bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
On the use of Timed Species Counts to estimate avian abundance indices in species‐rich communities
Authors: Freeman Stephen N. , Pomeroy Derek E. , Tushabe Herbert 
Published: January 2004

AbstractTimed Species Counts (TSCs) have been found to provide useful data for assessing the relative abundances of birds in conservation studies, particularly in species‐rich areas, such as many tropical habitats. An index is conventionally based upon the mean TSC from a number of counts. In this paper, we develop a new statistic, λ, which is based upon the assumption that the number of encounters with a species in unit time has a Poisson distribution. Using the same assumptions on detectability that underlie earlier analyses of TSC data, values of λ, unlike the simple mean TSC, are directly proportional to abundance. However, TSC data are affected by detectability, so that comparisons of relative abundance for the same species between similar sites have greater validity than those between different species. Explicit formulae for calculating an estimate of λ and its SE from sample data are described. Although λ can be estimated from either TSC data or the simple proportion of counts in which the species was encountered, for the commonest species a simulation study shows that only data in full TSC form provide accurate estimates. The difference becomes negligible for scarcer species. The use of λ in preference to mean TSC scores is recommended where it is important to compare values of relative abundance.
Watson and Crick 50 years on. From double helix to pharmacogenomics
Authors: Sweeney B. P. 
Published: January 2004

SummaryThe second half of the 20th century has seen quantum leaps in our understanding of molecular biology. The technological advances, which facilitated the recent successful completion of the Human Genome Project, have provided the tools for deciphering the complexity of the human condition. At present, the function of only 50% of genes is known. However, as understanding of the human genome improves, a plethora of gene targets for treating disease will be uncovered – leading to therapies which will be considered revolutionary. Genome related science has begun to impact almost every facet of medicine including anaesthesia and intensive care. Better understanding of interindividual differences will enable better prediction of illness susceptibility as well as response to treatment. These insights will permit therapies to be tailored to individuals or racial groups. At present, there is only rudimentary knowledge of factors controlling gene regulation, but in the future, better understanding of gene‐environment interactions and gene expression will enable pharmaceutical companies to develop new therapies and permit clinicians to optimise their effects, without recourse to current laborious testing regimens. As genomic science progresses, new ethical, legal, social and philosophical dilemmas will also continue to emerge.
Continuous haemodynamic monitoring using transoesophageal Doppler during acute normovolaemic haemodilution in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Licker M. , Sierra J. , Tassaux D. , Diaper J. 
Published: January 2004

SummaryTransoesophageal Doppler monitoring allows non‐invasive assessment of stroke volume. We studied haemodynamic changes during acute normovolemic haemodilution (ANH) in anaesthetised patients with coronary artery disease. Twenty patients were randomly assigned to either ANH or a control group. During ANH, a mean (SD) blood volume of 15.3 (3.4) ml.kg−1 was withdrawn decreasing systemic oxygen delivery from 12.7 (3.3) to 9.3 (1.8) ml.kg−1.min−1 (p < 0.001). In the control group, haemodynamic data remained unchanged, whereas in the ANH group, stroke volume and central venous pressure increased significantly (mean = +21 ml [95% CI: 18–25 ml.min−1]; mean = +2.5 mmHg [95% CI: 2.2–2.8 mmHg], respectively) and heart rate decreased (mean = −6 beat.min−1[95% CI: 6–8 beat.min−1], p < 0.05). According to the Frank–Starling relationship, individual changes in stroke volume compared with central venous pressure fitted a quadratic regression model (R2 > 0.91). A reduced viscosity associated with ANH resulted in improved venous return, higher cardiac preload and increased cardiac output. In summary, this study demonstrated that ANH to a haemoglobin value of 8.6 g.dl−1 was well tolerated in patients with coronary artery disease.
Acupuncture compared to placebo‐acupuncture for postoperative nausea and vomiting prophylaxis: A randomised placebo‐controlled patient and observer blind trial
Authors: Streitberger K. , Diefenbacher M. , Bauer A. , Conradi R. , Bardenheuer H. , Martin E. , Schneider A. , Unnebrink K. 
Published: January 2004

SummaryThis randomised, placebo‐controlled, patient and observer blinded trial was conducted to determine whether acupuncture at the acupuncture point P6 is effective in preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) compared to placebo acupuncture. Female patients (n = 220) scheduled for gynaecological or breast surgery were randomly assigned to two groups receiving either acupuncture (n = 109) or placebo acupuncture (n = 111). Each group was stratified for type of surgery and included two subgroups receiving intervention either before or after induction of anaesthesia. The incidence of PONV and/or antiemetic rescue medication within 24 h after surgery was the main outcome measure which showed no statistically significant difference between groups (43.7% acupuncture, 50.9% placebo, p = 0.27). The differences were more pronounced for patients having gynaecological surgery (48.9% acupuncture, 67.6% placebo, p = 0.07) than for those having breast surgery (38.7% acupuncture, 40.3% placebo, p = 0.86). The secondary outcome, vomiting, was significantly reduced by acupuncture from 39.6% to 24.8% (p = 0.03). Subgroup analysis showed no difference between applications of acupuncture before compared to after induction of anaesthesia.
Latex‐free reservoir bags: exchanging one potential hazard for another*
Authors: Blanshard H. J. , Milne M. R. 
Published: January 2004

SummaryThe reservoir bag on the anaesthetic breathing circuit is a safety feature that can protect the patient. It is highly distensible, pressures within the breathing circuit rarely exceeding 3.9 kPa (40 cmH2O) even when the adjustable pressure‐limiting valve is inadvertently left closed. In providing a safe latex‐free environment in our anaesthetic rooms, the traditional latex rubber reservoir bag is substituted by a latex‐free one. To investigate the safety features of several latex‐free reservoir bags already in use in our hospital, we assessed the in‐circuit pressures obtained at stepped fresh gas flows using a lung simulator. Four out of five of the latex‐free bags exceeded pressures of 4.4 kPa (45 cmH2O), raising the possibility that, in trying to avoid an occupational hazard, we might be compromising patient safety. We found that, of the five latex‐free systems we tested, only the Intersurgical complete respiratory system provided an adequate safety mechanism for the patient and thus did not potentially compromise patient safety.
Patient maintained sedation for colonoscopy using a target controlled infusion of propofol*
Authors: Campbell L. , Imrie G. , Doherty P. , Porteous C. , Millar K. , Kenny G. N. C. , Fletcher G. 
Published: January 2004

SummaryIn this study, we evaluated safety and recovery using a patient maintained, target controlled infusion of propofol for sedation in 20 patients undergoing colonoscopy. Using a handset with a two‐minute lockout interval, patients could make 0.2 µg.ml−1 increments to an initial target plasma concentration of 1 µg.ml−1 up to a maximum 4.5 µg.ml−1. Four patients became oversedated but required no airway or circulatory interventions. Subjects had a significant reduction in mean (SD) heart rate: 78.7 (15) vs. 69.8 (13.5) (p < 0.001) and in systolic blood pressure 121.1 (13.2) mmHg vs. 96.5 (8.6) mmHg (p < 0.001). Choice reaction time testing 15 min after colonoscopy showed a significant median (IQR [range]) rise of 162 (− 16, 383.3 [‐199–859]) ms (p < 0.05). Six patients had faster reaction times postcolonoscopy. All patients denied unpleasant recall and were satisfied with the system. Although oversedation was a problem in this model, we conclude that patient maintained propofol sedation could be possible for colonoscopy.
Comparison of patient‐controlled epidural bolus administration of 0.1% ropivacaine and 0.1% levobupivacaine, both with 0.0002% fentanyl, for analgesia during labour
Authors: Purdie N. L. , McGrady E. M. 
Published: January 2004

SummaryThe aim of the study was to compare the relative potencies and clinical characteristics of epidural ropivacaine and levobupivacaine in labour using patient‐controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA). In a randomised double‐blinded study, 60 ASA I or II primigravidae requesting epidural analgesia in early labour were allocated to receive either 0.1% ropivacaine with fentanyl 0.0002% or 0.1% levobupivacaine with 0.0002% fentanyl via a patient‐controlled analgesia pump. Analgesia was established with 15 ml of study solution and maintained using 5‐ml boluses of study solution with a 5‐min lockout interval. There were no significant differences in onset time, duration and quality of analgesia, motor and sensory blockade, local anaesthetic consumption, mode of delivery, neonatal outcome or maternal satisfaction between the groups. We conclude that 0.1% ropivacaine with 0.0002% fentanyl and 0.1% levobupivacaine with 0.0002% fentanyl are clinically indistinguishable for labour analgesia and appear pharmacologically equipotent when using PCEA.
The effect of pre‐operative administration of midazolam on the development of intra‐operative hypothermia
Authors: Toyota K. , Sakura S. , Saito Y. , Ozasa H. , Uchida H. 
Published: January 2004

SummaryMidazolam is often used for premedication; it is known to promote vasodilation and may therefore affect redistribution of heat during surgery. We examined the effect of pre‐operative administration of midazolam on the development of intra‐operative hypothermia. Forty‐five patients were randomly allocated to one of three groups to receive no premedication (Group C), IM midazolam 0.04 mg.kg−1 (Group M1) or 0.08 mg.kg−1 (Group M2) 30 min prior to anaesthesia. Sedation levels were assessed, and then general anaesthesia was induced and maintained using propofol and fentanyl. During surgery, core temperature, which was similar for the three groups prior to induction of anaesthesia, decreased significantly less in the midazolam groups M1 and M2 compared to the control group C. Patients who were more heavily sedated prior to induction of anaesthesia, had significantly lower core temperatures peri‐operatively than those who were less sedated, and core temperatures in unpremedicated patients fell to significantly lower levels during surgery than those who were drowsy. We conclude that pre‐operative administration of midazolam produces an effect on the development of peri‐operative hypothermia. We found that moderate pre‐operative sedation reduces the peri‐operative heat loss, possibly by affecting core‐to‐peripheral heat distribution.
EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY OF GAMBLING IN THE NON‐METROPOLITAN REGION OF CENTRAL QUEENSLAND
Authors: Schofield Grant , Mummery Kerry , Wang Wei , Dickson Geoff 
Published: January 2004

ABSTRACTObjective:   The purpose of the research was to provide a contemporary description of the gambling behaviours of people in Central Queensland. Design:   The South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), a clinical diagnostic tool for identifying problem and pathological gamblers was utilised. Setting:   Central Queensland extends from Bundaberg to Mackay and west to the Queensland – Northern Territory border. The region incorporates a number of rural and regional centres and the major centres of Rockhampton, Gladstone, Mackay and Bundaberg. Subjects:   Computer‐aided telephone interviews were conducted with a random sample of 1029 adults. Main outcome measure a: a comparison of CQ gambling rates with national averages. Results:  Over 90% of the population had engaged in some form of gambling activity in the past month. One point eight percent of the sample fulfilled criteria for ‘problem gambling’. The prevalence of ‘probable pathological gambling’, was 0.8%. An additional 1% of the population were identified as being ‘problem gamblers’. These rates are slightly lower than the Australian average identified by the Productivity Commission in 1999. Nonetheless, they indicate the presence of a large number of individuals affected by problem gambling. Conclusions:  Comparisons of these data with treatment statistics available from the regional counselling service for problem gamblers indicate that the majority of these gamblers do not seek treatment. It is clear that many gamblers with serious pathology go undetected and untreated. General practitioners are suggested as one appropriate point for screening and further referral. A whole‐of‐government approach to problem and pathological gambling is also advocated. What is already known:   Gambling is increasingly recognised as a health determinant for individuals, families and communities throughout metropolitan and non‐metropolitan Australia. Previous research has not yet identified the prevalence rate of problem gambling in non‐metropolitan communities within Australia. What this study adds:   The prevalence of problem gambling in Central Queensland identified by this study does not exceed national rates. Central Queensland's gambling problem is likely to be at least the equal as the rest of Australia.
IMPLEMENTING COMPUTERISED WORKLOAD DATA COLLECTION IN RURAL PRIMARY HEALTH CARE
Authors: West Christina , Farmer Jane , Whyte Bruce 
Published: January 2004

ABSTRACTObjective:   Describes the implementation of a computerised information system to collect workload data and discusses feedback from staff evaluation of use and value. Design:   Feedback interviews following service implementation. Setting:   Remote rural primary health care, Scotland. Subjects:  Thirty‐three primary health care staff. Main outcome measures:  Not relevant, as the study was service development with qualitative evaluation. Results:  Findings of evaluation interviews indicate a number of themes common to remote rural practice that make implementing a computerised information system problematical. These include: logistical problems caused by small practice teams and wide areas covered; inadequate allowance for recording of blurred roles and the wide range of non‐clinical duties carried out; lack of local contextual and cultural information, which is necessary to make sense of data collected. Remote rural health professionals found reports from the system of limited value as they felt they already had good knowledge of local activities and had few opportunities, due to small teams, to use data for service redesign. Conclusion:  Remote rural primary care is underpinned by a number of organisational and philosophical features that require understanding when considering the implementation of initiatives developed in an urban working environment. What is already known on the subject:  A small number of studies have evaluated the implementation of information systems in primary health care, but there is little information about the feasibility and value of routinely gathering data in rural areas. This work was required to assess the extent to which information systems developed in urban practice can be implemented and are applicable to rural practice. What does this study add:  This evaluation shows that certain features of rural practice may mean that data gathering has to be adapted and that, in any case, rural practices may find less value in the outputs of information systems compared with urban counterparts. Those considering the dissemination of national initiatives should consider the need to adapt their policies for implementation in rural settings.
PREVALENCE OF OVERWEIGHT AND SMOKING PATIENTS WITH CORONARY HEART DISEASE IN RURAL CHINA
Authors: Wang Lexin , Yao Daokuo , Wu Tongguo 
Published: January 2004

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of overweight and/or smoking patients with coronary artery disease in rural China. Design: A prospective survey with qualitative, open‐ended questionnaires. Setting: Tertiary referral centre. Subjects: 158 hospitalised patients (71 men and 87 women) with established coronary heart disease. Main outcome measures: To determine the prevalence of overweight and /or smoking hospitalised patients who had a definitive diagnosis of coronary artery disease and to determine participants understanding of these risk factors. Results: Being overweight and smoking cigarettes were found in 32.7% and 15.2% of the participants, respectively. More than 70% of the overweight participants had neither knowledge nor counselling on their weight before the study. Most smokers believed smoking was harmful to their health and cardiac condition, and had tried unsuccessfully to quit smoking. Conclusions: There was a high prevalence of overweight and/or smoking patients with coronary heart disease. A systematic approach is urgently required to educate patients and primary care physicians, and to improve the management of being overweight and smoking cigarettes.
Postsynaptic calcium contributes to reinforcement in a three‐neuron network exhibiting associative plasticity
Authors: Balaban P. M. , Korshunova T. A. , Bravarenko N. I. 
Published: January 2004

AbstractWe show that activation of a single serotonergic cell is sufficient to trigger long‐term associative enhancement of synaptic input to the withdrawal interneuron in a simple network consisting of three interconnected identified cells in the nervous system of terrestrial snail Helix. 1,2‐bis (2‐aminophenoxy) Ethane‐N,N,N′,N′‐tetraacetic acid (BAPTA) injection in the postsynaptic neuron abolishes the pairing‐specific enhancement of synaptic input. Activation of a single modulatory cell that we used to reinforce the synaptic input induced an increase of the intracellular [Ca2+] in the ipsilateral withdrawal interneuron without any changes of its membrane potential or input resistance. Similar changes in intracellular [Ca2+] were observed in the same withdrawal interneuron under bath application of 10−5 m serotonin. Responses to repeated glutamate applications to the soma of synaptically isolated withdrawal interneurons increased after 10 min of serotonin or thapsigargin bath application, but were absent in conditions of preliminary BAPTA intracellular injection, significantly decreased under heparin injection. Thus, activity of a single modulatory cell may mediate reinforcement via an increase of [Ca2+] in the postsynaptic cell in a simple network consisting of neurons with defined behavioural roles.
Rearrangement of the retino‐collicular projection after partial optic nerve crush in the adult rat
Authors: Kreutz Michael R. , Weise Jens , Dieterich Daniela C. , Kreutz Martin , Balczarek Peter , Böckers Tobias M. , Wittkowski Werner , Gundelfinger Eckart D. , Sabel Bernhard A. 
Published: January 2004

AbstractThe establishment of retino‐collicular topography is a well‐investigated model of axon pathfinding and it was believed that this topography is irreversibly fixed throughout life. We now report that, after partial crush of the adult rat optic nerve, the anterograde transport of intravitreally‐injected tracers via axons of surviving retinal ganglion cells (RGC) in all retinal quadrants is confined to the rostro‐medial part of the superior colliculus (SC). This indicates that the retino‐collicular topography is rearranged after partial crush of the adult rat optic nerve. The reorganization starts in the injured optic nerve where surviving axonal fibres are demyelinized and bundled in the periphery of the optic nerve distal to the crush site. This is followed by a displacement of surviving axons to the medial part of the optic tract (OT) within 2 weeks. The infiltration of macrophages with the subsequent production of tumour necrosis factor‐α at the lesion site is a prerequisite for the altered retino‐collicular projection as blockade of tumour necrosis factor‐α signalling with the neutralizing antibody Infliximab abolishes reorganization in the SC and lateralization of RGC axons in the optic nerve and OT. This suggests that optic nerve inflammation is necessary for a progressive bundling of surviving RGC axons, probably via clearance of cellular debris which, in turn, may lead to a redistribution of RGC axons to the medial OT and rostro‐medial SC.
Activation of a subpopulation of orexin/hypocretin‐containing hypothalamic neurons by GABAA receptor‐mediated inhibition of the nucleus accumbens shell, but not by exposure to a novel environment
Authors: Baldo Brian A. , Gual‐Bonilla Lisa , Sijapati Karuna , Daniel Roger A. , Landry Charles F. , Kelley Ann E. 
Published: January 2004

Abstractγ‐Amino butyric acid (GABA)A receptor stimulation in the nucleus accumbens shell produces intense hyperphagia in rats and increases Fos expression in the lateral hypothalamus. To explore the involvement of hypothalamic orexin/hypocretin‐ or melanin concentrating hormone‐immunoreactive neurons in this effect, the GABAA agonist, muscimol (0, 50 ng), was infused directly into the nucleus accumbens shell of rats; 90 min later, their brains were collected and subsequently processed for immunohistochemistry. A group exposed to a novel environment was included to evaluate the specificity of Fos expression changes with regard to general arousal. Alternating sections through the hypothalamus were double‐stained for orexin/hypocretin–Fos or melanin concentrating hormone–Fos combinations. Intra‐accumbens shell muscimol treatment significantly increased the percentage of orexin/hypocretin‐containing neurons expressing Fos in the lateral, but not medial, portion of the perifornical/lateral hypothalamic area. Regardless of treatment condition, greater percentages of orexin/hypocretin‐containing neurons in the medial portion of the hypothalamus expressed Fos relative to cells located more laterally. None of the manipulations increased Fos expression in melanin concentrating hormone‐immunoreactive neurons. Muscimol treatment also markedly increased Fos expression in the arcuate nucleus, which connects reciprocally to the lateral/perifornical hypothalamic area. Thus, orexin/hypocretin‐containing neurons in lateral sectors of the hypothalamus, along with cells in the arcuate nucleus, display phasic increases in Fos expression after an orexigenic pharmacological manipulation of the nucleus accumbens shell, but to a lesser degree after the heightened arousal associated with exposure to a novel environment.