bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution of Peach latent mosaic viroid in Commercial Orchards of Peach in the North of Tunisia
Authors: Fekih Hassen I. , Massart S. , Roussel S. , Kummert J. , Fakhfakh H. , Marrakchi M. , Jijakli M. H.
Published: June 2007

The presence of Peach latent mosaic viroid (PLMVd) was monitored during 2 years in peach orchards located in the North of Tunisia. PLMVd population was surveyed using a specific RT‐PCR test adapted to crude sap extract. During the first year (2004), 228 samples were randomly selected in 22 peach orchards (eight cultivars) and tested for the presence of PLMVd. Results showed that PLMVd is highly and equally present in four regions of the North of Tunisia. Analyses of some key factors in relation to PLMVd incidence revealed that the tree age did not influence the infection rate. The eight studied cultivars were clustered in three groups according to their PLMVd incidence. Furthermore, the early and season cultivars were statistically more infected than the late cultivars. Prospections in May and October 2005 were performed in four selected orchards. Each two orchards contained Early May Crest (early cultivar) and Carnival (late cultivar) cultivars, respectively. The difference in PLMVd incidence observed in 2004 was confirmed. Furthermore, no correlation between the tree physiological state and the viroid detection was observed. Further investigations on the origin of the differences in PLMVd incidence between Early May Crest and Carnival cultivars would be of interest.
Comparative Ultrastructure of Cucumbers Pretreated with Plant Growth‐promoting Rhizobacteria, DL‐3‐aminobutyric Acid or Amino Salicylic Acid after Inoculation with Colletotrichum orbiculare
Authors: Jeun Y. C. , Kim K. W. , Kim K. D. , Hyun J. W.
Published: June 2007

The infection behaviour of Colletotrichum orbiculare was observed using a transmission electron microscope (TEM) in the leaves of cucumber plants preinoculated with plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) Serratia marcescens (90‐166) or Pseudomonas fluorescens (89B61) after inoculation with the anthracnose pathogen. Moreover, the structural defence mechanisms mediated by pretreating dl‐3‐amino butyric acid or amino salicylic acid was compared with those mediated by these two PGPR. In untreated plants broadly spread intercellular/intracellular hyphae were found in leaf tissues. The cytoplasm of fungal hyphae appeared intact and the electron densities of intercellular and intracellular hyphae were not high even at 5 days after fungal inoculation, indicating lack of defence responses. However, in the leaves of plants preinoculated with both PGPR active defence responses were observed, i.e. sheath formation at penetration sites, and accumulations of endoplasmic reticula or of numerous vesicles around intracellular hyphae. Furthermore, the electron densities of most intracellular and intercellular hyphae were higher than those of untreated control plants. In the leaves of plants pretreated with both chemicals, the hyphae of the pathogen were rarely observed at 5 days after challenge inoculation. Similar to the case of PGPR‐pretreated plants, the most intercellular and intracellular hyphae in plant tissues were electron dense. However, no active defence responses were observed in leaf tissues. Moreover, in some cases, hyphal growth was restricted to the epidermal cell layer, and in particular, was not observed to develop in mesophyll cells of the plants. These results suggest that the mechanisms of systemically induced resistance are differently expressed by preinoculating with PGPR or by pretreating with chemicals.
Identification of a protective haplogenotype withinCAPN10gene influencing colorectal cancer susceptibility
Authors: Frances Carmen P , Conde Manuel C , Saez Maria E , Diez Servando F , Rey Concha M , Ramírez‐Armengol Juan A , Pascual Manuel H , Gonzalez‐Perez Antonio , Torres Pablo P , Real Luis M , Serrano‐Rios Manuel , López José L G , Ruiz Agustin , Royo Jose L
Published: June 2007

Background and Aim: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most prevalent types of cancer affecting both men and women in developed countries. Clinical and molecular evidence suggests that there are multiple biochemical pathways involved in its susceptibility, pathogenesis and prognosis. Several studies have reported a significant association between the incidence of CRC and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, genes associated with both conditions are rare.

Method: We have analyzed theCAPN10gene, a T2DM locus, using UCSNP‐43, ‐44, ‐19, and ‐63 markers, looking for differences between 371 CRC patients and 605 unrelated controls of Spanish origin.

Results: We found that UCSNP‐44 allele C is swept out from cases (OR = 0.16,P = 0.005). Moreover, the frequency of 2111/2111 haplogenotype is also statistically lower than expected in CRC patients (P = 0.006).

Conclusion: Taken together, our results indicate a recessive model for the effect ofCAPN10variant UCSNP‐44 influencing the risk of CRC and suggest a novel genetic link between T2DM and colon carcinoma.
Possible involvement of cytokine gene polymorphisms in fulminant hepatitis
Authors: Takakura Mihoko , Tokushige Katsutoshi , Matsushita Noriko , Hashimoto Etsuko , Shiratori Keiko
Published: June 2007

Background and Aim:  Host genetic factors have been reported as influencing the progress to fulminant hepatitis (FH). Our previous data showed the serum level of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α influenced by gene polymorphisms to be markedly increased. It was investigated whether polymorphisms in the IL‐10 gene, in addition to TNF‐α and ‐β gene polymorphisms, might contribute to the pathogenesis of FH.

Methods:  We analyzed 42 patients with FH, 78 patients with acute hepatitis (AH), and 149 healthy subjects (control). IL‐10 polymorphism sites at promoter regions −1028, −819, −592; TNF‐α polymorphism sites at promoter regions −1031, −863, −857, −308, −238; and TNF‐β first intron Nco1 sites were studied. IL‐10 gene polymorphisms were classified into three groups: low IL‐10‐producing haplotypes (ATA/ATA), intermediate haplotypes (ATA or CCA/CCA), and high haplotypes (ATA/ATG or CCG).

Results:  The allelic frequency of B2 in the TNF‐β gene was significantly higher in FH patients compared with the control group. The three groups showed no differences in polymorphisms of positions −1031, −863, −857, −308 and −238 in the TNF‐α gene. The frequency of low IL‐10‐producing haplotypes tended to be higher in FH patients compared with control and that of high IL‐10‐producing haplotype tended to be lower in FH patients compared with control. The carrier rate with both the IL‐10 haplotype and the TNF‐β gene B2/B2 was significantly higher than control.

Conclusion:  Variations of cytokine polymorphisms including IL‐10 and TNF‐β genes may be attributable to the pathogenesis of FH.
Norfloxacin and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole therapy have similar efficacy in prevention of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
Authors: Lontos Steve , Gow Paul J , Vaughan Rhys B , Angus Peter W
Published: June 2007

Background and Aim:  Although norfloxacin (N) is widely accepted as the drug of choice for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) prophylaxis, there is data to suggest that trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (TS) may be similarly effective. However, no studies have compared the efficacy and safety of N and TS in SBP prophylaxis. The aim of this retrospective analysis was to compare outcomes in patients who received either N or TS for the prevention of SBP.

Methods:  Records of all cirrhotic patients prescribed either N or TS for SBP prevention between April 2001 and May 2004 were reviewed. Data collected included age, sex, Child–Pugh score, ascitic protein concentration, etiology of liver disease, infections (SBP, bacteremia, and extraperitoneal infections), side‐effects, and survival.

Results:  Sixty‐nine patients (18 female, 51 male), mean age 53.9 ± 10.6 years, were prescribed N (n = 37) or TS (n = 32). The Child–Pugh score, model for end‐stage liver disease score, and the prevalence of a low ascitic protein (<15 g/L) were similar between the groups (12.0 vs 12.4, 19.7 vs 18.2, and 78% vs 84%, respectively, P > 0.05). Fourteen (38%) infections occurred in the N group and 16 (50%) in the TS group (P > 0.05). Eight patients (21.6%) in the N group and nine (28%) in the TS group developed SBP (P > 0.05). The rates of liver transplantation (10 vs 13), adverse events (two in each group) and death (13 vs 14) were similar in the two treatment groups.

Conclusions:  Our findings suggest N and TS have similar efficacy in preventing SBP. This has significant implications for both the cost of SBP prophylaxis and the prevalence of fluoroquinolone resistance in patients with cirrhosis.
Elevated levels of serum advanced glycation end products in patients with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Hyogo Hideyuki , Yamagishi Sho‐ichi , Iwamoto Keiko , Arihiro Koji , Takeuchi Masayoshi , Sato Takashi , Ochi Hidenori , Nonaka Michihiro , Nabeshima Yoshitaka , Inoue Motoki , Ishitobi Tomokazu , Chayama Kazuaki , Tazuma Susumu
Published: June 2007

Background and Aim:  Advanced glycation end products (AGE), senescent macroprotein derivatives formed at an accelerated rate in diabetes, play important roles in the pathogenesis of diabetic vascular complications. Recently, AGE have also been found to be involved in insulin resistance. Although non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is generally considered a hepatic manifestation of insulin resistance, there are no reports showing the link of AGE to NASH. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical significance of AGE in patients with NASH.

Methods:  Glyceraldehyde‐derived AGE levels were assayed from serum obtained from 106 patients: 66 with NASH, 10 with simple steatosis, and 30 controls.

Results:  Serum glyceraldehyde‐derived AGE levels (U/mL) were significantly elevated in NASH patients (9.78 ± 3.73) compared with simple steatosis (7.17 ± 2.28, P = 0.018) or healthy controls (6.96 ± 2.36, P = 0.003). Moreover, these were inversely correlated with adiponectin, an adipocytokine with insulin‐sensitizing and anti‐inflammatory properties. In addition, immunohistochemistry of glyceraldehyde‐derived AGE showed intense staining in the livers of NASH patients.

Conclusion:  The present data suggest that the sustained increase of glyceraldehyde‐derived AGE could at least in part contribute to the pathogenesis of NASH. The serum glyceraldehyde‐derived AGE level may be a useful biomarker for discriminating NASH from simple steatosis.
Molecular regulation of hepatic expression of iron regulatory hormone hepcidin
Authors: Oates Phillip S , Ahmed Umbreen
Published: June 2007

Iron is a micronutrient that is an essential component that drives many metabolic reactions. Too little iron leads to anemia and too much iron increases the oxidative stress of body tissues leading to inflammation, cell death, and system organ dysfunction, including cancer. Maintaining normal iron balance is achieved by rigorous control of the amount absorbed by the intestine, that released from macrophages following erythrophagocytosis of effete red cells and by either release or uptake from hepatocytes. Hepcidin is a recently characterized molecule that appears to play a key role in the regulation of iron efflux from enterocytes, macrophages, and hepatocytes. It is produced by hepatocytes under basal conditions, in response to alterations in increased iron stores or reduced requirement for erythropoiesis and by inflammation. The proteins that regulate hepcidin expression are presently being defined, albeit that our present understanding is still far from complete. This review focuses on the molecules which regulate hepcidin expression. The subsequent characterization of these proteins using molecular, cellular, and physiological approaches also is discussed along with inflammatory signals and receptors involved in hepcidin expression.
Improvement of the survival rate after rat massive hepatectomy due to the reduction of apoptosis by caspase inhibitor
Authors: Yoshida Naomasa , Iwata Hisashi , Yamada Takuya , Sekino Takafumi , Matsuo Hiroshi , Shirahashi Koyo , Miyahara Toshiyuki , Kiyama Shigeru , Takemura Hirofumi
Published: June 2007

Background and Aim:  Acute liver failure after massive hepatectomy is caused by both necrosis and apoptosis in the remnant liver. We investigate the protective effect of the caspase inhibitor on apoptosis after massive hepatectomy in rats.

Methods:  Benzyloxycarbonyl‐Val‐Ala‐Asp(OMe)‐fluoromethylketone (ZVAD‐fmk) is a general inhibitor of the caspase. Male Wister rats weighing 200–300 g were divided into three groups: 90Hx group undergoing 90% hepatectomy, 95Hx group undergoing 95% hepatectomy, 95Hx + ZVAD group undergoing 95% hepatectomy and administration of ZVAD‐fmk. The 7‐day survival rate was studied, and the rats were sacrificed at the 1, 2, 3, 5, and 7th day after hepatectomy. The remnant liver tissues were stained with hematoxylin–eosin, and with proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) for evaluation of liver regeneration, and with TdT‐mediated dUTP‐biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) and in situ oligo ligation method (ISOL) for evaluation of apoptosis.

Results:  The 7‐day survival rates were 100%, 0%, and 30%, in the 90Hx, 95Hx, and 95Hx + ZVAD groups, respectively. There was no significant difference in PCNA labeling index (LI) between the 95Hx and 95Hx + ZVAD groups. TUNEL and ISOL LI of 95Hx + ZVAD group were significantly lower than those of 95Hx group. Fatal liver failure after massive hepatectomy was characterized by more apoptosis and less mitosis of hepatocytes. ZVAD‐fmk could significantly attenuate apoptosis of hepatocytes in the remnant liver and improve the survival rate after 95% hepatectomy in rats.

Conclusion:  Caspase inhibitors such as ZVAD‐fmk may provide a new adjuvant therapy to treat liver failure after massive hepatectomy.
Lactose intolerance in patients with irritable bowel syndrome from northern India: A case–control study
Authors: Gupta Dinesh , Ghoshal Uday C , Misra Amita , Misra Asha , Choudhuri Gourdas , Singh Kartar
Published: June 2007

Background and Aim:  Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and lactose intolerance (LI) overlap. Data on the frequency of LI in patients with IBS from India are scanty. The aim of this study was to evaluate: (i) the frequency of LI in patients with IBS and its various subtypes as compared with healthy subjects (HS) from northern India; (ii) the relationship between self‐reported milk intolerance and laboratory evidence of LI; and (iii) the role of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in LI in patients with IBS.

Methods:  124 patients with IBS (Rome II criteria) and 53 age‐ and gender‐matched HS were studied for LI using the lactose hydrogen breath test (LHBT) and the lactose tolerance test (LTT). Symptoms following lactose ingestion (diarrhea, bloating or distension) during the test and history of milk intolerance were recorded. Sixty‐nine of the patients with IBS also underwent a glucose hydrogen breath test (GHBT). Patients with IBS were classified into those with diarrhea (IBS‐D; >3 loose stools/d), constipation predominant (IBS‐C; <3 stools/week) and indeterminate (IBS‐I; between ≥3/week and ≤ 3/d).

Results:  89/124 (72%) and 32/53 (60%, P = ns) IBS patients and HS were positive by LHBT and 82/124 (66%) and 38/53 (71%, P = ns) by LTT. Lactose intolerance as diagnosed either by LHBT or LTT was comparable among IBS patients and HS (102/124, 82% vs 41/53, 77%; P = ns). Peak breath hydrogen values during LHBT were also comparable among patients with IBS and HS (64 ± 40 p.p.m. vs 61 ± 44 p.p.m.). Patients with IBS developed symptoms following lactose ingestion more frequently than HS (68/124 vs 18/53, P = 0.01). Glucose hydrogen breath test was positive in 9/69 (13%) patients with IBS and was comparable among patients with (8/57, 14%) and without LI (1/12, 8%). Thirty had IBS‐D whereas 94 had other subtypes of IBS (IBS‐C, n = 9 and IBS‐I, n = 85). The frequency of LI in IBS‐D was similar to that of other subtypes (26/30, 86% vs 76/94, 80%; P = ns). The positive and negative predictive value of self‐reported milk intolerance in detecting LI was 81% and 23%, respectively.

Conclusion:  The frequency of LI is high and comparable among IBS patients and HS from northern India. Patients with IBS more often reported symptoms following lactose ingestion despite levels of breath hydrogen being similar to HS. The frequency of LI in patients with IBS‐D was comparable to that in patients with other types of IBS. Self‐reported milk intolerance has poor sensitivity in detecting LI.
New frontiers in capsule endoscopy
Authors: Fireman Zvi , Kopelman Yael
Published: June 2007

Capsule endoscopy (CE) was launched at the beginning of this millennium and has since become a well‐established tool for evaluating the entire small bowel for manifold pathologies. CE far exceeded our early expectations by providing us with a tool to establish the correct diagnosis for elusive gastrointestinal (GI) conditions such as obscure GI bleeding, Crohn's disease, polyposis syndrome, and others. Recent evidence has shown CE to be superior to other imaging modalities, such as small bowel follow‐through X‐ray, colonoscopy with ileoscopy, computerized tomographic enterography, magnetic resonance enteroclysis, and push enteroscopy, for diagnosing small bowel pathologies.

Gastroenterologists would prefer the convenience of a single capsule that can create images of the area from the oral cavity to the anal canal in one ‘shot’. Because of anatomic and physiologic differences in the GI tract, however, it may not be possible to use the same capsule and so we would need a different one for each organ. In addition to the pioneer small bowel capsule, there is now an esophageal capsule, and a colonoscopy capsule will soon be available.

The ideal CE should be capable of performing a biopsy or carrying out an online analysis (an ‘optical’ biopsy) and ‘stop’ bleeding by an epinephrine injection, a heat probe, argon plasma coagulation, etc. The ultimate capsule would include special detectors for white blood cells, and it would check oncological markers (e.g. CEA, CA 19‐9), perform serology tests (e.g. antiendomysial, IgE), and measure various cytokines, pH levels, temperature and pressure, as well as deliver drugs. The capsule's motility feature in the small bowel may open a window to study the pathophysiology of relatively elusive medical entities, such as irritable bowel syndrome.

The optimal capsule needs to contain an automatic computerized system for automatic detection of pathologies, such as that present in the ECG–Holter recording, in order to overcome the drawback of time‐consuming viewing.

Our dream is that endoscopists will be able to ‘control and steer’ the CE, as they are able to do in standard endoscopy. This would mean being able to maintain the capsule steady in a selected area and hold the view in order to have more time to examine the opposite wall of the bowel.

In conclusion, future gastroenterologists will have a number of CEs from which to choose, according to the purpose of the evaluation, whether it be diagnostic and/or therapeutic. Just as the idea of a swallowed capsule taking images as it travels along the human anatomy was once in the realm of sheer fantasy, we have every reason to believe that the ultimate CE will become a reality in the not far distant future.
Chronic orchialgia: Consider gabapentin or nortriptyline before considering surgery
Authors: Sinclair Andrew M , Miller Barry , Lee Ling K
Published: June 2007

Objective:  To establish if there is a role for gabapentin or nortriptyline in the treatment of chronic orchialgia.

Methods:  Twenty‐six consecutive patients with chronic orchialgia were seen in the chronic pain clinic by a multidisciplinary team. A pain questionnaire was completed prior to commencing either gabapentin or nortriptyline. They were reviewed at 3 months and a repeat questionnaire completed. A 50% improvement in pain was considered successful.

Results:  Complete data was available for 19 patients. Overall, 61.5% of patients commenced on gabapentin and 66.6% of patients commenced on nortriptyline had a greater than 50% improvement in pain. Patients with post‐vasectomy testicular pain were considered as a subgroup. None of these patients had a greater than 50% improvement in pain. However, 80% of patients in the subgroup with idiopathic chronic orchialgia had a greater than 50% improvement in pain.

Conclusion:  Although this is a small study, it appears that gabapentin and nortriptyline are effective in the treatment of idiopathic chronic orchialgia but not post‐vasectomy pain.
Successful treatment of spinocerebellar ataxia 6 with medicinal herbs
Authors: Okabe Tetsuro , Fujisawa Michio , Sekiya Takasi , Ichikawa Yaeko , Goto Jun
Published: June 2007

A case of familial spinocerebellar ataxia 6 with typical symptoms is presented. A 60‐year‐old Japanese female suffered from gait disturbance, ataxia and dizziness. Head magnetic resonance imaging revealed a typical atrophic image in cerebellum. Genetic tests revealed an expanded allele of 22 CAG repeats at the spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 locus. She was diagnosed with spinocerebellar ataxia 6. Her mother was also diagnosed with the same disease. A mixture of 18 medicinal herbs (modified Zhengan Xifeng Tang) was given according to the differential diagnosis based on the guidelines of traditional Chinese medicine. All of the symptoms were remarkably improved after 60 days of the herbal treatment. One year after discontinuation of the treatment, she complained of gait ataxia. She was treated with the modified Zhengan Xifeng Tang for 60 days. Gait ataxia was markedly improved by the second treatment. Fifteen months after discontinuation of the second treatment, she complained of gait ataxia again. The same remedy was given for 60 days. Gait ataxia was remarkably reduced again. The results may imply therapeutic potential of the medicinal herbs for spinocerebellar ataxia 6.
Prognostic significance of admission electrolyte disturbances in older people: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Auyeung Tung‐Wai , Lee Jenny SW
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence and survival of elderly patients with extreme electrolyte disturbance on admission. A retrospective cohort of 986 acutely admitted elderly were screened in an acute geriatric unit in a regional hospital. One hundred and four patients with admission sodium or potassium disturbances (serum Na, <125 mmol/L or >147 mmol/L; serum K, <2.6 mmol/L or >5.5 mmol/L) and 104 sex‐matched controls were studied. Demographic data were recorded. Prevalence of electrolyte abnormalities, survival at index admission, 90, 180, 270 and 360 days after index admission were calculated. Of the acute admissions, 10.6% had extreme electrolyte disturbances. Elderly women had higher risk (relative risk, 1.68; 95% confidence interval, 1.07–2.64). Hypernatremia, hyperkalemia and hypokalemia were independent risk factors for mortality at index admission while hyponatremia was not. Hyponatremia started to predict mortality 90–270 days after the index admission. Extreme admission electrolyte disturbances were a common occurrence in the acutely ill elderly. Hypernatremia, hyperkalemia and hypokalemia were predictors of immediate mortality while hyponatremia was a long‐term survival prognostic indicator.
Effects of reminiscence group in elderly people with Alzheimer disease and vascular dementia in a community setting
Authors: Tadaka Etsuko , Kanagawa Katsuko
Published: June 2007

This study reports the effects of a reminiscence group program on elderly people with two major types of dementia, Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, in a randomized controlled clinical trial with a 6‐month follow up. The subjects were 24 participants with Alzheimer's disease and 36 with vascular dementia, and were randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group followed a reminiscence group program in a geriatric health facility for 8 weeks; the control group followed a routine daycare program. The primary outcome was level of daily life activities (i.e. self‐care, disorientation, depression, irritability and withdrawal) measured by the Multi‐dimensional Observation Scale for Elderly Subjects. The second outcome was level of cognitive function measured by the Mini‐Mental State Examination. For participants with Alzheimer's disease, the intervention group exhibited significant improvement of withdrawal compared with the control group immediately after intervention (P < 0.05). For participants with vascular dementia, the intervention group exhibited significant improvement of withdrawal and cognitive function compared with the control group immediately after intervention (withdrawal, P < 0.05; cognitive function, P < 0.05) and after 6‐month follow up (withdrawal, P < 0.05; cognitive function, P < 0.05). The reminiscence group program is an effective means of enhancing the remaining capacity and the adaptation to a daily life in elderly people with Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. However, it is also suggested that sustained intervention may be necessary to maintain the effect over time, especially in elderly people with Alzheimer's disease.
Age‐related differences in clinical characteristics, early outcomes and cardiac management of acute myocardial infarction in Japan: Lessons from the Tokai Acute Myocardial Infarction Study (TAMIS)
Authors: Hirakawa Yoshihisa , Masuda Yuichiro , Kuzuya Masafumi , Kimata Takaya , Iguchi Akihisa , Uemura Kazumasa
Published: June 2007

Recent data suggest substantial variations in the treatment strategies for patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) based on age. This study aimed to compare the management and early outcomes of AMI across age groups in Japan. Data from 13 acute care hospitals that were included in the Tokai Acute Myocardial Infarction Study sample were used. This is a retrospective study of all patients admitted to the hospitals with the diagnosis of AMI from 1995–1997. We abstracted the baseline and procedural characteristics from detailed chart reviews. Patients were stratified into four age categories: up to 64; 65–74; 75–84; and 85 or more years of age. A total of 966 patients were aged up to 64 years, 608 were 65–74 years, 365 were 75–84 years, and 79 were 85 or more years. The rates at which the treadmill test, coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention were performed decreased with advancing age (−14%, P < 0.01; −55%, P < 0.01; and −42%, P < 0.01, respectively, for the up to 64‐year‐old vs 85‐year‐old or more groups). Thrombolytic therapy was less often prescribed in the older groups (P < 0.01). At discharge, aspirin, β‐blockers, angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors, nitrates, calcium antagonists, and anti‐hyperlipidemics were prescribed less often in the older groups (P < 0.01, <0.05, <0.01, <0.01, <0.01, <0.01, respectively), while diuretics were prescribed more often in the older groups (P < 0.01). Our results suggest that fewer elderly patients were under‐treated and had a significantly higher risk of in‐hospital mortality.
Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in people aged 50 or older consulting general practitioners
Authors: Okamura Kikuo , Nojiri Yoshikatsu , Hirano Makoto , Yanagihara Takashi , Murase Toshiyuki , Fujisawa Takeo
Published: June 2007

The incidence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in people consulting general practitioners (GPs) was investigated. We used a questionnaire including seven questions regarding LUTS and one question regarding bothersomeness based on the International Prostate Symptom Score (I‐PSS), three questions on the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS) and four questions on the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short‐Form (ICIQ‐SF), and conducted the survey among 1120 people aged 50 or older who consulted 17 GP clinics. Of 958 persons (86%) who responded the questionnaires, we analyzed the data from 822 (73%) who completed all the above questions. There were 364 men (mean age, 67 years) and 458 women (mean age, 68 years). Moderate or severe grades in I‐PSS and OABSS were indicated in 99 (27%) and 43 (12%), for men, respectively, and 55 (12%) and 39 (9%) for women, respectively. I‐PSS correlated with age in men and OABSS did in both genders. Most people with moderate or severe I‐PSS experienced moderate or severe bothersomeness. Fifty‐five (15%) men and 185 (40%) women indicated that they had some type of urinary incontinence. There were 138 (38%) men and 165 (36%) women showing both moderate or severe I‐PSS, and moderate or severe bothersomeness, and/or with an ICIQ‐SF score of 1 or greater. Approximately one‐third of men and women aged 50 or older consulting GPs have bothersome LUTS, including urinary incontinence. We believe that they should be carefully assessed to determine whether they need treatment.
Director perceptions of end‐of‐life care at geriatric health services facilities in Japan
Authors: Hirakawa Yoshihisa , Masuda Yuichiro , Kuzuya Masafumi , Iguchi Akihisa , Uemura Kazumasa
Published: June 2007

Geriatric health services facilities (GHSF) are expected to assume a greater role in caring for the dying elderly in the future. However, very little research has dealt with the topic. The aim of this nationwide study is to clarify current end‐of‐life care policies and practices of GHSF. The subjects were 2876 managing directors of GHSF. Data was collected through mailed questionnaires in 2003. The content of the questionnaires included: (i) general characteristics; (ii) end‐of‐life care policies; (iii) available medical treatments; and (iv) staff education. To evaluate the factors associated with end‐of‐life care policies at GHSF, we divided the facilities into two groups, according to whether their policy toward end‐of‐life care was progressive or regressive. The response rate was 40.3%. The results indicated that a total of 513 GHSF implemented progressive policies for end‐of‐life care. The factors associated with a progressive policy for end‐of‐life care were: (i) availability of medical intervention within and outside of the facilities; (ii) staff education; and (iii) discussion about end‐of‐life care policy with residents and family. Duration of stay also was positively associated with a progressive policy. Our study highlights the need for a national consensus on reforming the end‐of‐life care system of long‐term care facilities.
Case of bone Paget's disease with cheek pain, hearing loss and tremor whose histological findings showed peculiar calcified structures
Authors: Kinoshita Hiroyuki , Hirano Hirohiko , Hosoya Akihiko , Ninomiya Tadashi , Ozawa Hidehiro , Sawabe Motoji , Ouchi Yasuyoshi , Yamaguchi Masatsune , Hosoi Takayuki
Published: June 2007

An 85‐year‐old man visited our department of oral surgery and dentistry with a chief complaint of right cheek pain. He had suffered from hearing loss, head enlargement, involuntary facial movement, and kinetic tremor that had progressed over 20 years. Laboratory examination revealed an extremely high level of serum alkaline phosphatase (5581 IU/L) and bone turnover markers. Skull X‐rays showed “cotton‐wool” appearance and multiple cysts were also recognized with computed tomography. The histological findings of the bone biopsy specimen supported the diagnosis of bone Paget's disease but peculiar spheroid calcified structures were observed. Oral administration of alendronate (5 mg/day) was tolerated and the bone turnover was successfully controlled.
Effects of frontal cortex lesions on action sequence learning in the rat
Authors: Bailey Kathleen R. , Mair Robert G.
Published: June 2007

To understand the role of frontal cortex in motor sequence learning we compared the effects of motor (M1), premotor (M2) and midline frontal (MFr) cortical lesions on rats making nose‐pokes guided by luminance cues. Organizational demands were manipulated by varying the number (1 vs. 5) and predictability (random vs. repeated) of nose‐pokes in a response. Learning was studied by comparing sessions with random or repeated cues. All cortical lesions increased reaction time (RT) during response initiation. These effects were larger for nose‐pokes initiating sequential responses but spared RT for nose‐pokes completing them. Repetition learning had significant effects on the speed and accuracy of single nose‐poke responses that were unaffected by any of the cortical lesions. Repetition learning had more complex effects on sequential responding. RTs increased for nose‐pokes initiating sequences over several sessions of continuous repetition and then decreased or leveled off. RTs decreased incrementally across all repetition sessions for subsequent nose‐pokes in repeated sequences, following a time‐course consistent with habit learning. Lesions involving M2 and MFr cortex exacerbated the increase in RT during initiation without affecting the incremental decrease in RT for nose‐pokes completing repeated sequences. These results were confirmed by analyses of interference effects when training shifted from repeated (learned) to random (novel) sequences or to a new repeated sequence. These results implicate dorsomedial frontal cortex in organizational aspects of sensory‐guided responding and motor sequence learning reflected in RT during response initiation.
Formation of perineuronal nets in organotypic mouse brain slice cultures is independent of neuronal glutamatergic activity
Authors: Reimers Sabrina , Hartlage‐Rübsamen Maike , Brückner Gert , Roßner Steffen
Published: June 2007

Perineuronal nets (PNs) are a specialized form of the extracellular matrix and cover specific sets of neurons in distinct brain areas. Animal experiments on sensory visual deprivation have demonstrated that the generation of PNs around neurons of the visual cortex is dependent on neuronal activity during the critical period of visual experience. The importance of the activity of specific neurotransmitter systems for PN formation has, however, not yet been demonstrated. Based on the predominantly glutamatergic innervation of the visual cortex we hypothesized that reduced glutamatergic activity impairs the development of PNs. To address this question, genetic mouse models with compromised glutamate release [Munc13‐1‐knockout (KO) and Munc13‐1/2 double‐KO (DKO)] and chronic pharmacological treatments interfering with specific steps of glutamatergic transmission were used. Under experimental conditions of glutamatergic hypofunction PN formation was studied in organotypic brain slice cultures withWisteria floribundalectin binding and with aggrecan immunohistochemistry. After cultivation for 21 days a regular PN formation was observed in brain slices (i) derived from Munc13‐1‐KO and Munc13‐1/2‐DKO mice, (ii) after blockade of metabotropic and ionotropic glutamate receptors with MCPG and kynurenate, and (iii) after suppression of glutamate release by blockade of presynaptic Ca++channels with riluzole. Nonselective suppression of neuronal activity by blockade of voltage‐gated sodium channels with tetrodotoxin clearly inhibited PN formation. These results indicate that neuronal activity is required but that the glutamatergic system is not essential for PN development.
Neuromuscular paralysis and recovery in mice injected with botulinum neurotoxins A and C
Authors: Morbiato Laura , Carli Luca , Johnson Eric A. , Montecucco Cesare , Molgó Jordi , Rossetto Ornella
Published: June 2007

Botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT/A) is commonly used in human therapy. This treatment may induce immunoresistance and preliminary evaluation of other botulinum neurotoxin serotypes suggested botulinum neurotoxin type C (BoNT/C) to be a good alternative to BoNT/A. Here, we have further characterized the biological activities of BoNT/C using a variety of experimental approaches. Muscle paralysis and time of recovery of mouse hind limb injected with BoNT/A or BoNT/C were assayed with the Digit Abduction Scoring assay. The extent and duration of paralysis were similar with the two toxin serotypes.Extensor digitorum longusortibialis anteriormuscles were dissected at times of complete paralysis and of complete recovery. Muscle weight and force were significantly reduced in mice injected with BoNT/A and BoNT/C, and some atrophy persisted for a long time. In BoNT/C‐treated junctions, nerve terminal sprouting was prominent, indicating that the capacity to extend the field of innervation is not hampered by BoNT/C. BoNT/C induced a marked decrease in the frequency of miniature endplate potentials and in the amplitude of endplate potentials. 3,4‐diaminopyridine reversed the effect of BoNT/C by increasing the amplitude of synchronized endplate potentials. The present study shows an extensive similarity in the biological activities of BoNT/A and BoNT/C, further supporting the suggestion that BoNT/C is a valid alternative to BoNT/A.
Premovement activities in the subthalamic area of patients with Parkinson's disease and their dependence on task
Authors: Kempf Florian , Kühn Andrea A. , Kupsch Andreas , Brücke Christof , Weise Lutz , Schneider Gerd‐Helge , Brown Peter
Published: June 2007

Movement preparation and execution are associated with a reduction in oscillatory synchrony over 6–35 Hz (event‐related desynchronization; ERD) and increases in oscillatory synchrony at higher frequencies (event‐related synchronization; ERS) in the human parkinsonian subthalamic nucleus (STN). The timing of the ERD < 35 Hz in STN correlates with, but precedes, the timing of voluntary movement, in line with a role in motor processing. Here, we explore how directly the synchrony manifest in local field potential (LFP) activities depends on the details of motor processing. To this end, we recorded local field potentials from the STN area of parkinsonian subjects while they performed internally paced single movements or double movements with one hand. Analysis was limited to time periods that were unequivocally premovement, so as to avoid the confounding effects of sensory afferance during movement. LFP power differed from baseline activity as early as 2.1–1.1 s prior to movement over 6–18 Hz and 56–70 Hz. However, only the early changes in LFP power in the 56–70 Hz band depended on task type. Later on, within 0.5 s of the forthcoming movement, the behaviour of both the 6–18 and 56–70 Hz bands differed according to movement type. In addition, a change was seen in LFP activity over 23–35 Hz, although the ERD in this band remained similar across movement types. The findings further implicate the human STN in the feedforward organization of movement in premotor circuits. Different aspects of this organization may be preferentially reflected in changes in synchrony at different frequencies.
Chronic bupropion attenuated the anhedonic component of nicotine withdrawal in rats via inhibition of dopamine reuptake in the nucleus accumbens shell
Authors: Paterson Neil E. , Balfour David J. , Markou Athina
Published: June 2007

Bupropion, a dopamine reuptake inhibitor, is an effective therapy for smoking cessation, but the behavioral and neurochemical mechanisms mediating its antismoking properties are relatively unknown. To explore the hypothesis that bupropion ameliorates nicotine withdrawal partly by a dopamine‐dependent mechanism, we investigated the effects of chronic bupropion on potassium‐stimulated dopamine overflow in the nucleus accumbens shell in nicotine‐withdrawing rats. We also assessed the effects of chronic bupropion on behavioral aspects of nicotine withdrawal measured by elevations in brain reward thresholds and somatic signs of withdrawal. Rats were treated with nicotine or saline for 7 days and then coadministration of bupropion or saline was initiated. After 14 days of coadministration of bupropion/saline and nicotine/saline, nicotine/saline administration was terminated, whereas bupropion/saline administration continued. These conditions mimic bupropion administration in human smokers. Cessation of nicotine administration in non‐bupropion‐treated rats elevated reward thresholds reflecting a reward deficit, increased somatic signs and diminished potassium‐evoked dopamine overflow in the nucleus accumbens shell. Chronic bupropion lowered reward thresholds and increased potassium‐evoked dopamine release regardless of previous nicotine exposure, possibly by inhibition of dopamine reuptake, and thus attenuated the anhedonic and neurochemical effects of nicotine withdrawal. Chronic bupropion blocked withdrawal‐associated increased somatic signs. Finally, acute experimenter‐administered nicotine enhanced brain reward function equally in all groups, indicating that bupropion does not alter the reward‐facilitating effects of experimenter‐administered nicotine. In conclusion, the bupropion‐induced increase in extracellular dopamine in the nucleus accumbens shell may ameliorate the anhedonia associated with nicotine withdrawal, which in turn may facilitate smoking cessation.
The Why's the Limit: Curtailing Self‐Enhancement With Explanatory Introspection
Authors: Sedikides Constantine , Horton Robert S. , Gregg Aiden P.
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT
Self‐enhancement is linked to psychological gains (e.g., subjective well‐being, persistence in adversity) but also to intrapersonal and interpersonal costs (e.g., excessive risk taking, antisocial behavior). Thus, constraints on self‐enhancement may sometimes afford intrapersonal and interpersonal advantages. We tested whether explanatory introspection (i.e., generating reasons for why one might or might not possess personality traits) constitutes one such constraint. Experiment 1 demonstrated that explanatory introspection curtails self‐enhancement. Experiment 2 clarified that the underlying mechanism must (a) involve explanatory questioning rather than descriptive imagining, (b) invoke the self rather than another person, and (c) feature written expression rather than unaided contemplation. Finally, Experiment 3 obtained evidence that an increase in uncertainty about oneself mediates the effect.
Squeaky Wheel Gets the Oil: Incentives, Information and Drought Policy
Authors: Ha Arthur , Stoneham Gary , Harris Jane , Fisher Bill , Strappazzon Loris
Published: June 2007

Most economic assessments conclude there is no economic efficiency case for governments to provide drought assistance. However, significant public funds are allocated to farmers during droughts and there is a second‐best case to improve drought policy design. In this article we show that the National Drought Policy suffers from adverse selection, moral hazard, incentive compatibility and government commitment problems. We use ABARE farm‐level data that suggest that at least adverse selection was a problem in Victoria during the 2002‐03 drought. These results are replicated at the national level. The current approach of the Commonwealth and state governments is ineffective because it is very difficult to design an efficient and fair drought policy that relies on ex post revelation of information. An alternative approach is investigated where incentives are designed so that farmers self‐select into one of a number of drought policy agreements consistent with their capacity to prepare for drought.
Can OECD Countries Afford Demographic Change?
Authors: Guest Ross
Published: June 2007

This article provides new calculations on the effects of demographic change on living standards in all 30 OECD countries using the latest demographic projections up to 2050 from the United Nations, World Population Prospects, 2004 Revision. The calculations include several potential dividends that could offset, at least in part, the costs of a lower working age population share. The effects of demographic change calculated here are mechanical in that there is no explicit optimising behaviour. In the worst case scenario, which assumes zero potential dividends and no increase in labour force participation rates, the negative effect of demographic change on living standards among OECD countries over the whole period from 2006 to 2050 ranges from zero to 28 per cent, with an average over all countries of 15.5 per cent. In the best case scenario the average effect is zero. About half of the difference between the best and worst case scenarios is accounted for by higher labour force participation and about half by the potential dividends from demographic change.
The Relationship between Personal Income and Net Worth in Australia
Authors: Creedy John , Tan Li
Published: June 2007

This article uses data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey to examine the changing distribution of net worth with age. Even after controlling for age, the relationship between income and net worth is positive, except for the older age groups. Inequality falls as age increases. The income poor save in different forms compared with high income individuals of the same age cohort. Holdings of financial assets, especially equity investments and superannuation, are heavily concentrated in the hands of high income earners, while fixed income investments are favoured by the elderly for all income groups.
LEGAL SERVICES IN THE REGIONAL ECONOMY: EVIDENCE FROM WALES
Authors: DAVIES IWAN , MAINWARING LYNN
Published: June 2007

Using data provided by The Law Society of England and Wales, the paper attempts to evaluate the quantity and quality of legal services provided by private solicitors in Wales. Both are found wanting compared to England as a whole and to an appropriate comparator region (South West England). Moreover, the distribution of services within Wales is extremely uneven with remoter rural areas and areas of recent industrial decline showing the acutest difficulties. The results raise questions about whether Wales can confront the challenges posed by devolution and the emergence of a distinct jurisdiction and by the Welsh Assembly's strategy for economic regeneration. New technology and impending policy reforms give grounds for cautious optimism.
A Case for Bundling Public Goods Contributions
Authors: GHOSH SUMAN , KARAIVANOV ALEXANDER , OAK MANDAR
Published: June 2007

We extend the model of voluntary contributions to multiple public goods by allowing for bundling of the public goods. Specifically, we study the case where agents contribute into a common pool which is then allocated toward the financing of two pure public goods. We explore the welfare implications of allowing for such bundling vis‐à‐vis a separate contributions scheme. We show that for high income inequality or for identical preferences among agents bundling leads to higher joint welfare. Interestingly, a welfare improvement can in some cases occur despite a decrease in total contributions. On the contrary, when agents are heterogenous, for low income inequality bundling can lead to lower total contributions and may decrease welfare compared to a separate contribution scheme. Our findings have implications for the design of charitable institutions and international aid agencies.
Racial Profiling, Statistical Discrimination, and the Effect of a Colorblind Policy on the Crime Rate
Authors: BJERK DAVID
Published: June 2007

This paper develops a model of racial profiling by law enforcement officers when officers observe both an individual's race as well as a noisy signal of his or her guilt that depends on whether or not a crime has been committed. The model shows that given officers observe such a guilt signal, data regarding the guilt rate among those investigated from each race will not be sufficient for determining whether racially unequal investigation rates are due to statistical discrimination or racial bias on the part of officers. The model also reveals that when racially unequal investigation rates are due to statistical discrimination, imposing a colorblind policy on officers can increase, decrease, or have little effect on the crime rate, depending on specific characteristics of the jurisdiction and the crime in question.