bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimation of genetic variability and heritability for biofuel feedstock yield in several populations of switchgrass
Authors: Rose L.W. , Das M.K. , Taliaferro C.M. 
Published: September 2007

AbstractInformation on heritability and predicted gains from selection for increased biomass yield for ethanol production in switchgrass is limited and may vary among breeding populations. The purpose of this study was to estimate heritability and predicted gains from selection for higher biomass yield within a lowland ecotype switchgrass population, Southern Lowland 93 (SL‐93), and two upland ecotype switchgrass populations, Southern Upland Northern Upland Early Maturing (SNU‐EM) and Southern Upland Northern Upland Late Maturing (SNU‐LM). Narrow‐sense heritabilities (hn2) for biomass yield in each of the three populations were estimated via progeny–parent regression analysis. Half‐sib (HS) progeny families from 130 randomly selected plants from the SL‐93 population were evaluated for biomass yield in replicated trials in 2002 and 2003. Clonal parent plants were evaluated for biomass yield in separate environments to provide unbiased hn2 estimates from progeny–parent regression. Yield differences were highly significant among SL‐93 HS progenies within and over years. For the SL‐93 population, hn2 estimates were 0.13 and 0.12 based on individual plant and phenotypic family mean (PFM) selection, respectively. Predicted genetic gains (ΔG) per selection cycle were 0.15 kg dry matter (dm) plant−1 and 0.10 kg dm plant−1 for PFM and individual plant selection methods, respectively. For the SNU‐EM and SNU‐LM populations, year and year × HS family effects were highly significant (P < 0.01) and the HS family effect over years was nonsignificant (P < 0.05). However, HS family effects were highly significant within respective years (P < 0.01). Estimates of hn2 for the SNU‐EM and SNU‐LM populations based on PFM and individual plant selection were similar, ranging from 0.44 to 0.47; ΔG per selection cycle ranged from 0.22 to 0.33 kg dm plant−1. The magnitudes of the estimates of additive genetic variation suggest that selection for higher biomass yield should be possible. The substantial effect of environment on biomass yields in the upland populations and the failure of families to respond similarly over years stress the importance of adequately testing biomass yield over years to assess yield.
Effectiveness of acibenzolar‐S‐methyl, fungicides and antibiotics for the control of brown eye spot, bacterial blight, brown leaf spot and coffee rust in coffee
Authors: Patrício F.R.A. , Almeida I.M.G. , Barros B.C. , Santos A.S. , Frare P.M. 
Published: September 2007

AbstractThis study was carried out to evaluate the potential of acibenzolar‐S‐methyl (ASM), combined or not combined with fungicides and antibiotics for the control of brown eye spot (Cercospora coffeicola) and bacterial blight (Pseudomonas syringaepv.garcae) in coffee seedlings, and ASM combined with conventional fungicide application schedules for the control of coffee rust (Hemileia vastatrix) and brown leaf spot (Phoma costarricencis) under field conditions in two coffee crops in the State of São Paulo, Brazil. ASM protected coffee seedlings againstC. coffeicolawhen applied at the rates of 2.5 and 5 g of active ingredient per hectolitre of water (g a.i. hL−1), providing 34–55% of disease control, and against bacterial blight, when applied at the rates of 2.5, 10 and 20 g a.i. hL−1, with 38–57% of disease control. Tebuconazole (100 g a.i. hL−1) and azoxystrobin (10 g a.i. hL−1) showed the best results for brown eye spot control. Oxytetracycline + streptomycin, kasugamycin hydrochloride, oxytetracycline + metallic copper, copper oxychloride and mancozeb + copper oxychloride also controlled bacterial blight in levels similar to those shown by ASM. In the field experiments, all fungicide application schedules tested, cyproconazole (December, February, April), epoxiconazole (December, March), tetraconazole (December, February, April), cyproconazole (December, February) and azoxystrobin (January, March) were effective for coffee rust control and provided partial control of brown leaf spot. The results also showed that for all experiments, there was no synergistic effect of the combination of ASM with azoxystrobin, cyproconazole or cupric fungicides.
Injury and Illness Costs in the Certified Safe Farm Study
Authors: Donham Kelley J. , Rautiainen Risto H. , Lange Jeffrey L. , Schneiders Sara 
Published: September 2007

ABSTRACT:
Context:

The Certified Safe Farm (CSF) intervention program aims to reduce occupational injuries and illnesses, and promote wellness to reduce health care and related costs to farmers, insurers, and other stakeholders.

Purpose:

To evaluate the cost effectiveness of CSF.

Methods:

Farms (316) located in a 9‐county area of northwestern Iowa were recruited and randomized into intervention and control cohorts. Intervention farms received occupational health screenings, health and wellness screening, education, on‐farm safety reviews, and performance incentives. For both cohorts, quarterly calls over 3 years were used to collect self‐reported occupational injury and illness information, including costs to the farmers and their insurers.

Findings:

Annual occupational injury and illness costs per farmer paid by insurers were 45% lower in the intervention cohort ($183) than in the control cohort ($332). Although out‐of‐pocket expenses were similar for both cohorts, combined costs of insurance and out‐of‐pocket expenses were 27% lower in the intervention cohort ($374/year per farmer) compared to the control cohort ($512/year per farmer). Within the cohort of intervention farmers, annual occupational injury and illness cost savings were directly associated with on‐farm safety review scores. Reported health care costs were $237 per farmer in the safest farms (those farms scoring in the highest tertile) versus $485 per farmer in the least safe farms (lowest tertile).

Conclusions:

Results suggest that farmers receiving the intervention had lower health care costs for occupational injuries and illnesses than control farmers. These cost savings more than cover the cost of providing CSF services (about $100 per farm per year).
The Experience of Rural Independent Pharmacies With Medicare Part D: Reports From the Field
Authors: Radford Andrea , Slifkin Rebecca , Fraser Roslyn , Mason Michelle , Mueller Keith 
Published: September 2007

ABSTRACT:
Context: The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 (MMA) created prescription drug coverage for Medicare beneficiaries through a new Part D program, the single largest addition to Medicare since its creation in 1965. Prior to program implementation in January 2006, concerns had been voiced as to how independent pharmacies, which represent a higher proportion of all retail pharmacies in rural areas, would fare under the new program. Purpose: This article describes first‐hand reports from rural pharmacist‐owners about their experiences with Medicare Part D plans in the first 7 months of 2006 in order to gain a more thorough understanding of the challenges faced by rural independent pharmacies as a result of program implementation. Methods: A semi‐structured interview protocol was utilized in telephone interviews with 22 pharmacist‐owners of rural independent pharmacies in 10 states. Findings: The rural independent pharmacists interviewed are experiencing major changes in payment, administrative burden, and interaction with patients as a result of the shift of patients into Medicare Part D plans. While administrative burden has greatly increased, payment and clinical interaction have decreased. Conclusion: Actions should be considered that would help rural independent pharmacists adjust to the new circumstances of having Medicare patients mirror, for administrative and payment purposes, commercially insured patients. Long‐term modification of existing policies and regulations may be necessary to assure reasonable access to pharmaceuticals for rural populations. Further study is needed to determine how best to target these modifications to essential pharmacies.
Variations in Financial Performance Among Peer Groups of Critical Access Hospitals
Authors: Pink George H. , Holmes George M. , Thompson Roger E. , Slifkin Rebecca T. 
Published: September 2007

ABSTRACT:
Context:

Among the large number of hospitals with critical access hospital (CAH) designation, there is substantial variation in facility revenue as well as the number and types of services provided. If these variations have material effects on financial indicators, then performance comparisons among all CAHs are problematic.

Purpose:

To investigate whether indicators of financial performance and condition systematically vary among peer groups of CAHs.

Methods:

Suggestions from CAH administrators, a literature review, expert panel advice, and statistical analysis were used to create peer groups based on whether a CAH: (1) had less than $5 million, $5‐10 million, or over $10 million in net patient revenue; (2) was owned by a government entity; (3) provided long‐term care; and (4) operated a provider‐based Rural Health Clinic.

Findings:

Significant differences in financial performance and condition exist among CAH peer groups.

Conclusions:

CAHs should ensure that they use appropriate peer comparators when assessing their financial performance and condition. If quality, outcome, safety and access are affected by financial performance and condition, it may also be important for research in these areas to control for peer group differences among CAHs.
Starting a General Surgery Program at a Small Rural Critical Access Hospital: A Case Study From Southeastern Oregon
Authors: Doty Brit Cruse , Heneghan Steven , Zuckerman Randall 
Published: September 2007

ABSTRACT:
Context:

Surgical services are frequently unavailable in rural American communities. Therefore, rural residents often must travel long distances to receive surgical care. Rural hospitals commonly have difficulty providing surgical services despite potential economic benefits.

Purpose:

The purpose of this project was to identify the key challenges and describe the initial outcomes experienced by Harney District Hospital (HDH), a rural critical access facility in Oregon, as it develops a surgical program. Since few models exist, this information will be valuable for those considering offering surgical services in a rural setting.

Methods:

This project employed a single case study design. Qualitative information was gathered from semi‐structured interviews, a focus group, reviews of historical documents, and informal observations. Quantitative data sources included HDH financial and utilization records, US Census records, and economic and demographic statistics from the state of Oregon, Harney County, and the city of Burns.

Findings:

HDH is learning that initiating a change such as expanding surgical services within an organization is a challenging process requiring collaboration among the administration, staff, and community. Preliminary findings indicate that the new surgical program has resulted in significant financial gains for the hospital.

Conclusions:

While starting a rural surgery program is a complex undertaking, there are benefits for the hospital. If a rural hospital is to be successful in this mission, collaboration and adaptability must be key components of the process.
Impact of a Health Promotion Nurse Intervention on Disability and Health Care Costs Among Elderly Adults With Heart Conditions
Authors: Meng Hongdao , Wamsley Brenda R. , Eggert Gerald M. , Van Nostrand Joan F. 
Published: September 2007

ABSTRACT:
Context:

Patients with heart conditions in rural areas may have different responses to health promotion‐disease Self‐management interventions compared to their urban counterparts.

Purpose:

To estimate the impact of a multi‐component health promotion nurse intervention on physical function and total health care expenditures among elderly adults with heart conditions and to examine the impact of rural residence on the intervention effect.

Methods:

We analyzed data on 281 community‐living Medicare beneficiaries with heart conditions from the Medicare Primary and Consumer‐Directed Care Demonstration (a randomized controlled trial). We estimated ordinary least squares (OLS) models to determine the effect of the intervention on the change in functional status and log‐linear models to determine the impact of the intervention on total health care expenditures over a 2‐year period.

Results:

The OLS models showed that the nurse intervention resulted in fewer impairments in Activities of Daily Living (ADL) (–0.307 on 0‐6 scale, P = .055) at the end of 2 years. The effect of the intervention on ADL appeared to be stronger for rural than for urban participants (–0.490 vs –0.162, respectively). However, the difference was not statistically significant (P = .150). The effect of the intervention on Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) was not significant (P = .321). Average total health care expenditures were 6.5% ($1,981, 95% CI: –$8,048, $4,087) lower in the nurse group.

Conclusions:

The nurse intervention led to better physical functioning and has potential to reduce total health care expenditures among high‐risk Medicare beneficiaries with heart conditions.
Ethnic and Sex Differences in Ownership of Preventive Health Equipment Among Rural Older Adults With Diabetes
Authors: Bell Ronny A. , Arcury Thomas A. , Stafford Jeanette M. , Golden Shannon L. , Snively Beverly M. , Quandt Sara A. 
Published: September 2007

ABSTRACT:
Context:

Diabetes self‐management is important for achieving successful health outcomes. Different levels of self‐management have been reported among various populations, though little is known about ownership of equipment that can enhance accomplishment of these tasks.

Purpose:

This study examined diabetes self‐management equipment ownership among rural older adults.

Methods:

Participants included African American, American Indian, and white men and women 65 years of age and older. Data included equipment ownership overall and by ethnicity and sex across diabetes self‐management domains (glucose monitoring, foot care, medication adherence, exercise, and diet). Associations between equipment ownership and demographic and health characteristics were assessed using logistic regression.

Findings:

Equipment ownership ranged from 85.0% for blood glucose meters to less than 11% for special socks, modified dishes, and various forms of home exercise equipment. Equipment ownership was associated with ethnicity, living arrangements, mobility, poverty status, and formal education.

Conclusions:

Rural older adults with diabetes are at risk because they lack equipment to perform some self‐management tasks. Providers should be sensitive to and assist patients in overcoming this barrier.
Characteristics of Crashes With Farm Equipment That Increase Potential for Injury
Authors: Peek‐Asa Corinne , Sprince Nancy L. , Whitten Paul S. , Falb Scott R. , Madsen Murray D. , Zwerling Craig 
Published: September 2007

ABSTRACT:
Context:

Crash fatality and injury rates are higher on rural roadways than other roadway types. Although slow‐moving farm vehicles and equipment are risk factors on rural roads, little is known about the characteristics of crashes with farm vehicles/equipment.

Purpose:

To describe crashes and injuries for the drivers of farm vehicles/equipment and non‐farm vehicles involved in an injury crash. Passengers are not included in this analysis.

Methods:

Injury crashes were included that involved a farm vehicle/equipment and at least one non‐farm vehicle reported in Iowa Department of Transportation crash data from 1995 to 2004. Odds ratios were calculated through logistic regression to identify increased odds for injury among drivers of non‐farm vehicles and farm vehicles/equipment. We examined frequently occurring crash characteristics to identify crash scenarios leading to the highest odds for injury.

Findings:

Non‐farm vehicle drivers were 5.23 times more likely to be injured than farm vehicle/equipment drivers (95% CI = 4.12–6.46). The absence of restraint use was a significant predictor of injury for both farm vehicle/equipment drivers (OR = 2.85; 95% CI = 1.14–7.13) and non‐farm vehicle drivers (OR = 2.53; 95% CI = 1.54–4.15). Crash characteristics increasing the odds of injury for non‐farm vehicle drivers included speeding, passing the farm vehicle/equipment, driving on a county road, having a frontal impact collision, and crashing in darkness. Ejection was the strongest predictor of injury for the farm vehicle/equipment driver.

Conclusion:

Non‐farm vehicle drivers were much more likely to be injured than farm vehicle/equipment drivers, suggesting that farm vehicle/equipment crash prevention should be a priority for all rural road users. Prevention strategies that reduce motor vehicle speed, assist in safe passing, increase seat belt use, and increase conspicuousness of the farm vehicle/equipment are suggested.
The Impact of Drought on the Emotional Well‐Being of Children and Adolescents in Rural and Remote New South Wales
Authors: Dean John , Stain Helen J. 
Published: September 2007

ABSTRACT:
Context and Purpose:

Between 2002 and 2006 New South Wales was in the grip of the worst drought for more than 100 years. Financial hardships have led governments to declare “Exceptional Circumstances.” Little social research has investigated the impact of drought on children. For this study, children from rural and remote regions of New South Wales were asked for their interpretations of the impacts of drought on their lives.

Methods:

A multi‐strategy approach combining qualitative and quantitative approaches was used to reveal deeper understanding of the impacts of drought. Students in Years 5 through 12 from six Central Schools in the rural southwest of New South Wales participated in focus groups and completed self‐report questionnaires.

Results:

Quantitative self‐reports indicated these students were not significantly more distressed than Australian norms. However, the themes that emerged from the students' statements indicated that the drought had been a very significant event for them. This qualitative information also indicated connections for these students to their families, schools, and communities.

Conclusions:

The emotional impacts of changes to family and community life appear to have been moderated by these students' positive attitudes toward their country lifestyle. These students have discussed the impact of drought on their environment, their livestock, financial resources, and their families. In the face of declining rural community networks, children should be supported through programs that maintain resilience in the face of recurring environmental stressors.
REPETITIVE SHALLOW DIVES POSE DECOMPRESSION RISK IN DEEP‐DIVING BEAKED WHALES
Authors: Zimmer Walter M. X. , Tyack Peter L. 
Published: September 2007

AbstractThe impact of naval sonar on beaked whales is of increasing concern. In recent years the presence of gas and fat embolism consistent with decompression sickness (DCS) has been reported through postmortem analyses on beaked whales that stranded in connection with naval sonar exercises. In the present study, we use basic principles of diving physiology to model nitrogen tension and bubble growth in several tissue compartments during normal diving behavior and for several hypothetical dive profiles to assess the risk of DCS. Assuming that normal diving does not cause nitrogen tensions in excess of those shown to be safe for odontocetes, the modeling indicates that repetitive shallow dives, perhaps as a consequence of an extended avoidance reaction to sonar sound, can indeed pose a risk for DCS and that this risk should increase with the duration of the response. If the model is correct, then limiting the duration of sonar exposure to minimize the duration of any avoidance reaction therefore has the potential to reduce the risk of DCS.
Skanda in Epic and Puranic Literature: An Examination of the Origins and Development of a Hindu Deity in North India
Authors: Mann Richard 
Published: September 2007

AbstractThis article explores the origins and development of the Hindu deity Skanda in North India from approximately the fourth centurybceto the seventh centuryce. The author suggests that previous scholarship on this deity has located his origins in two sources: the Indus Valley and in an amalgamation of related deities. The article questions the Indus Valley hypothesis and develops the amalgamation hypothesis by examining a variety of textual and non‐textual sources. The author also argues that a shift occurs in the representation of Skanda and in his cult base over time. The article suggests that his cult begins in propitiation cults for Grahas and warrior deities in the north of India and shifts to one based in royal propaganda and military emblems. The cult of Skanda is also absorbed into the broader Śaivite cult during this time. These shifts, the author argues, result in the diminished popularity of Skanda in North India by the seventh centuryce.
Religion, Identity and the Origins of Ancient Israel
Authors: Sparks K. L. 
Published: September 2007

AbstractAccording to the Bible, early Israel originated as a group migrant slaves who escaped from Egypt, spent an extended time in the wilderness as pastoral nomads, and then fought their way into the highlands of Palestine. Because these events are not wholly confirmed by the archaeological and historical evidence, modern scholars are attempting to reconstruct Israel's early history on the basis of the archaeological evidence, ancient textual evidence, and a critical reading of the Bible. Scholars agree that the Israelites, or their ancestors, first appeared in the highlands of Palestine around 1200bce. The key question is where these early highland settlers came from. At present, the most popular theory among scholars is that the settlers migrated into the highlands from the Canaanite lowlands, so that the earliest Israelites were essentially Canaanites. But that theory is now being questioned vigorously by scholars who accentuate the role of nomadic pastoralists in the highland settlements. In important ways, our understanding of Israelite religion and identity hinges on these important debates.
Diblock Copolymer Micelles Deliver Hydrophobic Protoporphyrin IX for Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Li Buhong , Moriyama Eduardo H. , Li Fugang , Jarvi Mark T. , Allen Christine , Wilson Brian C. 
Published: September 2007

AbstractPolymeric micelles are emerging as an effective drug delivery system for hydrophobic photosensitizers in photodynamic therapy (PDT). The objective of this study was to investigate the formulation of hydrophobic protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) with MePEG5000‐b‐PCL4100 [methoxy poly (ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly (caprolactone)] diblock copolymers and to compare their PDT response to that of free PpIX. The photophysical and photochemical properties of the polymeric PpIX micelles were studied by measuring absorbance and fluorescence spectra, PpIX‐loading efficiency and stability, the micelle particle size and morphology, as well as singlet oxygen luminescence and lifetime. The spherical micelles have a high PpIX‐loading efficiency of 82.4% and a narrow size distribution with a mean diameter of 52.2 ± 6.4 nm. The cellular uptake of PpIX in RIF‐1 cells using PpIX micelles was approximately two‐fold higher than that for free PpIX. Free PpIX and PpIX formulated in micelles exhibited similar subcellular localization in or around the cellular plasma membrane, as demonstrated using fluorescence microscopy. In vitro PDT results showed that the PpIX micelles have markedly increased photocytotoxicity over that with free PpIX, by nearly an order of magnitude at the highest light dose used. The micelles alone had no evident phototoxicity or dark toxicity. These findings suggest that MePEG5000‐b‐PCL4100 diblock copolymer micelles have great potential as a drug delivery system for hydrophobic photodynamic sensitizers.