bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Comorbid Conditions on Long‐Term Mortality After Pneumonia in Older People
Authors: Yende Sachin , Angus Derek C. , Ali Ibrahim Sultan , Somes Grant , Newman Anne B. , Bauer Douglas , Garcia Melissa , Harris Tamara B. , Kritchevsky Stephen B. ,   for the Health ABC Study
Published: February 2007

OBJECTIVES: To test the hypothesis that increased long‐term mortality after hospitalization for community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) is independent of comorbid conditions.

DESIGN: Prospective observational cohort study in metropolitan areas.

SETTING: Memphis, Tennessee, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

PARTICIPANTS: Three thousand seventy‐five subjects aged 70 to 79 over 5.2 years.

MEASUREMENTS: Unadjusted and adjusted mortality from an initial hospitalization for CAP were compared with mortality from different causes of hospitalization, including cancer, fracture, congestive heart failure (CHF), cerebrovascular accident (CVA), and other causes. Demographics, smoking, nutritional markers, functional status, inflammatory markers, and chronic health conditions were adjusted for.

RESULTS: Of the 106 subjects hospitalized for CAP, 22 (20.8%) and 38 (35.8%) died at 1 and 5 years. Subjects hospitalized with CAP had higher mortality than nonhospitalized subjects (adjusted odds ratio (OR)=7.8, 95% confidence interval (CI)=4.2–14.4). One‐ and 5‐year mortality after CAP hospitalization were higher than mortality from other causes requiring hospitalization and remained unchanged in multivariable analysis (adjusted OR=3.5, 95% CI=1.5–8.1; adjusted OR=5.6, 95% CI=2.8–11.2, respectively). One‐ and 5‐year mortality after hospitalization for CAP were similar to or higher than mortality after an initial hospitalization for CHF, CVA, or fracture. Rehospitalization was common in subjects hospitalized for CAP and may explain greater long‐term mortality.

CONCLUSION: In this high‐functioning cohort of older persons, an initial hospitalization for CAP was associated with greater long‐term mortality, independent of prehospitalization comorbid conditions. Hospitalization for CAP has as serious a prognosis as hospitalization for CHF, stroke, or major fracture.
Protective Association Between Neighborhood Walkability and Depression in Older Men
Authors: Berke Ethan M. , Gottlieb Laura M. , Moudon Anne Vernez , Larson Eric B.
Published: February 2007

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the association between neighborhood walkability and depression in older adults.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional analysis using data from Adult Changes in Thought (ACT), a prospective, longitudinal cohort study.

SETTING: King County, Washington.

PARTICIPANTS: Seven hundred forty randomly selected men and women aged 65 and older, cognitively intact, living in the same home for at least 2 years.

MEASUREMENTS: Depressive symptoms were measured with the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. The Walkable and Bikable Communities Project provided objective data predicting the probability of walking at least 150 minutes per week in a particular neighborhood. ACT data were linked at the individual level via a geographic information system to this walkability score using buffer radii of 100, 500, and 1,000 meters around the subject's home. Multiple regression analysis tests were conducted for associations between the buffer‐specific neighborhood walkability score and depressive symptoms.

RESULTS: There was a significant association between neighborhood walkability and depressive symptoms in men when adjusted for individual‐level factors of income, physical activity, education, smoking status, living alone, age, ethnicity, and chronic disease. The odds ratio for the interquartile range (25th to 75th percentile) of walkability score was 0.31 to 0.33 for the buffer radii (P=.02), indicating a protective association with neighborhood walkability. This association was not significant in women.

CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates a significant association between neighborhood walkability and depressive symptoms in older men. Further research on the effects of neighborhood walkability may inform community‐level mental health treatment and focus depression screening in less‐walkable areas.
Augmenting Immune Responses to Varicella Zoster Virus in Older Adults: A Randomized, Controlled Trial of Tai Chi
Authors: Irwin Michael R. , Olmstead Richard , Oxman Michael N.
Published: February 2007

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effects of a behavioral intervention, Tai Chi, on resting and vaccine‐stimulated levels of cell‐mediated immunity (CMI) to varicella zoster virus (VZV) and on health functioning in older adults.

DESIGN: A prospective, randomized, controlled trial with allocation to two arms (Tai Chi and health education) for 25 weeks. After 16 weeks of intervention, subjects were vaccinated with VARIVAX, the live attenuated Oka/Merck VZV vaccine licensed to prevent varicella.

SETTING: Two urban U.S. communities between 2001 and 2005.

PARTICIPANTS: A total of 112 healthy older adults aged 59 to 86.

MEASUREMENTS: The primary endpoint was a quantitative measure of VZV‐CMI. Secondary outcomes were scores on the Medical Outcomes Study 36‐item Short‐Form Health Survey (SF‐36).

RESULTS: The Tai Chi group showed higher levels of VZV‐CMI than the health education group (P<.05), with a significant rate of increase (P<.001) that was nearly twice that found in the health education group. Tai Chi alone induced an increase in VZV‐CMI that was comparable in magnitude with that induced by varicella vaccine, and the two were additive; Tai Chi, together with vaccine, produced a substantially higher level of VZV‐CMI than vaccine alone. The Tai Chi group also showed significant improvements in SF‐36 scores for physical functioning, bodily pain, vitality, and mental health (P<.05).

CONCLUSION: Tai Chi augments resting levels of VZV‐specific CMI and boosts VZV‐CMI of the varicella vaccine.
The Relationship Between the Action of Arginine Vasopressin and Responsiveness to Oral Desmopressin in Older Men: A Pilot Study
Authors: Johnson Theodore M. , Burridge Andrea , Issa Muta M. , Miller Myron , Tang Terence , Ouslander Joseph G.
Published: February 2007

OBJECTIVES: To identify whether oral desmopressin (ddAVP) reduced nocturnal urine volume (NUV) in older men with nocturia without obvious bladder outlet obstruction and to determine whether deficiencies in arginine vasopressin (AVP) release and action demonstrated using water deprivation testing predicted responsiveness to ddAVP.

DESIGN: Participants had a 2‐day Clinical Research Center (CRC) evaluation followed by a double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, crossover trial of individually titrated oral ddAVP.

SETTING: Participants were from a single Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

MEASUREMENTS: Maximum urine osmolality and percentage increase in osmolality were measured after subjects received aqueous vasopressin as part of the overnight water deprivation study; these data were used to categorize participants as normal, having partial central AVP deficiency, or having impaired renal responsiveness to AVP. Response to ddAVP was assessed using data from frequency‐volume records.

RESULTS: Fourteen participants completed the CRC stay and ddAVP trial. Subjects given ddAVP reduced NUV significantly from baseline (P=.02) and had significantly lower NUV than when on placebo (P=.01). The mean net reduction in NUV from ddAVP compared to placebo was 14±18%. Using water deprivation testing to categorize participants, 10 were normal, two had partial central AVP deficiency, and two had impaired renal responsiveness. The mean net reduction in NUV for those with abnormal water deprivation tests was 11±25%, versus 15±16% for those with normal water deprivation testing (P=.70).

CONCLUSION: In this small randomized, controlled trial in older men with nocturia, ddAVP reduced NUV. Counter to expectations, participants deemed normal according to water deprivation tests had approximately equivalent responsiveness to ddAVP. Although this study cannot offer definitive conclusions on the lack of prediction of water deprivation testing for ddAVP benefit, these data offer additional information that may help clarify the pathophysiology and optimal treatment of nocturia in older men.
Bayesian Methods for Predicting Interacting Protein Pairs Using Domain Information
Authors: Kim Inyoung , Liu Yin , Zhao Hongyu
Published: February 2007

SummaryProtein–protein interactions (PPIs) play important roles in most fundamental cellular processes including cell cycle, metabolism, and cell proliferation. Therefore, the development of effective statistical approaches to predicting protein interactions based on recently available large‐scale experimental data is very important. Because protein domains are the functional units of proteins and PPIs are mostly achieved through domain–domain interactions (DDIs), the modeling and analysis of protein interactions at the domain level may be more informative and insightful. However, due to the large number of domains, the number of parameters to be estimated is very large, yet the amount of information for statistical inference is quite limited. In this article we propose a full Bayesian method and a semi‐Bayesian method for simultaneously estimating DDI probabilities, the false positive rate, and the false negative rate of high‐throughput data through integrating data from several organisms. We also propose a model to associate protein interaction probabilities with domain interaction probabilities that reflects the number of domains in each protein. Our Bayesian methods are compared with the likelihood‐based approach (Deng et al., 2002,Genome Research12,1504–1508;Liu, Liu, and Zhao, 2005,Bioinformatics21,3279–3285) developed using the expectation maximization algorithm. We show that the full Bayesian method has the smallest mean square error through both simulations and theoretical justification under a special scenario. The large‐scale PPI data obtained from high‐throughput yeast two‐hybrid experiments are used to demonstrate the advantages of the Bayesian approaches.
Gaussian Process Functional Regression Modeling for Batch Data
Authors: Shi J. Q. , Wang B. , Murray‐Smith R. , Titterington D. M.
Published: February 2007

SummaryA Gaussian process functional regression model is proposed for the analysis of batch data. Covariance structure and mean structure are considered simultaneously, with the covariance structure modeled by a Gaussian process regression model and the mean structure modeled by a functional regression model. The model allows the inclusion of covariates in both the covariance structure and the mean structure. It models the nonlinear relationship between a functional output variable and a set of functional and nonfunctional covariates. Several applications and simulation studies are reported and show that the method provides very good results for curve fitting and prediction.
The Pedigree of the International Biometric Society*
Authors: Stigler Stephen M.
Published: February 2007

Summary On the 60th anniversary of the International Biometric Society, a look back is taken to the view of biometry held by the first president, R. A. Fisher, as reflected in notes taken in a lecture course he gave in 1935–1936.
Farmer management of production risk on degraded lands: the role of wheat variety diversity in the Tigray region, Ethiopia
Authors: Di Falco Salvatore , Chavas Jean‐Paul , Smale Melinda
Published: February 2007

This article investigates the effects of wheat genetic diversity and land degradation on risk and agricultural productivity in less favored production environments of a developing agricultural economy. Drawing production data from a household survey conducted in the highlands of Ethiopia, we estimate a stochastic production function to evaluate the effects of variety richness, land degradation, and their interaction on the mean and the variance of wheat yield. Ethiopia is a center of diversity for durum wheat and farmers manage complex variety mixtures on multiple plots. Econometric evidence shows that variety richness increases farm productivity. Variety richness also reduces yield variability but only for high levels of genetic diversity. Simulations with estimated parameters illustrate how planting more diverse durum wheat varieties on multiple plots contribute to improving farmer's welfare.
Farm‐gate tomato price negotiations under asymmetric information
Authors: Jaleta Moti , Gardebroek Cornelis
Published: February 2007

This article provides an empirical analysis of farm‐gate tomato price negotiations under asymmetric information. Regression models are estimated to analyze when and by how much sellers stick to their initial ask prices and what explains the variation in the initial ask–offer price spread. Detailed information on 66 farm‐gate tomato transactions and daily tomato wholesale price data from the central vegetable market in Addis Ababa are used for the analysis. Estimation results show that farmers are less committed to their initial ask price when the buyer speaks out the transaction price first, when their quality perceptions of the tomatoes being transacted differ from those of the buyers, and when their tomato farm is at a large distance from the main road. Sellers stick more to their initial ask price when they know that the central market price is high. The initial ask–offer price spread decreases when the buyer speaks out the initial negotiation price first, but increases in the difference in quality perception between buyer and seller, and in the quantity of tomatoes being transacted.
Hedging dairy production losses using weather‐based index insurance
Authors: Deng Xiaohui , Barnett Barry J. , Vedenov Dmitry V. , West Joe W.
Published: February 2007

This article proposes a temperature–humidity index insurance product and examines whether this product can effectively protect against the risk of reduced milk production caused by heat stress. Results suggest that even when premiums are at higher than actuarially fair levels and the insurance purchaser is faced with both spatial and temporal basis risks, a temperature–humidity index insurance product would provide risk management benefits to a representative south‐central Georgia dairy producer.
Unrelated donor haematopoietic cell transplantation after non‐myeloablative conditioning for patients with high‐risk multiple myeloma
Authors: Bruno Benedetto , Sorasio Roberto , Patriarca Francesca , Montefusco Vittorio , Guidi Stefano , Busca Alessandro , Scimé Rosanna , Console Giuseppe , Milone Giuseppe , Marotta Giuseppe , Dominietto Alida , Giaccone Luisa , Rotta Marcello , Falda Michele , Bacigalupo Andrea , Bosi Alberto , Corradini Paolo , Fanin Renato , Pollichieni Simona , Boccadoro Mario ,   Gruppo Italiano Trapianto Midollo Osseo (GITMO)
Published: February 2007

Background:  Allografting induces long‐term molecular remissions and possibly cure in myeloma patients. The development of non‐myeloablative conditionings has reduced the transplant‐related mortality (TRM) associated with myeloablation and extended the eligible age for transplantation. Moreover, high response rates are reported especially when allografting is preceded by cytoreductive high‐dose chemotherapy. We investigated the feasibility of unrelated donor non‐myeloablative transplantation as either part of the initial treatment plan or as salvage treatment in heavily pretreated patients.

Methods:  Twenty‐two patients underwent non‐myeloablative allografting, 10 as part of their initial treatment and 12 at relapse. Donors were matched for HLA‐A, B, C, DRB1 and DQB1 by high‐resolution typing. Only one single class I allele disparity was allowed. Conditioning consisted of fludarabine 90 mg/m2 and 2 Gy total body irradiation. Graft‐vs.‐host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis included cyclosporin and mycophenolate mofetil.

Results:  All patients except two (91%) readily engrafted. After a median follow‐up of 20 (10–30) months, incidences of grade II‐IV acute and extensive chronic GVHD were 50% and 61%. Overall response (OR) was 55%, with four (20%) complete and seven (35%) partial remissions. However, in patients allografted up‐front OR was 89% whereas in the heavily pretreated group OR was 27% (P = 0.01). Two‐year overall and event‐free survivals were both 79% in the group transplanted up‐front and 27% and 25% among relapsed patients (P = 0.025 and P = 0.006, respectively). Overall, six patients died of TRM and three of disease progression.

Conclusions:  Unrelated donor non‐myeloablative allografting is feasible in myeloma. Disease control appears more pronounced when patients are treated soon after diagnosis.
Land‐use effects on soil macro‐ and micronutrient status in tropical lowland zone of Bolivia
Authors: Abe Susumu Shin , Yamamoto Sadahiro , Masunaga Tsugiyuki , Endo Tsuneyoshi , Wakatsuki Toshiyuki , Honna Toshimasa
Published: February 2007

The present study investigated macro‐ and micronutrient status in the soils under the native forest (NF), cropland (CL) and rangeland over 27 years in Colonia Okinawa, Santa Cruz, Bolivia, in order to assess the effect of land use on soil fertility in the region. The C, N and P pools in the soil of CL were less by 60, 57 and 27% as compared to NF, respectively. The rangeland with Panicum maximum (RG) showed almost similar values of C, N and P pools to CL, while the values in the rangeland with Paspalum notatum (RB) were relatively closer to NF. Mehlich‐3 extractable P, Ca and Mg considerably declined in CL, RG and RB, but an inverse trend was observed in Mehlich‐3 extractable K probably due to the stimulation of weathering of illite in the soil. Mehlich‐3 extractable Mn, Fe and Cu were tended to increase in RG and RB, which suggested possible accumulation of these metals because of the manure deposited by grazing cattle on the rangelands. Besides C, N and P pools, the values of Mehlich‐3 extractable K, Mn, Fe and Zn were less in RG than RB because of greater exploitation of these nutrients in RG than RB. There was a significant correlation between C, N, P, Ca, Mg and Zn suggesting that the dynamics of these components could be associated with the organic matter in the soil. The findings of this study clarified the soil chemical degradation in the cropland and rangeland. However, the magnitude of the land chemical deterioration under the rangeland was highly variable depending on the grass species.
Grassland degradation in China: Methods of monitoring, management and restoration
Authors: Akiyama Tsuyoshi , Kawamura Kensuke
Published: February 2007

Grasslands in China cover nearly 4 million km2, more than 40% of its total land area. Grasslands play an important role in livestock farming and environmental conservation. In spite of numerous efforts that have been undertaken to arrest land desertification in China, grassland degradation is advancing over wide areas through overgrazing, cropland misuse and unregulated collection of fuel and medical plants. This review presents specific examination of the present situation of grassland desertification in China, and discusses mechanisms of grassland degradation. Assessments of desertification since the 1980s are introduced, and its expanse and extent are discussed. Many scientists admit that both are causes, but two contradicting arguments surround the main cause of desertification, with one citing natural origins such as climate change, and the other pointing to anthropogenic factors such as overgrazing. Trials for clarifying mechanisms of grassland degradation are attempted from the perspective of water and energy dynamics. In addition, causes and measures of moving sand dunes and sandstorms are also discussed. For elucidation of the mechanisms of grassland degradation, the grassland ecosystem functions must be considered. Among the proposals, a mathematical approach and measurement of spectral reflectance are some new methods that are effective for assessing those functions. Measurements of soil respiration under altered grazing intensities are also useful to examine prospects in the event of global climate change. Several technologies for grassland diagnosis have been developed to arrest grassland deterioration. Indicator plant species have been determined according to grassland types. Relations of grazing pressure and species distribution have been quantified. Several measures for restoration of degraded grasslands are proposed as the next step of development in this field, including agro‐ecological measures. A promising tool for grassland monitoring is the use of remote sensing in conjunction with geographic information systems. Accurate and real‐time monitoring and management of grasslands have become increasingly feasible through sensor improvement in satellite and geographic information systems generalization in recent years.
Introduction: Asian Values and Regional Community Building
Authors: Levine Stephen
Published: February 2007

The topic of “Asian values” has been a controversial one since first being proposed by several Asian governments. This issue examines the importance of “Asian values,” and the role of culture and identity, in relation to political development, regional cooperation, and security issues in the Asian region and among Asian states. The various articles presented in this issue direct attention toward the importance of values generally in the formation and evolution of regional communities. Prospects for further cooperation among Asian states depend on the further development of shared values and common interests, and on the strengthening of regional institutions and collaborative relationships among Asian countries.
Australia’s Attitude Toward Asian Values and Regional Community Building1
Authors: Jain Purnendra
Published: February 2007

Australia’s engagement with Asian countries has often been problematic. In recent times, both for economic and security purposes, Australia has sought to deepen its relationship with its Asian neighbors, seeking, among other things, a more formal, ongoing role with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The response of Asian countries has not always been welcoming, with some Asian leaders questioning the value, appropriateness, and consequences of Australian engagement with Asia. This article reviews the policies of successive Australian governments toward Asia, ranging from the more enthusiastic approach of Labor governments to the more ambivalent position taken under the current prime minister, John Howard. While Australia is not in a position to endorse “Asian values,” whatever these may be, neither is it in the country’s interest to remain aloof from a region important to its economic prosperity and security.
Do Asian Values Matter—for an East Asian Community?
Authors: Huang Xiaoming
Published: February 2007

This concluding article summarizes the findings from the contributions that precede it in this special issue on Asian values. The article draws attention to common themes in the articles and the contribution they make to the wider debate concerning the importance of Asian values. More specifically, the article looks at the relationship between culture, values, and identity, on the one hand, and the development of processes leading to a strengthening regional community in East Asia on the other. The study concludes by raising additional questions arising out of the earlier articles in the issue, moving the debate on Asian values to a new position in comparative politics and international relations discourse.
Digital analysis of ulnar trochlear notch sclerosis in Labrador retrievers
Authors: Burton N. J. , Comerford E. J. , Bailey M. , Pead M. J. , Owen M. R.
Published: February 2007

Objectives:To compare ulnar trochlear notch bone radiopacity in Labrador retrievers with and without fragmented medial coronoid process using quantitative analysis of film density on digitised radiographs.

Methods:Mediolateral view elbow radiographs from Labrador retrievers (n=34) aged between six and 18 months were obtained and digitised. Images from dogs with an arthroscopic diagnosis of fragmentation of the medial coronoid process (n=17) were compared with that of a control population (n=17), and this data subject to statistical analysis.

Results:A statistically significant relationship between the presence of increased trochlear notch radiopacity and a fragmented medial coronoid process was identified. Fractional analysis of this area shows the region of greatest difference in radiopacity between normal and fragmented medial coronoid process cohorts to be in the trochlear region of the medial coronoid process of the ulna. A decrease in radiopacity values in the dysplastic group versus the normal cohort was observed for the region of the proximo‐caudal ulnar trochlear notch.

ClinicalSignificance:An increase in ulnar trochlear notch radiopacity is a finding associated with fragmentation of the medial coronoid process in Labrador retrievers.
A Decade of Tau Transgenic Animal Models and Beyond
Authors: Götz Jürgen , Deters Natasha , Doldissen Amy , Bokhari Laita , Ke Yazi , Wiesner Andreas , Schonrock Nicole , Ittner Lars M.
Published: February 2007

The first tau transgenic mouse model was established more than a decade ago. Since then, much has been learned about the role of tau in Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. Animal models, both in vertebrates and invertebrates, were significantly improved and refined as a result of the identification of pathogenic mutations in Tau in human cases of frontotemporal dementia. They have been instrumental for dissecting the cross‐talk between tau and the second hallmark lesion of Alzheimer’s disease, the Aβ peptide‐containing amyloid plaque. We discuss how the tau models have been used to unravel the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease, to search for disease modifiers and to develop novel treatment strategies. While tau has received less attention than Aβ, it is rapidly acquiring a more prominent position and the emerging view is one of a synergistic action of Aβ and tau in Alzheimer’s disease. Moreover, the existence of a number of neurodegenerative diseases with tau pathology in the absence of extracellular deposits underscores the relevance of research on tau.
First‐episode psychosis patients recruited into treatment via early detection teams versus ordinary pathways: course, outcome and health service use during first 2 years
Authors: Johannessen Jan O. , Friis Svein , Joa Inge , Haahr Ulrik , Larsen Tor K. , Melle Ingrid , Opjordsmoen Stein , Rund Bjørn R. , Simonsen Erik , Vaglum Per , McGlashan Thomas
Published: February 2007

Aim:  Within an early detection sector, to compare the 1‐ and 2‐year course and outcome of first‐episode psychosis patients coming into the treatment system via active outreach detection teams (DTs) versus those achieving help via ordinary referral channels (not‐DT).

Methods:  Longitudinal, comparative study of two parallel consecutive samples using structured clinical interview for the DSM‐IV, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale Score, Global Assessment of Functioning Scale and Premorbid Assessment of Functioning Scale.

Results:  The DT group had significantly better functioning at baseline, but this was reversed after 3 months. At 2 years the groups had similar outcome. The DT group developed a more serious diagnostic pattern, had more cases of schizophrenia, and was more frequently treated on an outpatient basis only.

Conclusions:  The DTs recruited more chronic patients with poorer prognostic features, but fewer symptoms and better functioning at baseline. At 2 years the DT‐patients did as well as the not‐DT patients. They recovered more slowly, but given sufficient time, responded as well to therapy as the not‐DT group.
Lambeth Early Onset (LEO) and Outreach & Support in South London (OASIS) service
Authors: Power Paddy , McGuire Philip , Iacoponi Eduardo , Garety Philippa , Morris Eric , Valmaggia Lucia , Grafton David , Craig Tom
Published: February 2007

Aim:  To establish a comprehensive phase‐oriented early intervention service for young people with early psychosis in south London and to evaluate its effectiveness in delivering user friendly interventions and better outcomes.

Methods:  The Lambeth Early Onset (LEO) and Outreach & Support in South London (OASIS) service has been developed incrementally over the last 6 years into 4 teams each addressing one of the phases of early psychosis: (i) prodrome/ultra‐high risk (ii) untreated psychosis (c) acute inpatient treatment and (d) recovery/ relapse prevention phases. Research and evaluation have been integral to each team’s development with three of the teams configured as Randomised Controlled Trials.

Results:  During the first 6 years, 1255 young people in Lambeth were referred for assessment (963 to LEO and 292 to OASIS). Of them 578 were diagnosed as suffering from first episode psychosis (some before or after they presented to OASIS), 450 have been followed up in Lambeth by the LEO Community Team and 40% discharged back to GPs in remission at the end of their two years of follow‐up. Compared to standard service, patients’ delays in accessing treatment are less, and outcomes at 18 months are better.

Conclusions:  The LEO and OASIS service now provide most of the mental health service requirements for young people with early psychosis in Lambeth. It represents good value for money and improved outcomes for clients. Further interventions are planned and ultimately it will be possible to evaluate the impact of each incremental step in the service’s development.
Randomized controlled multicentre trial of cognitive behaviour therapy in the early initial prodromal state: effects on social adjustment post treatment
Authors: Bechdolf Andreas , Wagner Michael , Veith Verena , Ruhrmann Stephan , Pukrop Ralf , Brockhaus‐Dumke Anke , Berning Julia , Stamm Elmar , Janssen Birgit , Decker Petra , Bottlender Ronald , Moller Hans‐Jurgen , Gaebel Wolfgang , Maier Wolfgang , Klosterkotter Joachim
Published: February 2007

Aim:  Improvement of social adjustment is a major aim of indicated prevention in young people at risk of developing psychosis. The present study explores the effect of specific cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) as compared with supportive counselling (SC) on social adjustment in people in a potential early initial prodromal state of psychosis (EIPS) primarily defined by self‐experienced cognitive thought and perception deficits (basic symptoms).

Methods:  A total of 128 help‐seeking outpatients in the EIPS were randomized to receive either specific CBT or SC for 12 months. Social adjustment was assessed with the Social Adjustment Scale II (SAS II) at baseline, time of transition or post treatment

Results:  From 113 patients, who completed the SAS II at intake, 67 (59.3%) completed the SAS assessments at time of transition or post treatment. Both specific CBT and SC resulted in improvements in scales of SAS II, with no significant between‐group differences post treatment.

Conclusions:  Although treatment in specially designed early detection and intervention centres improves functioning of people in the EIPS, specific CBT was not superior to SC. One could hypothesize that additional vocational rehabilitation, case management and involvement of multidisciplinary teams are needed to further improve short‐term outcome of specific interventions on this dimension.
Modeling Homogeneous Combustion in Bubbling Beds Burning Liquid Fuels
Authors: Faravelli Tiziano , Frassoldati Alessio , Ranzi Eliseo , Francesco Miccio , Michele Miccio
Published: February 2007

This paper introduces a model for the description of the homogeneous combustion of various fuels in fluidized bed combustors (FBC) at temperatures lower than the classical value for solid fuels, i.e., 850°C. The model construction is based on a key bubbling fluidized bed feature: A fuel-rich (endogenous) bubble is generated at the fuel injection point, travels inside the bed at constant pressure, and undergoes chemical conversion in the presence of mass transfer with the emulsion phase and of coalescence with air (exogenous) bubbles formed at the distributor and, possibly, with other endogenous bubbles. The model couples a fluid-dynamic submodel based on two-phase fluidization theory with a submodel of gas phase oxidation. To this end, the model development takes full advantage of a detailed chemical kinetic scheme, which includes both the low and high temperature mechanisms of hydrocarbon oxidation, and accounts for about 200 molecular and radical species involved in more than 5000 reactions. Simple hypotheses are made to set up and close mass balances for the various species as well as enthalpy balances in the bed. First, the conversion and oxidation of gaseous fuels (e.g., methane) were calculated as a test case for the model; then, n-dodecane was taken into consideration to give a simple representation of diesel fuel using a pure hydrocarbon. The model predictions qualitatively agree with some of the evidence from the experimental data reported in the literature. The fate of hydrocarbon species is extremely sensitive to temperature change and oxygen availability in the rising bubble. A preliminary model validation was attempted with results of experiments carried out on a prepilot, bubbling combustor fired by underbed injection of a diesel fuel. Specifically, the model results confirm that heat release both in the bed and in the freeboard is a function of bed temperature. At lower emulsion phase temperatures many combustible species leave the bed unburned, while post-combustion occurs after the bed and freeboard temperature considerably increases. This is a well-recognized undesirable feature from the viewpoint of practical application and emission control.
Combustion and Emission Performance of a Hog Fuel Fluidized Bed Boiler With Addition of Tire Derived Fuel
Authors: Duo Wenli , Karidio Ibrahim , Cross Larry , Ericksen Bob
Published: February 2007

Salt-laden hog fuel (wood waste) is burnt in a fluidized bed boiler converted from a traveling grate boiler to generate steam for a specialty paper mill. The converted boiler has a design capacity of 156t∕h of steam from hog and actual generation has varied from 76% to 107% of the design capacity. The conversion has resulted in more stable operation, more complete combustion, less ash production, reduced boiler maintenance, and lower fossil fuel consumption. Tire derived fuel (TDF) is used as a supplementary fuel. With an energy content of 31GJ∕t for TDF, as compared to 8GJ∕t for wet hog, addition of 2%–5% TDF by weight increased the bed temperature by an average of 55°C, stabilized and improved the combustion of low quality hog and high moisture content sludge. The impact of TDF addition was studied in detail. Stack emissions were tested and bottom and flyash samples were analyzed. Although TDF contains an average of 1.6% zinc and 9.2% steel wire by weight, addition of TDF did not affect total particulate emissions from the boiler. SO2 emissions were increased due to the high sulfur content of TDF (1.4%), while NOx emissions were reduced. A good correlation was obtained from the test results, showing that the addition of TDF resulted in a reduction in both the total formation and the stack emissions of dioxins and furans.
Combination of a Biomass Fired Updraft Gasifier and a Stirling Engine for Power Production
Authors: Lin Jeng-Chyan Muti
Published: February 2007

Biomass is the largest renewable energy source used in the world and its importance grows larger in the future energy market. Since most biomass sources are low in energy density and are widespread in space, a small scale biomass conversion system is therefore more competitive than a large stand-alone conversion plant. The current study proposes a small scale solid biomass powering system to explore the viability of direct coupling of an updraft fixed bed gasifier with a Stirling engine. The modified updraft fixed bed gasifier employs an embedded combustor inside the gasifier to fully combust the syngas generated by the gasifier. The flue gas produced by the syngas combustion inside the combustion tube is piped directly to the heater head of the Stirling engine. The engine will then extract and convert the heat contained in the flue gas into electricity automatically. Output depends on heat input and the heat input is proportional to the flow rate and temperature of the flue gas. The preliminary study of the proposed direct coupling of an updraft gasifier with a 25kW Stirling engine demonstrates that full power output could be produced by the current system. It could be found from the current investigation that very little attention and no assisting fuel are required to operate the current system. The proposed system could be considered as a feasible solid biomass powering technology.
A Preliminary Assessment of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion Resources
Authors: Nihous Gérard C.
Published: February 2007

Worldwide power resources that could be extracted from Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) plants are estimated with a simple one-dimensional time-domain model of the thermal structure of the ocean. Recently published steady-state results are extended by partitioning the potential OTEC production region in one-degree-by-one-degree “squares” and by allowing the operational adjustment of OTEC operations. This raises the estimated maximum steady-state OTEC electrical power from about 3TW(109kW) to 5TW. The time-domain code allows a more realistic assessment of scenarios that could reflect the gradual implementation of large-scale OTEC operations. Results confirm that OTEC could supply power of the order of a few terawatts. They also reveal the scale of the perturbation that could be caused by massive OTEC seawater flow rates: a small transient cooling of the tropical mixed layer would temporarily allow heat flow into the oceanic water column. This would generate a long-term steady-state warming of deep tropical waters, and the corresponding degradation of OTEC resources at deep cold seawater flow rates per unit area of the order of the average abyssal upwelling. More importantly, such profound effects point to the need for a fully three-dimensional modeling evaluation to better understand potential modifications of the oceanic thermohaline circulation.
Acquired Echinocandin Resistance in a
Candida krusei
Isolate Due to Modification of Glucan Synthase
Authors: Kahn Jennifer Nielsen , Garcia-Effron Guillermo , Hsu Ming-Jo , Park Steven , Marr Kieren A. , Perlin David S.
Published: February 2007

A
Candida krusei
strain from a patient with acute myelogenous leukemia that displayed reduced susceptibility to echinocandin drugs contained a heterozygous mutation, T2080K, in
FKS1
. The resulting Phe655→Cys substitution altered the sensitivity of glucan synthase to echinocandin drugs, consistent with a common mechanism for echinocandin resistance in
Candida
spp.
ACandida albicansPetite Mutant Strain with Uncoupled Oxidative Phosphorylation OverexpressesMDR1and Has Diminished Susceptibility to Fluconazole and Voriconazole
Authors: Cheng Shaoji , Clancy Cornelius J. , Nguyen Katherine T. , Clapp William , Nguyen M. Hong
Published: February 2007

We showed that aCandida albicanspetite mutant in which oxidative phosphorylation is uncoupled was eightfold more resistant to fluconazole and voriconazole than SC5314 but equally susceptible to ketoconazole, itraconazole, and amphotericin B. Strain P5 significantly overexpressedMDR1, which likely accounts for the decreased drug susceptibility.
Expression and Purification of an Active Form of the
Mycobacterium leprae
DNA Gyrase and Its Inhibition by Quinolones
Authors: Matrat Stéphanie , Petrella Stéphanie , Cambau Emmanuelle , Sougakoff Wladimir , Jarlier Vincent , Aubry Alexandra
Published: February 2007

Mycobacterium leprae
, the causative agent of leprosy, is noncultivable in vitro; therefore, evaluation of antibiotic activity against
M. leprae
relies mainly upon the mouse footpad system, which requires at least 12 months before the results become available. We have developed an in vitro assay for studying the activities of quinolones against the DNA gyrase of
M. leprae
. We overexpressed in
Escherichia coli
the
M. leprae
GyrA and GyrB subunits separately as His-tagged proteins by using a pET plasmid carrying the
gyrA
and
gyrB
genes. The soluble 97.5-kDa GyrA and 74.5-kDa GyrB subunits were purified by nickel chelate chromatography and were reconstituted as an enzyme with DNA supercoiling activity. Based on the drug concentrations that inhibited DNA supercoiling by 50% or that induced DNA cleavage by 25%, the 13 quinolones tested clustered into three groups. Analysis of the quinolone structure-activity relationship demonstrates that the most active quinolones against
M. leprae
DNA gyrase share the following structural features: a substituted carbon at position 8, a cyclopropyl substituent at N-1, a fluorine at C-6, and a substituent ring at C-7. We conclude that the assays based on DNA supercoiling inhibition and drug-induced DNA cleavage on purified
M. leprae
DNA gyrase are rapid, efficient, and safe methods for the screening of quinolone derivatives with potential in vivo activities against
M. leprae
.
Randomized Controlled Trial of Fosmidomycin-Clindamycin versus Sulfadoxine-Pyrimethamine in the Treatment of
Plasmodium falciparum
Malaria
Authors: Oyakhirome Sunny , Issifou Saadou , Pongratz Peter , Barondi Fortune , Ramharter Michael , Kun Jürgen F. , Missinou Michel A. , Lell Bertrand , Kremsner Peter G.
Published: February 2007

Fosmidomycin-clindamycin therapy given every 12 h for 3 days was compared with a standard single oral dose of sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine. The two treatments showed comparably good tolerabilities and had an identical high degree of efficacy of 94% in a randomized trial carried out with 105 Gabonese children aged 3 to 14 years with uncomplicated malaria. These antimalarials merit further clinical exploration.
Importance of Collection Tube during Clinical Studies of Oseltamivir
Authors: Lindegardh Niklas , Davies Geraint R. , Hien Tran Tinh , Farrar Jeremy , Singhasivanon Pratap , Day Nicholas P. J. , White Nicholas J.
Published: February 2007

Ex vivo conversion of the anti-influenza drug oseltamivir to its active metabolite can be inhibited by the esterase inhibitor dichlorvos or by using commercial fluoride-oxalate tubes. Oseltamivir and its active metabolite remain intact in plasma samples during a proposed virus heat inactivation step: incubation at 60°C for 45 min.
Human Tear Fluid Protects against
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Keratitis in a Murine Experimental Model
Authors: Kwong Mary S. F. , Evans David J. , Ni Minjian , Cowell Brigitte A. , Fleiszig Suzanne M. J.
Published: February 2007

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
keratitis is an acute sight-threatening infection. We previously reported that human tear fluid could protect individual human corneal epithelial cells in vitro against invasion by and cytotoxicity due to clinical and laboratory isolates of
P. aeruginosa
and that the protective mechanism was independent of bacteriostatic activity. In the present study, we examined the effects of human tear fluid in vivo. Tears were collected from healthy human volunteers and were studied in vivo in mice. The effects on the virulence of both invasive and cytotoxic clinical isolates of
P. aeruginosa
were examined. Tear fluid was found to reduce the severity of disease when corneas were challenged with cytotoxic bacteria immediately after scratch injury, and it completely protected against susceptibility to infection by a cytotoxic strain in a model in which corneas were infected during the healing process 6 h after scratching. Visible protection correlated with the inhibition of bacterial colonization 1, 4, and 48 h postinoculation. Tear fluid also significantly reduced the severity of infections caused by invasive
P. aeruginosa
in the 6-h-healing model. This result also coincided with significantly reduced bacterial colonization at 48 h. In vitro, human tear fluid significantly reduced the ability of invasive and cytotoxic bacteria to translocate across corneal epithelia and increased transepithelial resistance with or without bacterial inoculation. These data show that human tear fluid can protect against
P. aeruginosa
corneal infection in vivo and that the mechanism likely involves enhanced epithelial barrier function in addition to protection of individual epithelial cells against bacterial internalization and cytotoxicity.
The Serine 31 Residue of the B Subunit of Shiga Toxin 2 Is Essential for Secretion in Enterohemorrhagic
Escherichia coli
Authors: Shimizu Takeshi , Kawakami Satomi , Sato Toshio , Sasaki Terumi , Higashide Masato , Hamabata Takashi , Ohta Toshiko , Noda Masatoshi
Published: February 2007

Shiga toxins produced by enterohemorrhagic
Escherichia coli
(EHEC) include Shiga toxin 1 (Stx1) as well as Shiga toxin 2 (Stx2). Stx1 is cell associated, whereas Stx2 is localized to the culture supernatant. We have analyzed the secretion of Stx2 by generating histidine-tagged StxB (StxB-H). Although neither StxB1-H nor StxB2-H was secreted in StxB-H-overexpressed EHEC, StxB2-H-overexpressed EHEC showed inhibited Stx2 secretion. On the other hand, StxB1-H-overexpressed EHEC showed no alteration of Stx2 secretion. B-subunit chimeras of Stx1 and Stx2 were used to identify the specific residue of StxB2 that the Stx2 secretory system recognizes. Alteration of the serine 31 residue to an asparagine residue (S31N) in StxB2-H enabled the recovery of Stx2 secretion. On the other hand, alteration of the asparagine 32 residue to a serine residue (N32S) in StxB1-H caused the partial secretion of a point-mutated histidine-tagged B subunit in EHEC. Based on the evidence, it appeared possible that this residue might contain secretion-related information for Stx2 secretion. To investigate this hypothesis, we constructed an isogenic mutant EHEC (Stx1B subunit, N32S) strain and an isogenic mutant EHEC (Stx2B subunit, S31N) strain. Although the mutant Stx2 was cell associated in isogenic mutant EHEC, mutant Stx1 was not extracellular. However, when we used plasmids for the expression of the mutant holotoxins, the overexpressed mutant Stx1 was found in the supernatant fraction, and the overexpressed mutant Stx2 was found in the cell-associated fraction in mutant holotoxin gene-transformed EHEC. These results indicate that the serine 31 residue of the B subunit of Stx2 contains secretion-related information.
Murine Neonates Are Highly Resistant toYersinia enterocoliticafollowing Orogastric Exposure
Authors: Echeverry Andrea , Schesser Kurt , Adkins Becky
Published: February 2007

Neonates are considered highly susceptible to gastrointestinal infections. This susceptibility has been attributed partially to immaturity in immune cell function. To study this phenomenon, we have developed a model system with murine neonates, using the natural orogastric route of transmission for the enteropathogenYersinia enterocolitica. The susceptibilities of 7-day-old and adult mice to orogastricY. enterocoliticainfection were assessed in 50% lethal dose experiments. Remarkably, neonatal mice of either the BALB/c or C57BL/6 mouse strain showed markedly enhanced survival after infection compared to adult mice. The resistance of neonates was not due to failure of the bacteria to colonize neonatal tissues;Y. enterocoliticawas readily detectable in the intestine and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) for at least 1 week after infection. In adult mice,Y. enterocoliticarapidly disseminated to the spleen and liver. In striking contrast, bacterial invasion of the spleen and liver in neonates was limited. Using flow cytometry and histology, we found substantial increases in the percentages of neutrophils and macrophages in the neonatal MLN, while influx of these cells into the adult MLN was limited. Similar results were obtained using two different high-virulenceY. enterocoliticastrains. Importantly, depletion of neutrophils with a specific antibody led to increased translocation of the bacteria to the spleens and livers of neonates. Together, these experiments support the hypothesis that the neonatal intestinal immune system can rapidly mobilize innate phagocytes and thereby confine the bacterial infection to the gut, resulting in a high level of resistance.