bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adult‐onset hair loss in Chesapeake Bay retrievers: a clinical and histological study
Authors: CERUNDOLO R. , MAULDIN E. A. , GOLDSCHMIDT M. H. , BEYERLEIN S. L. , REFSAL K. R. , OLIVER J. W.
Published: February 2005

Abstract Ten Chesapeake Bay retriever (CBRS) dogs with hair loss were recruited in collaboration with the American Chesapeake Club. All dogs had nonpruritic, noninflammatory, regionalized hair loss affecting the same areas of the body in male and female dogs. Hormonal investigations showed increased adrenal and sex steroid concentration in seven cases. Histopathology revealed follicular hyperkeratosis and plugging, follicular atrophy, and occasional melanin clumping with malformed hair shafts. This study suggests that hair loss in CBRS is a breed syndrome in which young adult dogs have hair loss characterized by unusual histological features and abnormal steroid production. A familial predisposition seems likely and selective breeding might reduce the occurrence of this condition.
Four different types of client attitudes towards purchasing spectacles in optometric practice
Authors: Fylan Fiona , Grunfeld Elizabeth A , Turvey Andrew , Desallais Jacques
Published: February 2005

Background  Unmet expectations are a major cause of client dissatisfaction, yet very little is known about the expectations and health values that clients in optometry practice hold about having an eye examination and purchasing spectacles. This study identified different attitudes and behaviours held by presbyope clients in optometric practices.

Method  A total of 158 presbyope clients, recruited from 14 practices, completed a questionnaire which was developed from the theory of planned behaviour. The questionnaire examined attitudes towards spectacles and visiting the optician, motivation to visit the optician, perceptions of barriers to attending the opticians, information requirements, and preferences for shared decision‐making. Responses were analysed using principal components analysis.

Results and Conclusions  Four factors were identified, which were labelled style, vision, avoiding and seeking. Style is concerned with the importance of appearing fashionable or stylish, and desiring approval from others. Vision relates to clients’ attitudes towards obtaining clear vision and to maintaining healthy eyesight. Avoiding describes the perceived difficulties associated with visiting the optician and purchasing new spectacles. Seeking corresponds to the desire for information on the technical details of lenses. Practitioners could use these characteristics to tailor information to meet the needs and address the expectations of individual clients. This may make the information provided more personally relevant, and could enhance client satisfaction.
Collaborative care needs and preferences of primary care patients with multimorbidity
Authors: Noël Polly Hitchcock , Chris Frueh B. , Larme Anne C. , Pugh Jacqueline A.
Published: February 2005

Objective  To explore the collaborative care needs and preferences in primary care patients with multiple chronic illnesses.

Design  Focus groups utilizing a series of open‐ended questions elicited self‐identified problems, experiences in communicating with providers, self‐management needs, and preferences for monitoring and follow‐up. Responses were organized and interpreted in light of the essential elements of collaborative care for chronic illness.

Setting and Participants  Sixty patients having two or more chronic illnesses at eight geographically dispersed primary care clinics within the Veterans Health Administration in the United States.

Results  Identified problems included poor functioning, negative psychological reactions, negative effects on relationships and interference with work or leisure. Polypharmacy was a major concern. Problematic interactions with providers and the health care system were also mentioned, often in relation to specialty care and included incidents in which providers had ignored concerns or provided conflicting advice. Most participants, however, expressed overall satisfaction with their care and appreciation of their primary care physicians. Knowledge and skills deficits interfered with self‐management. Participants were willing to use technology for monitoring or educational purposes if it did not preclude human contact, and were receptive to non‐physician providers as long as they were used to augment, not eliminate, a physician's care.

Conclusions  Findings are consistent with the basic tenets of patient‐centred, collaborative care, and suggested that health care can be organized and delivered to meet the complex needs of patients with multimorbidity.
B*4440: a novel HLA‐B allele identified by sequence‐specific oligonucleotide hybridization and sequence‐specific amplification
Authors: Heymann G.A. , Hoppe B. , Nagy M. , Schoenemann C. , Kiesewetter H. , Salama A.
Published: February 2005

Abstract:  A novel human leukocyte antigen B (HLA‐B) allele, B*4440, is described. The allele was identified in an adult stem cell donor of Caucasian origin. HLA‐B*4440 most closely matches to B*4403 differing by a substitution of three nucleotides at codon 44, 45, and 50. Thus, low‐resolution HLA typing using sequence‐specific oligonucleotide hybridization or amplification using sequence‐specific primers gave inconclusive results. DNA sequencing confirmed a variation of codons 44 and 45 (AGG AAG→AGA GAG) and codon 50 (CCA→CCG), resulting in an amino acid substitution Lys→Glu at codon 45.
Low salivary IgA activity to cell‐surface antigens of mutans streptococci related to HLA‐DRB1*04
Authors: Wallengren M. L. L. , Hamberg K. , Ericson D. , Nordberg J.
Published: February 2005

Background/aims:  Mutans streptococci are found in almost all individuals, though there are large differences in colonization levels between individuals. These differences are not readily explained, though several factors are believed to influence the colonization. One factor is the immune response to mutans streptococci, mainly provided by salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA). In a previous study, differences in salivary IgA reactions to oral streptococci were observed between human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DR4‐positive and DR4‐negative individuals. A lower salivary IgA activity to Streptococcus mutans in particular was most pronounced for two DR4 subgroups, DRB1*0401 and *0404. The main purpose of this study was to further investigate, in a larger study group, the salivary IgA activity to antigens of three oral streptococci in relation to different HLA‐DRB1*04 alleles.

Methods:  Stimulated saliva was collected from 58 HLA‐DRB1*04‐positive individuals. Whole cell antigen extracts from S. mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus and Streptococcus parasanguis and the streptococcal antigen (SA) I/II were separated in SDS‐PAGE, transblotted and detected with diluted saliva (Western blot), and analyzed in a computer program. All distinct immunoblot bands over 100 kDa were recorded and compared in relation to DRB1*04.

Results:  The immunoblots revealed lower salivary IgA reactions to S. mutans, S. sobrinus and SA I/II, but not to S. parasanguis, for the DRB1*0401‐ and *0404‐positive individuals compared to other DRB1*04 types. For the *0401 subgroup there was a significant association with a lower IgA response to S. mutans.

Conclusion:  The results confirm earlier observations and may also support previous demonstrated association between colonization by mutans streptococci and the serologically defined HLA‐DR4.
Effects of Porphyromonas gingivalis antigens and proinflammatory cytokines on human coronary artery endothelial cells
Authors: Honda T. , Oda T. , Yoshie H. , Yamazaki K.
Published: February 2005

Objective:  Individuals with periodontitis have been cited as having a significantly increased risk of developing coronary heart disease. Although accumulating evidence suggests that periodontal infection is involved in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. In the present study, we examined how periodontal infection could contribute to endothelial dysfunction.

Methods:  Human coronary arterial endothelial cells were stimulated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and interleukin (IL)‐1β, both of which are reported to be elevated in the serum of periodontitis patients. Cells were also stimulated with lipopolysaccharide, outer membrane protein and heat shock protein 60 derived from Porphyromonas gingivalis, a representative periodontopathic bacterium which is known to stimulate myeloid cells.

Results:  Although TNF‐α and IL‐1β, at concentrations a little higher than those in sera of periodontitis patients, up‐regulated the expression of intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1, P. gingivalis antigens had only a slight stimulatory effect.

Conclusion:  Experiments in which the total pathogen burden is considered, rather than a single species of bacteria, would increase our understanding of the contribution of which periodontal infection to atherogenesis.
Relationship between Candida infection and immune cellular response in inflammatory hyperplasia
Authors: Badauy C. M. , Barbachan J. J. D. , Rados P. V. , Sant'Ana Filho M. , Chies J. A. B.
Published: February 2005

Objectives:  To analyze and quantify the CD8+ and CD4+ T‐lymphocyte populations in inflammatory hyperplasia and to establish the relationship between the frequency and location of these cells and Candida infection.

Methods:  Samples of inflammatory hyperplasia were stained with PAS for evidence of Candida sp. and were classified in two groups, infected and control, according to the presence or absence of infection. After immunoreaction with specific anti‐CD4 and anti‐CD8 monoclonal antibodies, the distribution and frequency of the positive cells were analyzed in 41 cases (19 controls without Candida sp. and 22 infected cases). Lymphocytes were quantified in the three consecutive fields where the inflammatory infiltration was concentrated.

Results:  There was no relationship between the frequency and location of CD4+ T cells and Candida sp. infection. The number of CD8+ cells close to the fungi hyphae as well as the total number of CD8+ T cells present in inflammatory hyperplasia were higher in the Candida sp. group than in the control noninfected group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:  Since the CD8+ T cells were distributed according to the location of Candida sp. hyphae, and since a higher CD8+/total lymphocytes ratio was observed in the infected group, we suggest a role for CD8+ T cells in the defense against Candida in oral infections associated with inflammatory hyperplasia in immunocompetent individuals.
Antimicrobial activity of Croton cajucara Benth linalool‐rich essential oil on artificial biofilms and planktonic microorganisms
Authors: Alviano W. S. , Mendonça‐Filho R. R. , Alviano D. S. , Bizzo H. R. , Souto‐Padrón T. , Rodrigues M. L. , Bolognese A. M. , Alviano C. S. , Souza M. M. G.
Published: February 2005

We have previously demonstrated that a linalool‐rich essential oil from Croton cajucara Benth presents leishmanicidal activity. In the present study, we demonstrate that this essential oil inhibits the growth of reference samples of Candida albicans, Lactobacillus casei, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus sobrinus, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus mutans cell suspensions, all of them associated with oral cavity disease. The purified linalool fraction was only inhibitory for C. albicans. Microbes of saliva specimens from human individuals with fixed orthodontic appliances, as well as the reference strains, were used to construct an artificial biofilm which was exposed to linalool or to the essential oil. As in microbial suspensions, the essential oil was toxic for all the microorganisms, while the purified linalool fraction mainly inhibited the growth of C. albicans. The compounds of the essential oil were separated by thin layer chromatography and exposed to the above‐cited microorganisms. In this analysis, the proliferation of the bacterial cells was inhibited by still uncharacterized molecules, and linalool was confirmed as the antifungal component of the essential oil. The effects of linalool on the cell biology of C. albicans were evaluated by electron microscopy, which showed that linalool induced a reduction in cell size and abnormal germination. Neither the crude essential oil nor the purified linalool fraction is toxic to mammalian cells, which suggests that the essential oil or its purified components may be useful to control the microbial population in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances.
Role of helper T cells in the humoral immune responses against 53‐kDa outer membrane protein from Porphyromonas gingivalis
Authors: Kato N. , Ohyama H. , Nishimura F. , Matsushita S. , Takashiba S. , Murayama Y.
Published: February 2005

Outer membrane protein with a 53‐kDa molecular weight (Ag53) isolated from Porphyromonas gingivalis evokes strong humoral immune responses in many periodontitis patients. To examine the effects of cytokines produced by Ag53‐specific Th cells on the IgG production against Ag53, we established Ag53‐specific Th‐cell lines from patients with early onset periodontitis and from healthy volunteers. We then developed a mixed lymphocyte culture system between Ag53‐specific Th cells and auto‐ or allo‐derived T‐cell‐depleted leukocytes produced from the subjects whose HLA class II haplotypes were completely matched. Interferon‐γ production was observed in all Th cell lines from patients and healthy subjects. As for Th2 type cytokines, interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5, IL‐6 and IL‐10 production varied greatly in Th cells regardless of the periodontal condition of the donor. Only Th cell lines with a high Th2/Th1 ratio induced Ag53‐specific IgG production when cocultured with T‐cell‐depleted leukocytes. Thus, the difference in Th2/Th1 balance may regulate the Ag53‐specific IgG production.
Binding of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans lipopolysaccharides to Peptostreptococcus micros stimulates tumor necrosis factor α production by macrophage‐like cells
Authors: Yoshioka M. , Grenier D. , Mayrand D.
Published: February 2005

Peptostreptococcus micros is a gram‐positive bacterium that has been associated with periodontitis and endodontic infections. In this study, we hypothesized that P. micros binds the immunomodulating component lipopolysaccharide derived from gram‐negative bacteria to increase its capacity to stimulate cytokine production by host cells. The ability of P. micros to bind Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans lipopolysaccharide was demonstrated by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and by immunoelectron microscopy. Pretreatment of P. micros cells with A. actinomycetemcomitans lipopolysaccharide was associated with a 49‐fold increase in tumor necrosis factor alpha production by human monocytic cells U937 differentiated into adherent macrophages, compared to the stimulation with untreated P. micros. This effect was suppressed by incorporating polymyxin B, a lipid A‐binding substance, during treatment of macrophage‐like cells with lipopolysaccharide‐coated P. micros cells. This is the first study reporting a binding interaction between lipopolysaccharide and a gram‐positive bacterium. This interaction represents a new mechanism that could promote the inflammatory response during periodontitis.
Isolation and characterization of aminopeptidase from Capnocytophaga granulosa ATCC 51502
Authors: Ohishi K. , Yamamoto T. , Tomofuji T. , Tamaki N. , Watanabe T.
Published: February 2005

There is evidence that enzymes from the genus Capnocytophaga play a role in dental calculus formation. Although most of the species in the genus produce aminopeptidases, there is a paucity of data on the purification and characterization of the enzyme, except in the case of Capnocytophaga gingivalis. The aim of this study was to purify aminopeptidase from culture supernatant of Capnocytophaga granulosa ATCC 51502, a new species of the genus. Purification was performed using ammonium sulfate fractionation and two chromatographic steps. The aminopeptidase was purified 158,433‐fold with a yield of 12.0%. The enzyme appeared to be a trimer with a molecular mass of 270 kDa. The optimal pH of the aminopeptidase was 6.5 and its activity was completely inhibited by incubation at 50°C for 10 min. The enzyme showed maximum specificity for basic amino acids (Arg and Lys) and also hydrolyzed noncharged amino acids (Met, Leu and Ala). Ca2+, Zn2+ and Fe3+ activated the enzyme, while EDTA, Ag+, Hg+ and Cu2+ inhibited it. These results suggest that aminopeptidase of C. granulosa is different from that of C. gingivalis but similar to aminopeptidase B.
Genetic diversity in Swiss cattle breeds
Authors: SCHMID By M. , SAITBEKOVA N. , GAILLARD C. , DOLF G.
Published: February 2005

Introduction  First attempts at establishing the genetic relationships among cattle populations relied on archeological evidence (Epstein 1971; Epstein and Mason 1984) and protein polymorphisms (Baker and Manwell 1980, 1991). Loftus et al. (1994) examined mitochondrial DNA to determine the divergence time between Bos taurus and Bos indicus. Today most studies on genetic diversity are based on microsatellite analysis (Litt and Luty 1989; Tautz 1989; Weber and May 1989). Microsatellites were used in, e.g. man (Bowcock et al. 1994), canids (Roy et al. 1994; Fredholm and Winterø 1995) and sheep (Buchanan et al. 1994). Recent studies in cattle are also microsatellite based (e.g. Machugh et al. 1994; Ciampolini et al. 1995; Moazami‐Goudarzi et al. 1997) and aim at facilitating the development of management programs for endangered breeds (FAO 1981).

Our microsatellite‐based investigation on the genetic diversity between and within Swiss cattle breeds included Original Swiss Brown, purebred Simmental, Holstein, Hérens and Evolènard. Previous studies in Swiss breeds made use of blood group systems (Reuse 1969), serum transferrin and hemoglobin (Krummen 1964), amylase (Buser 1970) and carboanhydrases (Kästli et al. 1980).

The Hérens breed is endemic to the canton of Wallis. The Evolènard, which are very few in numbers and restricted to a single valley in the canton of Wallis, are phenotypically very similar to the Hérens with the exception of the coat colour. In the Aosta valley (Italy) which borders the canton of Wallis these two breeds find their counterparts. The phenotype of the Aosta Chestnut fits the Hérens and the Aosta Black Pied fits the Evolènard. The Holstein breed replaced the Fribourg breed which was a colour variant of the purebred Simmental breed (Engeler et al. 1961) and is now extinct. The Original Swiss Brown and the purebred Simmental are endemic to Switzerland.
Assignment of new loci to river buffalo chromosomes confirms the nature of chromosomes 4 and 5
Authors: NAHAS By S. M. EL , HONDT H. A. , SOUSSA S. F. , GHOR A. EL , HASSAN A. A.
Published: February 2005

Introduction  Rapid development of the river buffalo physical map can be achieved by coupling its development to that of the cattle gene map. Syntenic conservation between cattle and buffalo has been demonstrated, mainly using somatic cell hybrids (de Hondt et al. 1991; El Nahas et al. 1993, 1996, 1998; de Hondt et al. 1997; El Nahta 1996; Oraby et al. 1977), and by using in situ hybridization as reviewed by Iannuzzi (1997).

G‐ and R‐banding comparisons between cattle (2n = 60) and river buffalo (2n = 50) chromosomes have revealed a large number of banding homologies between the two species, both at early‐metaphase (Gupta and Ray‐Chaudhury 1978; Di Berardino et al. 1981) and prometaphase stages (Iannuzzi et al. 1990). Banding homology indicates that the five river buffalo biarmed pairs originate from centric fusion translocation between two of ten homologous cattle autosomes, which is very supportive of the hypothesis that both species have a common ancestor (Wurster and Benirschke 1968). Based on cytological analysis and banding homology between cattle and buffalo chromosomes, the five biarmed chromosomes of the river buffalo BBU1, BBU2, BBU3, BBU4, BBU5 were thought to originate from fusion of cattle chromosome (BTA) 1/25; 2/23; 8/19; 5/28; and 16/29 respectively (Iannuzzi et al. 1990; Report of the Committee for the Standardization of Banded Karyotopes of the River Buffalo 1994). However, the analysis of synteny between molecular markers assigned to different cattle syntenic groups demonstrated that BBU1 results from fusion of BTA 1 and 27 rather than 1 and 25 (El Nahas et al. 1977). This called for expanding the analysis of syntenic relationships between marker loci to confirm the nature of the other biarmed buffalo chromosomes.

The purpose of this study is to test synteny between markers in buffalo and to confirm the nature of the biarmed buffalo chromosomes 4 and 5, using marker loci and somatic cell hybrids.
Characterizing the ADHD phenotype for genetic studies
Authors: Stevenson Jim , Asherson Phil , Hay David , Levy Florence , Swanson Jim , Thapar Anita , Willcutt Erik
Published: February 2005

The genetic study of ADHD has made considerable progress. Further developments in the field will be reliant in part on identifying the most appropriate phenotypes for genetic analysis. The use of both categorical and dimensional measures of symptoms related to ADHD has been productive. The use of multiple reporters is a valuable feature of the characterization of psychopathology in children. It is argued that the use of aggregated measures to characterize the ADHD phenotype, particularly to establish its pervasiveness, is desirable. The recognition of the multiple comorbidities of ADHD can help to isolate more specific genetic influences. In relation to both reading disability and conduct disorder there is evidence that genes may be involved in the comorbid condition that are different from pure ADHD. To date, progress with the investigation of endophenotypes for ADHD has been disappointing. It is suggested that extending such studies beyond cognitive underpinnings to include physiological and metabolic markers might facilitate progress.
Towards an understanding of unique and shared pathways in the psychopathophysiology of ADHD
Authors: Banaschewski Tobias , Hollis Chris , Oosterlaan Jaap , Roeyers Herbert , Rubia Katya , Willcutt Erik , Taylor Eric
Published: February 2005

Most attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) research has compared cases with unaffected controls. This has led to many associations, but uncertainties about their specificity to ADHD in contrast with other disorders. We present a selective review of research, comparing ADHD with other disorders in neuropsychological, neurobiological and genetic correlates. So far, a specific pathophysiological pathway has not been identified. ADHD is probably not specifically associated with executive function deficits. It is possible, but not yet established, that ADHD symptoms may be more specifically associated with motivational abnormalities, motor organization and time perception. Recent findings indicating common genetic liabilities of ADHD and other conditions raise questions about diagnostic boundaries. In future research, the delineation of the pathophysiological mechanisms of ADHD needs to match cognitive, imaging and genetic techniques to the challenge of defining more homogenous clinical groups; multi‐site collaborative projects are needed.
Brain potentials to native and non‐native speech contrasts in 7‐ and 11‐month‐old American infants
Authors: Rivera‐Gaxiola Maritza , Silva‐Pereyra Juan , Kuhl Patricia K.
Published: February 2005

Behavioral data establish a dramatic change in infants’ phonetic perception between 6 and 12 months of age. Foreign‐language phonetic discrimination significantly declines with increasing age. Using a longitudinal design, we examined the electrophysiological responses of 7‐ and 11‐month‐old American infants to native and non‐native consonant contrasts. Analyses of the event‐related potentials (ERP) of the group data at 7 and at 11 months of age demonstrated that infants’ discriminatory ERP responses to the non‐native contrast are present at 7 months of age but disappear by 11 months of age, consistent with the behavioral data reported in the literature. However, when the same infants were divided into subgroups based on individual ERP components, we found evidence that the infant brain remains sensitive to the non‐native contrast at 11 months of age, showing differences in either the P150–250 or the N250–550 time window, depending upon the subgroup. Moreover, we observed an increase in infants’ responsiveness to native language consonant contrasts over time. We describe distinct neural patterns in two groups of infants and suggest that their developmental differences may have an impact on language development.
SEARCH AND VACANCY COSTS IN THE TOKYO HOUSING MARKET: ATTEMPT TO MEASURE SOCIAL COSTS OF IMPERFECT INFORMATION
Authors: Shimizu Chihiro , Nishimura Kiyohiko G. , Asami Yasushi
Published: February 2005

The social cost of imperfect information, in terms of buyers' search costs and sellers' opportunity costs of vacancy, is estimated in the real estate market of resale condominiums in central Tokyo by using a new, comprehensive dataset of resale condominium transactions. The results suggest a substantial social cost. Specifically, if housing information were perfectly available and marketing time were null, sellers would get benefits of 22.59% of imputed net rents of their property. In addition, buyers would save 1,042,000 yen spent on search activities for one transaction, if information were perfect. This is equivalent to 13.2% of buyers' average annual income.
EFFECTS OF PUBLIC TRANSIT ON AUTOMOBILE OWNERSHIP AND USE IN HOUSEHOLDS OF THE USA
Authors: Kim Hong Sok , Kim Eungcheol
Published: February 2005

This study develops econometric models to predict the effect of access to and distance to public transit on automobile ownership and miles driven. Ordered logit model is used for automobile ownership and multiple regression model is used for vehicle miles traveled (VMT).

Inverse square root of transit distance is used as a measure for transit accessibility. Important findings in the analysis are (i) the number of licensed drivers is the primary determinant of the number of automobiles owned, (ii) the presence of children is not a significant factor in automobile ownership and VMT, and (iii) the VMT of multi‐vehicle households is more sensitive to transit than one‐vehicle households. Transit simulations are performed by improving the distance to and access to public transit. The results showed that total VMT in National Ambient Air Quality Standard non‐attained metropolitan statistical area is reduced by 11% (approximately 60 billion miles) with 0.1 miles simulation.
Extreme right‐wing voting in Germany in a multilevel perspective: A rejoinder to Lubbers and Scheepers
Authors: DÜLMER HERMANN , KLEIN MARKUS
Published: February 2005

Abstract.  In their article about individual and contextual characteristics of the German extreme right‐wing vote in the 1990s, Lubbers and Scheepers (‘Individual and contextual characteristics of the German extreme right‐wing vote in the 1990s: A test of complementary theories’, European Journal of Political Research 38 (2000): 63–94) found a contra‐ intuitive significant negative relationship between unemployment rate and an individual's likelihood of voting for the right‐wing extremist Republikaner Party. The purpose of this article is to shed light on the reasons for this puzzling result. To capture contextual information resembling the individual's life sphere as close as possible, we use data that allow us to include the districts as an additional level between the individual and the state in our multilevel analyses.
A puzzling effect of unemployment: A reply to Dülmer and Klein
Authors: LUBBERS MARCEL , SCHEEPERS PEER
Published: February 2005

Abstract.  Dülmer and Klein's comments on our article (see European Journal of Political Research 38: 63–94) fuels once more the discussion about the contextual effects of unemployment on the likelihood of voting for extreme right‐wing parties. Unfortunately, the Dülmer and Klein do not properly evaluate their findings and misrepresent their own results. They do everything to suppress the negative effect of unemployment we previously also found, and miss an opportunity for in‐depth research into the relationship between unemployment and extreme right‐wing voting. They uncover an interesting effect of education varying according to the proportion of immigrants – something we previously ascertained for exclusionist attitudes, but not for voting behaviour.
Veto players, electoral incentives and international commitments: The impact of domestic institutions on intergovernmental organization membership
Authors: MINNICH DANIEL J.
Published: February 2005

Abstract.  The conventional literature on international cooperation in general, and intergovernmental organization membership in particular, depicts a regular, positive relationship between wealthy capitalist democracies and participation in international institutions. While empirical evidence supports this assertion, it says little about the mechanisms, and the accompanying variation among them, by which states enter into international institutions. This study distinguishes industrialized democracies along two dimensions: the nature of their constitutional structures and the organization of their electoral politics. Variations in these features produce variations in the institutional constraints and electoral incentives that matter in determining state participation in international organizations. Results of a pooled cross‐sectional time series analysis of 23 democracies in 1981 and 1992 indicate that the structure of governing institutions and the nature of electoral systems account for much of the variation in intergovernmental organization membership. This study concludes that domestic institutions matter in determining international cooperation through international organizations – a novel insight overlooked by most international relations theories.
Biology of the smooth muscle cells in human atherosclerosis
Authors: LAVEZZI ANNA MARIA , OTTAVIANI GIULIA , MATTURRI LUIGI
Published: February 2005

The aim of this study was to reconstruct dynamic biological steps of human atherosclerosis at different ages of life and, in particular, to clarify the role of the smooth muscle cells (SMCs) by means of evaluation of several markers implicated in proliferative diseases (c‐fos, proliferating cell nuclear antigen: PCNA, apoptosis, chromosome 7). We examined the biological features of 67 atherosclerotic arterial lesions obtained from fetuses, infants, young people and adults. From each case serial sections were stained for histological examination, PCNA, c‐fos and apoptosis detection by immunohistochemical methods and for chromosome 7 number evaluation by fluorescence in situ hybridization. In coronary specimens of fetuses we observed SMCs with c‐fos positivity. In infant lesions the predominant result was positivity for PCNA. Similar results were obtained from the plaques from young subjects with a greater presence of PCNA‐positive cells. In adult subjects numerous apoptotic cells were present in the stable plaques, whereas in the unstable plaques we frequently detected joint positivity for both PCNA and c‐fos gene and supernumerary chromosomes 7. During the evolution of the atherosclerotic process we observed a biological modulation of SMC proliferation, which begins after activation of the c‐fos gene, increases during progression of the lesion and declines in stable plaques, when apoptosis increases. In unstable plaques, the same early steps observed in fetus and infant arteries occur. The observation in some cases of chromosome 7 alterations, markers of tumorigenesis, suggests the possible transformation of an advanced atherosclerotic plaque into a neoplastic‐like process.
High doses of nandrolone decanoate reduce volume of testis and length of seminiferous tubules in rats
Authors: NOORAFSHAN ALI , KARBALAY‐DOUST SAIED , ARDEKANI FAKHRODIN MESBAH
Published: February 2005

Anabolic‐androgenic steroid (AAS) compounds rank among the drugs most widely abused with the goal of improving athletic ability, appearance, or muscle mass. It has been shown that these compounds have adverse effects on human and animal physiology and sperm quality, but quantitative structural changes of the testis have received less attention. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of nandrolone decanoate, which is one of the AAS compounds, on testis weight and volume, diameter and length of seminiferous tubules in rats by unbiased stereological methods. Adult rats were divided into three groups. The first comprised control rats; the second and third groups received low and high doses of nandrolone decanoate for 14 weeks. The rats were then left untreated for 14 weeks. After removal of the testis, stereological study of these tissues showed that the mean volume of testis and length of the seminiferous tubules in the animals that received high doses of nandrolone decanoate were reduced ∼32% (p<0.01) and ∼31% (p<0.04), respectively, in comparison with the control group. It can be concluded that the high doses of nandrolone decanoate produce structural changes in the rat testis that remain 14 weeks after stopping injection of the drug.
Carcinoid tumour metastatic to the orbit with infiltration to the extraocular orbital muscle
Authors: BOROTA OLIVERA CASAR , KLOSTER ROAR , LINDAL SIGURD
Published: February 2005

Ninety‐three percent of symptomatic patients with small intestinal carcinoid tumours have metastases. The most common sites of metastases are lymph nodes and liver. Orbital metastases have rarely been described and the majority of them involve the choroid rather than extraocular orbital structures. We report a patient who developed proptosis, impairment of vision and reduced ocular motility on the left side, eighteen months after operation for primary intestinal carcinoid tumour with hepatic metastases. CT and MR studies revealed the tumour mass infiltrating the inferior rectus muscle. Biopsy examined by imprint and frozen section showed tumour consistent with metastatic carcinoid. The tumour was removed. HE and staining for cytokeratin, chromogranin, NSE, serotonin, somatostatin and gastrin showed that the tumour tissue corresponded to that of the primary intestinal carcinoid tumour. Intramuscular orbital metastasis from a carcinoid tumour is a rare occurrence. Diagnosis may be difficult, especially where no evidence of primary carcinoid tumour is present. Metastatic orbital carcinoid should be suspected in patients with a clinical history of carcinoid tumour and who develop ocular complaints and mass lesion in the orbit. Complete surgical removal of the tumour is important for optimal restitution of vision and eye movements.
Primary leiomyoma of the ovary co‐existing with serous cystadenofibroma
Authors: EREN FUNDA , AKPULAT SERTAC , GOKASLAN HUSNU
Published: February 2005

A 48‐year‐old woman with a 14 cm left ovarian mass had total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy. On cut section the tumor had a solid and a cystic component. There was a 2.5 cm nodule attached to the cyst wall. Sections taken from the solid component revealed a tumor composed of interlacing bundles of fusiform cells, resembling a leiomyoma. Smooth muscle actin positivity confirmed the diagnosis. Sections taken from the nodule in the cystic part revealed an adenofibroma. There was an SMA positive area in the cyst wall which we think is the possible origin of the leiomyoma. As far as we know, this is the first case of a co‐existing leiomyoma and serous cystadenofibroma in the ovary, and we think it will broaden the histological spectrum of primary ovarian leiomyomas.
Primary sinonasal ameloblastoma
Authors: EREÑO COSME , ETXEGARAI LEIRE , CORRAL MARÍA , BASURKO JOSÉ M. , BILBAO FRANCISCO J. , LÓPEZ JOSÉ I.
Published: February 2005

A case of primary ameloblastoma of the right sinonasal tract in a 66‐year‐old man is reported. The tumour presented as a radiographically solid mass filling the right nasal cavity and sinuses and without continuity with maxillary alveola. After radical surgery plus postoperative radiotherapy, the patient has pursued a non‐aggressive clinical course after nine months of follow‐up. The paper reviews the clinico‐pathological features of this rare tumour and supports the theory of its sinonasal epithelium origin.
Development and validation of the Manchester orofacial pain disability scale
Authors: Aggarwal Vishal R. , Lunt Mark , Zakrzewska Joanna M. , Macfarlane Gary J. , Macfarlane Tatiana V.
Published: February 2005

Abstract –  Objective:  To design and validate a self‐administered instrument for assessing orofacial pain related disability in the general population.

Methods:  The 32‐item questionnaire was developed by open‐ended interviews with patients attending dental hospital clinics and was subsequently tested on 171 community subjects with self‐reported orofacial pain and 48 dental hospital patients.

Results:  Construct validity of the instrument was demonstrated in three ways. First, levels of reported disability were greater in dental hospital patients than for community subjects reporting orofacial pain. Secondly, the instrument was able to detect differences in disability levels reported by community subjects who did and did not consult with a healthcare professional and those who had acute and chronic pain. Thirdly, amongst community subjects with pain, disability scores increased with higher pain intensity, pain duration and were greater amongst subjects who had sought a consultation. Results of factor analysis identified two constructs: physical and psychosocial disabilities, associated with orofacial pain. The Cronbach's alpha score was 0.78 and 0.92 for the physical and psychosocial constructs, respectively, and this along with item correlation values between 0.43 and 0.80 confirmed the internal consistency.

Conclusion:  We have therefore designed a valid instrument for assessing the impact of painful orofacial conditions in both community and clinic settings.
Improving the oral health of older people: the approach of the WHO Global Oral Health Programme
Authors: Petersen Poul Erik , Yamamoto Tatsuo
Published: February 2005

Abstract – The proportion of older people continues to grow worldwide, especially in developing countries. Non‐communicable diseases are fast becoming the leading causes of disability and mortality, and in coming decades health and social policy‐makers will face tremendous challenges posed by the rapidly changing burden of chronic diseases in old age. Chronic disease and most oral diseases share common risk factors. Globally, poor oral health amongst older people has been particularly evident in high levels of tooth loss, dental caries experience, and the prevalence rates of periodontal disease, xerostomia and oral precancer/cancer. The negative impact of poor oral conditions on the quality of life of older adults is an important public health issue, which must be addressed by policy‐makers. The means for strengthening oral health programme implementation are available; the major challenge is therefore to translate knowledge into action programmes for the oral health of older people. The World Health Organization recommends that countries adopt certain strategies for improving the oral health of the elderly. National health authorities should develop policies and measurable goals and targets for oral health. National public health programmes should incorporate oral health promotion and disease prevention based on the common risk factors approach. Control of oral disease and illness in older adults should be strengthened through organization of affordable oral health services, which meet their needs. The needs for care are highest among disadvantaged, vulnerable groups in both developed and developing countries. In developing countries the challenges to provision of primary oral health care are particularly high because of a shortage of dental manpower. In developed countries reorientation of oral health services towards prevention should consider oral care needs of older people. Education and continuous training must ensure that oral health care providers have skills in and a profound understanding of the biomedical and psychosocial aspects of care for older people. Research for better oral health should not just focus on the biomedical and clinical aspects of oral health care; public health research needs to be strengthened particularly in developing countries. Operational research and efforts to translate science into practice are to be encouraged. WHO supports national capacity building in the oral health of older people through intercountry and interregional exchange of experiences.
Childhood Externalizing Behavior: Theory and Implications
Authors: Liu Jianghong
Published: February 2005

TOPIC.Childhood externalizing behavior

PURPOSE.To analyze the construct of externalizing behavior (aggression, delinquency, and hyperactivity), illustrate the biosocial model of childhood externalizing, and draw clinical implications for nursing research and practice.

SOURCES.A review of the literature based on psychological, psychiatric, and nursing journals.

CONCLUSIONS.A better understanding of childhood externalizing behavior problems and the risk factors underlying them are essential to prevent them. The employment of an integrative biosocial perspective is argued to be important in understanding this behavior.
Early Reactions to Frustration: Developmental Trends in Anger, Individual Response Styles, and Caregiving Risk Implications in Infancy
Authors: Kearney Joan A.
Published: February 2005

PROBLEM. In an effort to examine early negative emotional response patterns, infant responses to frustration were studied with specific regard to anger.

METHODS. Forty infants, 7–9 months (n = 20) and 12–14 months (n = 20) old, were observed in laboratory play situations. Infant affective response as well as maternal behavior were observed. Maternal interviews assessed maternal impressions of infant behavior and affect.

FINDINGS. Findings revealed increased displays of anger in older infants, evidence of cognitive‐affective linkages in response, and individual differences in emotional response style and maternal‐infant processes.

CONCLUSIONS. Findings relate to the emergence and interplay of negative emotional response, maternal‐infant patterns, and socioemotional risk.
Coping With the Pediatric Anogenital Exam
Authors: Waibel Duncan Mary Katherine , Sanger Maureen
Published: February 2005

PURPOSE. To focus on children's and adult guardians’anticipatory and acute attempts to cope with the pediatric anogenital exam.

METHODS. A sample of 40 girls (ages 8–15) and a separate sample of 109 adult guardians who accompanied children to the medical clinic rated their use of specific coping strategies on a 5‐point Likert scale both preand postexam.

FINDINGS. Overall, participants reported relatively high levels of active coping strategies and relatively low levels of passive coping responses throughout the medical encounter. Effects of situational and dispositional variables on the use of specific coping strategies also were found.

CONCLUSIONS. Data provided indirect evidence of the inherent strengths and self‐righting tendencies of those dealing with the exceptional circumstances surrounding allegations of child sexual abuse. Such data suggest the value of identifying individuals' coping resources and options to facilitate successful completion of the medical evaluation and provide therapeutic benefit to patients and families.
Acute Stress Disorder Symptoms in Gunshot‐Injured Youth
Authors: Hamrin Vanya , Jonker Barbara , Scahill Lawrence
Published: February 2005

PROBLEM. The prevalence of acute stress disorder symptoms (ASDS) and other psychiatric comorbidities in youth with recent gunshot injuries.

METHODS. Children (n = 20) admitted to an urban hospital ER for gunshot injuries over a 4‐year period were evaluated for ASDS, co‐morbid DSM‐ III‐R diagnoses, legal and gang involvement, and psychiatric history; medically hospitalized children (n = 36) similar in age, sex, race, and socioeconomic status served as a control group.

FINDINGS. Gunshot‐injured youth reported a 75% rate of ASDS compared to a 14% rate in medically ill youth (OR 18.6; χ2= p < .0001). Parent ratings of ASDS closely corresponded with youth ratings. Youth rated reexperiencing the event as the most frequent distressing symptom. Gunshot injury was associated with legal problems, gang involvement, marijuana/alcohol dependence, conduct disorder, social phobia, and agoraphobia compared to youth with medical illness.

CONCLUSIONS. Compared to youth with medical illness, gunshot‐injured youth were 18–6 times (p = .0001) more likely to show symptoms of ASDS. Further research, developmentally appropriate assessment, prevention, and treatment are needed in this area.
When the System Works: Rescuing a Child From Munchausen's Syndrome by Proxy
Authors: Ragaisis Karen , Pearson Geraldine
Published: February 2005

This case study presents a consultation‐liaison client and family. The author illustrates how a coordinated staff effort and the nurse‐patient relationship resulted in improved treatment.
Economic Applications of an Electronic Clinical Database for Nurse Practitioner Students
Authors: Morgan Michael J.
Published: February 2005

PURPOSE. To describe the development of a Web‐based clinical database that incorporates the standardized nursing languages (SNLs) used by nurse practitioner students, describe outcomes relative to the SNLs, and discuss economic aspects of outcome data.

METHODS. A mix of retrospective and prospective data of all outcomes for several cohorts (95 students, 17,193 records) comprised the data set.

FINDINGS. There is wide variation in use of SNLs as well as terminologies from other disciplines. The economic impact of patient encounters could be substantial.

CONCLUSIONS. A Web‐based clinical log provides an opportunity for NP students to collect and analyze data on clinical encounters. Considerable resources must be invested in order to expand the use and sophistication of eClinicaLog.
Economic Evaluations and Usefulness of Standardized Nursing Terminologies
Authors: Stone Patricia W. , Lee Nam‐Ju , Giannini Melinna , Bakken Suzanne
Published: February 2005

PURPOSE. To review different types of economic analyses commonly found in healthcare literature, discuss methodologic considerations in framing economic analyses, identify useful resources for economic evaluations, and describe the current and potential roles of standardized nursing terminologies in providing cost and outcome data for economic analysis.

DATA SOURCES. The Advanced Billing Concepts Code Resource‐based Relative Value Scale and Nursing Outcomes Classification.

DATA SYNTHESIS. Using case studies, the applicability of standardized nursing terminologies in cost‐effectiveness analysis is demonstrated. While there is potential to inform specific questions, comparisons across analyses are limited because of the many outcome measures.

CONCLUSIONS. Including a standardized quality‐of‐life measure in nursing terminologies would allow for the calculation of accepted outcome measures and dollars per quality adjusted life years gained.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE. The nurse's ability to assess and contribute to all aspects of rigorous economic evidence is an essential competency for responsible practice.
Clinical Validation of Nursing Diagnoses
Authors: Creason Nancy S.
Published: February 2005

We are reprinting selected papers occasionally to share with readers the history of the research work and the methodologies involved. This article is reprinted from Monographs of the Invitational Conference on Research Methods for Validating Nursing Diagnoses.