bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Availability and selection of arboreal termitaria as nest‐sites by Orange‐fronted Parakeets Aratinga canicularis in conserved and modified landscapes in Mexico
Authors: SANCHEZ‐MARTINEZ TANIA C. , RENTON KATHERINE
Published: February 2009

Few studies have investigated the use of termitaria by nesting parrots, or how this may be affected by habitat transformation. We determined selection of termitaria by nesting Orange‐fronted Parakeets Aratinga canicularis, and evaluated the effect of habitat transformation on the availability of termitaria nest‐sites for Parakeets in the tropical dry forest of Western Mexico. Availability of termitaria was quantified in 24 survey plots in a factorial design of six 1‐ha plots in each of conserved and modified, deciduous and semi‐deciduous forest. Characteristics of termitaria were determined in survey plots, as well as 21 nest‐termitaria used by Parakeets, and their nearest adjacent termitarium. There was an overall density of 1.6 termitaria/ha suitable for nesting by Parakeets, which did not differ between habitats, although only 8% of apparently suitable termitaria were occupied by nesting Parakeets. However, termitaria in conserved semi‐deciduous forest were significantly higher above the ground, and termitaria in conserved deciduous forest were significantly smaller in volume. In the modified landscape, termitaria were significantly lower and their volume significantly larger than in conserved landscapes. Termitaria used by nesting parrots were at a significantly greater height above the ground than the nearest adjacent termitaria. Termitarium volume did not reliably predict the likelihood of nest‐site selection, although Parakeets only used termitaria between 15 and 150 l. Parakeets nesting in modified habitats used termitaria at a significantly lower height than Parakeets nesting in conserved habitat. It is unclear whether this represents a decline in nest‐site quality in modified habitats, which could affect reproductive success of Parakeet populations in fragmented landscapes.
Burrow use by Tibetan Ground Tits Pseudopodoces humilis: coping with life at high altitudes
Authors: KE DIANHUA , LU XIN
Published: February 2009

The Tibetan Ground Tit Pseudopodoces humilis is a high‐altitude passerine endemic to the Tibetan Plateau. A 4‐year study in alpine meadows in Northern Tibet at 4300 m asl demonstrated that rather than using Pika Ochotona spp. holes as previously reported, the birds excavated one nest burrow themselves in spring and another after breeding, which they used for roosting in winter. Both the nesting and winter‐roosting burrows comprised a straight tunnel leading to an ellipsoid chamber. There were no significant differences in placement or structural characteristics between the two types of burrows, except that winter‐roosting burrows had a significantly smaller entrance diameter. Most burrows were 100–160 cm long and their chambers 20–40 cm deep. Tibetan Ground Tits tended to maximize the thermal benefits of their burrows by adjusting their spatial and structural characteristics in response to local solar radiation and wind regimes. Burrows tended to be oriented towards the sun and away from prevailing winds, presumably to maintain burrow temperature. Longer tunnels could function to save heat from solar radiation or reduce wind‐disturbance, while shorter tunnels allow chambers to be warmed sooner in situations where wind potentially reduced soil temperatures. The thermal benefits to the birds of burrow architecture are likely to play a crucial role throughout the year in these extreme alpine environments.
An approximate dynamic programming approach to solving a dynamic, stochastic multiple knapsack problem
Authors: Perry Thomas C. , Hartman Joseph C.
Published: February 2009

We model a multiperiod, single resource capacity reservation problem as a dynamic, stochastic, multiple knapsack problem with stochastic dynamic programming. As the state space grows exponentially in the number of knapsacks and the decision set grows exponentially in the number of order arrivals per period, the recursion is computationally intractable for large‐scale problems, including those with long horizons. Our goal is to ensure optimal, or near optimal, decisions at time zero when maximizing the net present value of returns from accepted orders, but solving problems with short horizons introduces end‐of‐study effects which may prohibit finding good solutions at time zero. Thus, we propose an approximation approach which utilizes simulation and deterministic dynamic programming in order to allow for the solution of longer horizon problems and ensure good time zero decisions. Our computational results illustrate the effectiveness of the approximation scheme.
A strong flow‐based formulation for the shortest path problem in digraphs with negative cycles
Authors: Ibrahim M.S. , Maculan N. , Minoux M.
Published: February 2009

In this paper, we are interested in the shortest path problem between two specified vertices in digraphs containing negative cycles. We study two integer linear formulations and their linear relaxations. A first formulation, close in spirit to a classical formulation of the traveling salesman problem, requires an exponential number of constraints. We study a second formulation that requires a polynomial number of constraints and, as confirmed by computational experiments, its linear relaxation is significantly sharper. From the second formulation we propose a family of linear relaxations with fewer variables than the classical linear one.
Block‐iterative algorithms
Authors: Byrne Charles
Published: February 2009

The recently presented sequential unconstrained minimization algorithm, SUMMA, is extended to provide a framework for the derivation of block‐iterative, or partial‐gradient, optimization methods. This block‐iterative SUMMA (BI‐SUMMA) includes, and is motivated by, block‐iterative versions of the algebraic reconstruction technique (ART) and its multiplicative variant, the MART. The BI‐SUMMA approach is designed to provide computationally tractable and quickly convergent algorithms. The rescaled block‐iterative expectation maximization maximum likelihood method (RBI‐EMML) is closely related to the RBI‐MART, but is not a particular case of BI‐SUMMA.
Forecasting demand for educational material for adult learners in Mexico
Authors: Muñoz David Fernando , Romero‐Hernández Omar , Detta‐Silveira José Emiliano , Muñoz David Gonzalo
Published: February 2009

This paper is about the development of a forecasting model that has been used in the Mexican Institute for Adult Education. This institute is in charge of an adult education program that is based on 42 modules, each of which requires books and materials each year. Accurate forecasts are needed to reduce the costs of wastage and shortages. Using data from previous years, the structure of the program, and interviews with officials in the Institute, we have developed a forecasting model based on Bayesian estimation. We further developed an approach that combines simulation with forecasting techniques, which may be appropriate when using a complex forecasting model. The initial results are encouraging, and we believe that the approach can be used in other situations, especially those concerned with service encounters. Our model also helps officials to understand several aspects of the education program.
TOP INCOMES AND NATIONAL SAVINGS
Authors: Leigh Andrew , Posso Alberto
Published: February 2009

The relationship between income inequality and national savings is theoretically ambiguous, and past empirical studies have delivered mixed results. We revisit the question using a newly available source of data on inequality: the income share of the richest 10 percent and the richest 1 percent. Combining this with historical data on national savings rates, we are able to investigate the relationship for 11 developed countries over the period 1921–2002. We find no consistent relationship between lagged top income shares and current savings rates, and our standard errors are small enough that we are able to reject more than modest effects in either direction. We view this as suggesting that inequality at the top end of the distribution is not a major driver of national savings rates.
USING THE P90/P10 INDEX TO MEASURE U.S. INEQUALITY TRENDS WITH CURRENT POPULATION SURVEY DATA: A VIEW FROM INSIDE THE CENSUS BUREAU VAULTS
Authors: Burkhauser Richard V. , Feng Shuaizhang , Jenkins Stephen P.
Published: February 2009

The March Current Population Survey (CPS) is the primary data source for estimation of levels and trends in U.S. earnings and income inequality. However, time‐inconsistency problems related to top coding lead many CPS users to measure inequality via the ratio of the 90th to the 10th percentile (P90/P10) rather than by more traditional summary measures. With access to public use and restricted‐access internal CPS data, and by applying bounding methods, we show that using P90/P10 does not completely obviate time‐inconsistency problems, especially in capturing household income inequality trends. Using internal data, we create consistent cell mean values for all top‐coded public use values that, when used with public use data, closely track inequality trends in earnings and household income using internal data. But estimates of longer‐term inequality trends with these corrected data based on P90/P10 differ from those based on the Gini coefficient. The choice of inequality measure still matters.
A NEW ARCHITECTURE FOR THE U.S. NATIONAL ACCOUNTS
Authors: Jorgenson Dale W.
Published: February 2009

The key elements of a new architecture for the U.S. national accounts have been developed in a prototype system constructed by Dale W. Jorgenson and J. Steven Landefeld, Director of the Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Department of Commerce. The focus of the U.S. national accounts is shifting from economic stabilization policy toward enhancing the economy's growth potential. A second motivation for the new architecture is to integrate the different components of the decentralized U.S. statistical system and make them consistent.
Endothelin‐converting enzyme 1 promotes re‐sensitization of neurokinin 1 receptor‐dependent neurogenic inflammation
Authors: Cattaruzza F , Cottrell GS , Vaksman N , Bunnett NW
Published: February 2009

Background and purpose:  The metalloendopeptidase endothelin‐converting enzyme 1 (ECE‐1) is prominently expressed in the endothelium where it converts big endothelin to endothelin‐1, a vasoconstrictor peptide. Although ECE‐1 is found in endosomes in endothelial cells, the role of endosomal ECE‐1 is unclear. ECE‐1 degrades the pro‐inflammatory neuropeptide substance P (SP) in endosomes to promote recycling and re‐sensitization of its neurokinin 1 (NK1) receptor. We investigated whether ECE‐1 regulates NK1 receptor re‐sensitization and the pro‐inflammatory effects of SP in the endothelium.

Experimental approach:  We examined ECE‐1 expression, SP trafficking and NK1 receptor re‐sensitization in human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC‐1), and investigated re‐sensitization of SP‐induced plasma extravasation in rats.

Key results:  HMEC‐1 expressed all four ECE‐1 isoforms (a‐d), and fluorescent SP trafficked to early endosomes containing ECE‐1b/d. The ECE‐1 inhibitor SM‐19712 prevented re‐sensitization of SP‐induced Ca2+ signals in HMEC‐1 cells. Immunoreactive ECE‐1 and NK1 receptors co‐localized in microvascular endothelial cells in the rat. SP‐induced extravasation of Evans blue in the urinary bladder, skin and ears of the rat desensitized when the interval between two SP injections was 10 min, and re‐sensitized after 480 min. SM‐19712 inhibited this re‐sensitization.

Conclusions and implications:  By degrading endocytosed SP, ECE‐1 promotes the recycling and re‐sensitization of NK1 receptors in endothelial cells, and thereby induces re‐sensitization of the pro‐inflammatory effects of SP. Thus, ECE‐1 inhibitors may ameliorate the pro‐inflammatory actions of SP.
In vivoandin vitropharmacological characterization of SVT‐40776, a novel M3muscarinic receptor antagonist, for the treatment of overactive bladder
Authors: Salcedo C , Davalillo S , Cabellos J , Lagunas C , Balsa D , Pérez‐del‐Pulgar S , Ballarín M , Fernández AG
Published: February 2009

Background and purpose: Highly selective M3muscarinic receptor antagonists may represent a better treatment for overactive bladder syndrome, diminishing side effects. Cardiac side effects of non‐selective antimuscarinics have been associated with activity at M2receptors as these receptors are mainly responsible for muscarinic receptor‐dependent bradycardia. We have investigated a novel antimuscarinic, SVT‐40776, highly selective for M3over M2receptors (Ki = 0.19 nmol·L−1for M3receptor affinity). This study reports the functional activity of SVT‐40776 in the bladder, relative to its activity in atria.

Experimental approach: In vitroandex vivo(oral dosing) inhibition of mouse detrusor and atrial contractile responses to carbachol were used to study the functional activity of SVT‐40776. Thein vivoefficacy of SVT‐40776 was characterized by suppression of isovolumetric spontaneous bladder contractions in anaesthetized guinea pigs after intravenous administration.

Key results: SVT‐40776 was the most potent in inhibiting carbachol‐induced bladder contractions of the anti‐cholinergic agents tested, without affecting atrial contractions over the same range of concentrations. SVT‐40776 exhibited the highest urinary versus cardiac selectivity (199‐fold). In the guinea pigin vivomodel, SVT‐40776 inhibited 25% of spontaneous bladder contractions at a very low dose (6.97 µg·kg−1i.v), without affecting arterial blood pressure.

Conclusions and implications: SVT‐40776 is a potent inhibitor of M3receptor‐related detrusor contractile activity. The absence of effects on isolated atria preparations represents an interesting characteristic and suggests that SVT‐40776 may lack unwanted cardiac effects; a feature especially relevant in a compound intended to treat mainly elderly patients.

British Journal of Pharmacology(2009) doi:10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2008.00082.x
Ezetimibe reduces plaque inflammation in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis and inhibits monocyte migration in addition to its lipid‐lowering effect
Authors: Gómez‐Garre D , Muñoz‐Pacheco P , González‐Rubio ML , Aragoncillo P , Granados R , Fernández‐Cruz A
Published: February 2009

Background and purpose: Ezetimibe, a selective inhibitor of intestinal cholesterol absorption, might also suppress inflammatory components of atherogenesis. We have studied the effects of ezetimibe on two characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques (infiltrate and fibrosis) and on expression of inflammatory genes in a rabbit model of accelerated atherosclerosis.

Experimental approach: Femoral atherosclerosis was induced by a combination of endothelial desiccation and atherogenic diet. Animals were randomized to ezetimibe (0.6 mg·kg−1·day−1), simvastatin (5 mg·kg−1·day−1), ezetimibe plus simvastatin or no treatment, still on atherogenic diet. A control group of rabbits received normolipidemic diet.

Key results: Rabbits fed the normolipidemic diet showed normal plasma lipid levels. Either the normolipidemic diet or drug treatment reduced the intima/media ratio (normolipidemic diet: 22%, ezetimibe: 13%, simvastatin: 27%, ezetimibe + simvastatin: 28%), compared with rabbits with atherosclerosis. Ezetimibe also decreased macrophage content and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 expression in atherosclerotic lesions. Furthermore, ezetimibe reduced the increased activity of nuclear factor κB in peripheral blood leucocytes and plasma C‐reactive protein levels in rabbits with atherosclerosis. In THP‐1 cells, ezetimibe decreased monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1‐induced monocyte migration. Importantly, the combination of ezetimibe with simvastatin was associated with a more significant reduction in plaque monocyte/macrophage content and some proinflammatory markers than observed with each drug alone.

Conclusions and implications: Ezetimibe had beneficial effects both on atherosclerosis progression and plaque stabilization and showed additional anti‐atherogenic benefits when combined with simvastatin. Its effect on monocyte migration provides a potentially beneficial action, in addition to its effects on lipids.
The role of the Na+/Ca2+exchanger, INaand ICaLin the genesis of dofetilide‐induced torsades de pointes in isolated, AV‐blocked rabbit hearts
Authors: Farkas Attila S , Makra Péter , Csík Norbert , Orosz Szabolcs , Shattock Michael J , Fülöp Ferenc , Forster Tamás , Csanády Miklós , Papp Julius Gy , Varró András , Farkas András
Published: February 2009

Background and purpose: The Na+/Ca2+exchanger (NCX) may contribute to triggered activity and transmural dispersion of repolarization, which are substrates of torsades de pointes (TdP) type arrhythmias. This study examined the effects of selective inhibition of the NCX by SEA0400 on the occurrence of dofetilide‐induced TdP.

Experimental approach: Effects of SEA0400 (1 µmol·L−1) on dofetilide‐induced TdP was studied in isolated, Langendorff‐perfused, atrioventricular (AV)‐blocked rabbit hearts. To verify the relevance of the model, lidocaine (30 µmol·L−1) and verapamil (750 nmol·L−1) were also tested against dofetilide‐induced TdP.

Key results: Acute AV block caused a chaotic idioventricular rhythm and strikingly increased beat‐to‐beat variability of the RR and QT intervals. SEA0400 exaggerated the dofetilide‐induced increase in the heart rate‐corrected QT interval (QTc) and did not reduce the incidence of dofetilide‐induced TdP [100% in the SEA0400 + dofetilide group vs. 75% in the dofetilide (100 nmol·L−1) control]. In the second set of experiments, verapamil further increased the dofetilide‐induced QTc prolongation and neither verapamil nor lidocaine reduced the dofetilide‐induced increase in the beat‐to‐beat variability of the QT interval. However, lidocaine decreased and verapamil prevented the development of dofetilide‐induced TdP as compared with the dofetilide control (TdP incidence: 13%, 0% and 88% respectively).

Conclusions and implications: Na+/Ca2+exchanger does not contribute to dofetilide‐induced TdP, whereas Na+and Ca2+channel activity is involved in TdP genesis in isolated, AV‐blocked rabbit hearts. Neither QTc prolongation nor an increase in the beat‐to‐beat variability of the QT interval is a sufficient prerequisite of TdP genesis in rabbit hearts.
Phosphate Binders in Chronic Kidney Disease and End‐Stage Renal Disease: A Patient‐Centered Approach
Authors: Novak James E. , Szczech Lynda A.
Published: February 2009

Disorders of calcium and phosphorus metabolism are associated with significant morbidity and mortality in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease. These patients typically require oral phosphate binders to maintain phosphorus homeostasis, but the choice of which among several agents to use has been actively investigated and debated. Recent debate has been polarized between those who favor calcium‐based binders for their proven efficacy and relatively low cost and those who favor sevelamer for its putative beneficial effects on inflammatory biomarkers and vascular calcification. This review summarizes the current state of the art of prescribing phosphate binders, ranging from large‐scale clinical trials to focused mechanistic studies, and proposes that the available evidence does not conclusively prove the relative superiority of any one binder.
Ethical Issues in Dialysis Aaron Spital, Series Editor: Managing Anemia in For‐Profit Dialysis Chains: When Ethics and Business Conflict
Authors: Coyne Daniel W.
Published: February 2009

The treatment of anemia in dialysis patients improves patient well‐being and reduces the need for transfusions. Nevertheless, the hypothesis that normalization of hemoglobin via erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents (ESAs) would improve cardiovascular health and survival has largely been refuted by randomized trials showing increased cardiac events and mortality with higher Hgb targets and higher doses of ESAs. Given these observations, one would expect restraint in ESA use. However, profits for dialysis facilities depend greatly on charging insurers for medications, and ESAs are the most profitable. Consequently, for‐profit dialysis chains have an incentive to use high ESA doses. This practice was supported by the 2006 and 2007 Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative anemia guidelines; both versions promote higher hemoglobin targets and greater ESA use than the FDA and European Medicines Agency recommend. Under a Medicare bundled payment system in 2011, ESAs will move from being profitable to being an expense, and for‐profit dialysis centers will have motivation to reduce use of ESAs and other medications. Nephrologists, as caregivers and dialysis facility medical directors, have an ethical responsibility to protect the health and welfare of patients under all payment systems. This article reviews the financial and ethical issues involved in the treatment of dialysis‐related anemia and offers recommendations for maintaining ethical patient‐centered anemia management.
Wet or Dry in Dialysis—Can New Technologies Help?
Authors: Kooman Jeroen P. , Van Der Sande Frank M. , Leunissen Karel M. L.
Published: February 2009

Whereas clinical assessment remains the mainstay of estimating dry weight in dialysis patients, subtle over‐ and under‐hydration may remain undetected, which may result in increased short‐ and long‐term morbidity. Various technological tools have been developed to aid the clinician in the assessment of fluid state in dialysis patients. Chest X‐ray is useful in clinical management, but does not fulfill the need for rapid, noninvasive bedside testing. Vena cava echography provides a reliable estimation of right atrial pressure and was shown to be useful in the clinical management of dialysis patients, but the timing of measurement is of critical importance. New developments in bioimpedance techniques hold great promise for the routine application of this technique in the assessment and follow‐up of hydration state. Cardiac biomarkers have a strong prognostic value, and may reflect overhydration indirectly because of its effect on left ventricular stress. Blood volume monitoring as a tool to assess dry weight needs further validation and standardization. Summarizing technological tools may certainly aid the clinician in the assessment of fluid state, but should always be interpreted in the clinical context of the patient. Controlled studies are needed to definitively establish the role of technological tools in detecting dry weight.
Dermatologic Conditions Seen in End‐Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Cordova Katharine B. , Oberg Thomas J. , Malik Mohsin , Robinson‐Bostom Leslie
Published: February 2009

The skin changes reported in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) are diverse and manifold. In this article we focus on a collection of specific cutaneous entities seen most frequently in the setting of ESRD, each presenting with distinctive and unique morphology. These include perforating disorders, porphyria cutanea tarda, pseudoporphyria, calcinosis cutis, calciphylaxis, and nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. The clinical features, histopathology, pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, and management of each entity are reviewed.
Averting Regulatory Enforcement: Evidence from New Source Review
Authors: Keohane Nathaniel O. , Mansur Erin T. , Voynov Andrey
Published: February 2009

This paper explores firms' response to regulatory enforcement. New Source Review (NSR), a provision of the Clean Air Act, imposes stringent emissions limitations on significantly modified older power plants. In 1999, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sued owners of 46 plants for NSR violations. We study how electricity companies respond to both the perceived threat of future action, and the action itself. A discrete choice model estimates plants likelihood of being named in lawsuits increases with large historic emissions and investments. On the eve of the lawsuits, emissions at plants with a one standard deviation greater probability of being sued fell approximately 10%.
Market Effects of Changes in Consumers' Social Responsibility
Authors: García‐Gallego Aurora , Georgantzís Nikolaos
Published: February 2009

In a duopoly model of vertical differentiation, we study market equilibrium and the resulting social welfare following an increase in the consumer's willingness to pay (WTP) for products sold by socially responsible manufacturers. Different types of such changes emerge depending on their effects on consumer heterogeneity. We show that, in most cases, increases in the consumers' social consciousness yield higher profits to socially responsible firms and may lead to higher levels of social welfare, provided that the market structure is left unchanged. However, when an increase in the consumer's social consciousness changes the market structure, welfare may fall, while the duopolists' profits rise. The resulting tension between private and social interest calls for a cautious attitude toward information campaigns aimed at increasing the consumer's social consciousness.
Interfirm and Intrafirm Switching Costs in a Vertical Differentiation Setting: Green versus Nongreen Products
Authors: Toolsema Linda A.
Published: February 2009

In a vertical differentiation model where both duopolists supply the same two qualities of an otherwise homogeneous product, we derive the critical level of the interfirm switching cost needed to sustain monopoly pricing. In particular, we show how a decrease in the intrafirm switching cost may cause a decrease in this critical value, thereby facilitating monopoly pricing. We apply the results to a setting with green and nongreen products—in particular electricity—and discuss implications for policy measures intended to stimulate the production and consumption of green products.
Citalopram Enhances B Cell Numbers in a Murine Model of Morphine‐Induced Immunosuppression
Authors: Nguyen Thao , Kramer Jeffery , Vallejo Ricardo , Stanton George , Heidenreich Byron A. , Benyamin Ramsin , Vogel Laura A.
Published: February 2009

Patients with chronic pain are often challenged with depression stemming from the long‐term psychophysiological effects of their condition. Consequently, patients with chronic pain are often treated with morphine, which can induce immunosuppression, along with an antidepressant. The antidepressant citalopram (CTP; Sigma‐Aldrich Chemical, St. Louis, MO, U.S.A.) is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor that is reported to have immunomodulatory effects. Thus, we investigated whether CTP administration impacted immunity in morphine‐treated animals. Adult mice were pretreated for 7 days with either saline or CTP (10 or 30 mg/kg intraperitoneal injections twice daily), followed by subcutaneous implantation of a 25 mg morphine pellet for 48 hours. Spleen, thymus, and lymph nodes were harvested to analyze total cell numbers, relative lymphocyte populations, and lymphocyte function. In this study, CTP had no effect on either total cell counts or lymphocyte populations in the thymus. However, in the spleen, total splenocyte numbers in all CTP‐treated animals displayed an increasing trend over saline‐treated animals. Interestingly, although more cells were found in the spleen, distribution of splenic lymphocyte populations did not differ between treatments. Despite no increase in total cell number, a high dose of CTP (30 mg/kg) resulted in a significantly higher B cell population in the lymph nodes, while T cell and NK cell numbers were not different. CTP did not significantly reverse morphine‐induced weight loss or splenic B cell antibody secretion in vitro. Additionally, CTP treatment demonstrated a slight but not significant increase in both splenic B and T cell mitogen‐induced proliferation in vitro. In summary, CTP may have a specific potential in the attenuation of morphine's immunosuppressive effect by enhancing splenocyte numbers and lymph node B cell populations.
Peripheral Subcutaneous Stimulation for the Treatment of Intractable Postherpetic Neuralgia: Two Case Reports and Literature Review
Authors: Kouroukli Irene , Neofytos Dionissios , Panaretou Venetiana , Zompolas Vassilios , Papastergiou Dimitrios , Sanidas Georgios , Papavassilopoulou Theonymfi , Georgiou Loukas
Published: February 2009

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a common cause of chronic pain in the elderly. Antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and opioids may reduce discomfort in many patients, while others have pain intractable to all forms of therapy. We present a novel treatment approach for intractable PHN utilizing percutaneous peripheral nerve stimulation. Two cases are described in which an 80‐year‐old man and a 67‐year‐old woman with intractable PHN, lasting 2 and 10 years, respectively, were effectively treated with implantation of two octapolar leads in the lateral thoracic region. These cases suggest that peripheral nerve stimulation may offer an alternative treatment option for intractable pain associated with PHN especially in the elderly where treatment options are limited because of existing comorbidities.
High cortisol awakening response is associated with an impairment of the effect of bright light therapy
Authors: Martiny K. , Lunde M. , Undén M. , Dam H. , Bech P.
Published: February 2009

Objective:  We investigated the predictive validity of the cortisol awakening response (CAR) in patients with non‐seasonal major depression.

Method:  Patients were treated with sertraline in combination with bright or dim light therapy for a 5‐week period. Saliva cortisol levels were measured in 63 patients, as an awakening profile, before medication and light therapy started. The CAR was calculated by using three time‐points: awakening and 20 and 60 min after awakening.

Results:  Patients with low CAR had a very substantial effect of bright light therapy compared with dim light therapy, whereas patients with a high CAR had no effect of bright light therapy compared with dim light therapy.

Conclusion:  High CAR was associated with an impairment of the effect of bright light therapy. This result raises the question of whether bright light acts through a mechanism different from that of antidepressants.
Cellular and developmental aspects of androgenetic alopecia
Authors: Jahoda C. A. B.
Published: February 2009

The hair follicle is a highly complex system that can be investigated at many levels and from multiple perspectives. However, underlying the cyclic production of all hair fibres are a set of common developmental processes. Many current investigations of androgenetic alopecia concentrate on the direct influences of hormones on hair follicles at the cellular or intracellular level. This paper attempts to step back from this and consider the process of terminal to vellus transition in androgenetic alopecia in terms of basic cellular and developmental mechanisms. Ideas about the mechanism and timing of follicle size reduction are put forward, but the paper also tries to point out inherent difficulties in the investigation of androgenetic alopecia and important gaps in current knowledge.
Onset and progression of clinical manifestations of orofacial granulomatosis
Authors: Al Johani K , Moles DR , Hodgson T , Porter SR , Fedele S
Published: February 2009

Background:  There remain few studies describing in detail the early occurrence and long‐term progression of clinical manifestations of orofacial granulomatosis (OFG) in a substantial number of patients.

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to determine the early and late clinical manifestations of a large case series of patients with OFG.

Patients/methods:  Clinically relevant data of 49 patients with OFG who attended an Oral Medicine unit in the UK were examined retrospectively. The analyzed parameters included occurrence and typology of initial manifestations at onset and with respect to long‐term follow‐up.

Results:  Five major patterns of disease onset were observed. Recurrent facial swelling with/without intra‐oral manifestations was the single most common presentation at onset followed by intra‐oral ulcers, and other intra‐oral and neurological manifestations. The majority of patients later developed a spectrum of additional features.

Conclusions:  OFG results in multiple manifestations at different time points. The disease onset is characterized by manifestations other than facial swelling in about half of affected individuals. However, patients can develop cosmetically unacceptable lip/facial swelling at a later stage. Nearly all affected individuals ultimately develop lip/facial swelling while about half of all patients develop oral ulceration.
Specific Ca2+‐binding motif in the LH1 complex from photosynthetic bacterium Thermochromatium tepidum as revealed by optical spectroscopy and structural modeling
Authors: Ma Fei , Kimura Yukihiro , Yu Long‐Jiang , Wang Peng , Ai Xi‐Cheng , Wang Zheng‐Yu , Zhang Jian‐Ping
Published: February 2009

Native and Ca2+‐depleted light‐harvesting–reaction center core complexes (LH1–RC) from the photosynthetic bacterium Thermochromatium (Tch.) tepidum exhibit maximal LH1–Qy absorption at 915 and 889 nm, respectively. To understand the structural origins of the spectral variation, we performed spectroscopic and structure modeling investigations. For the 889 nm form of LH1–RC, bacteriochlorophyll a (BChl a) in the native form was found by means of near‐infrared Fourier‐transform Raman spectroscopy, a higher degree of macrocycle distortion and a stronger hydrogen bond with the β‐Trp−8 residue. SWISS‐MODEL structure modeling suggests the presence of a specific coordination motif of Ca2+ at the C‐terminus of the α‐subunit of LH1, while MODELLER reveals the tilt of α‐ and β‐polypeptides with reference to the structural template, as well as a change in the concentric orientation of BChl a molecules, both of which may be connected to the long‐wavelength LH1–Qy absorption of the 915 nm form. The carotenoid spirilloxanthin shows a twisted all‐trans configuration in both forms of LH1 as evidenced by the resonance Raman spectroscopic results. With regard to the thermal stability, the 915 nm form was shown by the use of temperature‐dependent fluorescence spectroscopy to be approximately 20 K more stable than the 889 nm form, which may be ascribed to the specific Ca2+‐binding motif of LH1.
EFFECT OF ETHANOL LEVEL IN THE PERCEPTION OF AROMA ATTRIBUTES AND THE DETECTION OF VOLATILE COMPOUNDS IN RED WINE
Authors: GOLDNER MARÍA CRISTINA , ZAMORA MARÍA CLARA , DI LEO LIRA PAOLA , GIANNINOTO HERNANDO , BANDONI ARNALDO
Published: February 2009

The sensory profile of 23 monovarietal Malbec wines were evaluated and related to the headspace composition of aroma at two alcohol levels (10.0–12.0 to 14.5–17.2% v/v). Twelve attributes were selected by quantitative descriptive analysis. At P < 0.01, two attributes showed lower aromatic intensity when alcohol level increased, and at P < 0.05, three attributes showed lower intensity; only one attribute showed higher intensity (P < 0.05). Seventeen aroma compounds were identified using solid‐phase microextraction gas chromatography. Only one identified aroma compound showed lower contribution when alcohol level increased (P < 0.01); another aroma was added at P < 0.05. Only one aroma showed higher contribution (P < 0.05). Ethanol influenced the relative contribution of aroma compounds in different way – some declined while others increased. The sensorial aroma perception was also changed; when ethanol was at 14.5–17.2%, the odor was described as herbaceous instead of fruity, as was perceived at low ethanol levels.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The general tendency in the wine industry is the search for stronger wines with high level of alcohol. The most common reason given for this practice is that winemakers are concerned in softened tannins in the grapes on the vine, and so they have to pick grapes later in the ripening cycle. A longer hang time also produces more fruit flavors and fewer vegetal ones, up to a certain level where alcohol produces a decrease of fruity aromas. Many of these wines are considered out of balance, and dominated by ethanol‐associated attributes. The contribution of this study is to outline the changes of aroma when the alcohol in wine is raised.
Prognostic relevance of 9q34 deletion and the suppressor of cytokine signalling‐1 in CML patients
Authors: GHAITH F. , ABDOU S. , EL‐BENDARY A. , SHAHIN D. , EID M. , MEGEED W. A. , EL‐SHEIKH I. , FARRAG W. , YOUSUF S.
Published: February 2009

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is characterized by formation of the BCR/ABL fusion gene. The response to therapy may vary because of development of secondary cytogenetic changes or resistance. In addition, suppressor of cytokine signalling (SOCS) proteins is also hypothesized as a cause of resistance and poor prognosis when aberrantly overexpressed. This study aims to determine the incidence and prognostic value of the 9q34 deletion using fluorescencein situhybridization and SOCS‐1 mRNA aberrant expression by PCR in 43 CML patients at different phases of the disease and in 10 normal controls and correlate the data to interferon response. All patients were Philadelphia‐positive, deletions of 9q34 were observed in 20.9% of all patients (13.3% chronic phase, 10% accelerated phase and 33.3% in blast crisis). SOCS expressions were positive in 53.4% of all patients (40% chronic phase, 50% AP and 66.67% in blast crisis). Analysing outcome based on 9q34 deletion and SOCS expression status showed a statistically significant difference in overall survival and progression‐free survival between those with deletions and those without (P < 0.001) and between those with abnormal SOCS expression and those without (P < 0.001). Deletion of 9q34 and aberrant expression of SOCS‐1 are associated with poor prognosis in CML patients with different phases of the disease under interferon therapy.
Gendered Citizenship
Authors: Munday Jennie
Published: February 2009

This paper considers the manner in which citizenship, rather than being a gender neutral concept, is in fact highly gendered in ways that are detrimental for women and often leads to their exclusion – both theoretically and practically – from the category of citizen. Traditional definitions of the concept of citizenship are outlined before moving on to highlight feminist critiques that have sought not only to reveal the masculine bias inherent in these traditional conceptions but also to rethink the concept of citizenship in ways that can accommodate women as well as men. Finally, the paper concludes with a consideration of the way in which processes of globalisation and the resulting changes in the role of the nation state – traditionally seen as the key site in relation to citizen rights and duties – requires the rethinking of citizenship, paying particular attention to the consequences that these social changes have for women.
L'impact macro‐économique de la réforme d'un régime financé par répartition: le cas du Portugal
Authors: Garcia Maria Teresa Medeiros , Lopes Emídio Graça
Published: February 2009

Le présent article est consacréà l'analyse de l'impact de différents types d'options de réforme sur la viabilité financière d'un régime de retraite de la sécurité sociale et sur un large éventail de variables macro‐économiques. Le modèle HERPOR est utilisé pour examiner les effets probables des réformes paramétriques sur le régime en vigueur financé par répartition, ainsi que ceux d'une réforme systémique. Cet article conclut qu'une réforme paramétrique est suffisante pour garantir la viabilité financière, mais qu'elle devrait être accompagnée par des mesures d'application pour l'emploi.
Familles monoparentales, workfare et emploi précaire: le moment est‐il venu d'instaurer un revenu d'existence au Canada?
Authors: Evans Patricia M.
Published: February 2009

Bien que la montée en puissance de l'emploi précaire pose des défis majeurs aux politiques actuelles de soutien au revenu, elle n'est guère prise en compte par les instances en charge des politiques publiques. Cet article s'appuie sur une étude conduite dans l'Ontario, Canada, et examine les conséquences de ces défis pour les mères isolées, qui sont concernées au premier chef à la fois par l'emploi non conventionnel et par les politiques de workfare. Sur fond de mutation des marchés du travail, l'article analyse les forces et faiblesses potentielles de la stratégie consistant à mettre en place un dispositif de revenu d'existence pour offrir une sécuritééconomique aux femmes chefs de familles monoparentales.
L'extension de la couverture de santé: les liaisons possibles entre la sécurité sociale statutaire et la protection sociale à base communautaire
Authors: Schremmer Jens , Coheur Alain , Jacquier Christian , Schmitt‐Diabaté Valérie
Published: February 2009

L'extension de la protection sociale dans les pays en développement est largement considérée comme une priorité. Divers dispositifs institutionnels et de financement peuvent servir à cette fin mais aucun ne saurait réaliser une couverture universelle à court terme. Partant d'une analyse des forces et des faiblesses respectives de l'assurance sociale et des régimes de santé communautaires, le présent article dégage les possibilités des stratégies d'extension de la couverture fondées sur une approche institutionnelle pluraliste pour établir des liaisons et exploiter les complémentarités de manière optimale. Il offre une typologie des liaisons possibles entre les différents dispositifs ainsi que des exemples nationaux pour illustrer la valeur ajoutée de ces derniers.
Cadre de comparaison de la protection sociale entre pays développés et en développement: les prestations pour enfants
Authors: Esser Ingrid , Ferrarini Tommy , Nelson Kenneth , Sjöberg Ola
Published: February 2009

Nous présentons dans cet article un cadre conceptuel et théorique pour une analyse comparative améliorée de la protection sociale publique dans les pays en développement, sur la base des recherches déjà entreprises sur les systèmes sociaux établis de longue date dans les démocraties. Un élément important de l'approche institutionnelle proposée est l'établissement d'indicateurs qualitatifs et quantitatifs comparables pour la protection sociale. L'exemple empirique des prestations pour enfants montre qu'il convient de ne pas exagérer les différences entre pays développés et pays en développement. En outre, la prévalence des prestations pour enfants dans les pays de l'Afrique subsaharienne et de l'Amérique latine ressemble à celle observée durant l'entre‐deux‐guerres (1919‐1938) dans les régions développées.
Construction juridique du système de sécurité sociale du Kosovo
Authors: Arastey Sahún María Lourdes , Vallejo Pilar Rivas
Published: February 2009

A la suite des tentatives avortées de la communauté internationale de parvenir à un accord entre la Serbie et le Kosovo, le territoire du Kosovo s'est déclaré indépendant le 17 février 2008, ce qui a suscité des controverses. Le présent article décrit et analyse le système de protection sociale immédiatement après la déclaration d'indépendance. Au lendemain du conflit, et face à d'immenses difficultés économiques, la société du Kosovo ne pouvait s'attendre à ce que le système de sécurité sociale soit pleinement rétabli. A ce jour, la mission des Nations Unies s'est engagée à mettre en place un cadre juridique minimal, cherchant à faire face aux principaux problèmes. Cela étant, la structure fondamentale du système de sécurité sociale reste à définir. Il n'en demeure pas moins que dans une situation complexe comme celle que connaît le Kosovo, la mise en place d'un cadre de protection sociale doit être considérée comme essentielle pour la reconstruction et le maintien de la paix.
Madres solas, prestaciones sociales condicionadas y empleo precario: ¿es el momento para una renta mínima en el Canadá?
Authors: Evans Patricia M.
Published: February 2009

Resumen  El incremento del empleo precario plantea retos importantes a las actuales políticas de asistencia social de ayuda a los ingresos y aún se encuentra desatendido en gran medida en los ámbitos de formulación de las políticas. Este documento, que se nutre de datos cualitativos de un estudio realizado en Ontario, Canadá, estudia las consecuencias concretas que tienen estos retos sobre las madres solas, que ocupan un lugar destacado tanto en formas de empleo no tradicionales como entre los objetivos de las políticas de prestaciones sociales condicionadas. En el contexto de mercados de trabajo en proceso de cambio, el artículo evalúa las posibles ventajas y limitaciones de los enfoques basados en una renta mínima para proporcionar seguridad económica a las madres solas.
Extensión de la cobertura de asistencia sanitaria: articulaciones potenciales entre los regímenes obligatorios de seguridad social y los mecanismos de protección social basados en la comunidad
Authors: Schremmer Jens , Coheur Alain , Jacquier Christian , Schmitt‐Diabaté Valérie
Published: February 2009

Resumen  Se ha reconocido ampliamente que la extensión de la protección social en salud en los países en desarrollo es una prioridad. Si bien es posible utilizar diversos modos de financiación y mecanismos institucionales para alcanzar este objetivo, sin embargo, ninguno de ellos es capaz de conseguir una cobertura universal a corto plazo. Apoyándose en un análisis de las respectivas fortalezas y debilidades de estos esquemas de protección social en salud y asistencia sanitaria basada en la seguridad, este artículo demuestra el alto potencial de las estrategias encaminadas a extender la cobertura empleando mecanismos institucionales pluralistas para establecer articulaciones y aprovechar las sinergias de forma óptima. Se ha presentado una tipología de las articulaciones potenciales entre diferentes mecanismos, a la vez que se ha ilustrado su valor añadido utilizando ejemplos referidos a países.
Un marco para comparar la protección social en los países en desarrollo y los países desarrollados: el ejemplo de los subsidios infantiles
Authors: Esser Ingrid , Ferrarini Tommy , Nelson Kenneth , Sjöberg Ola
Published: February 2009

Resumen  El artículo esboza un marco conceptual y teórico con el fin de realizar un análisis comparativo optimizado de la protección social pública en los países en desarrollo, basándose en la investigación habitual del estudio de las democracias tradicionales del bienestar. Un elemento importante del enfoque institucional propuesto es la definición de indicadores cualitativos y cuantitativos comparables de protección social. El ejemplo práctico de los subsidios infantiles revela que no hay que exagerar las diferencias entre los países desarrollados y los países en desarrollo, y que la incidencia actual de los subsidios infantiles en los países del África subsahariana y de América Latina recuerda a la situación del periodo de entreguerras (1919‐1938) en las regiones desarrolladas.
La construcción legal del sistema de seguridad social de la República de Kosovo
Authors: Arastey Sahún María Lourdes , Vallejo Pilar Rivas
Published: February 2009

Resumen  Tras los intentos fallidos de la comunidad internacional de negociar un acuerdo entre Serbia y Kosovo, el territorio de Kosovo declaró polémicamente su independencia el 17 de febrero de 2008. El presente artículo brinda una descripción y un análisis del sistema de protección social inmediatamente después de la declaración de independencia. En las condiciones que resultaron del conflicto, y ante las enormes dificultades económicas a las que hacía frente, la sociedad de Kosovo no podía esperar una completa restauración del sistema de seguridad social. A la fecha, la Misión de las Naciones Unidas se ha comprometido a construir un marco legal mínimo, mediante el cual se busca dar respuesta a los desafíos principales y esenciales. Ahora bien, la estructura central del sistema de seguridad social aún debe ser establecida. No obstante, en una situación compleja como la de Kosovo, la elaboración de un marco de protección social debe ser vista como un mecanismo esencial para la reconstrucción y para el mantenimiento de la paz.