95% confidence interval: −2.9° to 1.3°]). Values were within normal ranges for age for all participants except for 1 female subject from the treatment group. The mean center edge was 26.6° for those treated and 26.4° for the active surveillance group (mean difference: −0.3° [95% confidence interval: −2.5° to 2.0°]). None had markers suggestive of avascular necrosis.

CONCLUSIONS:

We found no difference in radiographic outcome at 6 years of age between children allocated to initial splintage for 6 weeks and those offered active sonographic surveillance. The delayed acetabular ossification or persistent dysplasia seen in a third of infants from both groups at 1 year of age had completely resolved in all but 1 of the female subjects from the treatment group.
Lack of Effect from a Previous Single Dose of Nevirapine on Virologic and Immunologic Responses After 6 Months of Antiretroviral Regimens Containing Either Efavirenz or Lopinavir‐Ritonavir
Authors: Dlamini Judith N. , Hu Zonghui , Somaroo Harsha , Highbarger Helene C. , Follmann Dean A. , Dewar Robin L. , Pau Alice K.
Published: February 2011

Study Objective. To evaluate the effect of a previous single dose of nevirapine given to prevent mother‐to‐child transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) on virologic and immunologic measures after 6 months of an antiretroviral regimen containing either efavirenz or lopinavir‐ritonavir.

Design. Retrospective subgroup analysis of data from the Phidisa II trial.

Setting. Six South African research clinics.

Patients. A total of 394 women with HIV who completed 6 months of combination antiretroviral regimen containing either efavirenz or lopinavir‐ritonavir as part of the Phidisa II trial.

Measurements and Main Results. During the screening process for the Phidisa II study, 478 women were asked about previous nevirapine use: 392 women (82%) were nevirapine naïve, and 86 (18%) had received nevirapine. During the study, patients received either an efavirenz‐based or lopinavir‐ritonavir‐based antiretroviral regimen. After 6 months of treatment, virologic (HIV RNA levels) and immunologic (CD4+ cell count) responses were measured. These data were compared between women with or without previous nevirapine exposure, and between women who received efavirenz versus lopinavir‐ritonavir. After 6 months of treatment, 394 women (324 nevirapine naïve, 70 exposed to nevirapine) had follow‐up HIV RNA results. Two hundred twenty‐seven (70.1%) of the nevirapine‐naïve patients and 48 (68.6%) of the nevirapine‐exposed patients achieved HIV RNA levels lower than 400 copies/ml (p=0.89), with CD4+ cell count increases of 115.5 and 120.4 cells/mm3, respectively (p=0.67). Among the nevirapine‐exposed women, 27 (75%) of 36 efavirenz‐treated and 21 (61.8%) of 34 lopinavir‐ritonavir‐treated patients had HIV RNA levels lower than 400 copies/ml at 6 months (p=0.31).

Conclusion. In this retrospective analysis of a small cohort, previous exposure to a single dose of nevirapine did not affect virologic outcomes after 6 months of either an efavirenz‐based or lopinavir‐ritonavir‐based antiretroviral regimen. As efavirenz is one of the first‐line combination antiretroviral therapies administered in Africa, it remains an option for women who received single‐dose nevirapine.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Voriconazole and Posaconazole
Authors: Hussaini Trana , Rüping Maria J. G. T. , Farowski Fedja , Vehreschild Janne J. , Cornely Oliver A.
Published: February 2011

Despite the availability of newer antifungal agents, invasive fungal diseases remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. Voriconazole and posaconazole are two extended‐spectrum triazoles indicated for treatment and prophylaxis of invasive fungal diseases. Recently, there has been increased interest in the utility of therapeutic drug monitoring to optimize safety and efficacy of antifungals in an attempt to improve patient outcomes. We reviewed the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics of voriconazole and posaconazole in the context of clinical indications for therapeutic drug monitoring. In addition, the most recent evidence examining the relationship between serum concentrations of voriconazole and posaconazole and their efficacy or toxicities was evaluated. This information was then integrated to formulate recommendations for use of therapeutic drug monitoring in clinical settings.
5‐Fluorouracil—Induced Tako‐Tsubo—Like Syndrome
Authors: Basselin Cécile , Fontanges Thierry , Descotes Jacques , Chevalier Philippe , Bui‐Xuan Bernard , Feinard Gwennaelle , Timour Quadiri
Published: February 2011

Tako‐Tsubo cardiomyopathy (also known as apical ballooning syndrome) is a relatively new clinical entity characterized by reversible left ventricular dysfunction. Its clinical presentation and electrocardiographic findings are similar to acute myocardial infarction but without significant coronary artery disease. Cardiotoxicity is a major complication of various anticancer drugs; however, only a few cases of Tako‐Tsubo cardiomyopathy associated with anticancer drugs, including 5–fluorouracil, have been reported. We describe a 48–year‐old man who developed acute coronary syndrome, thought to be similar to Tako‐Tsubo syndrome, after receiving a chemotherapy regimen consisting of 5–fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, and calcium folinate (FOLFOX protocol) for colic adenocarcinoma. Approximately 24 hours after receiving his first cycle of chemotherapy, the patient, who did not have a history of cardiovascular disease, developed chest pain, with abnormal electrocardiographic results and a mildly increased troponin T level. Coronary angiography did not show any significant coronary lesions. Echocardiography revealed marked left ventricular dysfunction (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] 15%) with severe hypokinesia in all apical and median segments. The patient was stabilized with the introduction of an intraaortic balloon pump and pressor therapy. One month later, myocardial magnetic resonance imaging confirmed total recovery of left ventricular systolic function. Thus, the second chemotherapy cycle was administered at half the dose‐intensity along with ramipril and diltiazem. The chemotherapy regimen was well tolerated. Two weeks later, at the end of the third chemotherapy cycle, administered using the full‐dose regimen, the patient experienced cardiac arrest, necessitating cardiopulmonary resuscitation. After transfer to the cardiology intensive care unit, acute heart failure recurred (LVEF 35%). Normal recovery of left ventricular function occurred a few days later. Chemotherapy was discontinued, and treatment with bisoprolol was started. Four months later, the patient remained completely asymptomatic of any cardiac manifestations. Use of the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale indicated a probable relationship (score of 8) between the patient's development of acute coronary Tako‐Tsubo‐like syndrome and 5–fluorouracil. Clinicians should be aware of this potential adverse effect when monitoring patients receiving chemotherapy with 5–fluorouracil.
Application Timing of Harvest Aid Herbicides Affects Soybean Harvest and Yield
Authors: Boudreaux Joseph M. , Griffin James L.
Published: February 2011

Research was conducted over 2 yr to evaluate soybean response to harvest aid herbicide treatments paraquat at 0.28 kg ai ha−1, paraquat with carfentrazone at 0.014 kg ai ha−1, and sodium chlorate at 6.72 kg ai ha−1. Indeterminate and determinate soybean cultivars were treated when moisture of seed collected from the uppermost four nodes of plants averaged 60, 50, 40, 30, and 20% (± 2%). For each soybean cultivar, the harvest aid treatment by application timing interaction was not significant, and data for harvest aid treatments were averaged. Application of harvest aid at 60% average seed moisture reduced yield for the maturity group (MG) IV indeterminate cultivar 15.4% compared with the nontreated; 100-seed weight was reduced 12.4%. Yield and seed weight were not negatively affected when harvest aid was applied at 50% average seed moisture and soybean was harvested 14 and 15 d before the nontreated control. Although planting date in the 2 yr for the indeterminate cultivar differed by 26 d, number of days from planting to harvest aid application at 50% average seed moisture was 112 and 116 d. For MG V and MG VI determinate cultivars, application of harvest aid at 60% average seed moisture reduced yield compared with the nontreated control 22 and 18.1%, respectively, and at 50% average seed moisture 15.6 and 4%, respectively; seed weight reductions of 8.9 to 33.3% accompanied the yield reductions of the two cultivars. Reduction in soybean yield and seed weight was not observed when harvest aid was applied at 40% average seed moisture, and harvest for the 2 yr was 8 and 9 d earlier for the MG V cultivar and 10 and 14 d earlier for the MG VI cultivar.
Number of Solaria Needed to Predict Weed Seedlings in Two Summer Crops
Authors: Eyherabide Juan J. , Cendoya María G. , Forcella Frank , Irazazábal Marisol
Published: February 2011

The utility of solaria (1 by 1-m plastic sheets) to predict densities of a few weed species in summer crops has been demonstrated previously, but needed further research to be adopted by farmers and advisors. We tested the method to detect important weeds in Argentina and Minnesota, and determined the minimum number of solaria required to predict the presence of emerged weed seedlings in the forthcoming growing season. Three experiments were performed in Buenos Aires Province, Argentina, and one in Minnesota. Solaria were placed in fields with different previous crops and soil management: no tillage (two fields) and conventional tillage (two fields). Preceding crops were corn (one field), wheat (one field), and double-cropped wheat/soybean (two fields). After weeds were enumerated, solaria were removed, sunflower (one field) and soybean (three fields) were planted, and weeds later assessed in each crop. Results indicate that one solarium per 1.9 ha can detect common lambsquarters with 95% confidence within the next summer crop. For other species, one solarium per 4.2, 1.2, 1.0, and 1.8 to 2.7 ha (depending upon field site) for large crabgrass, prostrate knotweed, wild buckwheat, and green foxtail, respectively, was required. The low cost and simplicity of assessment make this technique more suitable than that of soil seed-bank samples to predict weed emergence. The number of solaria required to forecast weed infestation levels confidently is sufficiently low that their use may be justified, especially in small fields of high-value crops.
Efficacy of Interrow Weed Control Techniques in Wide Row Narrow-Leaf Lupin
Authors: Hashem Abul , Collins R. Michael , Bowran David G.
Published: February 2011

The sharp decline in the area of lupin grown in Australia is partly attributed to the failure to control herbicide-resistant weeds in narrow-leaf lupin crops grown with the conventional 25-cm-wide row spacing. Growing lupin with wider row spacing allows for interrow weed control by nonselective herbicides using a sprayshield or physical methods. During 2003 to 2006, two experiments conducted at five sites evaluated the efficacy of interrow weed control techniques in narrow-leaf lupin crops grown in 55- to 65-cm-wide rows within the Western Australia wheatbelt. Interrow herbicides were applied POST using sprayshields, intrarow herbicides were banded on lupin rows at seeding, and interrow weeds were mowed using a garden mower. The main weed species at each site was rigid ryegrass, blue lupin, or wild radish. Paraquat plus diquat applied on the interrow of the lupin crop with sprayshields controlled up to 100% of weeds between rows, leading to increases in lupin grain yield in most of the sites. Glyphosate alone, a mixture of glyphosate plus metribuzin, and glyphosate followed by paraquat plus diquat also controlled interrow weeds, but did not increase lupin grain yield at any site. Thus, paraquat plus diquat is a better choice for interrow weed control in wide row lupin than glyphosate. Mowing did not improve weed control, but mowing followed by paraquat plus diquat increased lupin grain yield at one site. Regression models predicted that there was a strong relationship between weed biomass and lupin grain yield.
River discharge in the Kone River basin (Central Vietnam) under climate change by applying the BTOPMC distributed hydrological model
Authors: Phan Thi Thanh Hang , Sunada Kengo , Oishi Satoru , Sakamoto Yasushi
Published: February 2011

The impact of climate change on local discharge variability is investigated in the Kone River basin located in Central Vietnam. In this study, historical and predicted river discharge trends are discussed. The predicted discharge is simulated using the BTOPMC model based on the A1B scenario as a scientific basis for socioeconomic development and integrated water resource management in the Kone River basin, during the period 2011–2034. During the period 1979–2007, annual discharge in the Kone River basin trended upwards slightly. However, both maximum and minimum discharges declined. The results of the predicted discharge under the A1B scenario suggest that river flow will increase slightly in the Kone River basin in the future. Both annual and flood season discharges will tend to increase during the period 2011–2034. In contrast, discharge during the low flow season will tend to decrease over the same period. For the period 2011–2034, the discharge volume in the Kone River will increase by 3%, in comparison with the period 1980–1999. Water volume will decrease by about 18.6% during the flood season and increase by approximately 90.0% during the low flow season relative to the period 1980–1999.
Temperature evolution of an experimental salt-gradient solar pond
Authors: Suárez F. , Childress A. E. , Tyler S. W.
Published: February 2011

A salt-gradient solar pond is a low-cost, large-scale solar collector with integrated storage that can be used as a source of energy in low-grade-heat thermal desalination systems. This work presents the thermal evolution of an experimental solar pond for both the maturation and heat extraction time periods. The temperature profile was measured every 1.1 cm using a vertical high-resolution distributed temperature sensing (DTS) system, with a temperature resolution of 0.04ºC. Temperatures of 34 and 45ºC were achieved in the bottom of the pond when the lights were on for 12 and 24 hours per day, respectively. Heat was extracted at a rate of 139 W from the solar pond, which corresponded to an efficiency of 29%. Stratification and mixing were clearly observed inside the solar pond using the vertical high-resolution DTS system.
Relationships among common measures of student performance and scores on the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination
Authors: Danielson Jared A. , Wu Tsui-Feng , Molgaard Laura K. , Preast Vanessa A.
Published: February 2011

Objective—To determine relationships among several common measures of performance prior to and during veterinary school (ie, Graduate Record Examination [GRE] scores, undergraduate grade point average [UGPA], Qualifying Examination [QE] scores, overall grade point average during veterinary school [VGPA], and scores for the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination [NAVLE]).

Design—Longitudinal retrospective study.

Sample Population—192 students from the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine and 152 students from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine.

Procedures—Student UGPA, VGPA, and GRE score data were gathered during the normal admissions and academic processes. The QE was administered as a low-stakes examination at both institutions for the purposes of curricular assessment. Scores on the NAVLE were provided with student permission by the National Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. Path analysis was used to explore hypothesized relationships among variables.

Results—GRE scores and UGPA predicted NAVLE scores indirectly through QE scores and VGPA, whereas QE scores and VGPA directly predicted NAVLE scores. The resulting models explained 58% to 62% of the variance in NAVLE scores, with QE score being the strongest predictor.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that for veterinary school students, GRE scores, UGPA, VGPA, and QE scores could be used to predict scores on the NAVLE. This suggests that these measures could prove useful to veterinary schools when admitting students or preparing them for the NAVLE.
Detection of innocent systolic murmurs by auscultation and their relation to hematologic and echocardiographic findings in clinically normal Whippets
Authors: Bavegems Valérie C. , Duchateau Luc , Polis Ingeborgh E. , Van Ham Luc M. , De Rick André F. , Sys Stanislas U.
Published: February 2011

Objective—To determine murmur prevalence by auscultation of 105 apparently healthy Whippets without signs of cardiac disease, to determine the origin of these murmurs, and to evaluate the influence of sex, type of pedigree (ie, bred for showing or racing), and training on these murmurs.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—105 client-owned Whippets.

Procedures—All dogs were auscultated by the first author and underwent a complete physical and cardiological examination, together with a hematologic assessment. Several RBC variables and echocardiographic variables were compared between dogs with or without a murmur at the level of the aortic valve.

Results—44 of 105 (41.9%) dogs had no murmur. A soft systolic murmur was present with point of maximal intensity at the level of the aortic valve in 50 (47.6%) dogs, at the level of the pulmonic valve in 8 (7.6%) dogs, and at the level of the mitral valve in 3 (2.9%) dogs. No significant differences were found in heart rate, rhythm, murmur presence, point of maximal intensity, and murmur grade between males and females, between dogs with race- and show-type pedigrees, or between dogs in training and not in training. Dogs with a murmur at the level of the aortic valve had a significantly higher aortic and pulmonic blood flow velocity and cardiac output, compared with dogs without a murmur.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Whippets have a high prevalence of soft systolic murmurs in the absence of any structural abnormalities, which fit the description of innocent murmurs. No influence of sex, pedigree type, or training was found on the occurrence of these murmurs in Whippets.
Identification of risk factors for septic peritonitis and failure to survive following gastrointestinal surgery in dogs
Authors: Grimes Janet A. , Schmiedt Chad W. , Cornell Karen K. , Radlinksy Mary Ann G.
Published: February 2011

Objective—To identify risk factors for failure to survive and development of septic peritonitis following full-thickness gastrointestinal incision in dogs.

Design—Retrospective cohort study.

Animals—Dogs that underwent gastrointestinal surgery from 1998 through 2007 at the University of Georgia Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

Procedures—Medical records of dogs undergoing a full-thickness gastrointestinal incision were reviewed, and information regarding dog history, clinicopathologic findings, surgery characteristics, and outcome was collected.

Results—Records for 197 dogs (225 surgeries) were evaluated. In 35 (16%) surgeries, the dogs died prior to hospital discharge. After 28 (12%) surgeries, dogs developed septic peritonitis. For 45 (20%) surgeries, dogs had preoperative septic peritonitis; of those, approximately a third resulted in continued septic peritonitis (17/45; 38%) or death (15/45; 33%). Of the 180 surgeries performed in dogs lacking preoperative septic peritonitis, 11 (6%) resulted in development of septic peritonitis and 20 (11 %) resulted in death. When all surgeries were considered, common risk factors for development of septic peritonitis included preoperative septic peritonitis, low preoperative serum albumin and plasma protein concentrations, and intraoperative hypotension. Presence of a foreign body was a protective factor.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Multiple factors were associated with failure to survive and development of septic peritonitis after gastrointestinal surgery in dogs. Aggressive perioperative attempts to increase protein concentrations and intraoperative surgical strategies to decrease the chance of a poor outcome may be indicated in dogs with risk factors identified in this study.
On Writing and Handwriting
Authors: Kučera Miloš
Published: February 2011

On Writing and Handwriting

Writing is often considered secondary to the spoken language, as it is only coded sound-by-sound. But other scholars have demonstrated that writing is similar to ‘arithmetic’: a cognitive structuring, a shift to the meta-level (‘for the eye’). Handwriting (referred to here as the cursive writing in the sense of joined up handwriting, of ‘écriture liée’) differs from writing (in the first analysis): it has its own grammar composed of paradigmatic gestemes and tracemes and its own syntagmatic rules that connect them. In emotional terms, handwriting is designed to provide a special pleasure by its own drive (instinct, ‘Trieb’). But there is also cognitive aspect to it: the rapidity and fluidity of a cursive writing could be (in professional writing, for instance) more important (at the climax of the creative process) than it being legible for all eternity. The project of the new handwriting reform for Czech schools, abolishing the liaison between letters, is shown to be a modern and technically simplified form of calligraphy.
Functional Literacy in People's Lives
Authors: Rabušicová Milada , Oplatková Pavla
Published: February 2011

Functional Literacy in People's Lives

The paper presents the results of a qualitative study into the lives of people with inadequate functional literacy skills. The data were collected through a biographical interview with a respondent whose characteristics correspond to those of a hypothetical person likely to exhibit signs of low functional literacy. The characteristics, such as gender, age, parental education achievements and job history, of this hypothetical person have been derived from the results of research into adult functional literacy undertaken in the Czech Republic in 1998-International Adult Literacy Survey (IALS). The analysis of the qualitative data focuses on three domains of the respondent's life, namely her family life, her school years, and her life style. The paper identifies the coping strategies used by the respondent in her everyday life.
International Survey in Eight Countries about Teachers and Teaching Profession
Authors: Chistolini Sandra
Published: February 2011

International Survey in Eight Countries about Teachers and Teaching Profession

An international team of experts from Belgium, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, Turkey and the USA employed a questionnaire to identify the deontology of teachers from infant to secondary school in eight countries. The survey was implemented between 2004 and 2007. The socio-cultural concept of Verstehen (understanding) as described in the work of Max Weber, points to the clear significance of being a teacher at this time in history. Qualitative and quantitative analysis allow for an understanding that the teacher is exactly that, in any context. The ideal typology of the teacher is the result of training at a university level and working in the school system. Phenomenal differentiations characterise the various situations and broaden the perspective of the study, including an identification of the shared features of the profession. The strong, common core is the responsibility towards fellow teachers balanced out by a weak, yet common note of regret regarding the scant social prestige of being a teacher. There seems to be a lack of communication between the personal and social aspects involved in shaping the professional identity. The social image of teachers weighs heavily on their professional status due to the inevitable political implications it results in and the considerable effect on institutional behaviour. Teachers listen, but they are not heard; teachers are committed, but remain unrecognised; teachers evaluate, but are evaluated in turn. The issue of the social importance of the profession of teachers in our societies emerges as a crucial point in the perspective of educating young generations.
Longitudinal Studies of Cognition in First Episode Psychosis: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Bozikas Vasilis P. , Andreou Christina
Published: February 2011

Although cognitive deficits are recognized as a core feature in schizophrenia, their evolution over the course of the illness is still debated. Longitudinal studies of cognition in patients after a first episode of psychosis (FEP) provide extremely useful information, in that they include an adequate and realistic baseline measure of cognitive performance, while at the same time minimizing the effect of confounding variables associated with chronicity. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize findings of studies assessing the longitudinal course of neuropsychological deficits in patients with FEP for durations of at least one year. Overall, the neuropsychological deficits that are present following a first episode of psychosis appeared to remain stable over time for periods of up to ten years, the only possible exception being verbal memory deficits, where there is some evidence of further deterioration over the long term. However, further studies are needed to confirm this conclusion, especially in the (somewhat inconsistently defined) domain of executive function. Improvements in psychopathology appear to positively influence the course of cognitive deficits, although the effects of antipsychotic medication are not as clear.
Undiagnosis: An Important New Role for Psychiatry
Authors: Patfield Martyn
Published: February 2011

Objective: This paper discusses an activity, hitherto inadequately identified, which is an increasingly important part of contemporary practice.

Conclusion: Iatrogenesis presents today in new guises but can be satisfying and productive to address.
Quantification of the Variability of Continuous Glucose Monitoring Data
Authors: Aboufadel Edward , Castellano Robert , Olson Derek
Published: February 2011

Several measurements are used to describe the behavior of a diabetic patient’s blood glucose. We describe a new, wavelet-based algorithm that indicates a new measurement called a PLA index could be used to quantify the variability or predictability of blood glucose. This wavelet-based approach emphasizes the shape of a blood glucose graph. Using continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), this measurement could become a new tool to classify patients based on their blood glucose behavior and may become a new method in the management of diabetes.
Defense of the Least Squares Solution to Peelle’s Pertinent Puzzle
Authors: Burr Tom , Kawano Toshihiko , Talou Patrick , Pan Feng , Hengartner Nicolas
Published: February 2011

Generalized least squares (GLS) for model parameter estimation has a long and successful history dating to its development by Gauss in 1795. Alternatives can outperform GLS in some settings, and alternatives to GLS are sometimes sought when GLS exhibits curious behavior, such as in Peelle’s Pertinent Puzzle (PPP). PPP was described in 1987 in the context of estimating fundamental parameters that arise in nuclear interaction experiments. In PPP, GLS estimates fell outside the range of the data, eliciting concerns that GLS was somehow flawed. These concerns have led to suggested alternatives to GLS estimators. This paper defends GLS in the PPP context, investigates when PPP can occur, illustrates when PPP can be beneficial for parameter estimation, reviews optimality properties of GLS estimators, and gives an example in which PPP does occur.
A Conservation Ethic and the Collecting of Animals by Institutions of Natural Heritage in the Twenty-First Century: Case Study of the Australian Museum
Authors: Ikin Timothy
Published: February 2011

Collecting of animals from their habitats for preservation by museums and related bodies is a core operation of such institutions. Conservation of biodiversity in the current era is a priority in the scientific agendas of museums of natural heritage in Australia and the world. Intuitively, to take animals from the wild, while engaged in scientific or other practices that are supposed to promote their ongoing survival, may appear be incompatible. The Australian Museum presents an interesting ground to consider zoological collecting by museums in the twenty-first century. Anderson and Reeves in 1994 argued that a milieu existed that undervalued native species, and that the role of natural history museums, up to as late as the mid-twentieth century, was only to make a record the faunal diversity of Australia, which would inevitably be extinct. Despite the latter, conservation of Australia’s faunal diversity is a key aspect of research programmes in Australia’s institutions of natural heritage in the current era. This paper analyses collecting of animals, a core task for institutions of natural heritage, and how this interacts with a professed “conservation ethic” in a twenty-first century Australian setting.
Experiences of Working with the Tobacco Issue in the Context of Health Promoting Hospitals and Health Services: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Carlfjord Siw , Kristenson Margareta , Lindberg Malou
Published: February 2011

The worldwide Health Promoting Hospital and Health Services (HPH) network was initiated by the World Health Organizations in the late 1980s. The goal of the network is to change the focus of health services from curing patients to also embrace disease prevention and health promotion. In Sweden the network started in 1996, and involves mainly hospitals and primary care. The network members collaborate in task forces, one of which is working on the tobacco issue. There is limited evidence on the value of working within an HPH organization. The aim of this study was to investigate the experiences of members of the Swedish HPH network tobacco task force. Focus group interviews with task force members were analyzed using implementation theory. Three themes, overall experiences of working with tobacco issues, experiences of working with “free from tobacco in connection with surgery”, and experiences of work in the HPH tobacco task force, emerged from the interviews. The results show that working with the tobacco issue in the context of health-promoting hospitals and health services met with difficulties involving the following important factors: evidence, context, facilitation and adopter characteristics. Leadership, one contextual factor, at national and local level, seems to be crucial if the work is going to succeed. The tobacco task force of the HPH network is an important facilitator supporting the task.
Correlation of the Rates of Solvolysis of Neopentyl Chloroformate—A Recommended Protecting Agent
Authors: D’Souza Malcolm J. , Carter Shannon E. , Kevill Dennis N.
Published: February 2011

The specific rates of solvolysis of neopentyl chloroformate (1) have been determined in 21 pure and binary solvents at 45.0 °C. In most solvents the values are essentially identical to those for ethyl and n-propyl chloroformates. However, in aqueous-1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propanol mixtures (HFIP) rich in fluoroalcohol, 1 solvolyses appreciably faster than the other two substrates. Linear free energy relationship (LFER) comparison of the specific rates of solvolysis of 1 with those for phenyl chloroformate and those for n-propyl chloroformate are helpful in the mechanistic considerations, as is also the treatment in terms of the Extended Grunwald-Winstein equation. It is proposed that the faster reaction for 1 in HFIP rich solvents is due to the influence of a 1,2-methyl shift, leading to a tertiary alkyl cation, outweighing the only weak nucleophilic solvation of the cation possible in these low nucleophilicity solvents.
Correction: Baker, P. et al. Electrochemical Aptasensor for Endocrine Disrupting 17β-Estradiol Based on a Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxylthiopene)-Gold Nanocomposite Platform. Sensors 2010, 10, 9872-9890
Authors: Olowu Rasaq A. , Arotiba Omotayo , Mailu Stephen N. , Waryo Tesfaye T. , Baker Priscilla , Iwuoha Emmanuel
Published: February 2011

Herewith please find corrected structures for Figure 8 in our paper published in Sensors in 2010. [...]
Self-Mixing Thin-Slice Solid-State Laser Metrology
Authors: Otsuka Kenju
Published: February 2011

This paper reviews the dynamic effect of thin-slice solid-state lasers subjected to frequency-shifted optical feedback, which led to the discovery of the self-mixing modulation effect, and its applications to quantum-noise-limited versatile laser metrology systems with extreme optical sensitivity.
Optimization of a Groundwater Monitoring Network for a Sustainable Development of the Maheshwaram Catchment, India
Authors: Nabi Aadil , Gallardo Adrian  H. , Ahmed Shakeel
Published: February 2011

Groundwater is one of the most valuable resources for drinking water and irrigation in the Maheshwaram Catchment, Central India, where most of the local population depends on it for agricultural activities. An increasing demand for irrigation and the growing concern about potential water contamination makes imperative the implementation of a systematic groundwater-quality monitoring program in the region. Nonetheless, limited funding and resources emphasize the need to achieve a representative but cost-effective sampling strategy. In this context, field observations were combined with a geostatistical analysis to define an optimized monitoring network able to provide sufficient and non-redundant information on key hydrochemical parameters. A factor analysis was used to evaluate the interrelationship among variables, and permitted to reduce the original dataset into a new configuration of monitoring points still able to capture the spatial variability in the groundwater quality of the basin. The approach is useful to maximize data collection and contributes to better manage the allocation of resources under budget constrains.
Repair of Radiographic Joint Damage Following Treatment with Etanercept in Psoriatic Arthritis Is Demonstrable by 3 Radiographic Methods
Authors: EDER LIHI , CHANDRAN VINOD , GLADMAN DAFNA D.
Published: February 2011

Objective.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is characterized by varied radiographic features. We describe a patient with PsA with severe radiographic damage that improved significantly following treatment with etanercept. The improvement was documented by several methods of radiographic assessment.

Methods.

Etanercept was introduced in September 2005. Radiographs of the hands and feet were read using 3 methods: the modified Steinbrocker method, the van der Heijde (vdH) modification of the Sharp method, and the Ratingen scoring system.

Results.

In July 2009, radiographs of the hands and feet showed improvement in erosion score and joint space narrowing, while bony proliferation remained the same [43 by modified Steinbrocker, 26 by the vdH Sharp score (12 for erosions and 14 for joint space narrowing), and 56 by the Ratingen (18 for erosion and 38 for proliferation].

Conclusion.

The 3 radiographic methods were useful in demonstrating improvement in joint scores. The modified Steinbrocker method, which is the simplest, was able to reveal improvement in our patient.
Incitant salarial, contrôle hiérarchique et comportement productif. Analyse à partir d'un panel cylindré d'entreprises de la branche exploitation forestière du Gabon
Authors: Zomo Yebe Gabriel
Published: February 2011

Résumé L’objet de la présente réflexion était d’appréhender le comportement productif d’un panel cylindré d’entreprises de la branche exploitation forestière du Gabon pour améliorer la politique forestière. À cette fin, nous estimons d’une part, une frontière de production tenant compte des facteurs traditionnels, capital et travail, et des incitants managériaux, salaire et contrôle hiérarchique et mesurons les niveaux d’inefficience technique qui en découlent par entreprise, d’autre part. Nos résultats montrent que les incitants managériaux ont un effet positif sur la production. En réduisant les inefficiences, ils constituent une alternative crédible à la politique fiscale. Codes JEL : C23, L52, H32
Analyse séquentielle de l'innovation pérenne
Authors: Lamairé Lucien
Published: February 2011

Résumé Les séquences de cet article analysent les rapports entre un contexte économique et la variable innovation d’ajustement ou de création. Elles soulignent aussi l’extrême importance, les enjeux et les espoirs mis dans « l’innovation pérenne » , souvent nommée innovation de rupture, pour satisfaire les attentes du 21 e siècle. Très difficile à produire et devant mettre en œuvre les fonctionnalités profondes du cerveau , son développement appelle une « science de l’innovation » . La séquence « endogène » est justement une propositionnelle suggérant l’importance des potentialités innovantes contenues dans la nature humaine. Codes JEL : O31, O32, C9