bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temperament and character profiles of patients with tension‐type headache and migraine
Authors: BOZ CAVIT , VELIOGLU SIBEL , OZMENOGLU MEHMET , SAYAR KEMAL , ALIOGLU ZEKERIYA , YALMAN BULENT , TOPBAS MURAT
Published: October 2004

Abstract  The aim of this present study was to evaluate the temperament and character profiles of persons with tension‐type headache (TTH) and migraine, and to compare the results with those of healthy controls. The study population consisted of 81 patients with TTH (60 female, 21 male) and 56 patients with migraine (34 female, 17 male) aged 18–50 years, according to the criteria of the International Headache Society with age and gender – matched healthy control subjects (54 female, 28 male). All participants were instructed to complete a self‐administered 240‐item temperament and character inventory (TCI) questionnaire and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). The TCI assesses four dimensions of temperament, namely, novelty seeking (NS), harm avoidance (HA), reward dependence (RD), and persistence (P), and three dimensions of character, being self‐directedness (SD), cooperativeness (C) and self‐transcendence (ST). According to the TCI biosocial model, the temperament dimension HA is suggested to indicate central serotonergic turnover, which is further correlated with depressive state. It was found that mean BDI scores were significantly higher in patients with TTH and migraine than in those of the controls. The BDI scores were positively correlated with HA scores (r = 0.295, P < 0.001) and negatively correlated with SD (r = −0.386, P < 0.001) and C scores (r = −0.164, P= 0.016). Multivariate analysis showed that BDI scores had significant covariation for HA, SD and C. Despite using the BDI score as a covariate, TTH patients had higher HA scores (P = 0.01) than did the control subjects. No significant differences were found between the groups regarding main NS, RD, P, SD, C and ST scores. Based on the main results of this study, it is suggested that higher serotonergic activity related to HA scores in TTH patients and their relationship with depressive symptomatology supports the role of central serotonergic involvement in TTH.
Mental illness in a general hospital's family medicine clinic in Taiwan
Authors: LIU CHIA YIH , CHEN CHING YU , CHENG ANDREW T.A.
Published: October 2004

Abstract  There has been a paucity of evidence‐based information regarding mental illness in general medical settings among the Chinese population. Aims of the present study are to investigate the patterns and distribution of mental disorders among family medicine clinic attenders, illness behavior of attenders with such disorders, and the recognition and management given by family physicians for them. A random sample (n = 200) of patients attending a family medicine clinic in a medical center in Taiwan, received a standardized psychiatric assessment using the semistructured Clinical Interview Schedule (CIS) after they had seen the family physician. A total of 12 family physicians, who were blind to the psychiatric status of their patients, were then asked to assess the physical and psychological condition of the subjects. Of all study subjects, 51% had at least one psychiatric diagnosis based on the CIS assessment, and the corresponding figure was 21.5% from family physicians. While the specificity of psychiatric case identification among family physician was high (91%), the sensitivity was very low (30%), especially for depressive disorders and alcohol‐related disorders. Because the same magnitude of psychiatric morbidity and similarly low detection rates by general medical physicians were found in other developing countries, the improvement in psychiatric education for medical students and family physicians is highly implicated there.
Self‐help groups reduce mortality risk: A 5‐year follow‐up study of alcoholics in the Tokyo metropolitan area
Authors: MASUDOMI ICHIRO , ISSE KUNIHIRO , UCHIYAMA MAKOTO , WATANABE HIROHUMI
Published: October 2004

Abstract  The present study aimed to determine whether alcoholics who attend self‐help groups experience fewer deaths than those who do not. Subjects were patients from the Alcoholism Treatment Program (ATP) of Matsuzawa hospital. A cohort of alcoholic patients recruited into a prospective study was followed from April 1994 to March 1999. A total of 469 alcoholic patients met the International Classification of Diseases (10th edition) criteria for alcohol dependency. Of these, 94 patients refused to participate in the study, leaving a total of 375 participants. After discharge from the ATP and a complete explanation of the present study, subjects decided whether to attend a self‐help group (SHG) or not. The SHG comprised 208 subjects, and the non‐self‐help group (NSHG) comprised 167 subjects. Outcomes were evaluated with regard to death during follow‐up for a mean of 2.4 years. Death was ascertained through the records of the Setagaya Department of Health and Welfare center, Matsuzawa hospital and other hospitals, and through personal contact with informants, relatives, and significant others of subjects. Deaths were confirmed for 47 NSHG subjects and only five SHG subjects. NSHG displayed a significantly decreased cumulative survival compared with SHG (P < 0.0001). Cox proportion hazard analysis was used to examine variables that may help to predict mortality among alcoholics. Alcoholics who attended self‐help groups differed from those who did not, with regard to mortality experience. Attending a self‐help group represented the most important predictor of prognosis for alcoholics.
Evaluating stigma against mental disorder and related factors
Authors: TANAKA GORO , INADOMI HIROYUKI , KIKUCHI YASUKI , OHTA YASUYUKI
Published: October 2004

Abstract  This study attempted to identify forms of stigma against individuals with mental disorders and related factors. The subjects comprised 2632 people living in the area covered by the K health center in N prefecture. Factor analysis of the Mental Disorder Prejudice Scale (1211 valid responses) identified three factors: ‘rejection’, ‘peculiarity’ and ‘human rights alienation’. Regression analysis revealed that age, welfare activities, an active problem‐solving attitude, lecture attendance, and previous contact, exerted independent effects with respect to ‘rejection’. These results suggest the importance of disseminating accurate information and creating more opportunities for people to have meaningful interactions with people with mental disorders in order to dispell the stigma.
Psychopathology and outcome of first‐admission schizophrenic patients: Hypochondriac‐cenestopathic symptoms as predictors of an unfavorable outcome
Authors: KOBAYASHI TOSHIYUKI , KATO SATOSHI
Published: October 2004

Abstract  The outcome of first‐admission schizophrenic patients at Jichi Medical School Hospital was investigated to identify outcome predictors of schizophrenia among the symptoms at the time of the first hospitalization. The subjects were 62 schizophrenic patients, 29 females and 33 males, consecutively discharged from the Department of Psychiatry, Jichi Medical School Hospital, between June 1983 and May 1988. The mean interval between first admission and follow‐up was 13 years. Eguma's Social Adjustment Scale was used to measure social outcome. The subjects were divided into two groups according to their rating on Eguma's Scale; a favorable outcome group and an unfavorable outcome group. Information on premorbid status and psychopathology at the time of the first hospitalization was obtained from clinical records and analyzed by comparing them between the two groups. Of the 62 patients, 56 were followed‐up. Nine of the 56 patients followed‐up had died. While 47 patients were alive; 39 were receiving psychiatric treatment and eight were not. The 47 patients who were still living were divided into two groups; a favorable outcome group (n = 22), and an unfavorable outcome group (n = 25). No significant differences in premorbid status were found. Comparison of psychopathology at the time of the first hospitalization between the outcome groups revealed significant differences in lack of spontaneity and hypochondriac‐cenestopathic symptoms. Lack of spontaneity may reflect negative symptomatology, while hypochondriac‐cenestopathic symptoms may reflect a serious disturbance of ego function. There is a strong possibility that evaluation of body‐related symptoms in schizophrenia will be helpful in predicting outcome.
Forecasting the number of inpatients with schizophrenia
Authors: SOMEYA TOSHIYUKI , SUZUKI YUJI , SHAM PAK C. , TANG SIU WA
Published: October 2004

Abstract  There has been much discussion in Japan regarding the reduction of psychiatric beds. For effective healthcare planning, reliable forecasting is important. The purpose of this study was to predict the number of future schizophrenic inpatients using quantitative methodology. Data was obtained from a survey of schizophrenic inpatients conducted annually at the end of March by the Niigata Prefecture from 1974 to 2003. The numbers of schizophrenic inpatients in different age groups over a long period of time were used in a precise time‐series analysis to establish trends. Then these past trends were used to forecast inpatient numbers for future years. The pattern of ascents and declines of each inpatient group stratified by age appeared to be duplicated by the next older age group 10 years later. The numbers of inpatients with schizophrenia in 2013 and 2023 are projected to be 78.5% and 56.7% of the number of patients in 2003, respectively. By 2033, the number is forecast to decline to 41.0% of the number in 2003. This study forecasts that inpatients with schizophrenia will decrease substantially over the next several decades. Policy should be designed to reflect this trend.
Novel missense polymorphism in the regulator of G‐protein signaling 10 gene: analysis of association with schizophrenia
Authors: HISHIMOTO AKITOYO , SHIRAKAWA OSAMU , NISHIGUCHI NAOKI , AOYAMA SHINSUKE , ONO HISAE , HASHIMOTO TAKESHI , MAEDA KIYOSHI
Published: October 2004

ABSTRACT  Dysfunction of neuronal signal transduction via G‐protein has previously been speculated to be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Regulator of G‐protein signaling (RGS) is a protein that acts as a GTPase‐activator for Gα protein. A total of 33 Japanese patients with schizophrenia were screened for mutations in the coding region of the RGS10 gene, and a novel missense polymorphism (Val38Met) in the RGS domain was detected. A case‐control study did not reveal a significant association between this polymorphism and schizophrenia. The results do not provide evidence that the RGS10 gene is involved in biological vulnerability to schizophrenia.
Etanercept treatment of renal amyloidosis complicating rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Smith G. R. , Tymms K. E. , Falk M.
Published: October 2004

Rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile arthritis represent the commonest diseases complicated by AA amyloidosis in developed countries. Up to 5% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis will develop AA amyloidosis, with renal failure being the commonest cause of mortality. To date, treatment of this condition has focused on suppressing the underlying inflammatory condition with drugs such as cyclophosphamide and chlorambucil, but both these drugs are associated with myelotoxicity, leukaemia and sterility. Tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) is thought to be involved in amyloid deposition. The efficacy of anti‐TNF‐α therapy (etanercept) in the treatment of renal amyloidosis complicating rheumatoid arthritis is demonstrated here and the current scientific data on this subject are presented. (Intern Med J 2004; 34: 570−572)
Receiving a hepatitis C‐positive diagnosis
Authors: Hopwood M. , Treloar C.
Published: October 2004

Abstract

Background:There is a paucity of academic literature that describes patients’ experiences of receiving a hepatitis C‐positive diagnosis, doctors’ explanations of the infection and referral to support services.

Aim:The aim of the present study was to report findings on receiving a positive diagnosis from a study of people with hepatitis C infection.

Method:A cross‐sectional study of people with hepatitis C infection living in New South Wales, Australia, was carried out (n = 504).

Results:Of participants diagnosed with hepatitis C infection from 1989 to 2001 (n = 417), just under one‐third (29.5%,n = 123) reported that they had received ‘no explanation’ about their infection from their doctor at diagnosis. Women and those diagnosed from 1989 to 1996 were significantly more likely to report receiving no explanation than men and those diagnosed later (35.4 vs 23.7% and 37.5 vs 23.0%, respectively). Similarly, current injecting drug users and those diagnosed from 1989 to 1996 were significantly more likely to report receiving no post‐test counselling than those who were not currently injecting and those diagnosed later (42.9 vs 30.2% and 37.6 vs 25.9%, respectively). Participants diagnosed from 1997 to 2001 were significantly more likely to report receiving pamphlets about hepatitis C infection (39.2 vs 23.7%), information about treatments (24.5 vs 16.2%) and advice regarding natural therapies (9.1 vs 3.8%) than those diagnosed earlier.

Conclusions:These data provide evidence of an increase in the dissemination of hepatitis C information by doctors at diagnosis during the late 1990s. Continued effort is needed to improve doctors’ provision of information and referral to specialists and support agencies for people newly diagnosed with hepatitis C. (Intern Med J 2004; 34: 526−531)
Telopeptides as markers of bone turnover in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis
Authors: Wong P. K. K. , Young L. , Vaile J. H. , Tan L. , Bertouch J. V. , Bleasel J. F. , White C.
Published: October 2004

Aims: The aim of the present study was to determine if urinary excretion of type I collagen N‐terminal telo­peptides (UrNTx) and deoxypyridinoline (UrDPD) and serum levels of type I collagen C‐terminal telopeptides (SeCTx) differed in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared with populations matched for age and gender with and without osteoarthritis (OA). The correlation of markers of bone turnover with disease activity in patients with RA or radiographic severity in patients with OA was also examined.

Methods: Patients with RA aged >50 years (men) and >60 years (women) were identified from computer databases at two tertiary referral centres for rheumatology. Strict exclusion criteria were applied to avoid the effects of factors known to influence markers of bone turnover. Patients with RA and OA were matched for age and sex with a control population free of known arthritic disease and a population with OA. Bone markers were assayed in serum and urine. Urine markers were measured on three consecutive days and mean values used to minimize day‐to‐day variability of these analytes.

Results: The level of UrNTx was elevated in patients with RA compared with normal controls and patients with OA. UrNTx and UrDPD correlated with markers of disease activity in patients with RA (erythrocyte ­sedimentation rate and C‐reactive protein), but not with ­clinical signs of inflammation (swollen and tender joint counts). Patients with OA failed to show any correlation between markers of bone turnover and radiographic severity.

Conclusions: These data support a role for the use of UrNTx and UrDPD in further studies of the patho­physiology of RA and in longitudinal studies designed to modify the course of clinical disease. (Intern Med J 2004; 34: 539−544)
Prognostic implication of ST‐segment resolution following primary percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty for ST‐elevation acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Lee A. K. Y. , Sadick N. , Ng A. , Hsieh C. , Ross D. L.
Published: October 2004

Background : ST‐segment changes have been shown to correlate with myocardial tissue perfusion. Complete ST‐segment resolution after thrombolysis in acute myocardial infarction is associated with lower mortality and better left ventricular function. Primary percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) for acute myocardial infarction restores better epicardial coronary flow to the infarct‐related artery than thrombolysis. However, ST changes may persist and flow can remain poor despite a patent vessel.

Aim : To examine the prognostic implication of ST‐segment resolution immediately following primary and rescue PTCA for ST‐elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods: Records of 201 consecutive primary and rescue PTCA performed at Westmead Hospital for STEMI from January 2000 to December 2001 were reviewed. ST‐segment elevation (taken 20 ms after the end of the QRS complex) was measured immediately before and after the procedure. ST‐segment resolution of greater than 70% after the procedure was considered as ­‘complete’ ST‐segment resolution, whereas ST‐segment resolution of less than 70% was considered as ‘incomplete’ ST‐segment resolution.

Results : Of the 201 patients, 117 (58%) had complete ST‐elevation resolution and 84 (42%) did not. There was a significant difference in survival free of major adverse cardiovascular events; 60% of those with complete ST‐segment resolution were event‐free at 2 years compared with 35% of those patients without complete ST‐segment resolution.

Conclusion : ST‐segment resolution after primary and rescue PTCA for STEMI is associated with significantly higher event‐free survival. The goal of primary angio­plasty should be the restoration of normal epicardial flow with normalization of ST‐segments. (Intern Med J 2004; 34: 551−556)
Would general practitioners support a population‐based colorectal cancer screening programme of faecal‐occult blood testing?
Authors: Tong S. , Hughes K. , Oldenburg B. , Del Mar C.
Published: October 2004

Background:  The success of a population‐based screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) is determined to a large extent by general practitioner (GP) attitudes, beliefs and support. The extent to which GPs support population‐based CRC screening remains unclear.

Aims:  To assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of GPs in relation to CRC screening, and to identify the determinants of GP support for population‐based faecal‐occult blood testing (FOBT).

Methods:  A cross‐sectional postal survey was conducted with a random sample of 692 GPs in Queensland, ­Australia. We assessed GP knowledge, attitudes and practices concerning CRC screening in relation to their stance on population‐based FOBT screening.

Results:  Although the response rate was low (41%), ­participants were representative of Queensland GPs in general. Of 284 participating GPs, 143 (50.5%) indicated that they would support a population‐based FOBT screening programme, 42 (14.8%) would not and 98 (34.6%) were unsure. Belief in FOBT test efficacy (P < 0.001), possession of CRC guidelines (P < 0.05) and belief in earlier stage detection (P < 0.05) were major determinants of support for population‐based FOBT screening. No significant association was observed for doctor's sex, location of practice, age, year completed medical training, membership of a Division of General Practice, number of weekly consultations, number of patients investigated for CRC per month, size of practice, own family history of CRC, interest in further information on CRC screening or treatment, and current use of FOBT with asymptomatic patients aged ≥40 years.

Conclusions:  GP support for FOBT population‐based screening appears to have increased over recent years. The knowledge and attitudes/beliefs of GPs are key determinants of their support. (Intern Med J 2004; 34: 532−538)
Assessment and management of falls in older people
Authors: Hill K. , Schwarz J.
Published: October 2004

Falls remain a major cause of mortality and morbidity for older Australians, despite considerable growth in falls prevention activity in recent years. Risk factors for falls are well defined, and there is a growing evidence base from randomized controlled trials in community settings indicating a range of effective individual and multiple strategy interventions to reduce falls and falls injuries. These range from health promotion approaches, such as group exercise programmes, through to multidisciplinary, multifactorial interventions for high‐risk populations. Practitioners need to utilize a range of strategies to enhance uptake and sustained participation in falls prevention activities. Future research needs to address important gaps, such as compliance issues, and interventions for people with cognitive impairment, dizziness and vision loss. Further research is also required in residential care and hospital settings, where there is relatively little research evidence to guide practice. (Intern Med J 2004; 34: 557−564)
Towards evidence‐based use of serum tumour marker requests: an audit of use in a tertiary hospital
Authors: Loi S. , Haydon A. M. M. , Shapiro J. , Schwarz M. A. , Schneider H. G.
Published: October 2004

Background : Serum tumour markers (TM) are often measured in hospital patients. The reasons for their use and their benefits with regards to earlier cancer diag­nosis and patient management are not known.

Aims : To identify the patterns of TM use in a tertiary hospital and to determine the usefulness and appropriateness of requests in this setting.

Methods: A cross‐sectional, retrospective study of TM ordered over a 3‐month period was conducted. Data were obtained from patient records. CA‐125, CA 15‐3, CA 19‐9, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), and alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) were studied. Prostate specific antigen was not separately investigated. The reasons for ordering, usefulness and appropriateness of use were defined prior to analysis.

Results: A total of 476 TM was ordered in 373 patients. One hundred and six (22%) of all results were abnormal by laboratory criteria. AFP was the most popular test ordered. Forty‐seven per cent of patients had no cancer diagnosis. Oncological units (ONC) ordered 27% of tests. The most popular reasons for TM ordering were for screening (36%) followed by diagnostic aid (19%). ONC units ordered TM mainly for monitoring disease status, as opposed to non‐ONC units who ordered TM usually for diagnostic aid. TM were deemed appropriately ordered in 69% of cases. Twenty‐nine per cent of TM were helpful in patient management. Only four results (<1%) aided in diagnosis.

Conclusions: The reasons and appropriateness of TM use varied depending on the specialization of the requesting clinician. The current serum TM are most useful as aids in cancer patients, rather than for diagnosis (P < 0.0001). Apart from AFP, these TM seem to have limited use in the general medical, non‐oncological patients. Guidelines for their use in this setting are needed. (Intern Med J 2004; 34: 545−550)
Is honesty always the best policy? Ethical aspects of truth telling
Authors: Gold M.
Published: October 2004

Physicians have not always believed that patients should be told of their diagnosis. Modern, western medical practice places a high value on providing accurate, truthful information to patients. This is heavily influenced by the commitment to patient autonomy and participation in decision‐making. However, situations arise where truth telling is difficult to achieve, creating a dilemma for the treating doctor. This article discusses aspects of truth telling in a multicultural society. (Intern Med J 2003; 33: 578−580)
Hyperprolactinaemia associated with a complex cystic pituitary mass: medical versus surgical therapy
Authors: Inder W. J. , MacFarlane M. R.
Published: October 2004

A 39‐year‐old woman presented with visual loss and hyperprolactinaemia. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an intrasellar and suprasellar mass with a large cystic component that was hyperintense on T2‐weighted imaging. Prolactin levels were up to 5400 mIU/L. Following trans‐sphenoidal surgery, histology showed ­elements of both a Rathke's cleft cyst and prolactinoma. We suggest primary surgical management of large cystic pituitary lesions with associated hyperprolactinaemia, particularly when there is hyperintensity on T2‐weighted imaging. (Intern Med J 2004; 34: 573−576)
Assessment of early paraprotein response to vincristine‐doxorubicin‐dexamethasone chemotherapy may help guide therapy in multiple myeloma
Authors: Ross D. M. , To L. B. , Horvath N.
Published: October 2004

Vincristine, doxorubicin and dexamethasone (VAD) are commonly used as the initial chemotherapy in myeloma patients prior to high‐dose therapy and autologous stem cell transplantation. We reviewed monoclonal protein responses and survival of 62 patients treated in this way. Among patients with IgG paraprotein, achievement of at least 50% reduction in paraprotein after the first cycle of VAD correlated with significantly better event‐free survival at 3 years, compared with those having less than 50% response. We postulate that early paraprotein response may be used to identify high risk patients. (Intern Med J 2004; 34: 576−578)
Olson Triumphant? Recruitment Strategies and the Growth of a Small Business Organisation
Authors: Jordan Grant , Halpin Darren
Published: October 2004

This article looks at the emergence and maintenance of interest groups. We systematically identify a range of membership incentives that underpin mobilisation and apply them to a case study, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), focusing on the recruitment literature rather than the special niche literature on trade associations. The FSB was created in 1974 and membership was ‘flat’ at about 40,000 until recruiting method changes were introduced in the early 1990s. The total now approaches 200,000. This account of FSB recruitment argues unsurprisingly that the group resulted from a combination of diverse influences rather than the Truman type of ‘automatic’ mobilisation. More surprisingly, it notes that while early membership is accounted for by the perspectives of Truman, Salisbury, Wilson, Moe, Opp and Sabatier, the major increases of the past decade requires attention to the contribution of face-to-face marketing and Olsonian incentives. The FSB is an unusually good example of group entrepreneur activity that illustrates how entrepreneur incentives are different from those salient to members. Groups can experience different phases and forms as they grow. We exploit a ‘natural experiment’ by illustrating how the FSB addressed membership stagnation by changing the recruitment package in a broadly Olsonian direction. The ‘before and after’ patterns of recruitment allow a ‘test’ of these techniques. It also raises the issue of how different recruitment efforts produce a membership with different political characteristics.
Reversible Jump Markov Chain Monte Carlo Strategies for Bayesian Model Selection in Autoregressive Processes
Authors: Vermaak J. , Andrieu C. , Doucet A. , Godsill S. J.
Published: October 2004

Abstract.  This paper addresses the problem of Bayesian inference in autoregressive (AR) processes in the case where the correct model order is unknown. Original hierarchical prior models that allow the stationarity of the model to be enforced are proposed. Obtaining the quantities of interest, such as parameter estimates, predictions of future values of the time series, posterior model‐order probabilities, etc., requires integration with respect to the full posterior distribution, an operation which is analytically intractable. Reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithms are developed to perform the required integration implicitly by simulating from the posterior distribution. The methods developed are evaluated in simulation studies on a number of synthetic and real data sets.
On The Peña–Box Model
Authors: Hu Yu‐Pin , Chou Rouh‐Jane
Published: October 2004

Abstract.  Peña and Box [Journal of Americal Statistical Association (1987) Vol. 82, PP. 836–843] proposed a factor model which aimed to explore the possibility of using lower‐dimensional series to represent or explain an observed higher‐dimensional multiple time series. However, there were no statistics with distribution results with which to build the model. In this paper, we derive a statistical procedure to build the model for stationary and first‐order non‐stationary series. The main idea, conducted by the canonical correlation analysis between present series and non‐present series, is an extension of the concept of the scalar component model proposed by Tiao and Tsay [Journal of the Royal Statistical Society B (1989) Vol. 51, pp. 157–213]. Finally, simulation studies and reanalysis of two real data sets are illustrated.
Nonparametric Estimation and Testing in Panels of Intercorrelated Time Series
Authors: Hjellvik Vidar , Chen Rong , Tjøstheim Dag
Published: October 2004

Abstract. We consider nonparametric estimation and testing of linearity in a panel of intercorrelated time series. We place the emphasis on the situation where there are many time series in the panel but few observations for each of the series. The intercorrelation is described by a latent process, and a conditioning argument involving this process plays an important role in deriving the asymptotic theory. To be accurate the asymptotic distribution of the test functional of linearity requires a very large number of observations, and bootstrapping gives much better finite sample results. A number of simulation experiments and an illustration on a real data set are included.
Time‐scale transformations of discrete time processes
Authors: Jordà Òscar , Marcellino Massimiliano
Published: October 2004

Abstract.  This paper investigates the effects of temporal aggregation when the aggregation frequency is variable and possibly stochastic. The results that we report include, as a particular case, the well‐known results on fixed‐interval aggregation, such as when monthly data are aggregated into quarters. A variable aggregation frequency implies that the aggregated process will exhibit time‐varying parameters and non‐spherical disturbances, even when these characteristics are absent from the original model. Consequently, we develop methods for specification and estimation of the aggregate models and show with an example how these methods perform in practice.
Semiparametric Bayesian Inference of Long‐Memory Stochastic Volatility Models
Authors: Jensen Mark J.
Published: October 2004

Abstract. In this paper, a semiparametric, Bayesian estimator of the long‐memory stochastic volatility model's fractional order of integration is presented. This new estimator relies on a highly efficient, Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampler of the model's posterior distribution. The MCMC algorithm is set forth in the time‐scale domain of the stochastic volatility model's wavelet representation. The key to and centerpiece of this new algorithm is the quick and efficient multi‐state sampler of the latent volatility's wavelet coefficients. A multi‐state sampler of the latent wavelet coefficients is only possible because of the near‐independent multivariate distribution of the long‐memory process's wavelet coefficients. Using simulated and empirical stock return data, we find that our algorithm produces uncorrelated draws of the posterior distribution and point estimates that rival existing long‐memory stochastic volatility estimators.
A Joint Regression Variable and Autoregressive Order Selection Criterion
Authors: Shi Peide , Tsai Chih‐Ling
Published: October 2004

Abstract. In linear regression models with autocorrelated errors, we apply the residual likelihood approach to obtain a residual information criterion (RIC), which can jointly select regression variables and autoregressive orders. We show that RIC is a consistent criterion. In addition, our simulation studies indicate that it outperforms heuristic selection criteria – the Akaike information criterion and the Bayesian information criterion – when the signal‐to‐noise ratio is not weak.
The Politics of a European Civil Code
Authors: Hesselink Martijn W.
Published: October 2004

Abstract:  Last year the European Commission published its Action Plan on European contract law. That plan forms an important step towards a European Civil Code. In its Plan, the Commission tries to depoliticise the codification process by asking a group of academic experts to prepare what it calls a ‘common frame of reference’. This paper argues that drafting a European Civil Code involves making many choices that are essentially political. It further argues that the technocratic approach which the Commission has adopted in the Action Plan effectively excludes most stakeholders from having their say during the stage when the real choices are made. Therefore, before the drafting of the CFR/ECC starts, the Commission should submit a list of policy questions regarding the main issues of European private law to the European Parliament and the other stakeholders. Such an alternative procedure would repoliticise the process. It would increase the democratic basis for a European Civil Code and thus its legitimacy.
The Optional European Code on the Basis of the Acquis Communautaire—Starting Point and Trends
Authors: Grundmann Stefan
Published: October 2004

Abstract:  The idea of creating a European Code for contract law, though recent, has gathered pace. Although most work towards this goal has so far assumed that the principles should be constructed through critical comparative law studies of the existing contract laws of Member States, it is argued here that the acquis communautaire provides a modern and democratically endorsed collection of principles, which can be quite well systematised, that should provide the starting‐point for scholarly endeavours towards the construction of a code of contract law.
Varieties of Welfarism in European Contract Law
Authors: Wilhelmsson Thomas
Published: October 2004

Abstract:  A scheme describing six welfarist directions in modern contract law is used to assess the extent to which current European measures that affect contract law have embraced these welfarist developments. Although some EC legislation may be interpreted as possessing elements of a limited welfarist perspective, it is concluded that bolder welfarist strands have proved largely absent. A European civil code or contract code would prove too static an instrument to promote the evolution of further welfarist developments.
The Meaning of ‘Natural Person’ and the Impact of the Constitution for Europe on the Development of European Private Law
Authors: Alpa Guido
Published: October 2004

Abstract:  European codes of private law have traditionally commenced with a concept of the person. In the development of private law in the European Union, we require a modern concept of the person, one which goes beyond the idea of the bearer of economic rights, to one which embraces ideas of human rights and social solidarity, as found in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Nice Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.
Private Law and Public Stakes in European Integration: the Case of Property
Authors: Caruso Daniela
Published: October 2004

Abstract:  In European legal discourse, the old public/private divide is experiencing a revival and a transformation. Member States used to claim autonomy in private law matters. Now private law is subsumed into a functionalist logic and can presumptively be harmonised if so demanded by the goal of market integration. States or local constituencies can only resist harmonisation by highlighting the connection between their private laws and those ‘public’ matters still immune from Europeanisation. Property law can effectively illustrate this phenomenon. The written pledge of non‐interference with States’ property systems, restated both in the TEC and in the draft Constitution, cannot be taken at face value, given the plethora of supra‐national inroads into this field. But it performs the essential rhetorical function of reassuring national law makers that Europe will pay special attention to sovereign choices when harmonising those areas of private law which, like property, harbour an obvious core of constitutional values.
The Freedom to Circulate Documents: Regulating Contracts in Europe
Authors: Collins Hugh
Published: October 2004

Abstract:  Evidence collected by the European Commission indicates that insofar as the diversity between laws of national legal systems presents an obstacle to trade in the Internal Market, the problem consists of the inability of businesses to use their standard terms of business in cross‐border trade with confidence. It is suggested that the solution to this problem lies not in legal integration through harmonisation of the private law of contract, but rather through the creation of procedures for autonomous agreements under which representatives of parties to standard types of contracts can agree upon model contracts containing fair ancillary terms.
Lichen amyloidosus treated by hydrocolloid dressings
Authors: Hallel‐Halevy D , Finkelstein E , Grunwald MH , Halevy S
Published: October 2004

We hereby report a case of lichen amyloidosus in a 69‐year‐old man unresponsive to various treatments. The patient was treated by occlusion with hydrocolloid dressings. Considerable subjective and objective improvement was observed with respect to the pruritus and cosmetic appearance. We suggest this convenient and efficacious treatment as first line therapy.
Cutaneous sarcoidosis and polycythemia vera
Authors: Pascual JC , Belinchón I , Albares P , Vergara G , Betlloch I , Bañuls J
Published: October 2004

Polycythemia vera is classified with myelogenous leukaemia, agnogenic myeloid metaplasia and primary thrombocythemia as a myeloproliferative syndrome. Cutaneous symptoms have been reported with polycythemia vera, including facial plethora, aquagenic pruritus, urticaria, purpura, Sweet's syndrome and pyoderma gangrenosum. However, polycythemia vera associated with systemic sarcoidosis has been rarely reported. An unusual case of polycythemia vera associated with cutaneous sarcoidosis is described.
Dowling–Degos disease with dyschromatosis universalis hereditaria‐like pigmentation in a family
Authors: Sandhu K , Saraswat A , Kanwar AJ
Published: October 2004

Dowling–Degos disease is a rare autosomal dominant inherited pigmentary disorder characterized by reticulate pigmentation of the flexures, prominent comedone like lesions and pitted scars. Dyschromatosis universalis hereditaria is characterized by the presence of hypopigmented as well as hyperpigmented macules. We report a family showing features of both these diseases.
Pyoderma gangrenosum with spleen involvement and monoclonal IgA gammopathy
Authors: Mijuşković Z̆P , Zečević RD , Pavlović MD
Published: October 2004

A 46‐year‐old man with a 3‐year history of pyoderma gangrenosum was admitted with ulceration (6 × 5 cm), on the right leg. Previously he had been treated with tapering doses of prednisone (maximum dose 1 mg/kg per day); however, he had had a few exacerbations following each taper of prednisone dose. Immunoelectrophoresis demonstrated monoclonal IgA gammopathy of λ light chains. Abdominal echography and abdominal computed tomographic scan revealed multiple splenic abscesses. Treatment was started with oral prednisone (1 mg/kg per day) and cyclosporin (5 mg/kg per day) and 6 weeks later complete remission was achieved. Systemic involvement in pyoderma gangrenosum is very rare, and according to our knowledge there are only a few cases with spleen involvement.
Lymphomatoid papulosis associated with parathyroid nodular hyperplasia: report of a case
Authors: Aguilar‐Bernier M , Bassas‐Vila J , Bordel‐Gomez MT , Morales‐Callaghan A , Tejerina‐Garcia JA , Miranda‐Romero A
Published: October 2004

The association of cutaneous lymphoproliferative diseases and primary hyperparathyroidism (PHP) is infrequent, with only three cases reported to date. We present a patient with lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) who developed hypercalcaemia secondary to parathyroid nodular hyperplasia. A review of the literature has revealed no similar cases; we therefore believe this to be the first description of the association between LyP and PHP.
Alopecia neoplastica due to metastatic breast carcinoma vs. extramammary Paget's disease: mimicry in epidermotropic carcinoma
Authors: Haas N , Hauptmann St
Published: October 2004

Clinically similar skin diseases can exhibit phenotypic mimicry as demonstrated here for alopecia neoplastica. An 89‐year‐old female patient had been treated for scalp eczema for several years until biopsy revealed pagetoid carcinoma. Her clinical history showed a mastectomy 20 years ago. For that reason the differential diagnosis was extramammary Paget's disease or epidermotropic metastasis of the breast carcinoma. Immunohistochemistry revealed positivity of MUC1, indicating that the latter is the case.
Update on detection, morphology and fragility in pili annulati in three kindreds
Authors: Giehl KA , Ferguson DJP , Dawber RPR , Pittelkow MR , Foehles J , De Berker DAR
Published: October 2004

Background  Pili annulati is an inherited hair shaft abnormality with a wide range of clinical expression.

Objective  We have examined closely three kindreds to reveal levels and character of expression of the phenotype and supplement current literature on the threshold for detection and aspects of hair shaft fragility.

Patients and methods  Eleven cases of pili annulati from three families were included in a clinical and morphological study. All cases were assessed clinically and by light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of hair shafts. In addition, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) (four patients) and amino acid analysis (three patients) were undertaken on clinically overt cases.

Results  Examination by light microscopy with a fluid mountant was more sensitive than clinical examination, increasing the detection rate by 120%. Microscopic examination revealed that the characteristic periodic bands become less frequent distally in the hair shaft. Microscopic features of weathering were found in two cases, adding pili annulati to the list of structural hair shaft dystrophies that may weaken hair and dispose to weathering. Amino acid analysis of the hair of three patients with pili annulati showed elevated lysine and decreased cystine content compared to 12 normal controls, consistent with the reduced threshold for weathering.

Conclusion  Careful light microscopy with fluid‐mounted hair is needed to detect subjects mildly affected by pili annulati. Expression of the phenotype varies widely between individuals, between hairs and within hairs of the same individual, where ageing of the hair diminishes detectable features.
Circumscribed juvenile pityriasis rubra pilaris
Authors: Arnold AW , Buechner SA
Published: October 2004

We report the case of a 20‐year‐old woman with a 10‐year history of circumscribed juvenile‐onset pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP, type IV). Our patient had well‐defined keratotic follicular papules on an erythematous base located on the extensor aspects of the extremities and dorsal aspects of the feet but no involvement of the palms and soles. Although most cases of type IV PRP follow a favourable course with spontaneous resolution of the lesions, this case demonstrates that circumscribed juvenile PRP can be more persistent and lasts several years.
Kaposi's varicelliform eruption in an HIV‐positive patient after laser resurfacing
Authors: Rodriguez‐Serna M , Mercader P , Pardo J , Fortea‐Baixauli JM , Aliaga A
Published: October 2004

Kaposi's varicelliform eruption (KVE) is an infection produced by the cutaneous dissemination of herpes virus type 1 or 2. Usually this disease has been described in atopic patients. In this report we present an HIV‐positive woman with a Kaposi's varicelliform eruption that started after skin resurfacing with a laser. This is the first report, to the best of our knowledge, of Kaposi's varicelliform eruption after laser resurfacing. The immunodepressed status of the patient may have played a role in her infection.
Clinico‐epidemiological features of congenital nonbullous ichthyosiform erythroderma in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al‐Amro Al‐Akloby OM , Al‐Zayir AA
Published: October 2004

Background  A total of 10 455 new dermatology patients were seen in the dermatology clinics of King Fahd Hospital of the University (KFHU), Al‐Khobar, Eastern Saudi Arabia, between January 1990 and December 1995. We identified 21 patients with a histopathologically confirmed diagnosis of congenital nonbullous ichthyosiform erythroderma (CNBIE). We have reviewed the epidemiological and clinical features of these patients.

Objective  To document the epidemiological and clinical features of patients with CNBIE in eastern Saudi Arabia.

Methods  We used the dermatology outpatient department (OPD) logbooks to identify diagnosed cases of CNBIE from new patients presenting with different dermatological problems over a 6‐year period. We used specifically designed data‐collection protocol forms to extract epidemiological and clinical data from the patients’ medical records. These were entered into a computer database and analysed using standard statistical software.

Results  A total of 21 patients (five males, 16 females) with a male : female ratio of 0.31 : 1 were identified from a total of 10 455 new patients seen in our dermatology clinics over the study period. The occurrence rate of CNBIE in our clinics was 0.2%, or two per 1000 new dermatology cases. Nineteen (90%) of 21 CNBIE patients were born with collodion membranes. Eighty‐one per cent of our patients had a positive family history of CNBIE. Consanguinity among the parents of our CNBIE patients was significantly high at 95%.

Conclusions  To the best of our knowledge, this preliminary study is the first report of its kind from Saudi Arabia (documenting the clinico‐epidemiological features of CNBIE patients in the Eastern Province). The high rate of parental consanguinity among the parents of our Saudi CNBIE patients may account for the high incidence rate of this genodermatosis in eastern Saudi Arabia. In comparison with results of other studies that reported a low occurrence rate of CNBIE among dermatology patients, our results were of a significantly higher rate.
A case of subcutaneous panniculitis‐like T‐cell lymphoma with haemophagocytosis developing secondary to chemotherapy
Authors: Eser B , Altuntas F , Er O , Kontas O , Ferahbas A , Cetin M , Unal A
Published: October 2004

A 45‐year‐old woman presented with fever, generalized skin lesions and multiple lymphadenopathies. In her past history she had had six courses of cyclophosphamide and cisplatin combination chemotherapy 7 years ago because of an ovarian carcinoma. We found pancytopenia in the peripheral blood examination. Skin biopsy showed diffuse subcutaneous infiltration reminiscent of panniculitis but composed of malignant lymphoid cells that were of T lineage. Bone marrow biopsy showed normocellular myeloid tissue with abundant haemophagocytic macrophages. Subcutaneous panniculitis‐like T‐cell lymphoma with haemophagocytic syndrome was diagnosed. This is the first case reported of subcutaneous panniculitis‐like lymphoma occurring secondary to chemotherapy.