bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Major disturbance events in terrestrial ecosystems detected using global satellite data sets
Authors: POTTER CHRISTOPHER , TAN PANG‐NING , STEINBACH MICHAEL , KLOOSTER STEVEN , KUMAR VIPIN , MYNENI RANGA , GENOVESE VANESSA
Published: December 2004

Ecosystem scientists have yet to develop a proven methodology to monitor and understand major disturbance events and their historical regimes at a global scale. This study was conducted to evaluate patterns in an 18‐year record of global satellite observations of vegetation phenology from the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) as a means to characterize major ecosystem disturbance events and regimes. The fraction absorbed of photosynthetically active radiation (FPAR) by vegetation canopies worldwide has been computed at a monthly time interval from 1982 to 1999 and gridded at a spatial resolution of 0.5° latitude/longitude. Potential disturbance events of large extent (> 0.5 Mha) were identified in the FPAR time series by locating anomalously low values (FPAR‐LO) that lasted longer than 12 consecutive months at any 0.5° pixel. We find that nearly 400 Mha of the global land surface could be identified with at least one FPAR‐LO event over the 18‐year time series. The majority of these potential disturbance events occurred in tropical savanna and shrublands or in boreal forest ecosystem classes. Verification of potential disturbance events from our FPAR‐LO analysis was carried out using documented records of the timing of large‐scale wildfires at locations throughout the world. Disturbance regimes were further characterized by association analysis with historical climate anomalies. Assuming accuracy of the FPAR satellite record to characterize major ecosystem disturbance events, we estimate that nearly 9 Pg of carbon could have been lost from the terrestrial biosphere to the atmosphere as a result of large‐scale ecosystem disturbance over this 18‐year time series.
Seed variation among annual ryegrass cultivars in south‐eastern USA and the relationship with seedling vigour and forage production
Authors: Venuto B. C. , Redfearn D. D. , Pitman W. D. , Alison M. W.
Published: December 2004

Abstract Annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) is grown on more than one million ha in the south‐eastern USA each year. Recommended and actual seeding rates vary substantially within the region. The objective of this study was to evaluate variation in seed weight, germination, seedling vigour and seasonal yield performance among annual ryegrass cultivars. During 1997, 1998 and 1999, seed from fourteen commercial cultivars was weighed and germinated to determine numbers of pure live seed (PLS) m−2 before yield evaluation at four locations. Seed from ten cultivars was planted at 0·7 and 2·0 cm depth in a greenhouse study to evaluate relative seedling vigour. Cultivar mean single‐seed weight ranged from 2·4 to 4·8 mg in 1997, 1·8 to 4·5 mg in 1998, and 2·6 to 4·6 mg in 1999. Seed germination ranged from 78·8% to 98·0% in 1997, 82·3 to 98·3% in 1998 and 77·8 to 98·3% in 1999. Seed number, PLS m−2, ranged from 675 to 1289 in 1997, 710 to 1550 in 1998, and 717 to 1179 in 1999. Among the ten cultivars evaluated for seedling vigour, seedling weight differed between planting depths and a significant cultivar by year interaction was observed. Seedling weight was highly correlated with seed weight at each seeding depth. The effect of increasing number of PLS m−2 on subsequent yield performance, although small, was consistently negative. These results indicate that target plant populations may be obtained more economically by adjusting seeding rates for seed size differences among cultivars and seed lots of annual ryegrass.
A comparison, under controlled environmental conditions, of a Lolium multiflorum selection bred for high dry‐matter content and non‐structural carbohydrate concentration with a commercial cultivar
Authors: Hopkins C. , Marais J. P. , Goodenough D. C. W.
Published: December 2004

Abstract The nutritional value of Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) selection 121, bred for a high dry‐matter content and a high concentration of total non‐structural carbohydrate (TNC), was compared with that of Westerwolds ryegrass (L. multiflorum ssp. Westerwoldicum) cv. Midmar in a controlled environment. The concentration of neutral‐detergent fibre (NDF), acid‐detergent fibre (ADF), acid‐detergent lignin (ADL), nitrogenous compounds, minerals and in vitro digestibility were investigated as characteristics of nutritive value. The anatomical features of selection 121 and the Midmar cultivar were studied to determine possible structural differences. Thirty pots each of selection 121 and Midmar containing four plants per pot were arranged in a randomized block design in a controlled environment chamber. There were two temperature regimes during the study, the first being a warm regime (30 °C/20 °C) for 7 weeks followed by a cold regime(20 °C/7 °C) of a further 7 weeks. In the warm regime, the dry‐matter (DM) content and the TNC concentration of selection 121 were 0·17 and 0·16 higher, respectively, than Midmar. The NDF concentration was significantly (P < 0·01) higher in Midmar than in selection 121. When grown under warm conditions, Midmar had significantly (P < 0·001) higher concentrations of Mg, K, Na and Mn than selection 121. In the cold regime, the DM content and TNC concentration of selection 121 were 0·25 and 0·22 higher, respectively, than Midmar. No significant differences in the anti‐quality factors investigated were found between the two ryegrasses. In the cold regime, Midmar had significantly (P < 0·001 and P < 0·01) higher Ca, Mg, K, Na, Zn, Mn and P concentrations than selection 121. The results from this controlled environment study suggest that selection 121 is superior to Midmar in terms of the quality characteristics DM and TNC, and that these characteristics are not positively linked to anti‐quality factors associated with forage species.
Effects on performance and carcass composition of turning beef cattle out to pasture early in the spring
Authors: Steen R. W. J.
Published: December 2004

Abstract The effects of turning beef cattle out to pasture earlier in the spring than is conventional in Northern Ireland on performance until slaughter in late summer were examined. Thirty‐eight steers, which were initially 525 kg live weight (LW), were divided into blocks of two according to breed type, previous plane of nutrition and LW and were allocated to two treatments at random within each block. Steers on Treatment 1 were turned out to pasture on 14 March and grazed a permanent perennial ryegrass‐based pasture with a mean sward surface height of 8·4 (s.e. ± 0·36) cm until Treatment 2 steers were turned out on 2 May. Thereafter, all steers grazed as a single group until slaughter at the same estimated carcass fat content, which occurred between June and September. Between the two turnout dates, steers on Treatment 2 were given grass silage ad libitum. For the early and late turnout treatments, respectively, LW gains between the two turnout dates were 1·5 and 0·7 kg d−1, carcass gains from 14 March until slaughter (mean 143 d) were 0·69 and 0·53 (s.e. ± 0·022) kg d−1, and carcass weights were 370 and 347 (s.e. ± 2·7) kg. It is concluded that, under the conditions of this experiment, turning beef cattle out to pasture in early spring may offer economic benefits in beef production in situations in which this is practicable.
Use of recombinant factor VIIa in surgery in factor‐VII‐deficient patients
Authors: Ingerslev J. , Knudsen L. , Hvid I. , Tange M. R. , Fredberg U. , Sneppen O.
Published: December 2004

Summary. Patients suffering from severe factor VII deficiency may present with serious bleeding problems. No clear guidelines exist regarding therapy in such patients in case of a large bleeding or surgery. Indeed, it has been postulated that some patients with severe factor VII deficiency may never present with overt bleeding problems. However, in factor‐VII‐deficient patients who have previously demonstrated a clinical tendency to bleed, surgery is expected to cause excessive bleeding. We present two females suffering from a severe factor VII deficiency (FVII:C < 0.01 U mL–1) with a distinct history of haemorrhagic diathesis. Due to recurrent bleeding in the past, or for circumstantial reasons, surgery was demanded over a 4‐year period on a total of seven occasions. To assist haemostasis during and after joint surgery on five occasions and for embolization and subsequent removal of a large haemangioma of the occipital region, recombinant factor VIIa (NovoSeven) was utilized in doses approximating 20 μg kg–1 b.w. every 6 h beginning immediately before surgery and continued until 30 h to 13 days postoperatively, depending of the size of the respective procedure. Using this approach, we observed normal haemostasis, and there were no signs of excessive postoperative bleeding or wound haematoma. No adverse reactions or side‐effects were observed, and there were no complaints or clinical signs indicative of thrombotic complications. As judged from the clinical course of these seven minor and major surgeries, recombinant factor VIIa appears to be highly efficaceous and safe in the treatment patients with severe factor VII deficiency undergoing surgery.
Intranasal DDAVP induced increases in plasma von Willebrand factor alter the pharmacokinetics of high‐purity factor VIII concentrates in severe haemophilia A patients
Authors: DEITCHER STEVEN R. , TULLER JANET , JOHNSON JULIE A.
Published: December 2004

Because native circulating factor VIII (FVIII) is maximally stabilized when it is bound to von Willebrand factor (vWf), increased plasma vWf levels may enhance the infused FVIII concentrate intravascular survival and efficacy in severe haemophiliacs. To assess whether the kinetic characteristics and recovery of high purity, plasma‐derived (Monoclate‐P®, Centeon) and recombinant (Bioclate™, Centeon) FVIII concentrates are enhanced by increased plasma vWf concentrations, we compared the pharmacokinetic response to a bolus of FVIII infused alone with the response to a bolus infused 2 h after the intranasal delivery of 300 μg of desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) High Concentration Nasal Spray (Stimate™, Centeon) in 10 adult severe haemophiliacs. FVIII activity was determined using a one‐stage clotting assay on cryopreserved plasma specimens obtained at baseline and at 14 distinct time points (0.25–48 h) following the FVIII infusions. Ristocetin co‐factor activity (RCoFA) and vWf antigen levels were assayed at baseline and 2 h after Stimate™. FVIII kinetic parameters were calculated using standard, noncompartmental kinetic methods. Statistical analysis was performed using a pairedt‐test with 95% confidence limits. The mean rises in RCoFA (0.65 ± 0.44 IU mL−1) and vWf antigen (0.19 ± 0.07 IU mL−1) induced by Stimate™ were significant (P < 0.01 andP < 0.0001, respectively). The mean increases in the volume of distribution at steady state (Vss) (13.2 ± 9.3 dL) and mean residence time (MRT) (4.4 ± 3.9 h) between the FVIII‐only arm and the FVIII plus Stimate™ arm were highly significant (P = 0.0015 andP = 0.0059, respectively). The mean differences in recovery, area under the curve (AUC), half‐life, and clearance (Cl) were not significantly altered. Subgroup analysis revealed statistically significant increases in Vss and MRT (P = 0.025 andP = 0.012, respectively) following the administration of intranasal DDAVP in the Monoclate‐P®cohort, but not in the Bioclate™ group. These data suggest that even modest pharmacologically induced increases in plasma vWf can favourably affect the kinetics of high‐purity, plasma‐derived FVIII concentrates in severe haemophiliacs.
Pilot study of an Internet‐based electronic patient treatment record and communication system for haemophilia, Advoy.com
Authors: Collins P. W. , Bolton‐Maggs P. , Stephenson D. , Jenkins B. , Loran C. , Winter M.
Published: December 2004

Summary.  Communication between patients and haemophilia centres is important in the management of the disease. Traditionally this has been done by paper records which give retrospective and often incomplete data. This paper describes the development and pilot study of a novel Internet‐based electronic patient treatment log. The advantages of the system include up to date information available to the haemophilia centre, less data entry, better quality records and an individualized alert system for significant events. The system was tested with ten patients at three UK haemophilia centres and found to be feasible and easy to use. In the opinion of the patients and health care professionals involved in the pilot study, the system improves quality, accuracy, accessibility and usefulness of patient generated data. Development of the system is ongoing and its use extended to other haemophilia centres.
Successful induction of immune tolerance in a patient with haemophilia B with inhibitor
Authors: Suzuki N. , Watanabe J. , Kudoh T. , Hori T. , Hatakeyama N. , Mizue N. , Oda T. , Tsutsumi H.
Published: December 2004

We describe successful induction of immune tolerance (IT) in a 10‐month‐old boy with severe haemophilia B. Urticaria developed soon after starting prophylactic treatment and was associated with an inhibitor at 7 Bethesda units mL−1. Initially, we tried low dose factor IX therapy to induce IT with only a transient effect. The patient experienced an intracranial haemorrhage. A simple bolus dose of FIX eradicated the inhibitor. Thereafter he has been free from inhibitor and nephrotic syndrome for more than 5 years, although he receives FIX three times a week.
Control of bleeding in patients with haemophilia A with inhibitors: a systematic review
Authors: Lloyd Jones M. , Wight J. , Paisley S. , Knight C.
Published: December 2004

This paper reports a systematic review of the best available evidence of clinical effectiveness in the treatment of acute bleeding in haemophilia A patients with inhibitors. Because of the lack of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on this topic, broad inclusion criteria with regard to study design were applied in order to assess the best available evidence for each intervention. Because of the clinical and methodological heterogeneity of the evidence, it was not appropriate to pool data across studies; instead, data were synthesized using tabulation and qualitative narrative assessment. No evidence was found to support the use of high‐dose factor VIII (FVIII) in bleeding episodes. However in surgery it was found to be highly successful (100%) for low‐titre, low‐responding inhibitors although not reliable for high‐responding inhibitors. Porcine FVIII (pFVIII) was effective in the control of severe bleeding episodes with high‐titre or high‐responding inhibitors (100%) and in 60–90% of surgical procedures. Activated prothrombin complex concentrates (APCCs) appear to be more effective than prothrombin complex concentrates (PCCs) in the control of mild to severe bleeding episodes. There was no good evidence for the use of PCCs in surgery. APCCs controlled bleeding in approximately 90% of surgical episodes. Recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) controlled 70–100% of mild to severe bleeding episodes with high‐responding inhibitors, and achieved better results when used early. It was effective in 60–100% of surgical episodes. Doses varied from study to study, and side‐effects from mild to infrequent but serious adverse events were reported. The quality of the evidence is variable. Limited evidence relating to other treatment options is also included in the review.
The Spectrum of Myositis Ossiticans in Haemophilia
Authors: Massey G. V. , Kuhn J. G. , Nogi J. , Spottswood S. E. , Narla L. D. , Dunn N. L. , Russell E. C.
Published: December 2004

Summary.  Myositis ossificans (MO) refers to non‐neoplastic heterotopic soft tissue ossification that can have several aetiologies. Broadly it can be classified into three categories based on aetiology [1]. MO traumatica, the most common form occurs secondary to acute or chronic trauma. MO can also be associated with neurological disorders and in rare cases is congenital. The latter (progressive MO) is a genetic disorder in which congenital osseous abnormalities are associated with progressive soft tissue calcification. Despite an increased tendency to soft tissue bleeds, MO has been rarely reported in haemophilia. We treated three adolescents with haemophilia and MO of varying degrees of severity and outcome.
Prophylactic therapy for haemophilia: early experience
Authors: Berntorp E.
Published: December 2004

Summary.  During the 1960s, it was reported from Sweden that haemophiliacs with factor levels above 1% rarely develop arthropathy. This observation suggested that severe haemophilia could be converted to a milder form by regular infusions with factor concentrate. After several earlier publications, a report was published in 1992 that detailed 25 years' experience with prophylaxis in 60 patients from the Malmö centre. The results showed that starting prophylaxis early in life with a dose regimen that would prevent factor VIII or IX plasma levels from falling below 1% could prevent the development of haemophilic arthropathy. Also, older age groups who had received less intensive treatment, and who started prophylaxis later in life, were still in a much better condition than historic controls. In the 1970s several small but well‐controlled studies from the USA, Germany and Italy clearly showed the benefit of prophylaxis in reducing bleeding frequency. Early experience from the Netherlands was published in 1971. Since these early studies, the results have been corroborated from many countries and in a large multinational study. Although the benefits of prophylaxis seem unquestionable, several research questions remain to be better elucidated, such as when to start and when to stop, dosing and dose interval, and how to assess the long‐term treatment effects. These issues are of great economic importance, and the need for health economical studies is obvious.
Adverse events in the prophylaxis of haemophilia
Authors: Giangrande P. L. F.
Published: December 2004

Summary.  Whilst prophylaxis undoubtedly offers many advantages, the potential for adverse effects must also be borne in mind. Modern plasma‐derived products have an extremely good safety record with regard to transmission of pathogens, although continuous vigilance is required as new pathogens continue to emerge, eg new variant Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease. There is no evidence that prophylactic treatment is associated with an increased incidence of inhibitors, and it is now recognized that genetic factors are the most significant in conferring susceptibility. Although subtle immunological abnormalities have also been observed in patients with haemophilia, there is no evidence that these are of any clinical significance. There has been a growing trend to use indwelling venous catheters for prophylaxis. The risk of infection has been appreciated for some time, although it has only recently been possible to quantify this with more precision. The risk of catheter‐associated thrombosis is now recognized to be higher than hitherto appreciated. Whilst sporting activities are to be encouraged, there is a potential for significant trauma in children with prophylaxis, as plasma coagulation factor levels remain far below normal with the usual regimens.
Pharmacokinetics of factor VIII and factor IX
Authors: Morfini M.
Published: December 2004

Summary. A survey of principal pharmacokinetic (PK) studies on factor VIII (FVIII) and factor IX (FIX) plasma‐ and rDNA‐derived concentrates, analysed by means of the PKRD program, has been performed. Notwithstanding the accurate definition of the study design, released in 1991 by the Scientific and Standardization Committee of the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (SSC‐ISTH), a large variability of PK parameters has been pointed out. In the majority of the PK studies, the size of the population is small. In this situation, a careful individualization of haemophilia therapy is strongly recommended. The tailored prediction of loading and maintenance dosages and the need for strict control of trough FVIII/IX levels are mandatory not only to decrease the risk of bleeds but also to spare financial resources. Recently, the old problem of FVIII assay standardization has again become a concern among physicians, especially after the introduction of B‐domain deleted rFVIII concentrate. The discrepancies between the widely used one‐stage clotting assay and the chromogenic substrate assay seem to be solved by the introduction of a product‐specific laboratory standard.
Orthopaedic assessment in haemophilia
Authors: Rodriguez‐Merchan E. C.
Published: December 2004

Summary.  Outcomes may be measured in terms of both objective and subjective variables and also on the basis of cost‐efficiency. Most tools currently used to quantify outcomes, especially in orthopaedics, involve measurements of general health and of specific body part or organ system function. Patients' expectations of medical care are linked to their requests for treatment and to their assessments of outcome and satisfaction. Rating results are fundamental to evaluation and comparison of different methods of treatment. The discrepancies existing among rating scales have been an impediment in the evaluation of haemophilic patients from the orthopaedic point of view. Progress depends on international cooperation to improve communication and on the evaluation of new surgical techniques. The World Federation of Haemophilia (WFH) physical joint examination instrument and the Colorado physical examination (PE) instruments made important contributions by developing forms that will serve as a foundation for future evaluation systems. Some authors have suggested that the Colorado PE instruments are more indicative of early joint dysfunction than the WFH instrument. Future goals of the Colorado PE instruments are to refine the standard forms, identify additional important reproducible criteria and develop a comprehensive method of evaluation. It is paramount to develop valid and reliable surveys that can be used preoperatively to direct patient education and shared decision making and to provide a framework for setting reasonable goals. Re‐examining patients' responses postoperatively could provide a way to assess fulfilment of expectations, which is a crucial patient‐derived measure of outcome and satisfaction.
On the estimation of fatigue failure under fretting conditions using notch methodologies
Authors: VALLELLANO C. , DOMINGUEZ J. , NAVARRO A.
Published: December 2004

ABSTRACT According to experimental evidence, the early stages of fatigue crack propagation under fretting conditions are strongly influenced by the stress gradient generated in the material near the contact zone. This suggests that the crack growth process can be analysed using methodologies similar to those employed to predict the fatigue behaviour of notched elements. This paper assesses the applicability of a number of models originally developed for notched components to fretting fatigue problems. The ability of such models to predict fatigue failure is discussed and compared with experimental results for Al 7075‐T6 specimens that were subjected to fretting fatigue under spherical contact.
Compensatory growth in fishes: a response to growth depression
Authors: Ali M , Nicieza A , Wootton R J
Published: December 2004

Compensatory growth (CG) is a phase of accelerated growth when favourable conditions are restored after a period of growth depression. CG reduces variance in size by causing growth trajectories to converge and is important to fisheries management, aquaculture and life history analysis because it can offset the effects of growth arrests.

Compensatory growth has been demonstrated in both individually housed and grouped fish, typically after growth depression has been induced by complete or partial food deprivation. Partial, full and over‐compensation have all been evoked in fish, although over‐compensation has only been demonstrated when cycles of deprivation and satiation feeding have been imposed. Individually housed fish have shown that CG is partly a response to hyperphagia when rates of food consumption are significantly higher than those in fish that have not experienced growth depression. The severity of the growth depression increases the duration of the hyperphagic phase rather than maximum daily feeding rate. In many studies, growth efficiencies were higher during CG. Changes in metabolic rate and swimming activity have not been demonstrated yet to play a role.

Periods of food deprivation induce changes in the storage reserves, particularly lipids, of fish. Apart from the strong evidence for the restoration of somatic growth trajectories, CG is a response to restore lipid levels. Although several neuro‐peptides, including neuropeptide‐Y, are probably involved in the control of appetite, their role and the role of hormones, such as growth hormone (GH) and insulin‐like growth factor (IGF), in the hyperphagia associated with CG are still unclear.

The advantages of CG probably relate to size dependencies of mortality, fecundity and diet that are characteristic of teleosts. These size dependencies favour a recovery from the effects of growth depression if environmental factors allow. High growth rates may also impose costs, including adverse effects on future development, growth, reproduction and swimming performance. Hyperphagia may lead to riskier behaviour in the presence of predators. CG's evolutionary consequences are largely unexplored. An understanding of why animals grow at rates below their physiological capacity, an evaluation of the costs of rapid growth and the identification of the constraints on growth trajectories represent major challenges for life‐history theory.
Elizabeth Blackwell—the forgotten herbalist?
Authors: Madge Bruce
Published: December 2004

This article looks at the work of Elizabeth Blackwell (1707–1758), by all accounts the first British female herbalist. To raise funds to free her husband from debtors prison, she produced her hand drawn, engraved and coloured ‘Curious Herbal’ in 1735. Using the copies of the herbal in the British Library, the article will look at the circumstances surrounding production of the herbal, her influences and sources used, including the people who recommended production of the book to the Society of Apothecaries and some of the current projects to put her name back on the map.
Development of the National electronic Library for Mental Health: providing evidence‐based information for all
Authors: Dearness Karin Lee , Tomlin André
Published: December 2004

There has been an explosion of mental health literature available on the Internet over the past 5 years, with current estimates placing the number of health related Websites at over 100 000. The scope and depth of each site is unique and this serves to contribute to the difficulty of finding reliable, high‐quality literature. This paper details efforts being made within the UK to provide high quality, evidence‐based mental health literature for patients, clinicians and health policy makers as part of the National electronic Library for Health project.
Medical journals and effective dissemination of health research
Authors: Coomarasamy Aravinthan , Gee Harry , Publicover Mary , Khan Khalid S.
Published: December 2004

Clinical medical journals have not been effective in meeting the information needs of practitioners and bridging the gap between clinical research and practice. The slow adoption of results of clinical research is at least partly due to the failure of clinical journals to disseminate information in a way that would motivate practitioners to change practice. Although implementation is primarily a local process, medical journals are in a unique position to advance implementation by modifying their focus and adjusting their contents. Strategies that may be useful include publication of pre‐appraised evidence summaries and ‘clinical bottom‐lines’ and giving importance to systematic reviews and large evaluative research articles as they represent higher levels of evidence and have greater potential to change practice. Clinical journals should encourage researchers to consider how and by whom the findings will be used and provide information on implications for implementation such as possible strategies that may work, cost‐effectiveness, side‐effects and potential barriers to implementation. Medical journal publishers should explore ways to cooperate so that findings of landmark clinical trials could be shared thus reducing the ‘scatter’ of medical information. Electronic media offers numerous advantages such as quick accessibility and linking of information, and medical journals should capitalize on such innovations. There is a paradigm shift in health care practice as evidence is consciously and explicitly incorporated into individual patient care. Medical journals need to change to reflect this change in practice and provide practitioners with valid and relevant information.
Research governance: implications for health library and information professionals
Authors: Sen Barbara A.
Published: December 2004

TheResearch Governance Framework for Health and Social Carepublished by the Department of Health in 2001 provides a model of best practice and a framework for research in the health and social care sector. This article reviews theDepartment of Health Research Governance Framework, discusses the implications of research governance for library and information professionals undertaking research in the health‐ and social‐care sector and recommends strategies for best practice within the information profession relating to research governance. The scope of theFrameworkdocument that covers both clinical and non‐clinical research is outlined. Any research involving, amongst other issues, patients, NHS staff and use or access to NHS premises may require ethics committee approval. Particular reference is made to the roles, responsibilities and professional conduct and the systems needed to support effective research practice. Issues such as these combine to encourage the development of a quality research culture which supports best practice. Questions arise regarding the training and experience of researchers, and access to the necessary information and support. The use of theFrameworkto guide research practice complements the quality issues within the evidence‐based practice movement and supports the ongoing development of a quality research culture. Recommendations are given in relation to the document's five domains of ethics, science, information, health and safety and finance and intellectual property. Practical recommendations are offered for incorporating research governance into research practice in ways which conform to theFramework’sstandards and which are particularly relevant for research practitioners in information science. Concluding comments support the use of theResearch Governance Frameworkas a model for best practice.
Evaluation of a multisite food service information system
Authors: Patch C. S. , Maunder K. A. , Fleming V. H.
Published: December 2004

Centralized food production and distribution systems are reliant on the accurate and effective transfer of information. Computerized information systems (ISs) are often implemented to achieve this goal. However, rarely does the implementation of a new IS prompt a formal empirical evaluation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the business process of delivering accurate patient meals as well as identifying sources of error using the work‐centred analysis model as a framework for evaluation. A cross‐sectional observational study was carried out at three time points (4, 8 and 12 months) using an administered questionnaire. A total of 904 patients from five hospital sites were sampled. Twelve months after implementation and despite management intervention, no significant improvements were observed in the business process of providing patient meals. Overall, 20–35%[95% confidence interval (CI)] of patients admitted to hospital were not given the opportunity to select their own meal from a menu, and of those that did 10–30% (95% CI) received an incorrect meal. We hypothesize that a significant contribution of errors is largely systematic and a direct result of the centralization of meal plating and distribution.
The geological consequences of evolution
Authors: Knoll Andrew H.
Published: December 2004

Geobiologists seek to understand the role of organisms in the Earth system. By extension, one can ask how evolutionary innovations and, more generally, the population genetic processes that mediate evolution have influenced the Earth's surface through time. The example of oxygenic photosynthesis and the redox history of atmospheres and oceans illustrates the complex relationship between evolution and environmental change. Biological innovations determine the dimensions of biological participation in the Earth system, but by themselves they seldom generate lasting environmental change. More commonly, environments change when physical drivers exceed the limited environmental buffering capacity conferred by population genetics and nutritional codependence. Environmental change, in turn, feeds back on biology, creating new opportunities for evolutionary innovation.
Geobiological analysis using whole genome‐based tree building applied to the Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya
Authors: House Christopher H. , Runnegar Bruce , Fitz‐Gibbon Sorel T.
Published: December 2004

We constructed genomic trees based on the presence and absence of families of protein‐encoding genes observed in 55 prokaryotic and five eukaryotic genomes. There are features of the genomic trees that are not congruent with typical rRNA phylogenetic trees. In the bacteria, for example, Deinococcus radiodurans associates with the Gram‐positive bacteria, a result that is also seen in some other phylogenetic studies using whole genome data. In the Archaea, the methanogens plus Archaeoglobus form a united clade and the Euryarchaeota are divided with the two Thermoplasma genomes and Halobacterium sp. falling below the Crenarchaeota. While the former appears to be an accurate representation of methanogen‐relatedness, the misplacement of Halobacterium may be an artefact of parsimony. These results imply the last common ancestor of the Archaea was not a methanogen, leaving sulphur reduction as the most geochemically plausible metabolism for the base of the archaeal crown group. It also suggests that methanogens were not a component of the Earth's earliest biosphere and that their origin occurred sometime during the Archean. In the Eukarya, the parsimony analysis of five Eukaryotes using the Crenarchaeota as an outgroup seems to counter the Ecdysozoa hypothesis, placing Caenorhabditis elegans (Nematoda) below the common ancestor of Drosophila melanogaster (Arthropoda) and Homo sapiens (Chordata) even when efforts are made to counter the possible effects of a faster rate of sequence evolution for the C. elegans genome. Further analysis, however, suggests that the gene loss of ‘animal’ genes is highest in C. elegans and is obscuring the relationships of these organisms.
The mechanisms of resistance to antimalarial drugs in Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Le Bras Jacques , Durand Rémy
Published: December 2004

Drug‐resistant malaria is primarily caused by Plasmodium falciparum, a species highly prevalent in tropical Africa, the Amazon region and South‐east Asia. It causes severe fever or anaemia that leads to more than a million deaths each year. The emergence of chloroquine resistance has been associated with a dramatic increase in malaria mortality among inhabitants of some endemic regions. The rationale for chemoprophylaxis is weakening as multiple‐drug resistance develops against well‐tolerated drugs. Plasmodium falciparum drug‐resistant malaria originates from chromosome mutations. Analysis by molecular, genetic and biochemical approaches has shown that (i) impaired chloroquine uptake by the parasite vacuole is a common characteristic of resistant strains, and this phenotype is correlated with mutations of the Pfmdr1, Pfcg2 and Pfcrt genes; (ii) one to four point mutations of dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), the enzyme target of antifolates (pyrimethamine and proguanil) produce a moderate to high level of resistance to these drugs; (iii) the mechanism of resistance to sulfonamides and sulfones involves mutations of dihydropteroate synthase (DHPS), their enzyme target; (iv) treatment with sulphadoxine–pyrimethamine selects for DHFR variants Ile(51), Arg(59), and Asn(108) and for DHPS variants Ser(436), Gly(437), and Glu(540); (v) clones that were resistant to some traditional antimalarial agents acquire resistance to new ones at a high frequency (accelerated resistance to multiple drugs, ARMD). The mechanisms of resistance for amino‐alcohols (quinine, mefloquine and halofantrine) are still unclear. Epidemiological studies have established that the frequency of chloroquine resistant mutants varies among isolated parasite populations, while resistance to antifolates is highly prevalent in most malarial endemic countries. Established and strong drug pressure combined with low antiparasitic immunity probably explains the multidrug‐resistance encountered in the forests of South‐east Asia and South America. In Africa, frequent genetic recombinations in Plasmodium originate from a high level of malaria transmission, and falciparum chloroquine‐resistant prevalence seems to stabilize at the same level as chloroquine‐sensitive malaria. Nevertheless, resistance levels may differ according to place and time. In vivo and in vitro tests do not provide an adequate accurate map of resistance. Biochemical tools at a low cost are urgently needed for prospective monitoring of resistance.
Current treatments for scabies
Authors: Buffet M. , Dupin N.
Published: December 2004

Scabies is a frequent interhuman ectoparasitic infection. Several treatments are available worldwide. There are local treatments: synthetic pyrethrins, benzyl benzoate, lindane, crotamiton. Recently a few studies were published concerning ivermectin, systemic antiparasitic agent use in onchocercosis treatment.

We reviewed the literature with an evidence‐based medicine method. We attempt to answer two questions in particular: what is the treatment of choice for common scabies in a patient otherwise in good health? What is the role of systemic ivermectin? We also report specific situations.

Among local treatments, studies are heterogeneous according to products, countries, group of treated patients, with or without contact subjects, and the method of treatment application. There are very few high proof‐level controlled studies. In France, a combination of benzyl benzoate 10% and sulfiram 2% is used most, according to professional consensus. The most studied product is the cream permethrin 5%, available in the USA and UK. Its efficacy seems slightly superior to lindane and less toxic. It is more efficient than crotamiton. There is no study comparing benzyl benzoate and permethrin. Concerning systemic ivermectin, five controlled studies showed its efficiency in common scabies. But its relative efficiency over local treatment has not been established. A few open studies showed its efficacy in institutional epidemic, profuse scabies and in HIV‐positive patients.

Local treatment of choice in common scabies remains to be determined among the four principal molecules. There is no study comparing permethrin or esdepallethrin to benzyl benzoate. In what cases should we prescribe crotamiton or lindane? Indication of ivermectin seems proved in common scabies and probably for HIV‐positive patients. It remains to be determined if it should be prescribed in the first instance, be double or triple, be associated or not with local treatment. In case of keratotic scabies, ivermectin seems interesting with two applications within 1 week, and should be associated with local treatment (duration remains to be defined). Ivermectin is probably useful in institutional epidemic, and therapeutic attitude remains to be defined. Ivermectin seems to have little or no risk.

Treatment must be adapted case‐by‐case, according to feasibility. It is still important to treat contacts, and modality of this treatment remains to be specified.
Recent Use of Proton Pump Inhibitor‐Based Triple Therapies for the Eradication of H. pylori: A Broad Data Review
Authors: Ulmer Hans‐Joachim , Beckerling Andree , Gatz Gudrun
Published: December 2004

abstract

Introduction. For the eradication of Helicobacter pylori a 1‐week triple therapy combining proton pump inhibitors with two antibiotics has been recommended as a gold standard therapy. However, a recent broad data review on the efficacy of the different regimens is missing. Therefore, the aim of this study was to systematically review the recent literature.

Methods. We undertook a broad data review of the efficacy of nine different 7‐day triple therapies consisting of a proton pump inhibitor (lansoprazole, pantoprazole, omeprazole) in its standard dosage and two antibiotics. Relevant original papers on H. pylori eradication in adults, published in English or German between 1995 and 2000, were identified from MEDLINE searches. Studies were reviewed and selected according to predefined criteria.

Results. Our predefined criteria were fulfilled by 79 full paper articles including 112 study arms with 8383 patients on intention‐to‐treat, or 6787 patients on per‐protocol basis, respectively. The mean eradication rates unweighted or weighted by the number of patients in the study arm vary from 71.9% to 83.8% for intention‐to‐treat analysis and from 78.5% to 91.2% for per‐protocol analysis.

Conclusions. All nine PPI based triple therapy regimens are very effective in H. pylori eradication. The current literature review underlines that the use of either lansoprazole, omeprazole, or pantoprazole combined with two antibiotics yield similar high eradication rates.
Quality of Life, Coping Strategies, and Family Routines in Children with Headache
Authors: Frare Mara , Axia Giovanna , Battistella Pier Antonio
Published: December 2004

Objective.—To identify the relationship between headache severity, child coping, and quality of life (QoL) in the context of everyday family life.

Background.—In the pediatric headache research only 3 studies have examined children's coping strategies and only 4 studies considered QoL.

Methods.—A sample of 48 Italian families with children seeking treatment for primary headaches was interviewed using an adaptation of the Ecocultural Family Interview (EFI). The EFI is a parent interview that explores the daily routines of family life in which the child and parent participate and the main concerns regarding how that routine is organized.

Results.—As expected the Lisrel analyses consistently showed that QoL is affected by a child's coping abilities in a causal direction. Headache frequency and duration have a significant impact on a child's QoL. The family daily routine influences significantly both the child's coping ability and QoL. Surprisingly enough, children's coping strategies are not related to headache severity.

Conclusions.—More research is needed on the causal factors influencing child's ability to cope with pain, and in particular more attention should be devoted to the contextual and family factors related to pediatric headache.
Migraine Preventive Medication Reduces Resource Utilization
Authors: Silberstein Stephen D. , Winner Paul K. , Chmiel Joseph J.
Published: December 2004

Objective.—To determine if long‐term resource utilization is reduced by adding a preventive medication to a migraine management regimen that already includes acute medication.

Background.—In 2000, new evidence‐based guidelines for the treatment of migraine were released by the US Headache Consortium and the American Academy of Neurology. Although these guidelines emphasize the role of preventive medication in achieving significant clinical improvement, little yet is known concerning the impact of such management on medical and pharmaceutical resources.

Methods.—Resource utilization information in a large claims database was analyzed retrospectively.

Results.—Adding a preventive medication to migraine management reduced the use of other migraine medications, as well as visits to physician offices and emergency departments. In addition, both acute and preventive medications were associated with lower utilization of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans.

Conclusion.—Migraine preventive drug therapy is effective in reducing resource consumption when added to therapy consisting only of an acute medication.
The Impact of an Over‐the‐Counter Migraine Medication Program on Quality of Life
Authors: Burk Caroline T. , Gilderman Alex , Salas Joyce , Berenbeim David , Nichol Michael B.
Published: December 2004

Objective.—This study was conducted to assess the health‐related quality of life of patients treated with samples of an over‐the‐counter migraine medication.

Background.—Population‐based epidemiologic studies have reported that over 90% of an estimated 28 million migraine sufferers in the United States use both prescription and nonprescription medications for their migraine headaches, with 60% taking over‐the‐counter medications exclusively. Despite the widespread use of nonprescription drugs, no published literature to date has assessed migraineurs' health‐related quality of life associated with use of over‐the‐counter headache medication.

Methods.—This prospective and observational study evaluated the impact on health‐related quality of life of patients from a managed care organization who were diagnosed with migraine and prescribed migraine medications. Patients were enrolled from four different medical groups and were requested to complete health‐related quality‐of‐life questionnaires 2 and 4 months after they were provided with educational materials on migraine and samples of an over‐the‐counter migraine medication containing a combination of acetaminophen, aspirin, and caffeine.

Results.—A total of 99 patients who chose an over‐the‐counter medication as their initial treatment for acute migraine occurring over the ensuing 4 months completed a baseline Short‐Form 36, a validated and reliable general health status questionnaire. They then were retested at months 2 and 4. Results demonstrated significant improvements at months 2 and months 4 in one to four of the health‐related quality‐of‐life dimensions measured relative to scores recorded before the patients were given access to the over‐the‐counter medication (P  <  .05). In addition, patients who initially took an over‐the‐counter medication to treat their migraine headaches reported increased frequency of relief.

Conclusion.—In the 4 months following availability of an over‐the‐counter migraine medication and educational migraine materials, health‐related quality of life and frequency of relief improved for the managed care migraine sufferers who participated in this study.