bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Staff attitudes towards aggression in health care: a review of the literature
Authors: JANSEN G. J. , DASSEN T. W. N. , GROOT JEBBINK G.
Published: February 2005

The aim of this literature review was to explore the attitudes of health care workers towards inpatient aggression and to analyse the extent to which attitudes, as defined from a theoretical point of view, were addressed in the selected studies. Databases from 1980 up to the present were searched, and a content analysis was done on the items of the selected studies. The concepts ‘cognition’ and ‘attitude’ from the framework of ‘The Theory of Reasoned Action’ served as categories. The self‐report questionnaire was the most common instrument used and three instruments specifically designed to measure attitudes were found. These instruments lacked profound validity testing. From a total of 74 items, two thirds focussed on cognitions and only a quarter really addressed attitudes towards aggression. Research was particularly concerned with the cognitions that nurses had about aggression, and attitudes were studied only to a limited extent. Researchers used different instruments, which makes it difficult to compare results across settings.
An exploration of factors affecting the implementation of a randomized controlled trial of a transitional discharge model for people with a serious mental illness
Authors: SHARKEY S. , MACIVER S. , CAMERON D. , REYNOLDS W. , LAUDER W. , VEITCH T.
Published: February 2005

Information about the contexts in which trials are carried out helps to identify confounding influences on the application of a trial. Furthermore, the ways in which context and implementation of trials influence participation are particularly important for trials which utilize people as part of the intervention. This is particularly likely in the mental health and psychosocial fields. The researchers used mixed methods to identify quality issues encountered during the conduct of a trial, aiming to explore process and contextual factors encountered during its implementation in a mental health setting. Staff and peer volunteers who contributed to the intervention provided information on implementation via diaries and group meetings. Findings in this paper relate to staff feedback. By providing an insider view, researchers were able to highlight the importance of obtaining feedback on implementation. Findings relate to the context of the study, particularly organizational, practitioner and trial preparation issues and illustrate the importance of building quality assurance mechanisms into research plans, such as monitoring and feedback processes. The issue of ‘people involvement’ in trial delivery requires sensitive management and flexibility in both preparation and delivery.
Pharmacodynamics of ibafloxacin in micro‐organisms isolated from cats
Authors: COULET M. , COX P. , LOHUIS J.
Published: February 2005

The pharmacodynamic properties of ibafloxacin were investigated in micro‐organisms isolated from cats. Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of ibafloxacin (racemate, R‐ and S‐enantiomers) and its metabolites (7‐hydroxy‐ and 8‐hydroxy‐ibafloxacin) and time‐kill kinetics were determined against Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria isolated from dermal and respiratory and urinary tract infections in cats. Racemic ibafloxacin has a broad spectrum of bactericidal activity against Gram‐negative and some Gram‐positive bacteria. Escherichia coli and Pasteurella, Klebsiella and Staphylococcus spp. are commonly isolated from feline infections and all are susceptible to ibafloxacin (MIC90 ≤ 0.5 μg/mL), whereas Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis and Streptococcus spp. are considered intrinsic resistant. Microbiological activity resides primarily in the S‐enantiomer of ibafloxacin whereas the R‐enantiomer is less active. Killing curves using concentrations of racemic ibafloxacin and 8‐hydroxy‐ibafloxacin, which are representative of the in vivo situation observed in cats, showed at least 99.9% reduction in viable bacterial isolates from feline clinical samples over 24 h. Bacterial eradication was achieved in cats with Cmax/MIC and AUC/MIC values much lower than the target values previously established in man and laboratory animals. Additional studies in dogs and cats are necessary to define more clearly the surrogate markers of antibacterial activity (i.e. Cmax/MIC, AUC/MIC ratios), which are associated with a good clinical response.
Influence of marbofloxacin on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of tolfenamic acid in calves
Authors: SIDHU P. K. , LANDONI M. F. , LEES P.
Published: February 2005

Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of tolfenamic acid (TA) in calves were determined in serum and fluids of inflamed (carrageenan administered) and non‐inflamed subcutaneously implanted tissue cages after intramuscular administration both alone and in combination with marbofloxacin (MB). MB significantly altered the pharmacokinetics of TA: mean values wereCmax = 2.14 and 1.64 μg/mL,AUC = 27.38 and 16.80 μg·h/mL, Vd(area)/F = 0.87 and 1.17 L/kg, and ClB/F = 0.074 and 0.128 L/kg/h, respectively, after administration of TA alone and TA + MB.T1/2K10and MRT were not significantly different for the two treatments. The pharmacodynamic properties of TA were not influenced by MB co‐administration, in spite of the alterations in some TA pharmacokinetic parameters. TA inhibited prostaglandin E2(PGE2) synthesisin vivoin inflammatory exudate by 50–88% for up to 48 h after both TA treatments. Inhibition of synthesis of serum thromboxane B2(TxB2)ex vivoranged from 40 to 85% up to 24 h after both TA and TA + MB. From the derived pharmacokinetic and eicosanoid inhibition data for TA, pharmacodynamic parameters for serum TxB2and exudate PGE2inhibition expressing efficacy (Emax = 78.1 and 97.5%), potency (IC50 = 0.256 and 0.265 μg/mL), sensitivity (N = 1.96 and 2.29) and the pharmacokinetic parameter equilibration time (t1/2Ke0 = 0.695 and 24.0 h), respectively, were determined. In this model TA was a nonselective inhibitor of cyclo‐oxygenase (COX) (COX‐1:COX‐2 IC50ratio = 1.37). TA, both alone and co‐administered with MB, did not affect leucocyte numbers in exudate, transudate or blood. Partial attenuation of skin temperature rise over inflamed tissue cages and reduction of zymosan‐induced skin swelling were recorded after administration of TA and TA + MB with no significant differences between the two treatments. These data provide a basis for the rational use of TA in combination with MB in calf medicine.
Factors associated with the initiation of alpha‐interferon treatment in Medicaid patients diagnosed with hepatitis C
Authors: Markowitz J. S. , Gutterman E. M. , Hodes D. , Klaskala W.
Published: February 2005

Summary. We aimed to determine rates of treatment with alpha‐interferon medication in patients diagnosed with hepatitis C virus (HCV), to ascertain the prevalence of selected conditions that could influence initiation of interferon treatment, and to examine the association between the presence of these conditions and interferon treatment. A nested case–control design was used in California Medicaid (Medi‐Cal) claims data covering the period from 1 January 1996 to 30 June 2002. Interferon‐treated cases and non‐treated controls were selected in a 1 : 2 ratio that matched the length of the observation period and year of index HCV diagnosis. Predictor variables examined in bivariate and multivariate analyses included demographics, substance abuse and dependence, psychotropic drug use, selected chronic conditions and medical utilization. The proportion of eligible subjects diagnosed with HCV and treated with interferon ranged from 10.7 to 13.9%. There were 529 treated cases that met the eligibility criteria and 1058 non‐treated HCV patients selected as controls. Multivariate factors that increased the likelihood of treatment were a liver biopsy, a diagnosis of mild liver disease, a diagnosis of psoriasis, antidepressant use and classification of race/ethnicity as ‘other’. A decreased likelihood of treatment was linked to age ≥65 years, a diagnosis of kidney disease, one to four emergency visits and five or more emergency visits. The proportion of patients receiving interferon treatment in the Medi‐Cal‐insured population was low compared with published rates in HCV patients in other general medical settings. The diverse factors linked to initiation of HCV therapy raise compelling questions for further research.
Protein–DNA interactions in the T4 dNTP synthetase complex dependent on gene 32 single‐stranded DNA‐binding protein
Authors: Kim JuHyun , Wheeler Linda J. , Shen Rongkun , Mathews Christopher K.
Published: February 2005

Our laboratory has reported data suggesting a role for T4 phage gene 32 single‐stranded DNA‐binding protein in organizing a complex of deoxyribonucleotide‐synthesizing enzymes at the replication fork. In this article we examined the effects of gene 32 ablation on the association of these enzymes with DNA–protein complexes. These experiments showed several deoxyribonucleotide‐synthesizing enzymes to be present in DNA–protein complexes, with some of these associations being dependent on gene 32 protein. To further understand the role of gp32, we created amber mutations at codons 24 and 204 of gene 32, which encodes a 301‐residue protein. We used the newly created mutants along with several experimental approaches – DNA‐cellulose chromatography, immunoprecipitation, optical biosensor analysis and glutathione‐S‐transferase pulldowns – to identify relevant protein–protein and protein–DNA interactions. These experiments identified several proteins whose interactions with DNA depend on the presence of intact gp32, notably thymidylate synthase, dihydrofolate (DHF) reductase, ribonucleotide reductase (RNR) and Escherichia coli nucleoside diphosphate (NDP) kinase, and they also demonstrated direct associations between gp32 and RNR and NDP kinase, but not dCMP hydroxymethylase, deoxyribonucleoside monophosphate kinase, or DHF reductase. Taken together, the results support the hypothesis that the gene 32 protein helps to recruit enzymes of deoxyribonucleoside triphosphates synthesis to DNA replication sites.
In vivo analysis of the roles of conserved aspartate and histidine residues within a complex response regulator
Authors: Li Lina , Kehoe David M.
Published: February 2005

RcaC is the founding member of a group of large response regulators with complex domain combinations containing at least two receiver domains, an OmpR‐class winged helix‐turn‐helix DNA binding domain, and a histidine phosphotransfer (HPt) domain. Within its two receiver and HPt domains, RcaC contains consensus phosphorylation sites at aspartates 51, 576 and histidine 316. RcaC operates in the pathway regulating transcription of genes encoding components of photosynthetic light harvesting antenna to changes in light colour. We show that phycocyanin gene expression requires RcaC. RcaC contributes to light regulation of phycoerythrin genes, but is not part of the second light regulation pathway controlling these genes. Substitutions at aspartate 51 or histidine 316 severely impaired light responsiveness while substitutions at aspartate 576 had little effect. Complete loss of light regulation, measured by phycocyanin gene expression, only occurred in the triple mutant. We conclude that aspartate 51 primarily controls light colour responsiveness and is regulated by histidine 316, and that these residues are likely phosphorylated in red light and dephosphorylated in green light. The carboxy‐terminal receiver domain has a minor role in controlling this response. RcaC abundance is also light regulated and depends on aspartate 51 and histidine 316, but not aspartate 576.
Coupling isoprene and monoterpene emissions from Amazonian tree species with physiological and environmental parameters using a neural network approach
Authors: SIMON E. , KUHN U. , ROTTENBERGER S. , MEIXNER F. X. , KESSELMEIER J.
Published: February 2005

The ability to predict isoprene emissions from plants is important for predicting atmospheric chemistry. To improve the basis for prediction capability, data obtained from continuous field measurements of isoprene and monoterpene emissions from three Amazonian tree species were related to observed environmental and leaf physiological parameters using a new neural network approach. The environmental parameters included leaf temperature, light, relative humidity, water vapour pressure deficit, and the history of ambient temperature and ozone concentration, whereas the physiological parameters included stomatal conductance, assimilation and intercellular CO2concentration. The neural approach with 24 different combinations of these parameters was applied to predict the emission variability observed during short time periods (2–3 d) with individual tree branches and, on a longer‐term scale, in aggregated data sets from different seasons, leaf developmental stage, and light environment. The results were compared to the quasi standard emission algorithm for isoprene. On the short‐term scale, good agreement (r2≈ 0.9) was obtained between observations and predictions of the standard algorithm as well as predictions of the neural network using the same input parameters (leaf temperature and light). When these predictors were used to model the long‐term emission variability,r2was reduced to < 0.5 for both approaches. Remarkably, for the neural technique, more than 50% of the unexplained variance could be explained by the mean temperature of the preceding 36 h. An even better network performance was obtained with physiological parameter combinations (r2 > 0.9) suggesting a strong and applicable link between isoprenoid emission and leaf primary metabolism.
Hepatitis B virus genotypes and precore mutations in Scottish blood donors
Authors: Davidson F. , Lycett C. , Sablon E. , Petrik J. , Dow B. C.
Published: February 2005

Background and Objectives  This study was carried out to determine the frequency of hepatitis B virus (HBV) core promoter variants (nucleotide positions 1762, 1764) and precore variants (nucleotide position 1896) in hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)‐positive Scottish blood donors. HBV genotypes present in this population were also indentified.

Materials and Methods  A total of 85 HBsAg‐positive blood donor samples were included in the study. Of these, 79 were polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive and had sequence and mutation information. They were divided into two groups: group 1 (23 individuals) were hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐positive and negative for antibody to HBe (anti‐HBe); and group 2 (56 individuals) were HBeAg negative and positive for anti‐HBe. A line probe assay was used to detect mutations, and a comparison was made by using direct sequence analysis. A different line probe assay was used to identify HBV genotype.

Results  The frequencies of mutations in group 1 were 22% each for mutations 1762, 1764 and 1896, increasing to 26%, 35% and 55% in group 2, respectively. By contrast, direct sequence analysis failed to identify 70% of wild‐type/mutant mixes. The prevalence of viral genotypes was 41% for genotype A, 12% for genotype B, 5% for genotype C, 30% for genotype D and 12% for mixed‐genotype infections. Precore mutations were seen in 10%, 88%, 25% and 74% of genotypes A, B, C and D, respectively.

Conclusions  The results indicate that core promoter and/or precore mutants may be under‐reported. The combination of HBV PCR and line probe assays is useful for supplementing HBV serological tests. Non‐Caucasian genotypes are present in the UK blood‐donating population and will therefore affect the demographics of HBV infection.
Infliximab in the surgical management of complex fistulating anal Crohn's disease
Authors: Talbot C. , Sagar P. M. , Johnston M. J. , Finan P. J. , Burke D.
Published: February 2005

Objectives  To assess prospectively the efficacy and safety of treatment of perianal Crohn's disease by means of a combination of surgical management and a standardized protocol for the intravenous infusion of infliximab.

Methods  A consecutive series of patients who presented with complex perianal Crohn's fistulae between November 1999 and March 2003 were included in the study. Perianal sepsis was eradicated with drainage of collections and insertion of setons. Infliximab was infused at 5 mg/kg at 0, 2, and 6 weeks. Setons were removed after the second infliximab infusion. Endpoints were defined as either complete, partial or no response as noted at subsequent outpatient follow up. Adverse reactions were recorded.

Results  Twenty‐one patients had a median of three fistulae per patient (range 1–9). All patients tolerated the initial protocol, receiving a median of five infusions of infliximab (range 3–19); median follow up 20 months (range 12–52). Eleven patients (53%) were continued on maintenance therapy with 12 weekly infusions of infliximab for either a perceived clinical need for treatment or after a relapse of their symptoms. Ten (47%) patients experienced a complete response to treatment and the remaining 11 (53%) experienced a partial response. No patient failed to respond to treatment. Four adverse reactions were noted (2 mild allergies, 1 rash and 1 patient experienced joint pains). All adverse reactions settled with cessation of the drug infusion.

Conclusions  The combination of seton drainage and infusion of infliximab completely healed the perineum of 47% patients with complex fistulating perianal Crohn's disease. Partial response was seen in the remainder of patients. No serious adverse reactions reported.
The role of rectocele repair in targeted patients with obstructed defaecation
Authors: Hirst G. R. , Hughes R. J. , Morgan A. R. , Carr N. D. , Patel B. , Beynon J.
Published: February 2005

Introduction  Obstructed defaecation is a complex disorder that poses serious management challenges. The purpose of this study is to review the functional results of surgery in women undergoing rectocele repair for obstructed defaecation, and in a targeted subgroup in which the rectocele was the only identifiable cause of their symptoms.

Methods  All case notes were reviewed. Demographic details, preoperative symptoms, details of previous pelvic surgery, radiological and anorectal physiology results, operative procedure, post operative symptoms, length of follow‐up and details of further pelvic reconstructive surgery were recorded. To enter the targeted group, patients (i) had not undergone previous pelvic surgery, (ii) had presented with obstructive defaecation, (iii) had a proctogram that demonstrated a rectocele with no or partial intrarectal intussusception and (iv) had no other functional abnormality in colonic transit studies, endoanal ultrasound or anorectal physiology.

Results  Eighty‐two case notes were reviewed. All experienced obstructed defaecation. Forty‐two women underwent a per‐anal plication of the rectocele, 33 had a transperineal plication and levatorplasty and seven a mesh repair. A total of 63 (77%) women were pleased with the result, though symptoms later returned in 17 (27%) of them. 26 (31%) had further surgery in an attempt to improve their defaecatory difficulties. Sixteen women were eligible for the targeted group. All had a good early result though symptoms returned in three women. Two (12%) had further surgery.

Conclusion  Careful preoperative patient selection is vital to improve outcomes. Preoperative counselling of all patients undergoing rectocele repair is of extreme importance, in particular explaining the evolving nature of pelvic floor dysfunction and the possible need for further reconstructive surgery.
Laparoscopic specimen extraction: morcellation
Authors: Varkarakis Ioannis , Rha Khoon , Hernandez Fernando , Kavoussi Louis R. , Jarrett Thomas W.
Published: February 2005

OBJECTIVES

To review our experience with intact extraction and morcellation of nephrectomy specimens, and the advantages and disadvantages of morcellation indicated by current reports.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In a previous study, 56 consecutive patients undergoing radical and simple transperitoneal laparoscopic nephrectomy were prospectively evaluated. Morcellation specimens (33) were extracted at the umbilical or lateral port sites and intact specimens (23) through an infra‐umbilical incision. Data were obtained on pathology, narcotic requirements, hospital stay, complications, estimated blood loss, size of renal mass based on preoperative imaging, specimen weight and extraction incision length

RESULTS

The mean incision length was 1.2 cm in the morcellation group and 7.1 cm in the intact group (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in pain or recovery between the groups. In two cases of tumour nephrectomy, microscopic invasion of the perinephric adipose tissue in the intact specimen group were up‐staged from clinical T1 to pT3a disease; there was no change in patient treatment based on this information.

CONCLUSIONS

With proper technique, morcellation is safe for extracting renal tumours. The specimen can be evaluated for histology but not for pathological staging, limiting its use with transitional cell carcinoma. Port‐site seeding is rare, and does not appear to be more frequent than with open nephrectomy. Although morcellation is cosmetically more desirable, there was no significant advantage in operating time, pain or duration of hospital stay. The choice of extraction method depends on the surgeon's preference and patient choice.
Broadening experience with the retrograde endoscopic management of upper urinary tract urothelial malignancies
Authors: Johnson G.B. , Fraiman M. , Grasso M.
Published: February 2005

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the results of the retrograde endoscopic treatment of upper urinary tract urothelial malignancies (UUTUM) in an attempt to preserve renal function while also obtaining an acceptable oncological result.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Since 1995, 63 patients who were referred for retrograde endoscopic management of UUTUM were evaluated and treated. All patients had an initial diagnostic ureteroscopy and biopsy to obtain histopathological grading. Additional imaging studies were obtained to exclude metastatic disease. The treatment was directed by tumour grade at presentation and medical comorbidity. Tumour volume and multifocality did not exclude patients from vigorous endoscopic treatment. Tumours were resected with electrocautery, holmium‐YAG and Nd:YAG laser. Follow‐up endoscopic surveillance was initially at 3‐month intervals, with increasing intervals in patients with repeatedly negative findings.

RESULTS

The tumour grade at presentation was high in 14 (22%), moderate in six (10%), low in 35 (55%) and carcinoma in situ in eight (13%), with 13 (20%) presenting with or subsequently developing bilateral disease. Twenty patients had a nephroureterectomy as they were not amenable to endoscopic treatment. Medical comorbidities necessitated palliative endoscopic therapy of high‐grade tumour in six patients; the remaining 35 had low‐grade tumour and were managed with retrograde endoscopic therapy. Recurrent low‐grade disease was identified in 24 with a mean (range) time to recurrence of 15 (3–63) months. There was concurrent low‐grade bladder cancer in 21 (60%) of the patients. The mean (range) follow‐up was 32 (3–84) months. No patient with low‐grade tumour progressed in grade or stage, and all but one who presented with high‐grade tumour progressed.

CONCLUSION

The retrograde endoscopic management of UTTUMs is particularly useful for patients who present with low‐grade lesions, providing good oncological control and preserving renal function. These patients require a careful and consistent follow‐up, as many will develop recurrent disease. Treatment of higher‐grade lesions is at best palliative.
Agrobacterium‐mediated RMCE approach for gene replacement
Authors: Nanto Kazuya , Yamada‐Watanabe Keiko , Ebinuma Hiroyasu
Published: February 2005

We describe the site‐directed integration (SDI) system for Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation to precisely integrate a single copy of a desired gene into a predefined target locus by recombinase‐mediated cassette exchange (RMCE). The system requires the selection of a transformed line with an integrated copy of a target cassette, and subsequent introduction of an exchange vector. The target cassette contains the npt and cod genes between oppositely orientated recognition sites (RS). The exchange vector T‐DNA possesses an exchange cassette containing the gene of interest and a selectable marker gene, such as hpt, between oppositely orientated (inner) RS. Adjacent to the exchange cassette are ipt and recombinase (R) genes and an additional (outer) RS. The recombinase catalyses double‐crossover between target RS and exchange inner RS to replace the integrated target cassette with the introduced exchange cassette. Transgenic plants that contain randomly integrated copies of the exchange vector T‐DNA show an abnormal phenotype as a result of the overproduction of cytokinin from ipt gene expression. The recombinase can also act on the directly orientated outer RS to remove such randomly integrated copies. The system resulted in single‐copy exchange into the target site only in regenerated tobacco at a frequency of 1%−3% per treated explant, or 4%−9% per regenerated line of normal phenotype. Thus, transgenic plants with only an exchanged copy can be efficiently accumulated and selected. Here, we show that the SDI system can efficiently replace the target cassettes with the exchange cassettes in a heterozygous or homozygous condition. The SDI system may be useful for precise comparisons of different gene constructs, the characterization of different chromosomal regions and the cost‐effective screening of reliable transgenic plants.
Blockwise empirical entropy tests for time series regressions
Authors: Bravo Francesco
Published: February 2005

Abstract.  This paper shows how the empirical entropy (also known as exponential likelihood or non‐parametric tilting) method can be used to test general parametric hypothesis in time series regressions. To capture the weak dependence of the observations, the paper uses blocking techniques which are also used in the bootstrap literature on time series. Monte Carlo evidence suggests that the proposed test statistics have better finite‐sample properties than conventional test statistics such as the Wald statistic.
Asymptotic self‐similarity and wavelet estimation for long‐range dependent fractional autoregressive integrated moving average time series with stable innovations
Authors: Stoev Stilian , Taqqu Murad S.
Published: February 2005

Abstract.  Methods for parameter estimation in the presence of long‐range dependence and heavy tails are scarce. Fractional autoregressive integrated moving average (FARIMA) time series for positive values of the fractional differencing exponent d can be used to model long‐range dependence in the case of heavy‐tailed distributions. In this paper, we focus on the estimation of the Hurst parameter H = d + 1/α for long‐range dependent FARIMA time series with symmetric α‐stable (1 < α < 2) innovations. We establish the consistency and the asymptotic normality of two types of wavelet estimators of the parameter H. We do so by exploiting the fact that the integrated series is asymptotically self‐similar with parameter H. When the parameter α is known, we also obtain consistent and asymptotically normal estimators for the fractional differencing exponent d = H − 1/α. Our results hold for a larger class of causal linear processes with stable symmetric innovations. As the wavelet‐based estimation method used here is semi‐parametric, it allows for a more robust treatment of long‐range dependent data than parametric methods.
Semiparametric Estimation in Time‐Series Regression with Long‐Range Dependence
Authors: Nielsen Morten Ørregaard
Published: February 2005

Abstract. We consider semiparametric estimation in time‐series regression in the presence of long‐range dependence in both the errors and the stochastic regressors. A central limit theorem is established for a class of semiparametric frequency domain‐weighted least squares estimates, which includes both narrow‐band ordinary least squares and narrow‐band generalized least squares as special cases. The estimates are semiparametric in the sense that focus is on the neighbourhood of the origin, and only periodogram ordinates in a degenerating band around the origin are used. This setting differs from earlier studies on time‐series regression with long‐range dependence, where a fully parametric approach has been employed. The generalized least squares estimate is infeasible when the degree of long‐range dependence is unknown and must be estimated in an initial step. In that case, we show that a feasible estimate which has the same asymptotic properties as the infeasible estimate, exists. By Monte Carlo simulation, we evaluate the finite‐sample performance of the generalized least squares estimate and the feasible estimate.
ERP correlates of involuntary attention capture by prosodic salience in speech
Authors: Wang Jingtian , Friedman David , Ritter Walter , Bersick Michael
Published: February 2005

This study addressed whether temporally salient (e.g., word onset) or prosodically salient (e.g., stressed syllables) information serves as a cue to capture attention in speech sound analysis. In an auditory oddball paradigm, 16 native English speakers were asked to ignore binaurally presented disyllabic speech sounds and watch a silent movie while ERPs were recorded. Four types of phonetic deviants were employed: a deviant syllable that was either stressed or unstressed and that occurred in either the first or second temporal position. The nature of the phonetic change (a change from a voiced consonant to its corresponding unvoiced consonant) was kept constant. MMNs were observed for all deviants. In contrast, the P3a was only seen when the deviance occurred on stressed syllables. The sensitivity of the P3a to the stress manipulation suggests that prosodic rather than temporal salience captures attention in unattended speech sounds.
A comparison of psychophysiological and self‐report measures of BAS and BIS activation
Authors: Brenner Sharon L. , Beauchaine Theodore P. , Sylvers Patrick D.
Published: February 2005

The behavioral approach (BAS) and behavioral inhibition (BIS) systems are central to theories of both personality and psychopathology, yet agreement on methods of assessing BAS and BIS sensitivity has yet to emerge. We compare the Carver and White (1994) BIS/BAS scales with putative physiological markers of BAS (pre‐ejection period [PEP], respiratory sinus arrhythmia [RSA]) and BIS (electrodermal responding) reactivity during reward and extinction among 50 undergraduates. PEP, RSA, and electrodermal activity each responded strongly to one or more task conditions, but correlations with BIS/BAS scores were stronger for measures of affectivity than for any physiological marker. Finally, PEP reactivity was the only autonomic index that responded only to reward. These findings suggest that (a) self‐report and physiological measures of BAS and BIS reactivity are independent, and (b) PEP may be superior to RSA as an index of approach motivation.
Polymorphic CA/GT and GA/CT microsatellite loci forOstrinia nubilalis(Lepidoptera: Crambidae)
Authors: COATES BRAD S. , HELLMICH RICHARD L. , LEWIS LESLIE C.
Published: February 2005

Ten polymorphic dinucleotide (CA/GT and GA/CT) microsatellite loci suitable for population genetic screening were characterized from enriched partialOstrinia nubilalisgenomic libraries. Sequence from 126 enriched small insert genomic library clones identified 25 CA/GT and 58 GA/CT loci that were unique. Perfect repeats tended to be short (n = 10–12). Ten microsatellites, PCR amplified from a Crawfordsville Iowa population showed a mean of 10 alleles per locus (range six to 20), and six of 10 loci showed heterozygote deficiency. Amplification of eight loci was observed in the sister speciesO.furnicalis.
Characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci in the tropical ant‐plant Leonardoxa africana (Fabaceae: Caesalpinioideae)
Authors: DEBOUT G. , SALTMARSH A. , MCKEY D. , RISTERUCCI A.‐M.
Published: February 2005

Ten microsatellite loci were isolated from the African ant‐plant Leonardoxa africana (Fabaceae: Caesalpinioideae). They differentiate the two most divergent subspecies of this polytypic complex, L. a. africana and L. a. gracilicaulis, showing promise for the study of gene flow. In each of these two subspecies, high levels of within‐population variation were observed, with a number of alleles ranging from one to 10 in ssp. africana and from one to 7 in ssp. gracilicaulis, and heterozygosity from 0 to 0.933 in ssp. africana and to 0.867 in ssp. gracilicaulis. All loci amplified successfully in the two other subspecies of L. africana.
Characterization of microsatellite markers for the mangrove tree Avicennia germinans L. (Avicenniaceae)
Authors: NETTEL A. , RAFII F. , DODD R. S.
Published: February 2005

We describe 10 primers for amplification of microsatellite loci for the mangrove, Avicennia germinans. Eight loci were isolated from a DNA sample from the Pacific coast of Baja California, Mexico and two loci were isolated from a DNA sample from the Atlantic coast of Bermuda. Polymorphism was investigated in a population from the Mexican Pacific coast (n = 15) and in four samples scattered throughout the range of the species. Total number of alleles for the species ranged from two to 10. Observed heterozygosity in the Mexican Pacific coast population ranged from 0.27 to 0.60, with two loci having fixed alleles.
Microsatellite DNA markers for Lysiphlebus testaceipes
Authors: FAUVERGUE XAVIER , TENTELIER CÉDRIC , GENSON GWENAËLLE , AUDIOT PHILIPPE , GUILLEMAUD THOMAS , STREIFF RÉJANE
Published: February 2005

Microsatellite loci were isolated from the aphid parasitoid Lysiphlebus testaceipes (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). Ten loci were obtained from an enriched partial genomic library. Genetic diversity was analysed at seven of these loci and two natural populations, one on oleander and one on citrus. The observed number of alleles ranged from one to 17, and the observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.37 to 0.82. In both populations, no departure from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium was detected except for one locus. The differentiation between the two populations was characterized by an FST of 0.09.
Formation of elliptical garnet in a metapelitic enclave by melt‐assisted dissolution and reprecipitation
Authors: ÁLVAREZ‐VALERO A. M. , CESARE B. , KRIEGSMAN L. M.
Published: February 2005

Metapelitic residual enclaves in the Neogene Volcanic Province of SE Spain are residues left after melt extraction. Glass (quenched melt) of granitic composition occurs as inclusions in most minerals and as intergranular pockets. The most common enclave types show one stage of garnet growth that is interpreted to have occurred at the same time as glass production. Some of these show a well‐developed foliation outlined by fibrolite, biotite, graphite and glass, which wraps around elongate garnet crystals that have aspect ratios up to 10:1. Based on microstructures and chemistry, the garnet within these rocks shows clear core and mantle structure. The core has an average composition of Alm76–Prp08–Sps14–Grs03 and contains primary inclusions of biotite and melt, trapped during garnet growth. A thin (c. 100 μm), irregular mantle overgrows the garnet core, enclosing oriented fibrolite inclusions in strain caps, and biotite in strain shadows. In places, the overgrowths form skeletal elongated arms, which extend parallel to the foliation. The garnet mantle contains less Mn and higher XMg, but both core and mantle display flat Mn profiles, the contact being a sharp break. Ternary feldspar and Grt–Bt thermometry yield temperatures in the range 800–900 °C, with no systematic differences among the different microstructural domains of elliptical garnet. Based on the observed intracrystalline microstructures, the high amount of melt extraction in the rock by flattening component strain and the chemical zoning of garnet, the formation of elliptical garnet is modelled by a multistage sequence. This involves pressure solution and reprecipitation of the core, followed by post‐kinematic, partly mimetic growth of the garnet mantle.
Pressure, temperature and cooling rates of granulite facies migmatitic pelites from the southern Adirondack Highlands, New York
Authors: STORM L. C. , SPEAR F. S.
Published: February 2005

Detailed petrographic analysis was performed on samples from five localities within the southern Adirondacks. Textures and zoning patterns in garnet from all samples provide evidence for dehydration melting of biotite. Zoning of grossular in garnet – providing a record of prograde growth – shows both increasing and decreasing trends in garnet from the same sample. However, Ca concentrations at the garnet rims of most samples are identical (grossular = 3.4%). These observations have been interpreted as evidence for the differential timing of garnet nucleation and growth. All Fe/(Fe + Mg) and some spessartine distributions are consistent between samples, displaying diffusive profiles established largely upon cooling. Only one sample, in which retrogression was minimal, contains garnet with flat Fe/(Fe + Mg) profiles. A general pelitic pseudosection constructed in the system MnNCKFMASH reveals a maximum for Ca in garnet where the plagioclase‐out isopleth intersects the solidus (muscovite = 0). The pseudosection predicts bell‐shaped core‐to‐rim profiles of grossular during anatexis, similar to those observed in the rocks. Garnet–biotite thermometry and GASP barometry indicate peak temperatures of at least 790 °C at about 7–9 kbar, similar to conditions determined for the central Adirondacks. Cooling rates determined from finite difference modelling of spessartine and Fe/(Fe + Mg) diffusional profiles indicate a multi‐stage cooling history in which some period of rapid cooling (>200 °C Myr−1) is required.
Splenic Torsion in an Alpaca
Authors: Smith Jennifer J. , Dallap Barbara L.
Published: February 2005

Objective—To describe the clinical signs, diagnostic evaluation and surgical management of an alpaca with splenic torsion.

Animals—Six‐year‐old female alpaca.

Results—Splenic torsion and uterine torsion were the inciting cause for persistent abdominal discomfort in this alpaca. Rectal examination, abdominocentesis, and transabdominal ultrasonographic findings were suggestive of a splenic lesion. Surgical management involved splenectomy of a necrotized spleen.

Conclusions—Although rare in occurrence, splenic torsion should be considered as a potential cause of abdominal discomfort in alpacas. Splenectomy is a reasonable and successful method of treatment for a devitalized spleen secondary to splenic torsion in alpacas.

Clinical Relevance—Splenic torsion causes persistent abdominal discomfort in camelids and may be associated with uterine torsion. Rectal examination, transabdominal ultrasound and abdominocentesis are useful diagnostic tools to differentiate splenic torsion from other causes of abdominal discomfort. Splenectomy is an uncomplicated procedure in camelids and has a favorable prognosis.
An In Vitro Biomechanical Comparison of the Breaking Strength and Stiffness of Polydioxanone (Sizes 2, 7) and Polyglactin 910 (Sizes 3, 6) in the Equine Linea Alba
Authors: Fierheller Erin E. , Wilson David G.
Published: February 2005

Objective— To determine failure strength, stiffness, and failure mode of 4 suture materials in equine linea alba.

Study Design— Randomized complete block design.

Sample Population— Linea albas collected from 12 adult horses (mean weight, 475 kg; mean age, 10 years).

Methods— The ventral abdominal fascia, including the linea alba, was collected and bisected along the linea alba into right and left halves. Each half was divided into four, 5‐cm sections extending from the umbilicus cranially, and randomly assigned to 1 of 4 suture materials: 2 polydioxanone (2 PD), 3 polyglactin 910 (3 PG), 6 polyglactin 910 (6 PG), and 7 polydioxanone (7 PD). A single cycle to failure test was performed on each specimen at a distraction rate of 100 mm/min. Differences in failure strength and stiffness for the materials were evaluated using a mixed linear model with significance set at P<.05.

Results— In 94 of 96 test sections, constructs failed by suture failure. There were significant differences in failure strength (P<.0001) and stiffness (P<.001) among the suture/tissue constructs. 7 PD had the highest breaking strength (316.8 N) followed by 6 PG (281.3 N), 3 PG (229.9 N), and 2 PD (193.0 N). Six PG had the largest stiffness (14 N/mm) followed by 3 PG (12.7 N/mm), 7 PD (10.1 N/mm), and 2 PD (7.2 N/mm). Suture breaking strength and stiffness were not affected by linea or fascia thickness, individual horse, half of the linea alba, or abdominal wall position. Eighty‐five (90.4%) suture loops failed adjacent the knot.

Conclusions— When tested in single cycle to failure, suture material was more likely to fail than the linea alba. Larger suture materials had higher breaking strengths than smaller suture materials and stiffness was also affected by suture material and size.

Clinical Relevance— Given its high initial breaking strength and its relatively longer in vivo strength retention, 7 PD seems an appropriate choice of suture material for closure of the equine linea alba when maximal short‐term failure strength is desired.
Longitudinal Bone Transport for Treatment of Primary Bone Tumors in Dogs: Technique Description and Outcome in 9 Dogs
Authors: Ehrhart Nicole
Published: February 2005

Objective— To describe a surgical technique for bone transport osteogenesis (BTO) limb salvage and report outcome in 9 dogs with primary bone tumors.

Animals— Nine dogs with spontaneously occurring primary bone tumors.

Results— BTO surgery was performed as a primary means of limb salvage in 7 dogs and as a salvage procedure after catastrophic allograft infection and failure in 2 dogs. Mean defect size was 9.5 cm with a mean of 123 days distraction until docking. Mean time from surgery to fixator removal was 205 days. Minimum follow‐up was 9 months. There were 2 histologically confirmed local recurrences where although limb function was excellent, eventually resulted in limb amputation. Limb function was good to excellent in all but 2 dogs; 1 was chronically non‐weight bearing before BTO surgery because of complications associated with an allograft limb salvage that had been performed previously on the same limb. The cause of lameness in the other dog was undetermined.

Conclusions— BTO limb salvage can be successful in dogs with primary bone tumors. Whereas allograft limb salvage may be simpler from an initial management perspective, BTO has some unique advantages when compared with the allograft technique.

Clinical Relevance— BTO has an emerging role in limb salvage surgery for dogs with primary bone tumors. BTO provides excellent long‐term outcomes in some dogs with primary bone tumors and will likely become increasingly more attractive as technique modifications allow the duration of the treatment to be shortened.
Reconstruction of the Lower Eyelid by Third Eyelid Lateral Advancement and Local Transposition Cutaneous Flap After “En Bloc” Resection of Squamous Cell Carcinoma in 5 Cats
Authors: Schmidt Karin , Bertani Chiara , Martano Marina , Morello Emanuela , Buracco Paolo
Published: February 2005

Objective— To describe a novel technique for blepharoplasty to cover a tissue defect involving ≥50% of the lower eyelid.

Study Design— Prospective clinical study.

Animals— Five cats with lower eyelid squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods— En bloc resection of SCC by removing ≥50% of the lower lid with either the medial or lateral canthus was performed without other adjunctive treatment for SCC. The lid defect was reconstructed with a transposition skin flap derived from the frontal (medial defect) or temporal (lateral defect) region. The third eyelid was advanced laterally without dissection from its insertion; its outer conjunctival layer was removed, and the skin flap was sutured with single interrupted sutures dorsally over the nictitating membrane, ventrally to the cutaneous edge of the surgical wound and medially or laterally (depending on the canthus removed) to the skin of the remaining lower lid.

Results— Satisfactory cosmetic and functional results were achieved and the Schirmer tear tests were normal. In 2 cats, the skin flap needed monthly hair trimming to avoid corneal lesions.

Conclusions— After en bloc resection of SCC involving ≥50% of the lower eyelid, reconstruction can be achieved by relocation of the third eyelid and use of a cutaneous transposition flap sutured to the scarified external surface of the third eyelid. Eyelid apposition and lacrimal function were preserved.

Clinical Relevance— Blepharoplasty using a cutaneous transposition flap sutured to the scarified surface of a relocated third eyelid should be considered for reconstruction of lower eyelid defects with ≥50% tissue loss of the lid margin.
Methods of Gradual Vascular Occlusion and Their Applications in Treatment of Congenital Portosystemic Shunts in Dogs: A Review
Authors: Sereda Colin W. , Adin Christopher A.
Published: February 2005

Objective— To provide a comprehensive review of the experimental and clinical data related to gradual vascular occlusion of congenital portosystemic shunts (CPS) in dogs.

Study Design— Literature review.

Methods— PubMed literature search (1966–2004).

Results— Surgical intervention and complete vascular occlusion have been recommended for CPS therapy in dogs; however, acute complete ligation of CPS is often associated with life‐threatening portal hypertension. Recently, several investigators have attempted to reduce the risk of postoperative portal hypertension by using gradual vascular occlusion. Successful vascular occlusion has been achieved using partial ligation with silk suture, ameroid constrictors, cellophane bands, thrombogenic coils and hydraulic vascular occluders. Objective comparisons of the reliability and rate of vascular occlusion produced by each of these methods have been limited by differences in experimental models and a lack of definitive follow up evaluation in some clinical studies.

Conclusions— Gradual vascular occlusion is widely used in the clinical treatment of CPS in dogs. Objective evaluation of the experimental and clinical data on each of the techniques for gradual vascular occlusion is necessary for informed clinical practice and for the planning of future research into this important area.

Clinical Relevance— Even from the limited data available, it is clear that the ideal method for gradual vascular occlusion of CPS has yet to be identified.
The Social Construction of Entrepreneurship: Narrative and Dramatic Processes in the Coproduction of Organizations and Identities
Authors: Downing Stephen
Published: February 2005

A social dimension to business development and inertia is currently acknowledged in several accounts of learning, business models, vision building, and innovation, and through more general concepts of networking, social capital, and embeddedness. Here a constructionist perspective is developed to improve our understanding of the interactions between entrepreneurs and stakeholders in all of these areas. This identifies narrative and dramatic processes that describe how notions of individual and collective identity and organization are coproduced over time. A framework is created to show how selective and emotional processes that produce storylines, emplotment, and narrative structure support sense making and action making.