bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Update on the Pharmacotherapy of Obesity
Authors: Cerulli Jennifer , Lomaestro Ben M , Malone Margaret 
Published: August 2007

Objective: To review recent developments in the pharmacotherapy of obesity, including the agents currently approved for use in the management of obesity and those under development. Data Sources: A MEDLINE search from January 1990 to July 1997 was conducted to identify English literature available on the pharmacotherapy of obesity. The search was supplemented by a review of the bibliographies of identified literature. Study Selection: All controlled and uncontrolled trials were reviewed. When available, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials were used preferentially. Data Extraction: Agents were reviewed with regard to mechanism of action, clinical trial data regarding efficacy, adverse effects, pharmacokinetics, drug interactions, and contraindications where information was available. Study design, selected population, results, and adverse effect information were included. Data Synthesis: The anorexiants currently available or under development for the management of obesity regulate food intake and satiety via the adrenergic and/or serotonergic pathways. Clinical trials have shown a 10–15% weight loss can typically be anticipated; however, little long-term safety and efficacy data are available. Adverse events tend to be mild and self-limiting, but serious adverse events can occur. Treatment options under development include thermogenic agents, digestive inhibitors, and analogs and antagonists of hormones that regulate food intake and satiety. Conclusions: Several mechanisms to control weight are currently under investigation for the management of obesity. Since obesity is a chronic condition, further studies should be conducted to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of these agents and the role of combination therapy using different modalities.
Analysis of Flavonoid Phytoestrogens in Botanical and Ephedra-Containing Dietary Supplements
Authors: Grippo Anne A , Capps Kayla , Rougeau Ben , Gurley Bill J 
Published: August 2007

Background: Plant-derived botanical and dietary supplements are widely self-prescribed in the US and considered natural, safe, and beneficial. However, because they are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), their ingredients are not always known and they may contain unexpected agents. Among the myriad plant-produced molecules are flavonoids, which reportedly have various human health effects, including anticancer, antioxidant, and estrogenic properties. Several flavonoids (eg, isoflavones) are known as phytoestrogens, based on their ability to mimic estrogen in mammals. Because botanical and dietary supplements are plant products and need not be processed or purified due to their FDA classification as foods, they may contain unexpected phytoestrogens, such as flavonoids. Objective: To analyze 8 botanical and 11 ephedra-containing dietary supplements for the presence and concentration of 5 flavonoids (biochanin A, daidzein, formononetin, genistein, quercetin), which may deliver unexpected estrogenic activity. Method: Randomly selected tablets from single bottles of 19 botanical and dietary supplements purchased locally were pooled. Flavonoids were extracted into ethanolic solution and analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: Flavonoids were detected in all supplements tested, with the largest number (4) found in Kava Kava. Almost all supplements contained measurable amounts of genistein and/or daidzein, known estrogenic agents, at up to 22 mg/day of isoflavone, per recommended daily dosage of supplement. Conclusions: These results suggest that single-component botanical and multi-ingredient dietary supplements could contain unexpected estrogenic agents, which may impact the health of consumers.
Impact of a Protocol for Prevention of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia
Authors: Omrane Rajae , Eid Jihane , Perreault Marc M , Yazbeck Hala , Berbiche Djamal , Gursahaney Ashvini , Moride Yola 
Published: August 2007

Background: Several interventions have been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), but their implementation in clinical practice has not gained widespread acceptance. Objective: To determine the impact of a protocol that incorporates evidence-based interventions shown to reduce the frequency of VAP on the overall rate of VAP, early-onset VAP, and late-onset VAP in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a tertiary care adult teaching hospital. Methods: This pre- and postintervention observational study included mechanically ventilated patients admitted to the Montreal General Hospital ICU between November 2003 and May 2004 (preintervention) and between November 2004 and May 2005 (postintervention). A multidisciplinary prevention protocol was developed, implemented, and reinforced. Rates of VAP per 1000 ventilator-days were calculated pre- and postprotocol implementation for all patients, for patients with early-onset VAP, and for those with late-onset VAP. Results: In the pre- and postintervention groups, 349 and 360 patients, respectively, were mechanically ventilated. Twenty-three VAP episodes occurred in 925 ventilator-days (crude incidence rate 25 per 1000) in the preintervention period. Following implementation, the VAP rate decreased to 22 episodes in 988 ventilatordays (crude incidence rate 22.3 per 1000), corresponding to a relative reduction in rate of 10.8% (p < 0.001). The incidence of early-onset VAP decreased from 31.0 to 18.5 VAP per 1000 ventilator-days (p < 0.001), while the incidence of late-onset VAP increased from 21.9 to 24.1 VAP per 1000 ventilator-days (p < 0.001). However, when all covariates were adjusted, the impact of the prevention protocol was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Implementation of a VAP prevention protocol incorporating evidence-based interventions reduced the crude incidence of VAP, early-onset VAP, and late-onset VAP. However, when covariates were adjusted, the beneficial effect was no longer observed. Further research is needed to assess the impact of such measures on VAP, early-onset VAP, and late-onset VAP.
Successful Treatment of Previously Uncontrolled Adult Asthma with Budesonide Inhalation Suspension: Five-Year Case Histories
Authors: Gawchik Sandra M 
Published: August 2007

Objective: To determine whether nebulized budesonide inhalation suspension (BIS) is effective in treating adults with asthma that has been uncontrolled by inhaled therapies. Case Summaries: Three adults with severe persistent asthma were switched to BIS after poor outcomes with other controller medications, including inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs). BIS dosages were initiated with 1 mg twice daily. Based on physician discretion as symptoms improved, dosages were decreased to 0.5 mg twice daily (2 pts.) or once daily (1 pt.). Patients were instructed to self-manage their asthma, increasing their dosages during periods of asthma worsening. Peak expiratory flow (PEF) was assessed before and after the initiation of BIS. The number of healthcare visits and oral corticosteroid courses recorded in patient medical records during the 3 years before and 5 years after initiation of BIS therapy were compared. In all 3 cases, BIS improved asthma control. BIS consistently increased PEF and reduced the number of urgent care visits and oral corticosteroid courses. All patients reported satisfaction with BIS therapy. Discussion: Despite proven effectiveness of ICSs for persistent asthma, some patients fail to respond optimally to treatment administered via an inhaler. These 3 case reports suggest that BIS is effective in treating adults with severe persistent asthma who fail to respond optimally to treatment with other ICS preparations. Failure to use inhalers properly, previous poor adherence in 1 case, or patient preference for the nebulizer might explain why nebulized BIS was more effective than other inhaler therapies. Conclusions: Switching adults with uncontrolled asthma to BIS therapy may be a valuable treatment option for those who are unable to achieve optimal asthma control, despite asthma education and training on inhaler technique.
Case History of the Use of Electronic Survey Techniques to Assess Planar Distortions in Building Facades
Authors: Coll Kevin S. , VanOcker David A. 
Published: August 2007

Abstract
The occurrence of distortions within facade elements in the form of leaning, bowed and vertically displaced wall construction is common in older structures. Quite often these conditions are identified by building owners and serve as the primary focus of investigations to assess their significance. Quantifying the severity and extent of these displacements is integral to these evaluations. Various surveying methods are available to assist the investigator in determining planar distortions, ranging from simple plumb bob and level surveys to digital electronic surveying techniques. This paper focuses on the use of electronic surveying techniques as a diagnostic tool in assessing planar distortions and displacement in three dimensions on building facades. A case study is presented as a typical application where planar displacements within a building facade needed to be assessed. To provide context for selection, use, and interpretation of various survey techniques, a project is reviewed in detail from initial identification of displacements, review/selection of an appropriate survey technique, manipulation, and interpretation of survey data, assessing the significance of the data relative to the case study building, and review of repair program parameters.
Spawning and Movement Behavior of Migratory Coastal Cutthroat Trout on the Western Copper River Delta, Alaska
Authors: Saiget D. A. , Sloat M. R. , Reeves G. H. 
Published: August 2007

Abstract
We studied the movement patterns of migratory coastal cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii in the western Copper River delta, Alaska, near the northern extent of the subspecies' distribution. Life history information for coastal cutthroat trout is scarce within this region. Movement of coastal cutthroat trout was monitored from 1994 to 1996 with radiotelemetry and tag–recapture of fish at a two-way fishweir. Radio-tracking of 20 adults was conducted for a period ranging from 5 to 343 d. We observed anadromous and potamodromous migrations by fish that were morphologically indistinguishable and spanned a similar size range (mean fork length = 364 mm). Within these migratory groups, fish exhibited variation in movement patterns, including the timing of entry to spawning streams and postspawning movements. Anadromous and potamodromous fish entered study streams either during fall to overwinter and then spawn or during the spring just before spawning. Spawning was most concentrated in the upper portions of the study streams and occurred upstream to the highest available areas. Postspawning movements of potamodromous fish consisted of small-scale (&lt;2 km) movement within the spawning stream or longer movements to larger rivers or lakes. Anadromous fish migrated to estuarine or marine habitat after spawning. Both anadromous and potamodromous fish moved to lentic freshwater habitat to overwinter. Our results provide empirical evidence for an array of life histories displayed by coastal cutthroat trout in south-central Alaska. We attribute the variety of movement patterns, at least in part, to the diverse assemblage of available habitat and seasonally abundant food resources provided by Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp. Future management should maintain the quality of and connectivity between reproductive, trophic, and refuge habitats distributed throughout the western Copper River delta.
Spawning Characteristics of Adfluvial Rainbow Trout in a North Idaho Stream: Implications for Error in Redd Counts
Authors: Holecek Dean E. , Walters Jody P. 
Published: August 2007

Abstract
We examined redd microhabitat characteristics of an adfluvial population of rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss in Trail Creek, a third-order tributary to Deep Creek in the Kootenai River drainage, Idaho. We also monitored timing of spawning in relation to stream temperature and discharge. A total of 103 suspected redds were found; 51 of these were measured and checked for the presence of eggs. Thirty-four were actual redds (contained eggs), while 17 were test digs that did not contain eggs. Rainbow trout began spawning on 14 April 2005, 13 d after peak discharge (1.9 m3/s), as mean daily temperature exceeded 4.0°C. Redds had a mean area of 1.19 m2 (SD = 0.62; range = 0.27–2.40 m2), a mean water depth at the pit head of 0.18 m (SD = 0.08; range = 0.05–0.38 m), and a mean water velocity at the pit head of 0.39 m/s (SD = 0.15; range = 0.08–0.67 m/s). Area, total length, and width were the only microhabitat variables that differed statistically between redds and test digs; the mean area of the test digs was 0.72 m2 (SD = 0.67; range = 0.22–2.60 m2). However, the ranges of microhabitat measurements for redds and test digs overlapped; therefore, distinguishing redds from test digs based solely on size, without verifying the presence of eggs, is unlikely. These data could be used to help guide spawning habitat enhancement projects or to create or quantify spawning habitat for adfluvial rainbow trout. The presence of an appreciable number of test digs indicates that redd counts should not be considered a surrogate for numbers of spawning adfluvial rainbow trout; additionally, our results have implications for the use of redd counts to monitor other adult salmonid populations.
Length and Weight Reduction in Larval and Juvenile Yellow Perch Preserved with Dry Ice, Formalin, and Ethanol
Authors: Paradis Yves , Magnan Pierre , Brodeur Philippe , Mingelbier Marc 
Published: August 2007

Abstract
Due to the increasing interest in biochemical indices such as the RNA–DNA ratio used to measure fish growth, fish often need to be stored frozen with dry ice (i.e., −80°C). The objectives of this study were to (1) quantify the effects of dry ice on both the length and weight of larval and juvenile yellow perch Perca flavescens preserved for storage periods of 15 d and 7–8 months, (2) compare these effects with those of two commonly used preservatives (a 10% solution of formalin and a 75% solution of ethanol), and (3) provide equations to convert the lengths and weights of larval and juvenile yellow perch preserved with dry ice, formalin, and ethanol back to their initial unpreserved values. For all preservation methods, fish weight was more affected than length. The smallest length reduction was observed with formalin (short term: 2.1% and 0.1% for larvae and juveniles, respectively; long term: 10.1% and 1.2%), followed by dry ice (short term: 4.0% and 1.4%; long term: 7.2% and 3.9%) and ethanol (short term: 9.6% and 1.2%; long term: 11.7% and 1.2%). The smallest weight reduction was also observed with formalin (short term: 21.9% and 2.2%; long term: 23.2% and 3.9%), followed by dry ice (short term: 54.0% and 11.1%; long term: 52.8% and 8.4%) and ethanol (short term: 61.1% and 22.0%; long term: 66.0% and 26.0%). Except for one case, all of the regression equations that were built to convert the lengths and weights of larval and juvenile yellow perch preserved with dry ice, formalin, and ethanol back to initial measurements were highly significant.
A Basinwide Perspective on Entrainment of Fish in Irrigation Canals
Authors: Carlson Andrew J. , Rahel Frank J. 
Published: August 2007

AbstractEntrainment in irrigation canals has been considered a major source of mortality for some fish populations. However, the magnitude of fish loss from entrainment is usually not evaluated from a basinwide perspective, thus precluding an assessment of population‐level consequences. We incorporated such a perspective in evaluating entrainment losses of Bonneville cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii utah and brown trout Salmo trutta in a southwestern Wyoming river basin that is used for irrigating agricultural crops. We estimated the number of Bonneville cutthroat trout and brown trout (>150 mm TL) entrained in irrigation canals and then compared these numbers to population estimates within the river main stem and across the entire basin. We also examined previous studies to determine annual mortality rates for assessment of realized losses to irrigation canals. Small percentages of the Bonneville cutthroat trout (1.2‐3.3%) and brown trout (0.4‐1.2%) populations within the basin were entrained in 2004 and 2005. These values were much lower than the total annual mortality rates for inland riverine cutthroat trout O. clarkii (57.4%) and brown trout (56.4%) in the mountain west region of the United States. Examining the number of entrained fish in context with the basinwide population and total annual mortality allows evaluation of the significance of fish entrainment losses to irrigation canals.
Environmental contaminants in bald eagle eggs from the Aleutian archipelago
Authors: Anthony Robert G. , Miles A. Keith , Ricca Mark A. , Estes James A. 
Published: August 2007

AbstractWe collected 136 fresh and unhatched eggs from bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) nests and assessed productivity on eight islands in the Aleutian archipelago, 2000 to 2002. Egg contents were analyzed for a broad spectrum of organochlorine (OC) contaminants, mercury (Hg), and stable isotopes of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N). Concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (∑PCBs), p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), and Hg in bald eagle eggs were elevated throughout the archipelago, but the patterns of distribution differed among the various contaminants. Total PCBs were highest in areas of past military activities on Adak and Amchitka Islands, indicating local point sources of these compounds. Concentrations of DDE and Hg were higher on Amchitka Island, which was subjected to much military activity during World War II and the middle of the 20th century. Concentrations of ∑PCBs also were elevated on islands with little history of military activity (e.g., Amlia, Tanaga, Buldir), suggesting non–point sources of PCBs in addition to point sources. Concentrations of DDE and Hg were highest in eagle eggs from the most western Aleutian Islands (e.g., Buldir, Kiska) and decreased eastward along the Aleutian chain. This east-to-west increase suggested a Eurasian source of contamination, possibly through global transport and atmospheric distillation and/or from migratory seabirds. Eggshell thickness and productivity of bald eagles were normal and indicative of healthy populations because concentrations of most contaminants were below threshold levels for effects on reproduction. Contrary to our predictions, contaminant concentrations were not correlated with stable isotopes of carbon (δ13C) or nitrogen (δ15N) in eggs. These latter findings indicate that contaminant concentrations were influenced more by point sources and geographic location than trophic status of eagles among the different islands.
Toxicity of nitrogenous fertilizers to eggs of snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina) in field and laboratory exposures
Authors: de Solla Shane Raymond , Martin Pamela Anne 
Published: August 2007

Abstract
Many reptiles oviposit in soil of agricultural landscapes. We evaluated the toxicity of two commonly used nitrogenous fertilizers, urea and ammonium nitrate, on the survivorship of exposed snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) eggs. Eggs were incubated in a community garden plot in which urea was applied to the soil at realistic rates of up to 200 kg/ha in 2004, and ammonium nitrate was applied at rates of up to 2,000 kg/ha in 2005. Otherwise, the eggs were unmanipulated and were subject to ambient temperature and weather conditions. Eggs were also exposed in the laboratory in covered bins so as to minimize loss of nitrogenous compounds through volatilization or leaching from the soil. Neither urea nor ammonium nitrate had any impact on hatching success or development when exposed in the garden plot, despite overt toxicity of ammonium nitrate to endogenous plants. Both laboratory exposures resulted in reduced hatching success, lower body mass at hatching, and reduced posthatching survival compared to controls. The lack of toxicity of these fertilizers in the field was probably due to leaching in the soil and through atmospheric loss. In general, we conclude that nitrogenous fertilizers probably have little direct impacts on turtle eggs deposited in agricultural landscapes.
Time- and concentration-dependent metabolic and genomic responses to exposure to resin acids in brown trout (Salmo truttam.lacustris)
Authors: Meriläinen Päivi S. , Krasnov Aleksei , Oikari Aimo 
Published: August 2007

AbstractThe presence of metabolically conjugated resin acids (RAs) in the bile is considered to be a sensitive indicator for exposure of fish to pulp and paper industry effluents; however, to our knowledge, no comprehensive kinetic study of this response has been made. Juvenile brown trout (Salmo trutta m. lacustris) were exposed to a waterborne mixture of seven RAs (wood rosin) in time (0.1–192.0 h; average concentration, 8 μg/L) and dose (average concentrations, 0, 0.6, 4, 14, and 78 μg/L; 10 d) series, and total RAs were analyzed in bile. In time-dependent exposure, total RAs in bile increased up to 24 h. In concentration-dependent exposure, RAs increased along with the concentration of RAs in water, revealing a high-capacity biotransformation and elimination system in trout liver. In concentration-dependent exposures, the effects on the hepatic transcriptome was studied using a high-density cDNA microarray, and dose-dependent changes were found in a large number of genes. Resin acids interfered with iron metabolism, as evidenced by the decrease in transcripts for iron transporters and heme-containing proteins. Expression of genes encoding for enzymes degrading reactive oxygen species also decreased. Coordinated down-regulation of the protein biosynthesis machinery could result from inhibition of the energy metabolism. A number of changes in gene expression indicated recovery and remodeling of hepatic tissues. We conclude that analysis of total RAs in the bile provides a sensitive and quantitative tool for assessing the exposure of fish to waterborne RAs, whereas multiple gene expression analyses are able to elucidate simultaneous cellular functions for use as potential biomarkers of RAs.
Ecological health assessments based on whole effluent toxicity tests and the index of biological integrity in temperate streams influenced by wastewater treatment plant effluents
Authors: Ra Jin Sung , Kim Sang Don , Chang Nam Ik , An Kwang-Guk 
Published: August 2007

Abstract
Whole effluent toxicity (WET) tests and ecosystem health assessments, based on test guidelines of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) and index of biological integrity (IBI), were conducted on various streams located in Youngsan River watershed, Korea. The WET tests showed that about 33 and 82% of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) exhibited significant toxicity to Daphnia magna and Selenastrum capricornutum, respectively. Small WWTPs with low discharge volumes contributed less than 1% to the total stream toxicity. Fish community compositions and trophic guild analysis showed that the diversity index was greater in the control than in impacted streams, and the proportion of omnivore species was less in the control. Also, ecosystem health assessments, based on the IBI, showed distinct differences between the control and impacted sites of WWTPs. Model values of the IBI, based on 12 stream data sets, averaged 28, which is judged as a fair to poor condition according to the U.S. EPA criteria. The mean IBI in the control sites was 42, indicating good stream condition, whereas the impacted sites was scored 21, indicating poor condition. Overall, WET tests and ecosystem health assessments suggested the WWTP effluents had evident toxic effects on the biota, and impacted the species compositions and trophic guilds, resulting in degradation of the stream ecosystem health.