bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite loci in nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum)
Authors: Heist Edward J. , Jenkot Jennifer L. , Keeney Devon B. , Lane Ryan L. , Moyer Gregory R. , Reading Benjamin J. , Smith Noelle L. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractWe report on the development of nine polymorphic microsatellite loci in nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum) using a combination of enriched and unenriched subgenomic libraries. Based on the small percentage of positive clones in the unenriched library (0.4%) it appears that microsatellites are very scarce in nurse shark genomes. Numbers of alleles at polymorphic loci ranged from two to 15; observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.17 to 0.90. We expect these loci to be useful for studies of breeding structure and paternity.
Microsatellites in the freshwater snail Bulinus globosus (Gastropoda: Planorbidae) from Zanzibar
Authors: Emery Aidan M. , Loxton Nicola J. , Stothard J. Russell , Jones Catherine S. , Spinks Jenny , Llewellyn‐Hughes Julia , Noble Leslie R. , Rollinson David 
Published: March 2003

AbstractSix microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized in Bulinus globosus, a freshwater snail with a wide distribution throughout sub‐Saharan Africa. Bulinus globosus is an intermediate host of Schistosoma haematobium, the causative agent of human urinary schistosomiasis. Microsatellites were tested using 32 snails from four populations collected from Pemba and Unguja islands of Zanzibar. The microsatellite loci displayed relatively low levels of variation, with between two and five alleles per locus. FST estimates indicate that gene flow is low, as has previously been suggested for other species of Bulinus.
Factors affecting divorce in the Great TitParus major
Authors: Saitou Takashi 
Published: March 2003

In a population of the Great TitParus majorin Sagamihara, the divorce rate was 17.8% over 10 years from 1984/85 to 1993/94. Most of the divorces occurred in the year following pair formation. There were no differences in breeding success between faithful and divorced pairs. The birds were divided into three groups in relation to their home ranges: residents, emigrants and migrants. The residents established their home ranges within their flock ranges and remained there for life. Non‐residents (of which two sorts were identified) left their flock ranges to breed, but returned to their original flock ranges after breeding. Therefore, their home ranges were separated into breeding and previous flock ranges. Most of the faithful pairs consisted of residents whose home ranges overlapped extensively. The divorce rate was higher in the pairs consisting of residents and non‐residents and in those of non‐residents. Since the non‐breeding home ranges of emigrants and migrants did not overlap with their mates’ non‐breeding home ranges, an important factor affecting divorce seems to be the non‐overlap of non‐breeding home ranges between both mates of pairs after breeding.
Rigid gas permeable contact lens and corneal topography
Authors: Yebra‐Pimentel E. , Giráldez M. J. , Arias F. L. , González J. , González J. M. , Parafita M. A. , Febrero M. 
Published: March 2003

SummaryWe investigated the effect of high Dk daily wear rigid gas permeable contact lenses on corneal topography. Eight young myopic subjects wore hard contact lenses for 21 days. Corneal topography was monitored using the EyeSys system. It was measured every day during the next 21 days after the fitting. We recorded the corneal radius of curvature at 16 peripheral points approximately 1, 2, 3 and 4 mm along the four principal meridians (nasal, superior, inferior and temporal). Our study showed that daily wear RGP Forum 210 does not produce significant alterations of the corneal curvature as a function of time.
Intraocular pressure after excimer laser myopic refractive surgery
Authors: Montés‐Micó Robert , Neil Charman W. 
Published: March 2003

SummaryThe aim of this study was to determine whether intraocular pressure (IOP), as measured by Goldmann applanation or non‐contact tonometry, shows systematic changes in patients who have undergone photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) or laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). IOP was measured by central Goldmann and non‐contact tonometry in 54 patients pre and post‐PRK, and in 43 patients pre‐ and post‐LASIK. An interval of 12 months was allowed after surgery. Patients were selected to have one of four specific initial values of refractive error (−2.5, −5.0, −7.5 and −10.0 D). Fellow unoperated eyes were used as controls. A paired Student's t‐test and a one‐way ANOVA test were used for statistical analysis. After PRK and LASIK, a statistically significant decrease (p<0.01) was observed in the IOP of the treated eyes (but not for control eyes; p>0.01). Although the magnitude of the change increased with the attempted refractive correction, this trend was not statistically significant ( >p>0.01). No statistically significant differences were found between the results obtained following the two types of surgery, although the recorded fall in IOP was smaller following LASIK( >p>0.01). The IOP measured after PRK and LASIK for myopia may be reduced because of reduced corneal thickness and curvature and, possibly, tissue softening after natural healing. The presence or absence of Bowman's membrane does not appear to be important in this context. The reduction in measured IOP following refractive surgery, by about 0.5 mmHg/D of myopic correction, needs to be remembered when possible abnormality of IOP in such patients is being considered.
Economic costs of cataract surgery using a rigid and a foldable intraocular lens*
Authors: Afsar Asfa J. , Woods Russell L. , Patel Sudi , Rogan Fiona , Wykes William 
Published: March 2003

SummaryOptimal delivery of healthcare requires consideration of various costs. A foldable intraocular lens (IOL) is more expensive than an equivalent rigid IOL. However, surgical and post‐operative costs may make a foldable IOL economically preferable. We compared the economic costs of cataract surgery plus implantation of a foldable IOL with implantation of a rigid IOL. Prospective audit of the clinical records of 82 pseudophakes; 39 implanted with a rigid IOL and 43 implanted with a foldable IOL by one surgeon. Average follow‐up periods were 25±7 months and 23±5 months respectively. There was no difference between the two groups for the follow‐up period (P=0.55), number of post‐operative complications (P=0.25) or cost of post‐operative visits (P=0.83). The cost of single‐use theatre equipment was greater for the rigid‐IOL group (P=0.0001). The total identified cost per patient was greater for the foldable‐IOL group (P=0.0001). Despite possible technical advantages, implantation of the foldable IOL did not provide an economic benefit, either in the initial cost or in the costs of post‐operative care. Over the 2‐year period, implanting with the rigid IOL cost, on average, £57 less per patient. Despite this economic difference, a cost‐benefit analysis is required, since other factors may be more important.
Detection of uveal melanoma by optometrists in the United Kingdom
Authors: Damato Bertil 
Published: March 2003

SummaryIn the United Kingdom, most uveal melanomas are detected by optometrists. Prospectively collected data on patients with uveal melanoma presenting to optometrists were analysed retrospectively to determine: (a) the proportion of patients who were asymptomatic at the time of tumour detection, (b) the proportion of symptomatic patients reporting that their tumour was missed at their initial presentation and (c) the clinical features related to immediate tumour detection. The 223 patients had a mean age of 59.7 years, a mean tumour diameter of 11.3 mm and a mean tumour thickness of 4.6 mm. Symptoms were present in 122 patients (55%) and were associated with large tumour size (p<0.0001) and male gender (p=0.003), with more males tending to have a large tumour (p=0.004). Seventy‐nine percent of symptomatic patients reported that their tumour was detected at their first visit. Failure of tumour detection in symptomatic patients was associated with absence of tumour extension posterior to equator (p<0.0001).
Methods for measuring the proximity‐fixation‐disparity curve
Authors: Jaschinski W. 
Published: March 2003

SummaryThe reliability and validity of new tests of fixation disparity were investigated as a function of viewing distance (100, 60, 40, and 30 cm). The ‘nonius offset card’ presents a set of paired dichoptic nonius (vernier) lines with different offset simultaneously: the subject has to indicate the coinciding lines. The ‘computer test’ uses a psychophysical procedure that presents one pair of nonius lines sequentially with varying offset; the effect of the number of short‐term nonius test trials is investigated. As a reference, the Mallett unit and the Sheedy disparometer were used. Despite different group means, the methods had significant test–retest correlations and inter‐correlations, as tested at 40 cm. All methods showed an increase in exo fixation disparity as the viewing distance was shortened; the slope of this proximity‐fixation‐disparity curve, however, was different between the nonius offset card and the computer test.
Transformations of self: a phenomenological investigation into the lived experience of survivors of critical illness
Authors: Papathanassoglou Elizabeth DE , Patiraki Elizabeth I 
Published: March 2003

Summary

Based on the hermeneutical, phenomenological perspective, this study explored the lived experience of individuals with a past ­hospitalization in an intensive care unit, with focus on their dreams. The purpose was to explore how it is to have been critically ill
Dreams are the language of the unconscious and can symbolically convey meanings
Eight participants recounted their experiences with critical illness through semi‐structured phenomenological interviews and dream‐telling. An interplay between the ‘factual–external’ world and the ‘internal’ world appeared to be the basis of their perception of the situation. Participants’ narratives were immensely rich in symbols of transformation, transcendence and rebirth. Transformations in perception, in lived‐body, and in lived time and space were some of the themes emerging as part of both conscious and dreaming experiences. Attitudes towards death were altered, and elements of heightened spirituality were evident in the aftermath of critical illness
Critical illness was conceptualized as a ‘cocooning phase’ leading to transformation of self, spiritual arousal and personal growth. Nurses may be able to alleviate suffering by supporting this process while in the ICU, as well as after discharge
What Are the Dietary Protein Requirements of Physically Active Individuals? New Evidence on the Effects of Exercise on Protein Utilization During Post‐Exercise Recovery
Authors: Fielding Roger A. , Parkington Jascha 
Published: March 2003

AbstractExercise and physical activity increase energy expenditure up to 10‐fold. This brief review will focus on the effect of exercise on protein requirements. Evidence has accumulated that amino acids are oxidized as substrates during prolonged submaximal exercise. In addition, studies have determined that both endurance and resistance training exercise increase skeletal muscle protein synthesis and breakdown in the post‐exercise recovery period. Studies using nitrogen balance have further confirmed that protein requirements for individuals engaged in regular exercise are increased. The current recommended intakes of protein for strength and endurance athletes are 1.6 to 1.7 g/kg and 1.2 to 1.4 g/kg per day, respectively. Presently, most athletes consume an adequate amount of protein in their diet. The timing and nutritional content of the post‐exercise meal, although often overlooked, are known to have synergistic effects on protein accretion after exercise. New evidence suggests that individuals engaging in strenuous activity consume a meal rich in amino acids and carbohydrate soon after the exercise bout or training session.
The Effect of Calcium Consumption on Iron Absorption and Iron Status
Authors: Harris Susan S. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractRecent increases in recommended calcium intakes recognize the important role of calcium in skeletal health, but many Americans, especially women, consume far less than recommended amounts. A potential drawback to encouraging increased calcium intake is suggested by the extensive literature showing an adverse effect of high calcium intake on dietary iron absorption, at least in short, highly controlled, experimental studies. However, the applicability of short‐term studies involving test meals to long‐term iron absorption and iron status is limited given the variety of foods and food combinations in self‐selected diets and the ability of individuals to adapt to reduced iron intake. In general, studies of whole diets and studies conducted over several weeks tend to show no effect of increased calcium intake on iron absorption. In addition, experimental studies of calcium and iron status measures such as serum ferritin show no long‐term effect of calcium supplementation on iron status. Prevention and treatment of iron deficiency should emphasize adequate consumption of iron‐rich foods and, when indicated, the use of iron supplements. Recommended calcium intakes are important for skeletal health and do not appear to increase the risk for iron deficiency in healthy people.
Health‐related quality of life and pressure ulceration assessment in patients treated in the community
Authors: Franks Peter J. , Winterberg Hanne , Moffatt Christine J. 
Published: March 2003

Little is known of the impact of pressure ulceration on adult patients' health‐related quality of life. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact pressure ulceration has on pressure ulcer patients cared for in the community. A case control study design was used by drawing a random sample from patients receiving community nursing care, stratified by the presence of pressure ulceration. In all, 75 patients with pressure ulcers were compared with 100 controls without ulcers using the four‐point ulcer grading scale described by United Kingdom consensus guidelines. Patients were interviewed using the Short Form‐36 (SF‐36) questionnaire and activities of daily living assessed using the modified Barthel scale. Patients with pressure ulcers had significantly poorer physical function (mean difference [d]=37.6, 95% CI 28.6–46.6, p < 0.001) and social functioning (d=33.9, 95 % CI 24.0–43.9, p < 0.001) than published age‐ and sex‐matched normative data from the United Kingdom. The difference between cases and controls was much smaller in these domains, with neither approaching statistical significance. After adjustment for age and gender, scores for bodily pain were poorer in patients with no ulceration (d=−10.5, 95% CI – 20.6 to – 0.4, p=0.042) indicating greater pain in these patients compared with the cases with ulceration. Activities of daily living determined by the modified Barthel scale showed reduced self‐care (d=−7.6, 95% CI –12.5 to − 2.7, p=0.010) and mobility (d=−9.2, 95% CI −14.6 to − 3.8, p=0.001) in patients with pressure ulceration. The overall ability to perform these activities was also significantly poorer in this group (d=−16.3, 95% CI –27.3 to −5.3, p=0.004).While patients with pressure ulceration experience some deficits in their health‐related quality of life compared with a normal population, these differences are similar to those experienced by other patients receiving community nursing care. (WOUND REP REG 2002;10:)
Successive hydration and dehydration of high‐P mafic granofels involving clinopyroxene–kyanite symplectites, Mt Daniel, Fiordland, New Zealand
Authors: Daczko N. R. , Stevenson J. A. , Clarke G. L. , Klepeis K. A. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractThree texturally distinct symplectites occur in mafic granofels of the Arthur River Complex at MtDaniel, Fiordland, New Zealand. These include symplectic intergrowths of clinopyroxene and kyanite, described here for the first time. Pods of mafic granofels occur within the contact aureole of the Early Cretaceous Western Fiordland Orthogneiss batholith. The pods have cores formed entirely of garnet and clinopyroxene, and rims of pseudomorphous coarse‐grained symplectic intergrowths of hornblende and clinozoisite that reflect hydration at moderate to high‐P. These hornfelsic rocks are enveloped by a hornblende–clinozoisite gneissic foliation (S1). Narrow garnet reaction zones, in which hornblende and clinozoisite are replaced by garnet–clinopyroxene assemblages, developed adjacent to fractures and veins that cut S1. Fine‐grained symplectic intergrowths of (1) clinopyroxene and kyanite and (2) clinozoisite, quartz, kyanite and plagioclase form part of the garnet reaction zones and partially replace coarse‐grained S1 hornblende and clinozoisite. The development of the garnet reaction zones and symplectites was promoted by dehydration most probably following cooling of the contact aureole. Maps of oxide weight percent and cation proportions, calculated by performing matrix corrections on maps of X‐ray intensities, are used to study the microstructure of the symplectites.
Reductive deposition of graphite at lithological margins in East Central Vermont: a Sr, C and O isotope study
Authors: Evans K. A. , Bickle M. J. , Skelton A. D. L. , Hall M. , Chapman H. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractO, Sr and C isotopes from east‐central Vermont are used to provide information on the timing and volume of metamorphic fluid flow. The results are then used to assess the evidence for redox transformations between C species. Oxygen profiles are homogenised on a metre scale; comparison with Sr isotopes suggest that O alteration may have occurred over a significantly larger timescale than that of Sr, possibly because O was modified during dewatering and diagenesis in addition to the high temperature alteration recorded by strontium. Sr isotope distributions are consistent with cross‐layer fluid fluxes of 104−106 moles m−2; absolute values depend on the Sr fluid‐rock distribution coefficient which is poorly known; however, reaction progress constraints suggest that fluxes were towards the lower end of this range. High δ13C values observed at lithological boundaries cannot be explained by volume loss or closed system processes and are taken to indicate reductive precipitation of graphite as a result of mixing between CO2 and CH4‐bearing fluids. Mass balance calculations indicate that redox reactions occurring under metamorphic conditions convert a minimum of 10% of the CO2 released from limestones into graphite, thus providing a potentially important control on the average residence time of C within the crust with implications for C cycling models.
Increasing AV Fistulas: Revisiting a Time‐Tested Solution
Authors: Sands Jeffrey J. 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTDespite having the lowest complication rate of all hemodialysis accesses, the prevalence of autologous arteriovenous (AV) fistulas has declined to 28% in the United States. The reasons for this decline include high early AV fistula failure rates, long maturation times, the frequent need for emergent dialysis, unavailable or poor pre‐ESRD programs and planning, patient resistance to the realities of impending ESRD, and financial disincentives to AV fistula placement. Despite these barriers, programs throughout the country have demonstrated the ability to increase AV fistula prevalence to more than 50%. The strategies employed have included increased reliance on upper arm brachiocephalic and transposed basilic vein fistulas, the use of preoperative imaging to identify the best sites for fistula creation, and aggressive attempts at salvage of nonmaturing fistulas. Other groups have systematically and successfully replaced failed grafts with upper arm brachiocephalic or bracheobasilic fistulas. These experiences clearly show that exceeding the National Kidney Foundation Dialysis Outcomes Quality Initiative (NKF‐DOQI) goal of more than 50% fistula placement is achievable in the United States. Declining numbers of AV fistulas are the result of a combination of factors, including changes in our patient population and learned practice patterns coupled with a failure of our delivery system to provide education, timely referral, and incentives for fistula placement. Increasing AV fistula prevalence in the United States is achievable and will improve patient outcomes and decrease the costs of ESRD.
Preventive Medical Screening Is Not Appropriate for Many Chronic Dialysis Patients
Authors: Holley Jean L. 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTEstablishing guidelines for the appropriate preventive medical care for chronic dialysis patients requires consideration of many factors. These include the population's underlying risk factors and expected survival, the effectiveness of screening procedures in improving the duration and/or quality of life, and the potential for renal transplantation. Although many nephrologists order and direct routine cancer screening in their dialysis patients, recent studies suggest such screening is not cost effective. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients and peripheral vascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity among dialysis patients, but even less is known about the cost‐effectiveness of screening for peripheral vascular and cardiovascular disease risks in ESRD patients. Despite a recently reported overall standardized cancer incidence of 1.18 in dialysis patients compared with normal populations, the shortened expected survival of dialysis patients argues against routine cancer screening in this population. Dialysis units and nephrologists should focus cancer screening on individual patients and include specific cancer risk as well as expected survival assessments and transplant candidacy in their decisions to screen a patient for cancer. Routine cancer screening of all dialysis patients is not indicated. Additional study of the benefits and cost‐effectiveness of screening ESRD patients for cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disease risk factors is needed.
A Case for Cellulosic Membrane Hemodialyzers
Authors: Ivanovich Peter , Rosner Karol 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTRegenerated cellulose membranes have been held responsible for a variety of ill effects in dialysis patients. Many of these effects (hypotension, changes in well‐being) have not been supported by studies, while other effects were more likely due to ethylene oxide. The lower cost of dialyzers composed of these membranes may allow implementation of otherwise cost‐prohibitive lifesaving therapy in some countries.