bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nicarbazin OvoControl G Bait Reduces Hatchability of Eggs Laid by Resident Canada Geese in Oregon
Authors: BYNUM KIMBERLY S. , EISEMANN JOHN D. , WEAVER GARY C. , YODER CHRISTI A. , FAGERSTONE KATHLEEN A. , MILLER LOWELL A.
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Expanding populations of resident Canada geese (Branta canadensis) are resulting in increased conflicts with humans. Nonlethal and humane means are needed for managing Canada goose flocks at a variety of sites, including golf courses, industrial parks, government sites, and city parks. Decreased egg production and hatching are side effects of nicarbazin, a veterinary drug used to treat coccidiosis in chickens. Capitalizing on these effects, we developed nicarbazin as a reproductive inhibitor for Canada geese and conducted a field efficacy study. We recruited study sites in 2002 and 2003. Following laboratory testing, we conducted a field efficacy trial of nicarbazin for reducing the hatchability of Canada goose eggs in spring 2004 in Oregon, USA. The study began in February 2004 at 10 sites in Oregon, with 2 control and 3 treated sites on each side of the Cascades. We fed bait daily to resident Canada geese for approximately 6 weeks. We located and monitored nests until hatching or ≥5 days beyond the expected hatching date to determine hatchability. We completed data collection in May 2004. Geese consumed 8,000 kg of bait, with 5,100 kg of OvoControl G® (Innolytics, LLC, Rancho Santa Fe, CA) 2,500‐ppm nicarbazin bait consumed among 6 treated sites and 2,900 kg of untreated bait consumed among 4 control sites. We monitored 63 nests at treated sites and 46 nests at control sites to determine hatching success of eggs. There was a 62% reduction in the percentage of nests with 100% hatchability at treated sites as compared to controls. There was a 93% increase in the percentage of nests at treated sites with 0% hatchability as compared to nests with no eggs hatching at control sites. Hatchability from treated sites versus control sites was reduced 36% (F = 5.72, P = 0.0622). We submitted results from this study to support Environmental Protection Agency registration of nicarbazin as a reproductive inhibitor for use in Canada geese. We have shown that treatment of resident Canada geese with OvoControl G 2,500‐ppm nicarbazin bait by licensed, trained applicators immediately prior to and during the breeding season can reduce hatchability of eggs laid by treated geese, thereby reducing recruitment of goslings into problem resident Canada goose populations.
Recreational Shooting of Prairie Dogs: A Portal for Lead Entering Wildlife Food Chains
Authors: PAULI JONATHAN N. , BUSKIRK STEVEN W.
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Although lead shot has been banned for waterfowl hunting in North America, some predators continue to exhibit elevated lead burdens, which has been attributed to ingesting metallic lead from other projectiles. Few studies have investigated residual lead fragments in hunted upland animals. Therefore, specific portals for lead entering wildlife food chains remain largely unknown. Prairie dogs (Cynomys spp.) are shot for recreation with minimal regulation in western North America. Because recreational shooters mostly use expanding bullets and rarely remove or bury carcasses, shot prairie dogs could make lead accessible to predators and scavengers. To determine whether and to what degree shot prairie dogs carry lead fragments, we analyzed carcasses shot by recreational shooters with 2 bullet types. Bullet type influenced the probability of bullet fragments being retained in carcasses; 87% of prairie dogs shot with expanding bullets contained bullet fragments, whereas 7% of carcasses shot with non‐expanding bullets did. The amount of bullet fragments per carcass also differed between bullet types; carcasses shot with expanding bullets contained a mean of 228.4 mg of the lead‐containing bullet core and 74.4 mg of the copper‐alloy jacket, whereas carcasses shot with non‐expanding bullets averaged only 19.8 mg of the core and 23.2 mg of the jacket. Lead fragments in carcasses shot with expanding bullets were small in size; 73% of all lead mass in each carcass was from fragments that weighed <25 mg each, small enough to be easily ingested and absorbed by secondary consumers. The amount of lead in a single prairie dog carcass shot with an expanding bullet is potentially sufficient to acutely poison scavengers or predators. Therefore, shot prairie dogs may provide an important portal for lead entering wildlife food chains and may pose risks to raptors and carnivores. Managers should consider measures, such as using non‐expanding or lead‐free ammunition, to reduce the likelihood of lead consumption and poisoning in upland wildlife.
Postfledging Survival and Development of Juvenile Lilac‐Crowned Parrots
Authors: SALINAS‐MELGOZA ALEJANDRO , RENTON KATHERINE
Published: March 2007

Abstract:We fitted radiotransmitters to 68 lilac‐crowned parrot (Amazona finschi) fledglings from 1996 to 2003 to determine the survival and development of juveniles during their first year after leaving the nest. Overall, first‐year survival was 73% (CI = 53–94%) and all mortalities occurred within 5 weeks of fledging, with highest mortality in the first week postfledging. Survival varied between years, influencing recruitment of independent young in the population. Nesting lilac‐crowned parrots produced 0.70 independent young per egg‐laying pair during 1996–2003. Lowest productivity of 0.25 independent young per pair occurred in 2003, with 40% postfledging survival. Juvenile development after fledging was characterized by variations in mobility, distance from the nest, and separation distance between siblings. Mobility and distance of young birds from the nest increased linearly with months postfledging. The first 2–3 weeks after fledging were characterized by low mobility and survival of young parrots, making this the most critical phase postfledging. The dependency period for young parrots extended to 4–5 months postfledging and was characterized by increased mobility and low separation between siblings, as juveniles traveled in family groups. Independence occurred in month 5 and was marked by a significant increase in mobility and separation between siblings, indicating the break‐up of family groups. The first weeks after leaving the nest were crucial for survival and highlight the need for secure habitats where fledglings can improve flight and locomotory skills. The 4–5‐month dependency of young parrots may be a key period for development, enhancing survival, and establishment in the breeding population. Release programs need to replicate learning and development acquired during the postfledging dependency phase to enhance survival of captive‐reared psittacines. Researchers should conduct surveys of parrot group sizes during the dependency period 1–4 months after the end of nesting to provide reliable demographic data on annual recruitment of wild populations.
Unveiling the Limitations of Scat Surveys to Monitor Social Species: A Case Study on River Otters
Authors: GALLANT DANIEL , VASSEUR LIETTE , BÉRUBÉ CELINE H.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:We examined the relationship between the production of sites with feces (i.e., latrines) and river otter (Lontra canadensis) abundance to determine whether scat surveys were adequate for monitoring relative population size for species leaving activity signs in a clumped distribution on the landscape. We conducted winter riparian transects to simultaneously monitor otter abundance via snow tracks and latrine sites along the rivers of Kouchibouguac National Park and surrounding area in New Brunswick, Canada. Our data showed that latrine abundance poorly reflected otter abundance for given stretches of rivers because the relationship was nonlinear and reached a plateau. The number of latrine sites was not related to the time period since last snowfall, which indicated that otters repetitively defecated at the same sites. Individual otters and groups did not produce activity signs over larger distances as a function of time, which indicated that they tend to stay in their home ranges in winter. We discuss why scat survey protocols based on determining presence—absence of a species at predetermined search sites may poorly reflect population size, as well as population fluctuations in time. Caution is advised when interpreting data from such surveys for species for which feces or other activity signs surveyed play a role in intraspecific communication and tend to be in a clumped distribution on the landscape.
Deductive and Inductive Methods of Accumulating Reliable Knowledge in Wildlife Science
Authors: GUTHERY FRED S.
Published: March 2007

Abstract: My goal was to compare deductive and inductive methods of accumulating reliable knowledge in wildlife science. Under the hypotheticodeductive (H‐D) method, observations are used to formulate explanatory or causal hypotheses, which serve as the basis for deductions (predictions) of expected events. Field experiments are designed to determine whether the deductions hold, in which case hypotheses are tentatively accepted or otherwise rejected. The H‐D method provides the only way to test research hypotheses, but in field ecology it can lead to ambiguity and error. The method: 1) does not preclude confusion of correlation and cause, 2) might perform deceptively in multiple‐cause venues, 3) is algorithmically blind to the fact that different hypotheses can lead to the same deduction, and 4) lacks an impartial means of determining whether a deduction has been observed and, therefore, whether a hypothesis is meritorious. Under the process of induction, the results of a study are presumed to hold generally and taken as knowledge accordingly. Induction is much maligned by logicians and philosophers, and wildlife scientists have built false knowledge inductively. However, wildlife scientists have auxiliary knowledge such as facts of natural history to screen inductions for validity. Both the H‐D method and induction have important roles in the accumulation of reliable knowledge in wildlife science.
Parallel Lasers for Remote Measurements of Morphological Traits
Authors: BERGERON PATRICK
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Animal ecology research could benefit from the measurement of individual morphological traits. In bovids, male horn size often correlates with annual reproductive success, is sensitive to resource abundance, and could be a predictor of survival. However, live captures are costly, involve some risk of injury or substantial disturbance to the animals, and are impossible in many situations. To remotely measure horn growth of free‐ranging Alpine ibex (Capra ibex), I designed an aluminum frame that holds parallel laser pointers and a digital camera. I took digital pictures of ibex horns and calculated horn growth based on the fixed distance between the 2 laser points. This simple and accurate technique could benefit many ecological studies that require linear measurements, such as shoulder height, body length, leg length, or fin length. It could also help measure body features (e.g., fur or skin patterns, scars), increasing the reliability of individual photographic identification.
Bighorn Sheep Abundance Following a Suspected Pneumonia Epidemic in Rocky Mountain National Park
Authors: MCCLINTOCK BRETT T. , WHITE GARY C.
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Anecdotal evidence of a pneumonia epizootic among bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis canadensis) in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), Colorado, USA, during the mid‐1990s prompted park officials to examine the current condition of the herds. Here we present a mark—resight study design to estimate population abundance that, in many circumstances, is a reliable and cost‐effective alternative to traditional mark—recapture or to indices of population abundance. We captured 59 adult females and radiocollared them via helicopter net‐gunning during winter 2002–2003. From ground resighting surveys conducted May—September, we estimated the total RMNP bighorn population at 389.9 (SE = 34.9, CI = 327.2–464.6) in 2003 and 366.4 (SE = 34.7, CI = 304.4–441.0) in 2004. Previous abundance estimates suggest a park‐wide decline has occurred between the late 1980s and the suspected pneumonia epidemic of the mid‐1990s. Although the 2 years of data from our study are not enough to predict whether the herds are capable of recovering to previous levels, they provide park officials the tools necessary to make the most informed decisions for future monitoring and management of this fragile species.
Effects of Prebaiting on Small Mammal Trapping Success in a Morrow's Honeysuckle‐Dominated Area
Authors: EDALGO JENNIFERA. , ANDERSON JAMES T.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:Researchers have obtained mixed results in studies that use prebaiting to enhance small mammal trapping success. In 2004–2005 we tested the effects of prebaiting on small mammal trapping success in an exotic and invasive shrub community, Morrow's honeysuckle (Lonicera morrowii), using 4 80 × 120‐m live trapping grids at Fort Necessity National Battlefield in Fayette County, Pennsylvania, USA. We randomly assigned traps to 1 of 3 trapping methods: we prebaited one‐third of the traps 2 nights (n= 3,508 trap‐nights), one‐third one night (n= 3,492 trap‐nights), and one‐third had no prebaiting (n= 3,509 trap‐nights). We compared small mammal richness, diversity, and relative abundance (no. captures/100 trap‐nights) of white‐footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus; n= 462 captures), meadow voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus; n= 89 captures), meadow jumping mice (Zapus hudsonius; n= 221 captures), masked shrews (Sorex cinereus; n= 87 captures), and shorttail shrews (Blarina brevicauda; n= 78 captures) among prebaited traps and non‐prebaited traps. On the first day of trapping, as well as all 4 days combined, richness, diversity, and relative abundance for all species were similar among traps that we had prebaited for 2 nights, one night, and zero nights (P= 0.856). Moreover, total number of captures was similar among prebaiting treatments (P= 0.197). These results suggest that prebaiting does not enhance trapping success for small mammals in a landscape dominated by a dense, exotic shrub. We recommend that managers do not employ prebaiting in areas with similar small mammal species composition in an attempt to increase trapping success, as we did not record a difference in trapping success in prebaited traps compared to non‐prebaited traps.
Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Fairbanks, AK 99701, USA
Authors: Paragi Thomas F.
Published: March 2007

Last Great Wilderness: The Campaign to Establish the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, by Roger Kaye.
Neurobiology and Pharmacotherapy of Obsessive‐Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Rapoport Judith L. , Inoff‐Germain Gale
Published: March 2007

Obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by the presence of unwanted, senseless, intrusive and distressing thoughts, urges and images (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors (compulsions). While classified as an anxiety disorder in DSM‐IV, OCD is given a separate chapter here as the clinical phenomenology, drug treatment response, family studies, and brain imaging data support a separate neurobiological classification for this disorder and a distinct neuropharmacologic profile as well. Our current understanding of its underlying neurobiology as well as the state of treatment for OCD is provided through a selective review of OCD‐related (1) brain imaging studies, (2) genetic studies, (3) animal models, (4) psychopharmacology, including immunomodulatory treatment, and (5) experimental non‐pharmacological treatments such as neurosurgery, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and deep brain stimulation.
Opiates and Addiction
Authors: Vocci Frank J.
Published: March 2007

Abuse of and dependence on opiates is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. It is a worldwide problem, with millions of people directly involved. In addition to the risks posed with the abusc of opiates, the common practice of injection drug use (and to a lesser extent, sexual relationships with injection drug users), results in significant risk of contracting Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome and Hepatitis C infections. l the past 10 years, the abuse pattern of opiates in the United States has changed in two ways: the heroin purity has increasing, facilitating use by the intranasal and pulmonary routes, and abuse of prescription opiates has increased. More adolescents are abusing opiates, resulting in a greater need for treatment. Prescription opiate abusers primarily use the oral route of administration but about one in eight moves onto injection practices. The geographic distribution of abuse suggests that the greatest problem with abuse of prescription opiates is in nonmetropolitan areas, forming a new challenge for the treatment system. Responses to increased treatment demands in the United States can be met by the newest pharmacotherapies, buprenorphine (SUBUTEX) and buprenorphinelnaloxone (SUBOXONE), which can be prescribed by qualified physicians. Additionally, the increased use of methadone in “office‐based practice” would be a second approach to increase treatment capacity. Finally, non‐opiate medications are the current focus ofresearch in the management of opiate abuse and dependence disorders. These medications could be used as both adjuncts to agonist pharmacothcorapy or as “stand alone” therapies.
Function and Pharmacology of Circadian Clocks
Authors: Lundkvist Gabriella B. , Block Gene D.
Published: March 2007

Biological timing systems are complex structures in higher organisms, generating biological and physiological functions with a periodicity of approximately 24 h. Knowledge of the structure and function of biological clocks has emerged from research on both invertebrate and vertebrate models. In humans, the master clock is located in the hypothalamus in the brain. Daily rhythms such as the sleep–wake cycle and hormonal rhythms can be modulated and disturbed by a number of pharmacological compounds. Drug therapy can be administered in a circadian fashion (
chronopharmacology
), thus taking into account the powerful circadian impact on drug toxicity and efficacy. This review will describe circadian systems and pharmacological impact on the timing structures.
Hypocretin/Orexin System
Authors: Sutcliffe J. Gregor , de Lecea Luis
Published: March 2007

The hypocretins (also called the orexins) are excitatory neurotransmitters produced in a few thousand neurons of the lateral hypothalamus. Two G protein‐coupled receptors for the hypocretins have different distributions within the CNS and differential affinities for the two hypocretin peptides. Hypocretins efferents project to areas within the posterior hypothalamus that are implicated in feeding behaviors and hormone secretion. Hypocretin fibers also project to diverse targets in other brain regions and the spinal cord, including several areas implicated in cardiovascular function and sleep‐wake regulation. Administration of the hypocretins stimulates food intake, affects blood pressure, hormone secretion and locomotor activity, and increases wakefulness while suppressing rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Narcolepsy is a disorder of the hypocretin system. One aspect of hypocretin activity is the direct excitation of cholinergic forebrain neurons, brainstem monoaminergic REM‐off neurons in the locus coeruleus and dorsal raphe nucleus, and histaminergic tuberomammillary nucleus, which together suppress slow‐wave sleep. The hypocretins also modulate the activity of cholinergic REM‐on neurons in the brainstem, which gate REM entry.
Pharmacology of Inflammation
Authors: Espejo Carmen , Martin Roland
Published: March 2007

Inflammatory reactions in the central nervous systems (CNS), that is neuroinflammation, are involved in a number of acute and chronic pathological conditions ranging from stroke to multiple sclerosis and chronic neurodegenerative processes such as Alzheimer's disease. The CNS is considered an immunoprivileged site and differs in many aspects from peripheral tissues with respect to accessibility for immune cells and humoral factors, local antigen presenting cells and biological characteristics of resident cells such as neurons and glia. As a result, neuroinflammation, particularly when it runs a chronic course, differs in numerous aspects from such processes outside the brain. Besides the involvement of neuroinflammation in CNS tissue damage, inflammatory processes may also be beneficial for tissue repair. Here, we describe the factors contributing to the CNS immune privilege, the cellular and humor components that participate in neuroinflammation, the interactions between immune system and CNS, and focus on the pharmacological strategies to treat neuroinflammation.
Domestic violence and psychopathic traits: distinguishing the antisocial batterer from other antisocial offenders
Authors: Swogger Marc T. , Walsh Zach , Kosson David S.
Published: March 2007

The proliferation of specialized domestic batterer treatment programs suggests that batterers differ from other offenders in important ways. The psychopathic personality represents a constellation of personality traits, which may be relevant to the differentiation of batterers from other offenders. In a sample of 172 county jail inmates, we examined whether antisocial batterers can be distinguished from the larger pool of antisocial offenders on the basis of the four‐facet model of psychopathy identified for the Psychopathy Checklist‐Revised (PCL‐R). Batterer/non‐batterer status was positively related to the PCL‐R affective facet and negatively related to the lifestyle facet, but there was no significant relationship between PCL‐R total scores and this criterion. Results suggest that antisocial batterers are characterized by deficient affective experience and by reduced impulsivity and irresponsibility compared with other antisocial offenders. Implications are discussed in light of specialized treatments for batterers. Aggr. Behav. 33:1–8, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Violent video game play impacts facial emotion recognition
Authors: Kirsh Steven J. , Mounts Jeffrey R.W.
Published: March 2007

This study assessed the speed of recognition of facial emotional expressions (happy and angry) as a function of violent video game play. Color photos of calm facial expressions morphed to either an angry or a happy facial expression. Participants were asked to make a speeded identification of the emotion (happiness or anger) during the morph. Typically, happy faces are identified faster than angry faces (the happy‐face advantage). Results indicated that playing a violent video game led to a reduction in the happy face advantage. Implications of these findings are discussed with respect to the current models of aggressive behavior. Aggr. Behav. 33:353–358, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Musculoskeletal work disability for clinicians: Time course and effectiveness of a specialized intervention program by diagnosis
Authors: Abásolo Lydia , Carmona Loreto , Hernández‐García César , Lajas Cristina , Loza Estíbaliz , Blanco Margarita , Candelas Gloria , Fernández‐Gutiérrez Benjamín , Jover Juan A.
Published: March 2007

Objective

To evaluate how an intervention program modifies the clinical course of work disability in musculoskeletal diagnoses.

Methods

All patients with temporary work disability related to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in 3 health districts of Madrid, Spain were randomized into standard care (control group) or the intervention group. Intervention consisted of a specific program, run by rheumatologists, following detailed proceedings. Inclusion and followup lasted 12 months each. According to the cause, every temporary work disability episode was classified into 11 syndrome categories. For each we calculated efficacy, as the difference between groups in the number of days on sick leave per temporary work disability episode; relative efficacy, or the percentage of days saved in the intervention group; and time of maximum program effect. Analyses were performed on an intent‐to‐treat basis. Survival techniques were run and results were expressed as the hazard ratio (HR) in the intervention versus control group.

Results

A total of 13,077 patients were included, generating 16,297 temporary work disability episodes. The most frequent cause was back pain. Temporary work disability episodes were significantly shorter in the intervention group than in the controls in all syndrome categories except knee pain (excluding osteoarthritis). Program relative efficacy varied from 28–72%. The program was highly efficacious in carpal tunnel syndrome (HR 2.09, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.17–3.75), peripheral osteoarthritis (HR 1.58, 95% CI 1.14–2.19), and inflammatory diseases (HR 1.52, 95% CI 1.09–2.12). The maximum effect of the program always took place within the first 2 months.

Conclusion

The implementation of this type of specialist‐run, protocol‐based early intervention program would be very beneficial in the treatment of patients with work disability related to MSDs, except for those with knee pain (excluding osteoarthritis).
Differences in outcomes of obese women and men undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Lübbeke Anne , Stern Richard , Garavaglia Guido , Zurcher Line , Hoffmeyer Pierre
Published: March 2007

Objective

To evaluate the effect of obesity on the incidence of main complications (infection, dislocation, and revision), functional outcome, and patient satisfaction 5 years after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA), and to determine whether results differ between obese women and men.

Methods

We conducted a hospital‐based prospective cohort study including patients who underwent primary THA (2,495 hips) between 1996 and 2005. We used rates and rate ratios to compare the incidence of main complications in obese and nonobese patients, and we stratified the data for sex. Functional outcome was measured using the Harris Hip Score and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index.

Results

The adjusted incidence rate ratio for infection (obese versus nonobese) was 4.4 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.8, 10.8). Obesity substantially increased the infection rate in women (incidence rate ratio comparing obese with nonobese women 16.1; 95% CI 3.4, 75.7), whereas obesity appeared to have no effect in men (incidence rate ratio 1.0; 95% CI 0.2, 5.3). The adjusted incidence rate ratio for dislocation (obese versus nonobese) was 2.4 (95% CI 1.4, 4.2), with a higher rate increase in obese women. A total of 817 patients had a 5‐year clinical followup visit. Functional outcome and satisfaction were slightly lower in obese women partly due to higher complication rates. No difference was seen in men.

Conclusion

Primary THA is a successful intervention in obese patients, but physician and patient must be aware of increased complications, particularly in women.
Hydrocephalus and macrocephaly: New manifestations of neonatal lupus erythematosus
Authors: Boros Christina A. , Spence Dawn , Blaser Susan , Silverman Earl D.
Published: March 2007

Objective

Neurologic involvement has been reported to occur in infants with neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE), although the significance of these findings is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine if hydrocephalus/macrocephaly is a manifestation of NLE.

Methods

Infants from the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Canada whose mothers had anti‐Ro antibodies were followed prospectively. A total of 87 infants were seen in the study period (1999–2004). The maternal autoantibody status of all infants was documented, and all infants underwent full clinical examination at each visit.

Results

Of the 87 infants, 47 had NLE. Five of the 47 infants with NLE and 2 of the healthy infants had hydrocephalus, resulting in a prevalence of 8.0% (95% confidence interval 4.0–15.0%) in the entire cohort. This is significantly higher than the prevalence in the general population of 0.048–0.081%. Head circumference measurements of infants in the Toronto cohort were largest between 12–24 months of age (Z score difference = 0.71, P = 0.008).

Conclusion

We suggest that hydrocephalus and macrocephaly are manifestations of NLE and that infants born to mothers with anti‐Ro antibodies should be carefully monitored for hydrocephalus as part of their routine physical examination.
Development and validation of a German version of the joint protection behavior assessment in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Niedermann K. , Forster A. , Hammond A. , Uebelhart D. , de Bie R.
Published: March 2007

Objective

Joint protection (JP) is an important part of the treatment concept for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The Joint Protection Behavior Assessment short form (JPBA‐S) assesses the use of hand JP methods by patients with RA while preparing a hot drink. The purpose of this study was to develop a German version of the JPBA‐S (D‐JPBA‐S) and to test its validity and reliability.

Methods

A manual was developed through consensus with 8 occupational therapist (OT) experts as the reference for assessing patients' JP behavior. Twenty‐four patients with RA and 10 healthy individuals were videotaped while performing 10 tasks reflecting the activity of preparing instant coffee. Recordings were repeated after 3 months for test–retest analysis. One rater assessed all available patient recordings (n = 23, recorded twice) for test–retest reliability. The video recordings of 10 randomly selected patients and all healthy individuals were independently assessed for interrater reliability by 6 OTs who were explicitly asked to follow the manual. Rasch analysis was performed to test construct validity and transform ordinal raw data into interval data for reliability calculations.

Results

Nine of the 10 tasks fit the Rasch model. The D‐JPBA‐S, consisting of 9 valid tasks, had an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.77 for interrater reliability and 0.71 for test–retest reliability.

Conclusion

The D‐JPBA‐S provides a valid and reliable instrument for assessing JP behavior of patients with RA and can be used in German‐speaking countries.
Agreement between patient report and medical record review for medications used for rheumatoid arthritis: The accuracy of self‐reported medication information in patient registries
Authors: Solomon Daniel H. , Stedman Margaret , Licari Andrea , Weinblatt Michael E. , Maher Nancy , shadick Nancy
Published: March 2007

Objective

With the growth in patient registries in rheumatic disease research, it is important to validate the collected information. We examined the convergent validity of self‐reported medication use for rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

In the setting of the Brigham Rheumatoid Arthritis Sequential Study (BRASS), a large registry of patients with RA, we examined the agreement between patients' self‐report of current and past RA medication use and information from medical records. For a sample of patients in BRASS, these 2 sources of information were compared using the kappa statistic as well as the percent agreement.

Results

The 91 patients selected for assessment were typical of a prevalent RA cohort: >80% were women and the mean disease duration was 16 years. The agreement for current medication use was excellent, ranging from 0.71 for sulfasalazine to 0.96 for methotrexate. However, for past medication use agreement was lower, ranging from 0.13 for methotrexate to 0.74 for aurothioglucose. The weighted kappa for cumulative oral glucocorticoid dose was 0.67.

Conclusion

Self‐report of current medication use and cumulative oral glucocorticoid dose appears to have moderate to excellent validity. However, self‐report of past medication use may not be valid.
The Pediatric Rheumatology European Society/American College of Rheumatology/European League against Rheumatism provisional classification criteria for juvenile systemic sclerosis
Authors: Zulian Francesco , Woo Patricia , Athreya Balu H. , Laxer Ronald M. , Medsger Thomas A. , Lehman Thomas J. A. , Cerinic Marco Matucci , Martini Giorgia , Ravelli Angelo , Russo Ricardo , Cuttica Ruben , de Oliveira Sheila Knupp Feitosa , Denton Christopher P. , Cozzi Franco , Foeldvari Ivan , Ruperto Nicolino ,   Pediatric Rheumatology European Society/American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism Ad Hoc Committee on classification criteria for juvenile systemic sclerosis
Published: March 2007

Objective

To develop criteria for the classification of systemic sclerosis (SSc) in children (juvenile SSc).

Methods

The study consisted of 3 phases: 1) collection of data on the signs and symptoms of actual patients with juvenile SSc that are useful for defining involvement of a particular organ; 2) selection of the parameters essential for the classification of juvenile SSc and preparation of a set of provisional classification criteria (PCC) using 2 Delphi surveys; 3) consensus conference consisting of 2 steps: discussion and rating of clinical profiles of 160 patients with definite juvenile SSc, possible juvenile SSc, or other fibrosing diseases as “having or not having juvenile SSc,” using nominal group technique, and defining those PCC with the best statistical performance and highest face validity by using the clinical profiles of patients with definite juvenile SSc as the gold standard.

Results

In phase 1, 55 centers submitted clinical data on 153 patients with juvenile SSc. A total of 48 signs and symptoms were derived from these patient data and were used to define 9 organ system categories (cutaneous, vascular, gastrointestinal, respiratory, renal, cardiac, neurologic, musculoskeletal, and serologic). During phase 2, these were reduced to 21 criteria (3 major criteria [Raynaud's phenomenon, proximal skin sclerosis/induration of the skin, and sclerodactyly] and 18 minor criteria) and combined to generate 86 different PCC. At the consensus conference, these 86 definitions were tested on the case profiles of 127 patients with juvenile SSc. The PCC with the highest ranking were proximal sclerosis/induration and at least 2 minor criteria.

Conclusion

These provisional classification criteria for juvenile SSc will help standardize the conduct of clinical research, epidemiologic and outcome studies, and therapeutic trials.
Effects of 12 mT static magnetic field on sympathetic agonist‐induced hypertension in wistar rats
Authors: Okano Hideyuki , Ohkubo Chiyoji
Published: March 2007

We investigated the combined effects of a moderate‐intensity static magnetic field (SMF) and two different sympathetic agonists, an α1‐adrenoceptor agonist, phenylephrine and a β1‐adrenoceptor agonist, dobutamine, which induced hypertension and different hemodynamics in Wistar rats. Five‐week‐old male rats were continuously exposed to the SMF intensity of 12 mT (Bmax) with the peak spatial gradient of 3 mT/mm for 10 weeks. A loop‐shaped flexible rubber magnet was adjusted to fit snugly around the neck region of a rat (diameter‐adjustable to an animal size). Sham exposure was performed using a dummy magnet. Six experimental groups of six animals each were examined: (1) sham exposure with intraperitoneal (ip) saline injection (control); (2) SMF exposure with ip saline injection (SMF); (3) sham exposure with ip phenylephrine (1.0 µg/g) injection (PE); (4) SMF exposure with ip phenylephrine injection (SMF + PE); (5) sham exposure with ip dobutamine (4.0 µg/g) injection (DOB); (6) SMF exposure with ip dobutamine injection (SMF + DOB). Fifteen minutes after the injection of each agent, the first set of parameters, arterial blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR), the second set of parameters, skin blood flow (SBF) and skin blood velocity (SBV), or the third set of parameters, the number of rearing (exploratory behavior) responses and body weight was monitored. Each agent was administered three times a week for 10 weeks, and each set of parameters was monitored on different days, once a week. The dose of phenylephrine significantly increased BP and decreased HR, SBF, SBV, and the number of rearing responses in the PE group compared with those in the respective age‐matched control group. The dose of dobutamine significantly increased BP and HR, increased SBF, SBV, and the number of rearing responses in the DOB group compared with those in the control group. Continuous neck exposure to the SMF alone for up to 10 weeks induced no significant changes in any of the measured cardiovascular and behavioral parameters. The SMF exposure for at least 2 weeks (1) significantly depressed phenylephrine effects on BP, SBF, SBV, and rearing activity (SMF + PE group vs. PE group); (2) significantly depressed dobutamine effects on BP, SBF, and SBV, and suppressed dobutamine‐induced increase in the rearing activity (SMF + DOB group vs. DOB group). These results suggest that continuous neck exposure to 12 mT SMF for at least 2 weeks may depress or suppress sympathetic agonists‐induced hypertension, hemodynamics, and behavioral changes by modulating sympathetic nerve activity. Bioelectromagnetics 28:369–378, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tragverhalten von dünnen Bauteilen aus ultrahochfestem Faserfeinkornbeton
Authors: Greiner Stefan
Published: March 2007

Ultrahochfester Faserfeinkornbeton (UHFFB) eignet sich aufgrund der feinkörnigen Zuschläge und hohen Festigkeiten besonders zur Herstellung dünner Bauteile wie z. B. Schalen. Aufbauend auf eigenen Versuchsergebnissen und theoretischen Ansätzen wird das Tragverhalten von UHFFB unter Zug, Druck und Biegung untersucht. Die Gültigkeit der verwendeten Materialgesetze wird mittels Nachrechnung von Versuchen überprüft, wobei insbesondere der Einfluss der Faserorientierung berücksichtigt wird. Es wird ein Momenten‐Normalkraft‐Interaktions‐Diagramm für UHFFB erstellt. Dann werden Flächentragwerke unter kombinierter Momenten‐ und Normalkraftbeanspruchung mittels der Methode der Finiten Elemente untersucht. Die ermittelten Rissbilder und Traglasten werden mit Ergebnissen nach der Fließlinientheorie verglichen, und es werden die möglichen Lastumlagerungen diskutiert.

Zur Veranschaulichung der gewonnenen Erkenntnisse wird ein Langzeitwärmespeicher berechnet und bemessen. Dazu wird das nichtlineare Bemessungsverfahren nach DIN 1045‐1 für Traglastuntersuchungen von Stahlbeton auf UHFFB übertragen.
Osteomyelitis as a complication in urology with special reference to the paravertebral venous plexus
Authors: Henriques C Q
Published: March 2007

“Metastatic abscesses and metastatic tumours can appear in locations that do not seem to be in line of direct spread from their primary focus. There is even a regularity of distribution of these paradoxic metastases.”—BATSON (1940).
Circulations of the cerebral hemispheres
Authors: Rowbotham G F , Little Elsa
Published: March 2007

On two previous occasions an account has been given of the surface arteries of the brain and of the circulation of the cerebral cortex.

In this communication it is our intention to describe the internal circulation of the cerebral hemispheres and the anatomy of the surface veins and venous sinuses. Also, we hope to link up our previous papers with this one and to discuss and illustrate the phenomena that we believe are of special surgical importance and particularly those that influence surgical techniques.
New concepts on the aetiology and vascularization of meningiomata; the mechanisms of migraine; the chemical processes of the cerebrospinal fluid; and the formation of collections of blood or fluid in the subdural space
Authors: Rowbotham G F , Little Elsa
Published: March 2007

In this communication it is our intention to describe in detail the vascular anatomy of the dura mater, and particularly as its peculiarities throw light on the actiology and vascularization of the meningiomata, a class of tumours that has played a large part in the moulding of the techniques of neurosurgery. We believe that our work also helps in the elucidation of the puzzling phenomena of the circulation and chemistry of the cerebrospinal fluid. The relevant pathological activities of the subdural space and the mechanisms of migraine will also be discussed.
Liver fluke in the common bile-duct
Authors: Munro A I
Published: March 2007

In Great Britain the liver fluke, Fasciola hepatica, has been surgically removed from the common bile- duct on seven occasions: all the patients have been women, and 2 came from the Bath clinical area (Murphy and Pascall, 1950). A further case, this time a man, also from the Bath clinical area, is presented (Table 1).
Postoperative infection
Authors: Maitland A Ian L
Published: March 2007

Every surgical operation is an experiment in bacteriology. We must realise that it is also an experiment in human biology.—Francis D. Moore and Margaret R. Ball.
Malignant ascites
Authors: Parsons S L , Watson S A , Steele R J C
Published: March 2007

Investigation and treatment of malignant ascites are often in the hands of the general surgeon and can be difficult. This article considers the aetiology and pathophysiology of malignant ascites and explores the best form of management. Established treatment modalities and new therapeutic options are reviewed and a new management regimen based on a knowledge of the tumour of origin is proposed, which aims to balance potential benefit against morbidity.
Treatment of non-disseminated cancer of the lower rectum
Authors: Nicholls R J , Hall C
Published: March 2007

Apart from the occasional tumour which is suitable for local excision, most low rectal cancers are best treated by anterior resection with complete removal of the rectum; the construction of a coloanal reservoir should allow routine sphincter saving. This surgery may be carried out independently of adjuvant radiotherapy which, if given, should be administered before operation.
Cell proliferation kinetics are abnormal in transitional mucosa adjacent to colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Yoshikawa R , Utsunomiya J
Published: March 2007

The transitional mucosa adjacent to colorectal carcinoma shows characteristic morphological and histochemical abnormalities that may be indicative of premalignant changes. Sixteen colorectal carcinomas were studied to analyse the proliferative activity and its distribution pattern in tissue samples from transitional mucosa located within 2 cm of the cancer and from uninvolved mucosa 10 cm from the cancer. Proliferative activity was assessed using a monoclonal antibody to proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). The total labelling index (percentage of labelled cells in a column) of transitional mucosa was not significantly different from that of uninvolved mucosa and normal control mucosa but it was significantly higher in cancer tissue (P<0.001). An upward shift of the compartment of proliferating epithelial cells towards the bowel lumen was seen in transitional mucosa. The labelling index of the middle compartment (compartment 3) of the crypt in transitional mucosa was significantly higher than that in uninvolved mucosa and control mucosa (P<0.001). Unstable cytokinetic change may already have started in apparently normal transitional mucosa. Assessment of cell proliferation kinetics by PCNA immunostaining may be useful in screening for heightened risk of the development of colorectal cancer.
Long-term outcome following curative surgery for malignant large bowel obstruction
Authors: Mulcahy H E , Skelly M M , Husain A , O'Donoghue D P
Published: March 2007

This study determined whether the long-term outcome of patients with obstructing colorectal cancer could be related to conventional pathological prognostic variables or to other clinical, operative or histological features. Ninety-eight patients with bowel obstruction who had undergone potentially curative surgery and survived the postoperative period were studied. Features related to poor long-term outcome after a median follow-nup of 5 years included bowel perforation at initial operation (P = 0.007), advanced tumour stage (P< 0.001), poor tumour differentiation (P = 0.02), mucin production by tumour (P = 0.004) and the presence of vascular (P = 0.08) and neural (P = 0.004) invasion. Outcome was not significantly related to the seniority of the operating surgeon (P = 0.52), even when this was adjusted for potentially confounding variables (adjusted hazard rate ratio for trainee surgeons 1.4 (95 per cent confidence interval 0.9–2.4), P = 0.16). Conventional prognostic features may help to identify the majority of patients with obstructed colorectal cancer at high risk of tumour recurrence and death.
Wandering spleen: A rare emergency condition
Authors: Papakyriacou K , Nicolaou N , Symeonides P
Published: March 2007

Wandering spleen is a rare emergency condition1,2 in which the spleen is characterized by a long vascular pedicle, displacement from its normal position and quite often devoid of its peritoneal ligaments. It is usually asymptomatic or may present with a shifting mass in the abdomen with abdominal heaviness, vague gastrointestinal disturbance and sometimes with hypersplenism or as an emergency condition due to torsion3.
Total anorectal reconstruction results in complete anorectal sensory loss
Authors: Abercrombie J F , Rogers J , Williams N S
Published: March 2007

Six patients underwent objective measurement of anorectal sensory function following abdominoperineal excision of the rectum and total anorectal reconstruction. No patient perceived neorectal distension as a desire to defaecate or as a feeling of flatus. Anal mucosal sensation was preserved in two patients in whom some anal mucosa was retained. These sensory deficiencies may result in faecal retention and incontinence in patients undergoing reconstructive surgery. The loss of rectal sensation suggests that the prime sensors of rectal filling may lie within the rectum itself.
Ischaemic nature of anal fissure
Authors: Schouten W R , Briel J W , Auwerda J J A , de Graaf E J R
Published: March 2007

Microvascular perfusion of the anoderm was assessed by laser Doppler flowmetry in 27 patients with anal fissure. Anal pressure was recorded simultaneously. Both measurements were repeated 6 weeks after lateral internal sphincterotomy and compared with those obtained from 27 controls. Mean(s.d.) maximum anal resting pressure was significantly higher in those with a fissure than in controls (121.07(24.48) versus 68.78(16.97) mmHg, P< 0.001). Anodermal blood flow at the fissure site was significantly lower than at the posterior commissure of the controls (0.46(0.20) versus 0.76(0.28) V, P<0.001). The fissure healed in 24 patients within 6 weeks of sphincterotomy. In these patients a significant pressure decrease was noted (35 per cent) which was accompanied by a consistent rise in blood flow (65 per cent) at the original fissure site. The increased internal sphincter tone in patients with a fissure reduces anodermal blood flow at the posterior midline. Reduction of anal pressure by sphincterotomy improves anodermal blood flow at the posterior midline, resulting in fissure healing. These findings provide evidence for the ischaemic nature of anal fissure.
Diaphragmatic herniation after penetrating trauma
Authors: Degiannis E , Levy R D , Sofianos C , Potokar T , Florizoone M G C , Saadia R
Published: March 2007

A study was made of 45 patients with diaphragmatic herniation after penetrating trauma. In 29 the diagnosis was established during the first admission (early presentation) and in 16 during a subsequent admission (delayed presentation). The mortality rate in the early presentation group was 3 per cent compared with 25 per cent in the delayed presentation group. The presence of gangrenous or perforated abdominal viscus in the chest cavity was the single most common and severe aggravating factor. The need for diagnosis of diaphragmatic herniation during the initial admission is emphasized. As isolated diaphragmatic injuries provide few helpful clinical features to aid diagnosis, appropriate investigations and good follow-up are of paramount importance in preventing late herniation of intra-abdominal viscera through a penetrating diaphragmatic injury.
‘Soup ladle’ autotransfusion
Authors: Ansaloni L , Gaines C , Tocalli E
Published: March 2007

Autotransfusion is the collection and reinfusion of the patient's own blood. This technique can help in response to the increasing demand for blood and the heightening awareness of transfusion morbidity1. A simple, low cost, perioperative autotransfusion technique that can be easily practised by all surgeons is described.