bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Calling behaviour of the potato aphid Macrosiphum euphorbiae oviparae under laboratory and field conditions
Authors: Goldansaz Seyed H. , McNeil Jeremy N. 
Published: May 2003

Abstract.  1. The calling behaviour of virgin oviparae of the potato aphid Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas) (Homoptera: Aphididae) was studied at three different constant temperatures under laboratory conditions. The mean age of calling for the first time decreased with a decrease in temperature from 2.9 days at 20 °C to 2.1 days at 10 °C. At all temperature regimes, the mean onset time of calling advanced from about 5 to 3 h after the onset of the photophase, and the mean time spent calling increased by > 4 h over the 8 days.2. Cohorts of oviparae were also observed at two different periods in late summer–early autumn in the field, to examine the effects of fluctuating abiotic conditions (temperatures, wind velocity, rain) and age on calling behaviour. As under constant laboratory conditions, the mean age of calling for the first time declined with declining temperature, from 3.7 days in early September to 1.6 days at the end of September. Age‐related changes in the mean onset time of calling and the mean time spent calling were much less evident under field conditions, due to the inhibitory effects of low temperatures, high winds, and rain on female calling activity.3. The results are discussed within the context of reproductive success and address a previously proposed hypothesis suggesting that species‐specific calling windows may serve as a reproductive isolating mechanism for sympatric aphid species.
Interactions of the antCrematogaster scutellariswith the fig/fig wasp mutualism
Authors: Schatz Bertrand , Hossaert‐Mckey Martine 
Published: May 2003

Abstract.1. A classical example of specialised pollination mutualisms is the relationship between fig trees and their pollinating wasps, in which each partner depends completely on the other for its reproduction; however the fig/fig wasp association is also the target of a great diversity of other species, ranging from specialised parasites to opportunistic foragers, among them ants.2. The ant community and the sources of ant attraction observed on the Mediterranean fig treeFicus caricawere characterised.3. A guild of ants attracted by homopterans tended on the plant was distinguished from a second guild composed of two co‐dominant ant species (Crematogaster scutellarisandPheidole pallidula) that prey mostly on pollinating wasps, abundant during certain parts of the fig cycle.4. Foraging workers ofC. scutellarissearch for prey on the fig inflorescence (syconium), capturing pollinating wasps mostly at the peak of wasp emergence and at a rate estimated to reach 600 prey per day for an entire tree.5. Detailed study of the predatory sequences displayed under experimental conditions showed that ant workers captured 100% of the pollinating wasps offered, while they captured only 5.5% of the parasitoid wasp specific to the pollinator. The respective impacts of the interaction on ants and on the figs are discussed, as well as several behavioural traits of predation by the dominant ant on pollinators.
Performance of a spring‐feeding moth in relation to time of oviposition and bud‐burst phenology of different host species
Authors: Klemola Tero , Ruohomäki Kai , Tanhuanpää Miia , Kaitaniemi Pekka 
Published: May 2003

Abstract. 1. As a spring‐feeding moth committed to immature foliage, the autumnal moth Epirrita autumnata (Lepidoptera, Geometridae) must have egg hatch synchronised with the bud‐burst of its host plants. Due to large individual variation in the length of the pupal period, however, E. autumnata populations exhibit a prolonged period of flight and oviposition. Because the timing of oviposition in autumn is associated with the timing of egg hatch in the following spring, the time window for egg hatch expands and more potential hosts may become attainable. This suggestion was evaluated under field conditions by rearing E. autumnata eggs and larvae on four different hosts.2. The performance of E. autumnata was measured by using estimates for fecundity (pupal mass) as well as survivorship of eggs and larvae. Based on the availability of foliage and phenological synchrony between larval and leaf development, early‐laid eggs and the larvae originating from them were predicted to perform better on the hosts that have early‐flushing leaves. On the late‐flushing hosts, the larvae that hatched later were predicted to perform better than the larvae that hatched earlier. Half of the trials were exposed to predators and parasitoids, while the rest were conducted inside mesh‐bags preventing larval dispersal and mortality due to natural enemies.3. The results of the experiment did not support the simple predictions. In particular, host‐plant quality and natural enemies appeared to operate discordantly between early‐ and late‐laid eggs. Larvae from the late‐laid eggs had rapid development during the larval stages and pupated at the same time and with the same pupal mass as the larvae hatched from the early‐laid eggs.4. The results indicate an occurrence of several, unknown selective forces in E. autumnata populations maintaining variation in the length of the pupal period, timing of oviposition, and timing of egg hatch.
Effects of interdecadal climate variability on the oceanic ecosystems of the NE Pacific
Authors: FRANCIS ROBERT C. , HARE STEVEN R. , HOLLOWED ANNE B. , WOOSTER WARREN S. 
Published: May 2003

A major reorganization of the North‐east Pacific biota transpired following a climatic `regime shift' in the mid 1970s. In this paper, we characterize the effects of interdecadal climate forcing on the oceanic ecosystems of the NE Pacific Ocean. We consider the concept of scale in terms of both time and space within the North Pacific ecosystem and develop a conceptual model to illustrate how climate variability is linked to ecosystem change. Next we describe a number of recent studies relating climate to marine ecosystem dynamics in the NE Pacific Ocean. These studies have focused on most major components of marine ecosystems – primary and secondary producers, forage species, and several levels of predators. They have been undertaken at different time and space scales. However, taken together, they reveal a more coherent picture of how decadal‐scale climate forcing may affect the large oceanic ecosystems of the NE Pacific. Finally, we synthesize the insight gained from interpreting these studies. Several general conclusions can be drawn. 1 There are large‐scale, low‐frequency, and sometimes very rapid changes in the distribution of atmospheric pressure over the North Pacific which are, in turn, reflected in ocean properties and circulation. 2 Oceanic ecosystems respond on similar time and space scales to variations in physical conditions. 3 Linkages between the atmosphere/ocean physics and biological responses are often different across time and space scales. 4 While the cases presented here demonstrate oceanic ecosystem response to climate forcing, they provide only hints of the mechanisms of interaction. 5 A model whereby ecosystem response to specified climate variation can be successfully predicted will be difficult to achieve because of scale mismatches and nonlinearities in the atmosphere–ocean–biosphere system.
The fin whaleBalaenoptera physalus(L. 1758) in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: NOTARBARTOLO‐DI‐SCIARA GIUSEPPE , ZANARDELLI MARGHERITA , JAHODA MADDALENA , PANIGADA SIMONE , AIROLDI SABINA 
Published: May 2003

ABSTRACT1. The ecology and status of fin whalesBalaenoptera physalusin the Mediterranean Sea is reviewed. The species’ presence, morphology, distribution, movements, population structure, ecology and behaviour in this semi‐enclosed marine region are summarized, and the review is complemented with original, previously unpublished data.2. Although the total size of the fin whale population in the Mediterranean is unknown, an estimate for a portion of the western basin, where most of the whales are known to live, was approximately 3500 individuals. High whale densities, comparable to those found in rich oceanic habitats, were found in well‐defined areas of high productivity. Most whales concentrate in the Ligurian‐Corsican‐Provençal Basin, where their presence is particularly noticeable during summer; however, neither their movement patterns throughout the region nor their seasonal cycle are clear.3. Based on genetic studies, fin whales from the Mediterranean Sea are distinct from North Atlantic conspecifics, and may constitute a resident population, separate from those of the North Atlantic, despite the species’ historical presence in the Strait of Gibraltar. Fin whales are known to calve in the Mediterranean, with births peaking in November but occurring at lower rates throughout the year. They feed primarily on krillMeganyctiphanes norvegicawhich they capture by diving to depths in excess of 470 m. It is suggested that the extensive vertical migratory behaviour of its main prey may have influenced the social ecology of this population.4. Known causes of mortality and threats, including collisions with vessels, entanglement in fishing gear, deliberate killing, disturbance, pollution and disease, are listed and discussed in view of the implementation of appropriate conservation measures to ensure the species’ survival in the region.
Economic effects of childhood cancer on families
Authors: Dockerty JD , Skegg DCG , Williams SM 
Published: May 2003

Objective:  To assess the financial impact of childhood cancer on families.Methods:  This was a cross‐sectional survey of parents caring for children who were diagnosed with cancer during the period 1990−1993. Self‐administered questionnaires were completed by the parents of 237 children from throughout New Zealand with different types of cancer. Dollar amounts were adjusted to the equivalent of December 2000.Results:  Eighty‐six per cent of the 192 living children were well or in remission. A further 45 children had died. The average extra amount spent, because of the child's illness, by the family of a living child in the 30 days prior to participation in the study was NZ$220 (SD NZ$330). On average, this was 13% of the family income after tax. After reported entitlement to compensation from various sources was allowed for, families were left with a mean deficit of NZ$157 (SD NZ$278) for the 30 days. Twelve families had a shortfall of more than NZ$500, including three families that had a shortfall of more than NZ$1000. Expenditure was greater for those whose children spent more time in hospital (P = 0.003). There was no significant association between the total cost and the distance travelled to the treatment centre (P = 0.96). For 24 families, after‐tax income in the month prior to participation in the study was at least NZ$500 lower than it had been in the month before the child's diagnosis. Thirty‐seven per cent of families reported that they needed to borrow money because of the financial effects of the child's illness. Bereaved parents spent an average of NZ$3065 (SD NZ$2168) on funeral expenses.Conclusion:  There is a large financial burden on families who have a child with cancer.
Heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia in children
Authors: Newall F , Barnes C , Ignjatovic V , Monagle P 
Published: May 2003

Objective:  To audit the frequency of heparinoid (standard heparin and low molecular weight heparin) use in a tertiary paediatric hospital, and to determine the occurrence of heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT).Methods:  A 1‐week cross‐sectional audit of all heparinoids given to inpatients at a tertiary paediatric hospital was undertaken and a retrospective medical record review of all suspected HIT cases at the tertiary paediatric centre over a 2‐year period was carried out.Results:  One hundred and sixteen patients received heparinoid medications over a 7‐day period. An average of 29 children received heparin daily. The retrospective medical record review identified four patients with suspected HIT over a 2‐year period. Two patients developed thrombotic complications, which were fatal in one patient.Conclusion:  Heparin is used frequently in paediatric tertiary hospitals, yet the occurrence of HIT in children is much lower than that reported in adults. Improved laboratory techniques could facilitate improved screening and diagnosis of this serious adverse drug reaction.
Parents, infants and health care: Utilization of health services in the first 12 months of life
Authors: Goldfeld SR , Wright M , Oberklaid F 
Published: May 2003

Objective:  To describe patterns of health‐service use in the first 12 months of life.Methods:  In this prospective cohort study, 173 first‐born infants and their families living in two middle socio‐economic urban areas of Melbourne were enrolled consecutively when presenting for their initial maternal and child health nurse (MCHN) visit (at approximately 4 weeks of age). Families kept a daily ‘health diary’ for the entire 12‐month period, recording use of all health services for their infant, and reasons for the contact.Results:  There was an 87% completion rate of diaries. The mean number of visits to any health service, including medical, hospitals, MCHN services, pharmacists, allied health services and naturopaths, was 35.7 (95% CI 34.7−36.6) during the 12 months. Of these, 31% (mean 10.9 visits) were visits to a general practitioner (GP) and 41.5% (mean 14.3 visits) were visits to the MCHN. Infants’ visits to the MCHN were far more frequent in the first 6 months of life compared with the second 6 months (10.3 vs 3.6, P < 0.001). Rates of GP use were constant over the same periods (5.3 vs 5.7, P = 0.8).Conclusions:  In a universal health‐care system, this high rate of health‐service use equates to approximately one visit to a health service every 2 weeks in the first year of life. The majority of these visits appeared unrelated to illness. This previously undocumented data has implications for future integrated service delivery, health‐professional training and policy development for this age group.
Unintentional ingestion of over the counter medications in children less than 5 years old
Authors: Chien C , Marriott JL , Ashby K , Ozanne‐Smith J 
Published: May 2003

Objective:  Childhood ingestion of medications remains a substantial problem. Medication available over the counter (OTC) is widely used and has significant toxicity. The present study aims to investigate the nature and extent of unintentional ingestion of OTC medication in children < 5 years old in Victoria, Australia, during the period 1996−2000, in order to highlight critical factors.Methods:  Numbers of enquiries relating to unintentional ingestion of OTC medication in children < 5 years old and medication types were obtained from the Victorian Poisons Information Centre for 1998−2000. Emergency Department presentations involving poisoning of children < 5 years old, the medication types and subsequent admissions were obtained from the Victorian Emergency Minimum Dataset for 1996−2000.Results:  Numbers of enquiries and Emergency Department attendances for poisoning were substantially higher for OTC medication than for prescription medication; however, a lower proportion of cases involving ingestion of OTC medication (24.8%) required hospital admission during the study period compared with cases involving ingestion of prescription medications (33.8%). Overall, the peak incidence was at 2 years of age, with a slight male over‐representation. Paracetamol and cough/cold preparations were the most common agents.Conclusions:  The causes of unintentional ingestion of OTC medications by children might include lack of child‐resistant closure (CRC), inadequate design of CRC, attitudes concerning the toxicity of OTC medications, or lack of vigilance by parents and carers in the storage and administration of OTC medications. Consideration should be given to restricting sales of toxic OTC medications to pharmacies, and increasing counselling of consumers concerning the toxicity and safe storage of OTC medications and the correct usage of CRC. The adequacy of CRC design and OTC medications warranting CRC should be reviewed by the relevant authorities.
Effect of detergent‐coated versus non‐coated spacers on bronchodilator response in children with asthma
Authors: Barben JU , Roberts M , Robertson CF 
Published: May 2003

Objective:  Previous studies have demonstrated that coating spacers with ionic detergents minimizes the static charge and thereby improves in vivo drug deposition. The present study aims to examine the effect of coated spacers versus non‐coated spacers in the clinical situation.Methods:  A randomized, double‐blind study in children with asthma and a ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 s to forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) of ≤72% predicted was carried out. Spirometry was performed at baseline and at 10 min and 20 min after inhalation of two puffs of salbutamol (100 µg/puff) through either a detergent‐coated or a non‐coated spacer.Results:  Fifty children were studied (mean age 11.6 years, range 7−18 years): 26 in the group using coated spacers (CG); and 24 in the group using non‐coated spacers (NCG). The mean percentage change in FEV1 from baseline 10 min after inhalation was 18.8% (range 5−50%) in the CG versus 18.5% (range 3−35%) in the NCG. At 20 min after inhalation, the per cent increase in FEV1 was 19.8% (range 0−50%) in the CG versus 19.5% (range 9−35%) in the NCG. There was no significant difference between groups in the percentage change in FEV1 after 10 min (P = 0.91), or after 20 min (P = 0.93).Conclusions:  There was no improvement in bronchodilatation from detergent‐coated spacers in the present study, possibly because a maximal bronchodilator response was achieved with the lower output.
Correlates of specific childhood feeding problems
Authors: Field D , Garland M , Williams K 
Published: May 2003

Objective:  The correlates of specific childhood feeding problems are described to further examine possible predisposing factors for feeding problems. We report our experience with 349 participants evaluated by an interdisciplinary feeding team.Methods:  A review of records was conducted and each participant was identified as having one or more of five functionally defined feeding problems: food refusal, food selectivity by type, food selectivity by texture, oral motor delays, or dysphagia. The prevalence of predisposing factors for these feeding problems was examined. Predisposing factors included developmental disabilities, gastrointestinal problems, cardiopulmonary problems, neurological problems, renal disease and anatomical anomalies.Results:  The frequencies of predisposing factors varied by feeding problem. Differences were found in the prevalence of the five feeding problems among children with three different developmental disabilities: autism, Down syndrome and cerebral palsy. Gastro‐oesophageal reflux was the most prevalent condition found among all children in the sample and was the factor most often associated with food refusal. Neurological conditions and anatomical anomalies were highly associated with skill deficits, such as oral motor delays and dysphagia.Conclusions:  Specific medical conditions and developmental disabilities are often associated with certain feeding problems. Information concerning predisposing factors of feeding problems can help providers employ appropriate primary, secondary and tertiary prevention measures to decrease the frequency or severity of some feeding problems.
An unusual presentation of idiopathic bilateral avascular necrosis of the femoral heads
Authors: Parmar Kalpesh A 
Published: May 2003

AbstractA case report is presented of a patient with an unusual presentation of idiopathic bilateral avascular necrosis of the femoral heads after a period of multiple presentations and misdiagnoses in the ED. This is the first such case described presenting in this way and highlights the importance of establishing a firm diagnosis and instituting appropriate management.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Authors: Bryan Sheila 
Published: May 2003

AbstractThe complaint of abnormal vaginal bleeding in a non‐pregnant patient is not a common presentation to a general ED. However, the bleeding may in itself be significant or it may be a harbinger of serious underlying pathology. A systematic approach to diagnosis is required. An initial approach to vaginal bleeding can be to categorize the bleeding by the anatomical site. This article discusses some of the common causes of upper tract or uterine bleeding and outlines the basic approach to diagnosis and management.
Current challenges in the assessment and management of patients with bleeding in early pregnancy
Authors: Bryan Sheila 
Published: May 2003

AbstractBleeding in early pregnancy occurs in approximately 20% of clinically diagnosed pregnancies. History and physical examination are unable to reliably determine the anatomical location of the pregnancy (ectopic or intrauterine) or whether or not the fetus is alive. Ultrasound is the best tool for assessing these clinical questions and it is increasingly being used in the ED. This article looks at some of the common ultrasound findings and discusses the management options for failed and ectopic pregnancies.
Obstetric haemorrhage
Authors: Higgins Shane 
Published: May 2003

AbstractFew obstetric emergencies cause greater concern than haemorrhage in late pregnancy and the immediate postpartum period. Massive haemorrhage can occur without forewarning with few reliable clinical indicators available to predict those at greatest risk. Patients may remain haemodynamically stable until a sudden deterioration in condition takes place. In many cases the extent of the bleeding can be unclear as the haemorrhage may be concealed behind the placenta. This article reviews the common causes of ante and postpartum haemorrhage, their associated factors and the immediate and subsequent management of the conditions. A variety of uterotonic agents is available for the treatment of postpartum haemorrhage and a structured approach for their use is required.
Re‐framing the clinician's role in collaborative clinical decision making: re‐thinking practice knowledge and the notion of clinician–patient relationships
Authors: Trede Franziska , Higgs Joy 
Published: May 2003

AbstractMany clinicians are moving away from the traditional expert role towards a more collaborative approach to clinical decision making. Collaboration with patients has implications for the power distribution between clinician and patient, how health is defined, and what counts as evidence in the decision‐making process. A critical social science perspective provides the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings for collaborative clinical decision making. Key issues of critical social science are critical self‐reflection, questioning taken‐for‐granted practice, and transforming current practice. The way that clinicians define their role in clinical decision making reflects their beliefs and values about health, power and practice knowledge. Clinicians who adopt a collaborative clinical decision‐making approach reject the objective scientific view of evidence‐based practice, and embrace cultural and political influences on what counts as evidence. The purpose of collaboration is to increase understanding between the clinician and the patient. A distinction is made in this debate between manipulating and emancipating patients. Including patients in the decision‐making process promises to result in more realistic and appropriate treatments, reduced patient concerns and complaints and better, sustainable health outcomes, and increased patient and clinician satisfaction. In this article we re‐think practice knowledge and the notion of clinician–patient relationships.