bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hostage-taking: motives, resolution, coping and effects
Authors: Alexander David A. , Klein Susan
Published: April 2010

Taking hostages has a long history as a method, with variable effectiveness, of securing concessions from individuals, organisations and governments. More recently, it has become a popular tactic among terrorist organisations. Although the resilience of individuals should never be underestimated, there is evidence that being taken hostage can have enduring effects, particularly on children. Individuals vary in how they cope with such an experience, both during and subsequent to it. The literature demonstrates that the research base is limited, and many important questions remain to be answered. Hostage-taking is an area of clinical and scientific interest. Apart from the need to establish the most effective post-incident interventions for individual hostages and their families, there are opportunities to develop further insights into the dynamics and effects of unequal power relationships.
The European Convention on Human Rights: an update on Article 3 case law
Authors: Curtice Martin
Published: April 2010

The European Convention on Human Rights and the Human Rights Act 1998 (which enacts most of the Convention rights into UK law) are playing an ever-increasing role in determining the standards of treatment of those detained by the state and hence is of particular importance for those in hospitals, prisons or similar institutions. The European Convention on Human Rights is a ‘living instrument’ such that judgments emanating from the European Court of Human Rights will continually build upon previous jurisprudence and evolve over time. As Article 3 case law has evolved, its interpretation has broadened to now include a thorough scrutiny of hospital and prison conditions and healthcare provision where people are kept in detention. This article provides an in-depth update on recent Article 3 case law, but more importantly describes new developments in its application in the clinical setting.
Transference-focused psychotherapy v. treatment by community psychotherapists for borderline personality disorder: randomised controlled trial
Authors: Doering Stephan , Hörz Susanne , Rentrop Michael , Fischer-Kern Melitta , Schuster Peter , Benecke Cord , Buchheim Anna , Martius Philipp , Buchheim Peter
Published: April 2010

Background

Transference-focused psychotherapy is a manualised treatment for borderline personality disorder.

Aims

To compare transference-focused psychotherapy with treatment by experienced community psychotherapists.

Method

In a randomised controlled trial (NCT00714311) 104 female out-patients were treated for 1 year with either transference-focused psychotherapy or by an experienced community psychotherapist.

Results

Significantly fewer participants dropped out of the transference-focused psychotherapy group (38.5% v. 67.3%) and also significantly fewer attempted suicide (d = 0.8, P = 0.009). Transference-focused psychotherapy was significantly superior in the domains of borderline symptomatology (d = 1.6, P = 0.001), psychosocial functioning (d = 1.0, P = 0.002), personality organisation (d = 1.0, P = 0.001) and psychiatric in-patient admissions (d = 0.5, P = 0.001). Both groups improved significantly in the domains of depression and anxiety and the transference-focused psychotherapy group in general psychopathology, all without significant group differences (d = 0.3–0.5). Self-harming behaviour did not change in either group.

Conclusions

Transference-focused psychotherapy is more efficacious than treatment by experienced community psychotherapists in the domains of borderline symptomatology, psychosocial functioning, and personality organisation. Moreover, there is preliminary evidence for a superiority in the reduction of suicidality and need for psychiatric in-patient treatment.
From depressive symptoms to depressive disorders: the relevance of thresholds
Authors: Ayuso-Mateos José L. , Nuevo Roberto , Verdes Emese , Naidoo Nirmala , Chatterji Somnath
Published: April 2010

Background

Nosological boundaries for depressive disorders as well as the prevalence and impact of ‘subsyndromal’ depression remain unclear.

Aims

To examine the impact of subsyndromal depressive disorders on health status and to assess if depressive disorders lie on a continuum of severity.

Method

The sample was composed of randomly selected respondents from the general population in 68 countries from across the world participating in the World Health Organization's World Health Survey.

Results

The pattern of risk factors for depressive disorders was consistent across all types of depression (subsyndromal, brief depressive episode and depressive episode): odds ratios for females ranged between 1.49 and 1.80, and for the unemployed from 1.19 to 1.25. All types of depression produced a significant decrement in health status compared with no depression after controlling for demographic variables, income and country.

Conclusions

Subthreshold depressive disorders occur commonly all across the world and are associated with the same risk factors everywhere. They produce significant decrements in health and do not qualitatively differ from full-blown episodes of depression as currently defined, and lie on a continuum with more severe forms of depressive episodes but are distinct from normal mood changes.
Assisted suicide and human rights in the UK
Authors: Curtice Martin , Field Charlotte
Published: April 2010

Assisted suicide is an emotive issue that will undoubtedly continue to grab media headlines, especially as medical science is able to prolong survival in chronic medical disorders. The law in the UK as applied under the Suicide Act 1961 is currently very sympathetic to cases of assisted suicide, whereby the individual has travelled abroad to a country where it is lawful to end their life, in that people assisting them and thus committing an offence have not been prosecuted. This article analyses a recent High Court case pertaining to the Suicide Act 1961 demonstrating the central importance of the Human Rights Act 1998 in such cases. It then discusses implications for clinicians and the future of the Suicide Act itself.
Spirituality, secularity and religion in psychiatric practice: Commentary on … Spirituality and religion in psychiatric practice
Authors: Cook Christopher C. H.
Published: April 2010

Spirituality and religion, in our secular age, are subject to what Charles Taylor calls ‘closed world structures’ which make disbelief in transcendence appear incontrovertible when in fact, rationally speaking, it is not. It is arguably an effect of these closed world structures on psychiatric practice that excludes from the clinical consultation spiritual matters which patients themselves wish to discuss with their psychiatrist. In fact, the evidence base suggests that spirituality and religion should be routinely assessed in psychiatric practice and that the possible beneficial influence on outcome of spiritual practices and faith communities should be considered when formulating treatment plans.
The Groucho ortholog UNC-37 interacts with the short Groucho-like protein LSY-22 to control developmental decisions inC. elegans
Authors: Flowers Eileen B. , Poole Richard J. , Tursun Baris , Bashllari Enkelejda , Pe'er Itsik , Hobert Oliver
Published: April 2010

Transcriptional co-repressors of the Groucho/TLE family are important regulators of development in many species. A subset of Groucho/TLE family members that lack the C-terminal WD40 domains have been proposed to act as dominant-negative regulators of Groucho/TLE proteins, yet such a role has not been conclusively proven. Through a mutant screen for genes controlling a left/right asymmetric cell fate decision in the nervous system of the nematode C. elegans, we have retrieved loss-of-function alleles in two distinct loci that display identical phenotypes in neuronal fate specification and in other developmental contexts. Using the novel technology of whole-genome sequencing, we find that these loci encode the C. elegans ortholog of Groucho, UNC-37, and, surprisingly, a short Groucho-like protein, LSY-22, that is similar to truncated Groucho proteins in other species. Besides their phenotypic similarities, unc-37 and lsy-22 show genetic interactions and UNC-37 and LSY-22 proteins also physically bind to each other in vivo. Our findings suggest that rather than acting as negative regulators of Groucho, small Groucho-like proteins may promote Groucho function. We propose that Groucho-mediated gene regulatory events involve heteromeric complexes of distinct Groucho-like proteins.
Ant search strategies after interrupted tandem runs
Authors: Franks Nigel R. , Richardson Thomas O. , Keir Samantha , Inge Stephen J. , Bartumeus Frederic , Sendova-Franks Ana B.
Published: April 2010

Tandem runs are a form of recruitment in ants. During a tandem run, a single leader teaches one follower the route to important resources such as sources of food or better nest sites. In the present study, we investigate what tandem leaders and followers do, in the context of nest emigration, if their partner goes missing. Our experiments involved removing either leaders or followers at set points during tandem runs. Former leaders first stand still and wait for their missing follower but then most often proceed alone to the new nest site. By contrast, former followers often first engage in a Brownian search, for almost exactly the time that their former leader should have waited for them, and then former followers switch to a superdiffusive search. In this way, former followers first search their immediate neighbourhood for their lost leader before becoming ever more wide ranging so that in the absence of their former leader they can often find the new nest, re-encounter the old one or meet a new leader. We also show that followers gain useful information even from incomplete tandem runs. These observations point to the important principle that sophisticated communication behaviours may have evolved as anytime algorithms, i.e. procedures that are beneficial even if they do not run to completion.
Wing and body kinematics of takeoff and landing flight in the pigeon (Columba livia)
Authors: Berg Angela M. , Biewener Andrew A.
Published: April 2010

Takeoff and landing are critical phases in a flight. To better understand the functional importance of the kinematic adjustments birds use to execute these flight modes, we studied the wing and body movements of pigeons (Columba livia) during short-distance free-flights between two perches. The greatest accelerations were observed during the second wingbeat of takeoff. The wings were responsible for the majority of acceleration during takeoff and landing, with the legs contributing only one-quarter of the acceleration. Parameters relating to aerodynamic power output such as downstroke amplitude, wingbeat frequency and downstroke velocity were all greatest during takeoff flight and decreased with each successive takeoff wingbeat. This pattern indicates that downstroke velocity must be greater for accelerating flight to increase the amount of air accelerated by the wings. Pigeons used multiple mechanisms to adjust thrust and drag to accelerate during takeoff and decelerate during landing. Body angle, tail angle and wing plane angles all shifted from more horizontal orientations during takeoff to near-vertical orientations during landing, thereby reducing drag during takeoff and increasing drag during landing. The stroke plane was tilted steeply downward throughout takeoff (increasing from −60±5 deg. to −47±1 deg.), supporting our hypothesis that a downward-tilted stroke plane pushes more air rearward to accelerate the bird forward. Similarly, the stroke plane tilted upward during landing (increasing from −1±2 deg. to 17±7 deg.), implying that an upward-tilted stroke plane pushes more air forward to slow the bird down. Rotations of the stroke plane, wing planes and tail were all strongly correlated with rotation of the body angle, suggesting that pigeons are able to redirect aerodynamic force and shift between flight modes through modulation of body angle alone.
Ultradian components in the locomotor activity rhythms of the genetically normal mouse,Mus musculus
Authors: Dowse Harold , Umemori Juzoh , Koide Tsuyoshi
Published: April 2010

Ultradian periodicities in physiological processes have been reported for a wide variety of organisms and may appear as bouts in locomotor activity. In some instances, this temporal organization can be related to some ethological strategy. In mice, however, ultradian rhythms have been reported largely in animals with circadian pacemakers disrupted either by genetic or surgical manipulation. Using analysis techniques capable of resolving periodicities in the ultradian range in the presence of strong diel periodicity, we found unequivocal evidence of ultradian rhythms in mice entrained to an light:dark cycle. We collected locomotor activity data of individuals from 11 genetically disparate strains of mice whose activity was recorded in 12 h:12 h L:D photoperiods for 3 days. Data were subjected to maximum entropy spectral analysis and autocorrelation, both before and after filtering to remove the 24-h periodicity. We found that every strain had a majority of individuals with strong ultradian rhythms ranging from ~3 to ~5 h. These periodicities were commonly visible in individual animals both in high-pass-filtered and in unfiltered data. Furthermore, when all raw data from a given strain were pooled to get a 24-h ensemble average across all animals and days, the rhythms continued to be discernable. We fitted Fourier series to these form estimates to model the frequency structure of each strain and found significant effects of strain and an interaction between period and strain indicating significant genetic variation for rhythmicity in the ultradian range. The techniques employed in this study should have wider use in a range of organisms and fields.
Thermal sensitivity of mitochondrial metabolism in two distinct mitotypes ofDrosophila simulans: evaluation of mitochondrial plasticity
Authors: Pichaud Nicolas , Chatelain Etienne Hébert , Ballard J. William O. , Tanguay Robert , Morrow Geneviève , Blier Pierre U.
Published: April 2010

The overall aim of this study was to (1) evaluate the adaptive value of mitochondrial DNA by comparing mitochondrial performance in populations possessing different haplotypes and distribution, and to (2) evaluate the sensitivity of different enzymes of the electron transport system (ETS) during temperature-induced changes. We measured the impact of temperature of mitochondrial respiration and several key enzymes of mitochondrial metabolism in two mitotypes (siII and siIII) of Drosophila simulans. The temperature dependencies of oxygen consumption for mitochondria isolated from flight muscle was assessed with complex I substrates (pyruvate + malate + proline) and with sn glycerol-3-phosphate (to reduce complex III via glycerophosphate dehydrogenase) in both coupled and uncoupled states. Activities of citrate synthase, cytochrome c oxidase (COX), catalase and aconitase, and the excess capacity of COX at high convergent pathway flux were also measured as a function of temperature. Overall, our results showed that functional differences between the two mitotypes are few. Results suggest that differences between the two mitotypes could hardly explain the temperature-specific differences measured in mitochondria performances. It suggests that some other factor(s) may be driving the maintenance of mitotypes. We also show that the different enzymes of the ETS have different thermal sensitivities. The catalytic capacities of these enzymes vary with temperature changes, and the corresponding involvement of the different steps on mitochondrial regulation probably varies with temperature. For example, the excess COX capacity is low, even non-existent, at high and intermediate temperatures (18°C, 24°C and 28°C) whereas it is quite high at a lower temperature (12°C), suggesting release of respiration control by COX at low temperature.
Segmental fractures of the tibia treated by circular external fixation
Authors: Giotakis N. , Panchani S. K. , Narayan B. , Larkin J. J. , Al Maskari S. , Nayagam S.
Published: April 2010

We have carried out a retrospective review of 20 patients with segmental fractures of the tibia who had been treated by circular external fixation. We describe the heterogeneity of these fractures, their association with multiple injuries and the need for multilevel stability with the least compromise of the biology of the fracture segments. The assessment of outcome included union, complications, the measurement of the functional IOWA knee and ankle scores and the general health status (Short-form 36).

The mean time to union was 21.7 weeks (12.8 to 31), with no difference being observed between proximal and distal levels of fracture. Complications were encountered in four patients. Two had nonunion at the distal level, one a wire-related infection which required further surgery and another shortening of 15 mm with 8° of valgus which was clinically insignificant. The functional scores for the knee and ankle were good to excellent, but the physical component score of the short-form 36 was lower than the population norm. This may be explained by the presence of multiple injuries affecting the overall score.
A rational approach to management of alendronate-related subtrochanteric fractures
Authors: Das De S. , Setiobudi T. , Shen L. , Das De S.
Published: April 2010

There have been recent reports linking alendronate and a specific pattern of subtrochanteric insufficiency fracture. We performed a retrospective review of all subtrochanteric fractures admitted to our institution between 2001 and 2007. There were 20 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 12 of whom were on long-term alendronate. Alendronate-associated fractures tend to be bilateral (Fisher’s exact test, p = 0.018), have unique radiological features (p < 0.0005), be associated radiologically with a pre-existing ellipsoid thickening of the lateral femoral cortex and are likely to be preceded by prodromal pain. Biomechanical investigations did not suggest overt metabolic bone disease. Only one patient on alendronate had osteoporosis prior to the start of therapy. We used these findings to develop a management protocol to optimise fracture healing. We also advocate careful surveillance in individuals at-risk, and present our experience with screening and prophylactic fixation in selected patients.
Lyme disease: an unusual case of peripheral nerve palsy
Authors: McKay G. , Gill I. , Chauhan S.
Published: April 2010

Lyme disease is a vector-borne multisystem inflammatory disease caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. This disease is frequently seen in North America and to a lesser degree in Europe. However, its presence in England is uncommon and we present a case in which the patient developed a palsy of the common peroneal nerve
Barriers to weight loss in obese patients with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Howarth David , Inman Dominic , Lingard Elizabeth , McCaskie Andrew , Gerrand Craig
Published: April 2010

INTRODUCTION

Obesity contributes to the development of knee osteoarthritis and complicates its surgical treatment. The aim of this study was to explore barriers to effective weight management in obese patients with knee osteoarthritis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional questionnaire study was performed in an elective out-patient setting and on an orthopaedic ward on patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or over and knee osteoarthritis.

RESULTS

Of 47 patients approached, 45 agreed to participate. Forty of 45 patients (89%) had tried to lose weight at some point, 35 of 40 (87.5%) by adjusting their diet. Forty of 45 (89%) patients considered lack of motivation to be the greatest barrier to weight loss and only 13 of 45 (28%) pain in the knee. Patients with a BMI of less than 40 kg/m2 expressed a preference for dietary advice to help with weight loss, compared with those with a BMI of over 40 kg/m2 who expressed a preference for an NHS or other support group.

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity is a significant problem for many patients with knee osteoarthritis. Attendance at an orthopaedic clinic is an opportunity to address obesity, by providing information about diet and possibly support groups for morbidly obese patients. Patients may be motivated to lose weight to improve their symptoms.
Sarcomas in the groin and inguinal canal – often missed and difficult to manage
Authors: Collin T , Blackburn AV , Milner RH , Gerrand C , Ragbir M
Published: April 2010

INTRODUCTION

This is a 7-year retrospective review summarising the North of England Bone and Soft Tissue Tumour Service's experience of managing 13 cases of groin sarcoma requiring soft tissue flap reconstruction. This study was performed to try to identify where national referral guidelines in sarcoma management had been followed and reasons for any delays. The study also includes outcome data relating to these patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective, case-note review was undertaken using the local sarcoma database to identify approriate patients.

RESULTS

In nine patients, national referral guidelines were not followed. This resulted in a mean delay of presentation to the multidisciplinary team of 4.4 months. Ten patients had unplanned excision or exploration of tumours before referral. There were no lower limb amputations. All patients with narrow margins or high grade tumours were referred for radiotherapy. Four patients died; three as a result of distant metastases and one as a result of local recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite delays in referral, treatment by wide excision and plastic surgical reconstruction allowed for local control of these tumours with functional limb salvage. Implementation of National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines and local strategies could improve the expedient management of these patients.
Traumatic correction of Linburg–Comstock anomaly: a case report
Authors: Old Oliver , Rajaratnam Vaikunthan , Allen Gina
Published: April 2010

Linburg–Comstock anomaly describes an anatomical variant of flexor tendons of the hand. Flexor pollicis longus (FPL) sends a connecting tendon to flexor digitorum profundus (FDP), causing simultaneous flexion at the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) of the index finger when the interphalangeal joint (IPJ) of the thumb is flexed. Epidemiological studies have revealed a unilateral prevalence as high as 31% of individuals; however, the condition rarely causes symptoms. The anomaly can present with a restrictive flexor tenosynovitis, requiring explorative surgery to confirm the diagnosis and disconnection of the anomalous tendon slip to relieve symptoms. We describe the case of a rock climber who suffered a forced extension injury to the DIPJ of the right index finger, resulting in traumatic rupture of his anomalous FPL–FDP connecting tendon. This is the first reported case of rupture of a Linburg–Comstock anomaly. Through rupture of this anomalous tendon, the patient can be viewed as having corrected his aberrant tendon to conform with the more prevalent anatomical configuration and function. We identified the rupture using dynamic ultrasound of the wrist; to our knowledge, this technique has not been described previously in the literature. We recommend the use of this imaging modality to confirm diagnosis, thus avoiding explorative surgery.
Blood patch treatment of chylothorax following transthoracic oesophagogastrectomy: a novel technique to aid surgical management
Authors: Windhaber RAJ , Holbrook AG , Krysztopik RJ
Published: April 2010

Chylothorax is a well-recognised complication of oesophagectomy, occurring in around 3% of cases. If managed conservatively, the mortality rate can be over 50%. We describe our experience of managing a patient with a chylothorax following oesophagectomy, and the use of a blood patch (a novel technique) to overcome persistent leakage following re-operation. The authors feel that this technique has the potential for a wider application in the treatment of chyle leak, especially if combined with minimally invasive or radiological techniques.
"In a Race All Their Own": The Quest to Make Mexicans Ineligible for U.S. Citizenship
Authors: Molina Natalia
Published: April 2010

This article traces challenges to Mexicans' legal and racial status by various groups, including federal bureaucrats, nativist organizations, and everyday citizens. Early twentieth-century efforts to make Mexicans ineligible for U.S. citizenship, despite provisions in the Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo, focused on the premise that Mexicans were neither "black" nor "white"; interest groups and politicians both strove instead to categorize Mexicans as "Indian." These efforts intensified after the 1924 Immigration Act and two Supreme Court decisions, Ozawa v. United States (1922) and United States v. Bhagat Singh Thind (1923), which declared Japanese and Asian Indians ineligible for citizenship because they were not white. Underlying U.S. efforts to resolve Mexican immigration and citizenship issues was the ongoing problem of determining who could be considered white; this concern clashed with positive Mexican understandings of mestizaje.
Congenital Kidney Abnormalities: Diagnosis, Management, and Palliative Care
Authors: Cohen Jennifer N. , Ringer Steven Alan
Published: April 2010

This article describes major kidney disorders of genetic origin and disordered embryonic development. The most common disorders, including polycystic kidney disease and the various forms of renal dysplasia, are discussed and contrasted, including identifiable abnormalities on prenatal and postnatal evaluation, management in the neonatal period, and evaluation and management in childhood. For the most severely affected fetuses and newborns, a comprehensive approach to prenatal counseling and palliative care of the newborn is described.
Renal Tubular Acidosis
Authors: Ringer Steven Alan
Published: April 2010

Renal tubular acidosis (RTA) classically is defined as a normal anion gap hyperchloremic acidosis without impaired glomerular filtration. The three types of RTA are distal, proximal, and hyperkalemic and can be identified by laboratory and clinical findings. Treatment differs, based on the type of RTA. A case presentation illustrates the logical steps for diagnosis and treatment.
Prevalence of Congenital Hypothyroidism—Current Trends and Future Directions: Workshop Summary
Authors: Olney Richard S. , Grosse Scott D. , Vogt Robert F.
Published: April 2010

In response to published newborn-screening data that have shown an increase in the incidence (birth prevalence) rate of primary congenital hypothyroidism (CH) in the United States, a workshop was held in Atlanta, Georgia, on February 27 and 28, 2008, to examine this issue. Topics of the meeting included pathophysiology, medical management, and follow-up of CH; transient hypothyroidism (etiology, clinical implications, management, and changes in prevalence); risk factors for CH; laboratory approaches to newborn screening for CH; state-specific evaluations of trends in incidence rates of CH; and concluding discussions on future directions to resolve outstanding issues. Through presentations and discussion, gaps in knowledge were identified, such as the lack of consistent definitions for CH and transient hypothyroidism and the effects of preventable risk factors on incidence rates of CH. One outcome of the meeting was a series of accompanying articles that examined (1) trends in the incidence rates of CH in individual states and nationally, (2) effects of newborn-screening practices on CH-incidence rates, (3) the contribution of transient hypothyroidism to CH-incidence rates, and (4) future research directions. In this summary, we briefly touch on the topics of these articles and examine highlights of other presentations from the workshop that illuminated the secular trends in reported CH-incidence rates in the United States.
Prevalence and Predictors of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer
Authors: Stuber Margaret L. , Meeske Kathleen A. , Krull Kevin R. , Leisenring Wendy , Stratton Kayla , Kazak Anne E. , Huber Marc , Zebrack Bradley , Uijtdehaage Sebastian H. , Mertens Ann C. , Robison Leslie L. , Zeltzer Lonnie K.
Published: April 2010

OBJECTIVE:

This study compared the prevalence of symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with functional impairment and/or clinical distress, among very long-term survivors of childhood cancer and a group of healthy siblings.

METHODS:

A total of 6542 childhood cancer survivors >18 years of age who received diagnoses between 1970 and 1986 and 368 siblings of cancer survivors completed a comprehensive demographic and health survey.

RESULTS:

A total of 589 survivors (9%) and 8 siblings (2%) reported functional impairment and/or clinical distress in addition to the set of symptoms consistent with a full diagnosis of PTSD. Survivors had more than fourfold greater risk of PTSD, compared with siblings (odds ratio [OR]: 4.14 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.08–8.25]). With controlling for demographic and treatment variables, increased risk of PTSD was associated with educational level of high school or less (OR: 1.51 [95% CI: 1.16–1.98]), being unmarried (OR: 1.99 [95% CI: 1.58–2.50]), having annual income below $20000 (OR: 1.63 [95% CI: 1.21–2.20]), and being unemployed (OR: 2.01 [95% CI: 1.62–2.51]). Intensive treatment also was associated with increased risk of full PTSD (OR: 1.36 [95% CI: 1.06–1.74]).

CONCLUSIONS:

PTSD was reported significantly more often by survivors of childhood cancer than by sibling control subjects. Although most survivors apparently are faring well, a subset reported significant impairment that may warrant targeted intervention.
Factors Related to Defaulters and Treatment Failure of tuberculosis Patients in the DOTS Program in the Sunsari District of Eastern Nepal
Authors: Lamsal DK , Lewis OD , Smith S , Jha N
Published: April 2010

Objectives : The aim of this study was to investigate reasons underlying failure to complete DOTS treatment in TB patients in Dharan and the Sunsari district of eastern Nepal. Methods : A descriptive, qualitative study using semi structured questionnaires after identifying cases from register data. Results were then compared with the results of informal recorded discussions, direct observation, and focus group discussions. All defaulter and treatment failure TB patients in the DOTS program in Sunsari district from July 2002 to July 2003 were included in the study. Results : All of the defaulter patients in this study were struggling financially, and said that they had trouble leaving work to go to the DOTS centre, as well as difficulty with distance and transport. Other issues such as alcohol, stigma, poverty, inadequate education and the use of private clinics and traditional healers were discussed. Conclusion : Almost half the Nepalese population is infected with TB. Despite meeting the WHO goals for default and treatment failure it is important to aggressively address those aspects that can be changed so the country can continue to reduce the burden of TB on its community. Recommendations are made from the results of this study that may help improve adherence to DOTS programmes. Keywords : tuberculosis; Nepal; DOTS; defaulter; compliance DOI: 10.3126/saarctb.v6i1.3061 SAARC J. Tuber. Lung Dis. HIV/AIDS 2009 VI (1) 25-30
All Members of a Single Family including a 5-Months Old Infant having Tuberculosis - A Case Report
Authors: Chowdhury EUA , Huq MN , Parveen F
Published: April 2010

Introduction : The incidence and number of tuberculosis (TB) cases have been increased dramatically all over the world. It is a major public health problem in Bangladesh too. Case Summary : A 5-months old male infant, immunized as per EPI schedule, 3rd issue of a nonconsanguinous parents residence at downtown, Dhaka from a poor socioeconomic background was admitted into the Paediatrics ward, Bangladesh Medical College Hospital on 11th March 2004 with fever for 1 month, dry cough for 21 days, loose motion and vomiting for 14 days. He was weaned from breast milk at 3 months of his age and there was gross malfeeding history. BCG vaccine was given at 6 weeks. His mother had also been suffering from recurrent febrile illnesses and weight loss for many months. Baby was looking ill but conscious, mildly pale, afebrile with no dyspnoea. Z score of wt/age, lth/age, wt/lth and OFC were -2.9, -3.5, -0.3 and -0.3 respectively. Fontanel was open and normal. There was no lymphadenopathy and BCG mark was present. Breath sound was vesicular with fine crepitation on right lung. He was treated initially as septicemia by combined parenteral antibiotics. But response was not satisfactory. Lab data yielded raised ESR, eosinophillia, pyuria and haematuria with sterile culture. Chest X ray was abnormal. Mantoux Test (MT) was found strongly positive (18mm/72hrs.). Other family members were immediately screened for TB and all revealed positive. Complete Blood Count, MT and Chest X ray were chosen as screening methods for them. We treated with anti tubercular therapy to all of them including baby. We also corrected the feeding practice of the patient and kept in close monitoring. He showed remarkable clinical improvement with weight gaining. We discharged him as disseminated tuberculosis with having pulmonary tuberculosis among all other family members and advised for follow up. They all were cured. At present, they are healthy and baby is now 4 years of age with good physical and mental growth. Conclusion : TB can mimic everything. A high index of suspicion by the clinician is essential for early diagnosis. Message: Family members of affected child must be screened for active TB Keywords : Tuberculosis; Tuberculosis in infant; Pan family tuberculosis. DOI: 10.3126/saarctb.v6i2.3056 SAARC J. Tuber. Lung Dis. HIV/AIDS 2009 VI (2) 38-42
Heritability of Cylindrocladium Black Rot Resistance in Peanut1
Authors: Hadley B. A. , Beute M. K. , Wynne J. C.
Published: April 2010

In order to estimate heritability of resistance to Cylindrocladium black rot (CBR), caused by Cylindrocladium crotalariae, in peanuts (Arachis hypogaea), the F1 F2 and parental generations from a four-parent diallel cross were rated for resistance under optimum greenhouse conditions. General combining ability was significant for both generations suggesting that resistance to Cylindrocladium black rot in these lines was primarily due to additive genetic effects.

The four parents produced progeny having different levels of resistance. NC3033, Argentine and NC2 produced progeny from which resistant selections could be made, while Florigiant produced susceptible progenies in all crosses.

Estimates of heritability ranged from 0.48 to 0.65 depending on the method of calculation. Based on these estimates, early generation selection for CBR-resistance in the greenhouse should be effective.
New Harvesting and Curing Techniques in the Production of Breeder's Seed Peanuts1
Authors: Coffelt T. A. , Wright F. S. , Steele J. L.
Published: April 2010

A new method of harvesting and curing breeder's seed peanuts in Virginia was initiated that would 1) reduce the labor requirements, 2) maintain a high level of germination, 3) maintain varietal purity at 100%, and 4) reduce the risk of frost damage. Three possible harvesting and curing methods were studied. The traditional stack-pole method satisfied the latter 3 objectives, but not the first. The windrow-combine method satisfied the first 2 objectives, but not the last 2. The direct harvesting method satisfied all four objectives. The experimental equipment and curing procedures for direct harvesting had been developed but not tested on a large scale for seed harvesting. This method has been used in Virginia to produce breeder's seed of 3 peanut varieties (Florigiant, VA 72R and VA 61R) during five years. Compared to the stackpole method, labor requirements have been reduced, satisfactory levels of germination and varietal purity have been obtained, and the risk of frost damage has been minimized.
Parasitism of the Lesser Cornstalk Borer, Elasmopalpus lignosellus, in ‘Florunner’ and ‘Spanhoma’ Peanuts by Native Hymenopterous Species in Oklahoma.1
Authors: Berberet R. C. , Sander D. A. , Wall R. G.
Published: April 2010

Parasitism of the lesser cornstalk borer, Elasmopalpus lignosellus (Zeller), by hymenopterous species in Oklahoma was compared in ‘Florunner’ and ‘Spanhoma’ peanut varieties. Of the 5 parasite species identified, the greatest incidence of parasitism in both varieties was by Invreia sp. There were no consistent differences in parasitic activity in Invreia sp. or other species related to peanut varieties from which E. lignosellus were collected.
Estimation of the Distribution of Lots of Shelled Peanuts According to Aflatoxin Concentrations1
Authors: Whitaker T. B. , Dickens J. W.
Published: April 2010

The distribution of shelled peanut lots according to their true aflatoxin concentrations is different than the distribution of aflatoxin assays made on those lots. This difference is due to assay errors associated with sampling, subsampling and analysis. A method was developed to estimate the distribution of the lots according to their true aflatoxin concentration based on aflatoxin assays. Estimates of the distribution of the 1973, 1974, and 1975 peanut lots were computed from their aflatoxin assays which were recorded by the Peanut Administrative Committee (PAC). Fifty-five percent of the PAC assays for the 3 crop years were less than 3 parts per billion (ppb) aflatoxin, whereas the estimated lot distribution indicated that only 48% of the lots were less than 3 ppb. On the other hand, only 94% of the assays compared to an estimated 96% of the lots were less than 25 ppb.
Physiology of Oil Seeds. VIII. Germination of Peanut Seeds Exposed to Subfreezing Temperatures while Drying in the Windrow.1,2
Authors: Ketring D. L.
Published: April 2010

During November 1976, freshly dug, high-moisture (30–40%) peanuts drying in the windrow in North Texas were exposed to subfreezing overnight temperatures for 6 days. The effects of that exposure on germination of the seeds were studied. Samples of the subsequently cured and hand-shelled peanut seeds were tested for germination, seedling emergence, ethylene and carbon dioxide production, and certain enzyme activities. Laboratory germination was 42%, greenhouse seedling emergence 32%, and most of the freeze-damaged seeds that germinated grew at a slow rate. Germination and greenhouse seedling emergence of controls were 96 and 100%, respectively. At their maximum rates, ethylene and carbon dioxide production by freeze-damaged seeds were reduced 83 and 36%, respectively. Mean enzyme activities measured from protein extracts of the freeze-damaged seeds were reduced, but they were not always significantly different from the control. However, isocitric lyase activity, which depends on de novo protein synthesis, was significantly less for freeze-damaged than for control seeds, particularly during initial stages of germination. Thus, low-temperature exposure of high-moisture peanut seeds interfered with the initial biochemical and developmental processes, such as synthesis of new proteins, that determine seedling growth.
Evaluation of Free Amino Acid and Free Sugar Contents in Five Lines of Virginia-Type Peanuts at Four Locations1
Authors: Oupadissakoon Chintana , Young Clyde T. , Mozingo R. Walton
Published: April 2010

Five lines of Virginia-type peanuts, Florigiant (FG), NC 6, NC 17921 (FG × Florunner), NC 17922 (FG × Valencia), NC 17976 (FG × Spanhoma), were selected from the advanced breeding lines and the standard variety test. They were grown at 4 county locations, 2 in North Carolina and 2 in Virginia, with 3 replications (blocks) in a randomized complete block design; adjacent plots were used for each digging. Free amino acid and free sugars were determined on sound mature kernels. Statistical analysis showed significant differences for varieties and locations. The variety effects were larger in the case of the free sugar contents. NC 6 had the largest quantity of glucose (0.12 mg/g), sucrose (37.45 mg/g), and stachyose (4.24 mg/g), while FG was highest in inositol (0.15 mg/g). In the case of free amino acids (μmoles/g), significant variety effects were observed for threonine-serine (1.55–1.92), alanine (0.95–1.53), peptide-cystine (1.28–1.50), valine (0.42–0.62), and histidine (0.58–0.66). Peanuts grown at Northampton County (NC) had the highest quantities of inositol (0.16 mg/g), sucrose (32.39 mg/g), stachyose (4.63 mg/g), aspartic acid (1.48 μmoles/g), threonine-serine (2.55), glutamic acid (7.49), alanine (1.89), valine (0.76), isoleucine (0.23) unknown 4-tyrosine (0.37), and histidine (0.78). The arginine maturity index value, calcium content, % sound mature kernels, % extra large kernels, and yield data are discussed.
Effect of Tertiary Butylhydroquinone on the Shelf Life of Salted-in-the-Shell Roasted Peanuts1
Authors: Hoover M. W. , Nathan P. J.
Published: April 2010

Roasted salted-in-the-shell peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) normally have a shelf life of four to six weeks. Three levels of tertiary butylhydroquinone (0.02%, 0.04% and 0.06%) were added to a 12.5% NaCl brine solution which was used to vacuum impregnate Virginia type peanuts prior to roasting. A control was also run. After drying and roasting, the peanuts were placed in a 63°C oven, and an accelerated shelf life study was conducted. Flavor evaluations and total carbonyl contents were determined weekly. The antioxidant treatment extended the shelf life of salted-in-the-shell roasted peanuts, reducing the total carbonyls produced during storage and giving higher flavor scores. Applications of 0.04% and 0.06% TBHQ approximately doubled the shelf life of the salted-in-the-shell peanuts. A correlation coefficient of 0.96 was found between the total carbonyl values and flavor scores.
Effect of Three Ca Sources Applied on Peanuts II, Soil Ca, K, and Mg Levels1
Authors: Hallock D. L. , Allison A. H.
Published: April 2010

Field experiments were conducted on Kenansville lfs (Arenic Hapludult) in 1977 and on Rumford lfs (Typic Hapludult) in 1978 to compare two bulk-spread supplemental Ca sources with bagged landplaster. Bagged LP, 420 Landplaster Bulk (420-Bulk) and Texasgulf Gypsum (Tg Gypsum) were appplied on Florigiant peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) at rates equivalent to 260 kg/ha Ca broadcast and at three different dates: planting, early June just prior to flowering, and late June in early flowering stage. The relative effects of these Ca sources on changes in the contents of H2O- and 1.0 N NH4OAC-extractable soil Ca, Mg, and K in the 0- to 10-cm and 10- to 20-cm soil layers wre measured by analysis of periodic soil samplings taken during the peanut fruiting period.

All three Ca sources increased the contents of both H2O- extractable Ca (H2O-Ca) and NH4OAc-extractable Ca (Ac-Ca) in both soil layers throughout the sampling period. In 1977, contents of H2O-Ca in treated plots often were 100 to 125 μg/g of soil higher in the 0- to 10-cm layer and 50 μg/g higher in the 10- to 20-cm layer than in untreated plots. Increases in the contents of Ac-Ca in treated plots up to 150 μg/g of soil occurred in several cases in the 0- to 10-cm layer and up to 100 μg/g in the lower layer. The Ca applications in 1977 increased the initial extractable contents of H2O-Ca and Ac-Ca more and the Ca persisted longer after Ca application than in 1978. Bagged-LP or Tg Gypsum generally increased the contents of H2O-Ca and Ac-Ca in the 0- to 10-cm layer considerably more than 420-Bulk, particularly in 1977. Differences between Ca sources often diminished with time after application of the materials. This occurred to a greater extent in 1978. The contents of Ac-Ca, particularly, in plots amended with 420-Bulk usually increased considerably toward the end of the sampling period. The contents of H2O-Ca and Ac-Ca in comparable samplings of the peanut fruiting layer generally were similar much of the time for all three times of applications.

Changes in NH2OAc-extractable Mg contents extracted from the 0- to 10-cm and 10- to 20-cm layers following application of the Ca sources ranged from 10 to −25 and 28 to −22 μg/g of soil, respectively, in 1977. The ranges in 1978 were from 0 to −20 and 12 to −14 μg/g of soil, respectively. Similarly, changes in NH4OAc-extractable K in the surface and lower layers ranged from 10 to −25 and 13 to −18 μg/g of soil, respectively, in 1977. The ranges in 1978 were from 11 to −20 and 14 to −24 μg/g of soil, respectively. These contents of Ac-Mg and Ac-K decreased more frequently than they increased after application of the Ca sources, particularly when applied at planting. Relatively more increases occurred after the later application.
Quantitative Genetic Aspects of Nitrogen Fixation in Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.)1,2
Authors: Isleib T. G. , Wynne J. C. , Elkan G. H. , Schneeweis T. J.
Published: April 2010

Manipulation of the host genotype has been proposed as a method of increasing biological nitrogen fixation by rhizobia in symbiosis with the peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). The F1 generation of a diallel cross of 10 South American cultivars was evaluated in the greenhouse in an analysis of gene action for traits related to nitrogen fixation. The parents represented five secondary centers of diversity and effects in the diallel model were partitioned into among- and within-center components. Variation of center effects was significant for several characters but was smaller in magnitude than within-center variation. Specific combining abilities were significant and accounted for more variability than general combining abilities for nodule number, nodule mass, specific nitrogenase activity, shoot weight, and total nitrogen, indicating non-additive types of gene action. Maternal effects were observed for the same characters. The parents with the highest general combining abilities (GCA's) for nitrogen fixation were both fastigiate types, while Virginia-type parents had generally low GCA's. Correlations between parental and GCA effects were nonsignificant for all traits, so simple evaluation of lines for nitrogen-fixing capacity may not identify superior parents for use in breeding programs.
Timely recognition of traumatic atlanto-occipital dislocation in a child based on occipital condyle–C1 interval analysis: excellent neurological recovery
Authors: Gluncic Vicko , Turner Michael , Kranzler Leonard , Frim David
Published: April 2010

A case of atlanto-occipital dislocation (AOD) is presented to illustrate the importance of subtle imaging findings and the occipital condyle–C1 interval (CCI) measurement in the evaluation of high cervical spine injury. Although AOD is commonly considered to be fatal, recently there have been an increasing number of reports of children surviving this injury. Prompt recognition and treatment of AOD are crucial for survival.

The authors present a case of an 8-year-old boy who sustained a destabilizing injury without bone disruption but with ligamentous tears that rendered his cervical spine unstable from the occiput to the C-1 level. On admission, imaging findings were consistent with tectorial membrane damage, perimedullary subarachnoid hemorrhage, and extraaxial blood from the clivus to the C-2 level. Most standard cervical spine radiological indices were within normal limits except the CCI. After initial management in a cervical collar, the patient was placed in halo vest, and subsequently underwent occiput to C-3 fusion. Timely recognition of the injury and subsequent craniocervical stabilization with internal fixation resulted in full neurological recovery. This report supports CCI as a valuable index for the prompt recognition of AOD. It also supports recent literature suggesting that AOD is a survivable injury with the possibility for an excellent neurological recovery.