bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE ECONOMIC VALUE OF USING REALIZED VOLATILITY IN FORECASTING FUTURE IMPLIED VOLATILITY
Authors: Chan Wing Hong , Jha Ranjini , Kalimipalli Madhu
Published: September 2009

We examine the economic benefits of using realized volatility to forecast future implied volatility for pricing, trading, and hedging in the S&P 500 index options market. We propose an encompassing regression approach to forecast future implied volatility, and hence future option prices, by combining historical realized volatility and current implied volatility. Although the use of realized volatility results in superior performance in the encompassing regressions and out‐of‐sample option pricing tests, we do not find any significant economic gains in option trading and hedging strategies in the presence of transaction costs.
TIME VARIABILITY IN MARKET RISK AVERSION
Authors: Berger Dave , Turtle H. J.
Published: September 2009

We adopt realized covariances to estimate the coefficient of risk aversion across portfolios and through time. Our approach yields second moments that are free from measurement error and not influenced by a specified model for expected returns. Supporting the permanent income hypothesis, we find risk aversion responds to consumption‐smoothing behavior. As income increases, or as the consumption‐to‐income ratio falls, relative risk aversion decreases. We also document variation in risk aversion across portfolios: risk aversion is highest for small and value portfolios.
SLIPPAGE AND THE CHOICE OF MARKET OR LIMIT ORDERS IN FUTURES TRADING
Authors: Brown Scott , Koch Timothy , Powers Eric
Published: September 2009

Retail futures traders face uncertainty regarding the price they will obtain when trading. This price “surprise,” known as slippage, can be substantial. Using unique data from an introducing brokerage for Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) wheat, corn, and soybean futures contracts, we quantify time‐to‐clear and the magnitude of slippage. We then identify factors that affect these trade quality measures. Finally, we analyze individual trader choice between market and limit orders and find that the likelihood of placing limit orders, where regulations protect traders from slippage, is greater when order and market characteristic indicate that adverse slippage is likely.
Retinoic acid signalling induces the differentiation of mouse fetal liver‐derived hepatic progenitor cells
Authors: Huang Jiayi , Bi Yang , Zhu Gao‐Hui , He Yun , Su Yuxi , He Bai‐Cheng , Wang Yi , Kang Quan , Chen Liang , Zuo Guo‐Wei , Luo Qing , Shi Qiong , Zhang Bing‐Qiang , Huang Ailong , Zhou Lan , Feng Tao , Luu Hue H. , Haydon Rex C. , He Tong‐Chuan , Tang Ni
Published: September 2009

Background: Hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) can be isolated from fetal liver and extrahepatic tissues. Retinoic acid (RA) signalling plays an important role in development, although the role of RA signalling in liver‐specific progenitors is poorly understood.

Aims: We sought to determine the role of RA in regulating hepatic differentiation.

Methods: RNA was isolated from liver tissues of various developmental stages. Liver marker expression was assessed by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence staining. Reversibly immortalized HPCs derived from mouse embryonic day 14.5 (E14.5) liver (aka, HP14.5) were established. Albumin promoter‐driven reporter (Alb‐GLuc) was used to monitor hepatic differentiation. Glycogen synthesis was assayed as a marker for terminal hepatic differentiation.

Results: Retinoic acid receptor (RAR)‐α, retinoid X receptor (RXR)‐α and RXR‐γ expressed in E12.5 to postnatal day 28 liver samples. Expression of RAR‐β and RXR‐β was low perinatally, whereas RAR‐γ was undetectable in prenatal tissues and increased postnatally. Retinal dehydrogenase 1 and 2 (Raldh1 and Raldh2) were expressed in all tissues, while Raldh3 was weakly expressed in prenatal samples but was readily detected postnatally. Nuclear receptor corepressors were highly expressed in all tissues, while expression of nuclear co‐activators decreased in perinatal tissues and increased after birth. HP14.5 cells expressed high levels of early liver stem cell markers. Expression of RA signalling components and coregulators was readily detected in HP14.5. RA was shown to induce Alb‐GLuc activity and late hepatocyte markers. RA was further shown to induce glycogen synthesis in HP14.5 cells, an important function of mature hepatocytes.

Conclusions: Our results strongly suggest that RA signalling may play an important role in regulating hepatic differentiation.
Outcomes Associated with Planned Home and Planned Hospital Births in Low‐Risk Women Attended by Midwives in Ontario, Canada, 2003–2006: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Hutton Eileen K. , Reitsma Angela H. , Kaufman Karyn
Published: September 2009

Background:
Midwives in Ontario, Canada, provide care in the home and hospital and are required to submit data for all births to the Ontario Ministry of Health database. The purpose of this study was to compare maternal and perinatal/neonatal mortality and morbidity and intrapartum intervention rates for women attended by Ontario midwives who planned a home birth compared with similar low‐risk women who planned a hospital birth between 2003 and 2006.
Methods:
The database provided outcomes for all women planning a home birth at the onset of labor (n = 6,692) and for a cohort, stratified by parity, of similar low‐risk women planning a hospital birth.Results: The rate of perinatal and neonatal mortality was very low (1/1,000) for both groups, and no difference was shown between groups in perinatal and neonatal mortality or serious morbidity (2.4% vs 2.8%; relative risk [RR], 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 0.84 [0.68–1.03]). No maternal deaths were reported. All measures of serious maternal morbidity were lower in the planned home birth group as were rates for all interventions including cesarean section (5.2% vs 8.1%; RR [95% CI]: 0.64 [0.56, 0.73]). Nulliparas were less likely to deliver at home, and had higher rates of ambulance transport from home to hospital than multiparas planning home birth and had rates of intervention and outcomes similar to, or lower than, nulliparas planning hospital births.Conclusions: Midwives who were integrated into the health care system with good access to emergency services, consultation, and transfer of care provided care resulting in favorable outcomes for women planning both home or hospital births.
Childhood Abuse and Common Complaints in Pregnancy
Authors: Lukasse Mirjam , Schei Berit , Vangen Siri , Øian Pål
Published: September 2009

Background:
Childhood abuse affects adult health. The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of emotional, physical, and sexual childhood abuse within a large Norwegian cohort of pregnant women and its association with common complaints in pregnancy.
Methods:
This study is based on the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa) conducted by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. Regression analyses were used to examine associations of childhood abuse and 16 common complaints in pregnancy.
Results:
Eighteen percent (10,363/55,776) of the women reported some type of childhood abuse. Of all women, 3,870 (6.9%) reported sexual abuse, 3,075 (5.5%) physical abuse, and 7,619 (13.6%) emotional abuse as a child. Of those reporting childhood abuse, 31 percent reported two or more types of abuse. All 16 common complaints in pregnancy were associated with reported childhood abuse. Women reporting three types of childhood abuse reported 5.4 common complaints in pregnancy (mean) compared with 3.7 for women without childhood abuse (p < 0.001). Women reporting childhood abuse are more likely to report seven or more common complaints in pregnancy: adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.7 (95% CI 1.6–1.9) for emotional abuse; AOR 2.5 (95% CI 2.0–3.1) for combined physical and sexual abuse; and AOR 3.5 (95% CI 3.0–4.0) for all three kinds of abuse. Sociodemographic characteristics and other risk factors did not explain this graded association.Conclusions: Abuse in childhood is associated with increased reporting of common complaints of pregnancy. Clinicians should consider the possible role of childhood abuse when treating women with many common complaints in pregnancy.
Exercise During Pregnancy and Cesarean Delivery: North Carolina PRAMS, 2004–2005
Authors: Bovbjerg Marit L. , Siega‐Riz Anna Maria
Published: September 2009

Background:
The current rate of cesarean delivery in the United States is 31 percent. Previous studies have suggested that exercise during pregnancy may be associated with a lower risk of cesarean delivery, but sample sizes were small and methods often inadequate. This study examined whether or not an association exists between prenatal exercise and delivery mode using data from the 2004 and 2005 North Carolina Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) survey.
Methods:
PRAMS postpartum questionnaire responses about frequency of exercise during the last 3 months of pregnancy for 1,955 women without a prior cesarean delivery were linked to birth certificates.
Results:
Among 1,342 women delivering at term, exercise was not associated with delivery mode in this data set: compared with women exercising less than once a week, neither women exercising one to four times per week nor those exercising five times or more per week had an altered risk of cesarean (risk ratio [RR] [95% confidence limit] [CL] 0.89 [0.69–1.15], 1.04 [0.66–1.64], respectively, adjusted for parity, gestational age, hypertension). Among 613 women delivering preterm, the results were also not statistically significant, but a compelling trend toward a protective effect could be seen (RR [95% CL] 0.65 [0.38–1.13], 0.62 [0.29–1.33]).
Conclusions:
Maternal self‐reported frequency of exercise during pregnancy was not associated with a reduced risk of cesarean delivery. Larger studies with better exposure ascertainment may provide a more definitive answer.
Primigravid Women's Views of Being Approached to Participate in a Hypothetical Term Cephalic Trial of Planned Vaginal Birth versus Planned Cesarean Birth
Authors: Lavender Tina , Kingdon Carol
Published: September 2009

Background:
Several papers have called for a trial of planned cesarean section versus planned vaginal birth for low‐risk women—a recommendation that is fiercely debated. Although proponents of a trial have voiced their support, evidence suggests that in the United Kingdom few midwives and obstetricians believe such a trial to be feasible, and no studies reporting women's views on the prospect of such a trial have been published. The purpose of this study is to explore women's views of participation in a trial of planned cesarean birth versus planned vaginal birth.
Methods:
A qualitative study was conducted using in‐depth interviews in a large maternity hospital in the United Kingdom. Sixty‐four women were interviewed 12 months after giving birth. Women were asked “How do you think you would have felt if you had been approached to take part in such a trial during your first pregnancy?” Data were analyzed thematically.
Results:
Only 3 of the 64 women stated that they would have participated in a trial of planned vaginal birth versus planned cesarean section, had they been asked. However, five other women said that they would have consented to participate if they had been asked during pregnancy, but with hindsight, would have regretted that decision. The remainder of women would not have participated, unless a preference arm was offered. Three main themes were identified: “feeling cheated,”“let nature take its course, ” and “just another trauma that you don't need.”
Conclusions:
Few women supported a trial and most suggested that it was intuitively wrong. Given the strong views voiced by women, it is unlikely that a trial of planned vaginal delivery versus planned cesarean delivery would be feasible.
Women's Experiences of Participating in the Magpie Trial: A Postal Survey in the United Kingdom
Authors: Smyth Rebecca M.D. , Duley Lelia , Jacoby Ann , Elbourne Diana
Published: September 2009

Background:
The Magpie Trial compared magnesium sulfate with placebo for women with preeclampsia. The objective of this study was to explore women's views and experiences of participating in the Magpie Trial in the United Kingdom.
Methods:
Postal questionnaires were sent to 771 women participants in the Magpie Trial to assess long‐term health of UK women and children. The questionnaire included three questions exploring women's experience of participating in the trial: (a) If time suddenly went backward, and you had to do it all over again, would you agree to participate in the Magpie Trial? (b) Please tell us if there was anything about the Magpie Trial that you think could have been done better; and (c) Please tell us if there was anything about the Magpie Trial, or your experience of joining the trial, that you think was particularly good.
Results:
Overall, 619 of the 771 women who were sent questionnaires returned them. In response to the three questions: (a) 58 percent (356) of women responded “definitely yes,” 27 percent (169) “probably yes,” 4 percent (23) “probably no,” 5 percent (33) “definitely no,” and 5 percent (34) “not sure.” No clear evidence was shown of a relationship with allocated treatment, although women who responded “probably or definitely no” were more likely to have had side effects from trial treatment. (b) Although 44 percent of women stated that nothing could have been done better, free text suggestions related to content of recruitment information, and its timing, and wanting to know treatment allocation and trial results. c) Women were generally extremely positive about being followed up and receiving trial results.
Conclusions:
Women were largely positive about participation in the trial and its follow‐up, but still reported ways they believed the study could have been improved, such as more information, given earlier, which also has implications for clinical care.
Relationship Between Higher Estradiol Levels and 9‐Year Mortality in Older Women: The Invecchiare in Chianti Study
Authors: Maggio Marcello , Ceda Gian Paolo , Lauretani Fulvio , Bandinelli Stefania , Ruggiero Carmelinda , Guralnik Jack M. , Jeffrey Metter E. , Ling Shari M. , Paolisso Giuseppe , Valenti Giorgio , Cappola Anne R. , Ferrucci Luigi
Published: September 2009

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the relationship between total estradiol (E2) levels and 9‐year mortality in older postmenopausal women not taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

DESIGN: Population‐based study of persons living in the Chianti geographic area (Tuscany, Italy).

SETTING: Community.

PARTICIPANTS: A representative sample of 509 women aged 65 and older with measures of total E2.

MEASUREMENTS: Serum total E2 was measured at the University of Parma using ultrasensitive radioimmunoassay (RIA).

RESULTS: Women who died (n=135) during 9 years of follow up were older; had higher total E2 levels; and were more likely to have evidence of stroke, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and congestive heart failure at baseline than survivors. Higher E2 levels were associated with a greater likelihood of death (hazard ratio (HR)=1.03, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.01–1.06), and the relationship was independent of age, waist:hip ratio, C‐reactive protein, education, cognitive function, physical activity, caloric intake, smoking, and chronic disease (HR=1.08 pg/mL, 95% CI=1.03–1.13, P=.003). The excessive risk of death associated with higher total E2 was not attenuated after adjustment for total testosterone (HR=1.12, 95% CI=1.02–1.18, P<.001) and after further adjustment for insulin resistance evaluated using the homeostasis model assessment (HR=1.07, 95% CI=1.03–1.17, P<.001).

Total E2 was highly predictive of death after more than 5 years (HR=1.42: CI 1.01–1.91, P=.04) and not predictive of death for less than 5 years (P=.78).

CONCLUSION: Higher total E2 concentration predicts mortality in older women not taking HRT.
Factors Associated with Accurate Recall of Prior Disability in Older Persons
Authors: Gill Thomas M. , Ness Peter H. Van , Gahbauer Evelyne A.
Published: September 2009

OBJECTIVES: To identify the factors associated with accurate recall of prior disability.

DESIGN: Cohort study.

SETTING: Greater New Haven, Connecticut.

PARTICIPANTS: Ninety‐two participants, included in each of two analytical samples, who were nondisabled at the present time in four essential activities of daily living (ADLs; bathing, dressing, transferring, and walking) but who had had at least 1 month of disability during the prior year as determined from monthly telephone interviews.

MEASUREMENTS: Participants who did not need help from another person at the present time were asked to recall whether they had needed help from another person to complete the relevant ADL at any time during the previous 12 months.

RESULTS: Forty‐five (48.9%) and 46 (50.0%) of the 92 participants accurately recalled having had disability in the prior year in the first and second analytical samples, respectively. Having at least a high school education was the only factor independently associated with accurate recall in the first analytical sample, with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 3.03 (95% confidence interval (CI)=1.11−8.31), whereas a composite disability scale that considered the timing and severity of prior disability was the only factor independently associated with accurate recall in the second analytic sample (AOR=5.38, 95% CI=1.81−16.1).

CONCLUSION: The results of the current study, coupled with those of previous studies, suggest potential strategies that could be used to more completely and accurately ascertain the occurrence of disability in older persons.
Moderate Alcohol Intake and Risk of Functional Decline: The Health, Aging, and Body Composition Study
Authors: Maraldi Cinzia , Harris Tamara B. , Newman Anne B. , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Pahor Marco , Koster Annemarie , Satterfield Suzanne , Ayonayon Hilsa N. , Fellin Renato , Volpato Stefano ,   for the Health ABC study
Published: September 2009

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the prospective relationship between alcohol consumption and incident mobility limitation.

DESIGN: Cohort study.

SETTING: The Health Aging and Body Composition study, conducted in Memphis, Tennessee, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

PARTICIPANTS: Three thousand sixty‐one adults aged 70 to 79 without mobility disability at baseline.

MEASUREMENTS: Incidence of mobility limitation, defined as self‐report at two consecutive semiannual interviews of any difficulty walking one‐quarter of a mile or climbing stairs, and incidence of mobility disability, defined as severe difficulty or inability to perform these tasks at two consecutive reports. Alcohol intake, lifestyle‐related variables, diseases, and health status indicators were assessed at baseline.

RESULTS: During a follow‐up time of 6.5 years, participants consuming moderate levels of alcohol had the lowest incidence of mobility limitation (total: 6.4 per 100 person‐years (person‐years); men: 6.4 per 100 person‐years; women: 7.3 per 100 person‐years) and mobility disability (total: 2.7 per 100 person‐years; men: 2.5 per 100 person‐years; women: 2.9 per 100 person‐years). Adjusting for demographic characteristics, moderate alcohol intake was associated with lower risk of mobility limitation (hazard ratio (HR)=0.70, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.55–0.89) and mobility disability (HR=0.66, 95% CI=0.45–0.95) than never or occasional consumption. Additional adjustment for lifestyle‐related variables substantially reduced the strength of the associations (HR=0.85, 95% CI=0.66–1.08 and HR=0.81, 95% CI=0.56–1.18, respectively). Adjustment for diseases and health status indicators did not affect the strength of the associations, suggesting that lifestyle is most important in confounding this relationship.

CONCLUSION: Lifestyle‐related characteristics mainly accounted for the association between moderate alcohol intake and lower risk of functional decline over time. These findings do not support a direct causal effect of alcohol intake on physical function.
Mapping a Field's Development: 20 Years of ABFM Conferences
Authors: HILDRETH W. BARTLEY , WOODRUM MICHAEL A.
Published: September 2009

Public budgeting and financial management has grown into a vibrant and productive research field of study with multiple journals and conferences devoted to the topic. One way to map the field's development is to examine the participants and topics covered in its longest‐running dedicated gathering of researchers, the 20 annual conferences of the Association for Budgeting and Financial Management (ABFM). This article traces the 20‐year history and composition of ABFM in terms of the participants and topics. It documents the evolution of the field and provides clues to the future direction of public budgeting and financial management published research.
Economic Conditions and State and Local Education Revenue
Authors: ALM JAMES , BUSCHMAN ROBERT D. , SJOQUIST DAVID L.
Published: September 2009

This article uses information on state and local education spending from 1989–1990 through 2005–2006 to examine the impact of economic conditions on the pattern of real revenue per student. We find that typical economic and other observable education demand determinants are significant in explaining the pattern of real revenue per student before and after the 2001 recession. We also find that there is no economically significant change in how governments responded to economic conditions after the 2001 recession. Finally, our results provide strong evidence that local governments attempted to offset state declines in revenues by increases in local revenues.
Measuring the Financial Position of Municipalities: Numbers Do Not Speak for Themselves
Authors: SOHL SHANNON , PEDDLE MICHAEL T. , THURMAIER KURT , WOOD CURTIS H. , KUHN GREGORY
Published: September 2009

There are several challenges facing someone who wants to know if a city's revenue structure is fair and reasonable. There are few generally accepted standards to use as benchmarks of financial condition, and there is no generally accepted methodology to assess relative financial position. This article reviews literature on financial position and condition, and then develops a methodological approach that creates a cohort of similar cities for benchmarking financial position, and then forming a basis for assessing financial condition. Based on a study of the financial position of a medium‐sized city, the article offers lessons for practitioners and scholars.
Use of State Police Services for Local Policing: The Case of New Jersey
Authors: COATE DOUGLAS , SCHWESTER RICHARD W.
Published: September 2009

All states in the New England and Middle Atlantic regions of the United States provide State Police services without charge to municipalities without full‐time local police departments. Efficiency and equity issues have resulted from this tradition and the development of local police departments or shared departments across neighboring municipalities in rural and exurban areas has been discouraged. These problems will diminish in scope as municipalities receiving the State Police subsidy opt out of the program and adopt local policing. We examine this potential by estimating models of the municipal decision to use the State Police for local policing among New Jersey municipalities with less than 15,000 population. We find that the elasticities of the decision to use the State Police for local policing with respect to population and median family income to be −1.1 and −2.3, respectively. If recent income and population trends in New Jersey municipalities using the State Police continue, our upper range estimate is that about 20 of the 90 municipalities using the State Police will opt out of the program in the next decade.
Which Nonprofit Organizations Borrow?
Authors: DENISON DWIGHT V.
Published: September 2009

The tax benefit, bankruptcy value, and pecking‐order theories of corporate capital structure are discussed in context of nonprofit organizations. A bivariate probit model shows that coefficients differ between models meaning mortgages and tax‐exempt bonds are not equivalent forms of debt. Organizations with proportionally more program revenues, contributions, total assets, total revenues, and executive compensation are more likely to have a mortgage. Nonprofits that rely on special event fund‐raising or contributions have a lower probability of using bond financing. The use of debt is also influenced by the nature of the organization's mission as measured through the NTEE classification.
Variability in calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone in patients on hemodialysis
Authors: LEVITT Helena , SMITH Kenneth G. , ROSNER Mitchell H.
Published: September 2009

Calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels are routinely measured in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis. Medications, diet, and dialytic therapies are modified based upon these lab values to achieve specific goal values in the hope of improving outcomes. However, the variability of these values in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis has only been rarely studied.

We prospectively investigated the variability of these measures in 35 patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis as well as the impact of this variability on clinical decision‐making in a prospective manner over a month. There is significant session‐to‐session variability in phosphorus and PTH values (mean coefficient of variations [CV] of 0.19 and 0.31, respectively). Calcium variability is much lower (mean CV of 0.05). Not surprisingly, the CV for all values is increased during the long interdialytic interval. The impact of this variability on clinical decision‐making was analyzed. The variability in calcium, phosphorus, and PTH values would lead to a different clinical decision in 23.6%, 41.2%, and 39.7% of different session lab values. We also investigated the variability of these lab measures over a year in these patients and found that the session‐to‐session variability was very similar to the month‐to‐month variability.

The high degree of variability of these parameters has important implications for clinical decision‐making and for implementation of pay‐for‐performance measures.
Upper‐Bounding the Incidence Rate of Associations Between Camouflage Uniforms and Surveillance Images*
Authors: Adams Norman , Perlin Victor , Rohde Mitchell , Gaffney Robert , Harmsen Natalia , Kriigel Carl
Published: September 2009

Abstract: Camouflage garments can be associated with surveillance images of a crime scene even in the absence of unique wear marks or very high‐quality images. However, the probability of an accidental association, or incidence rate, is significant. The present work describes and validates a method for estimating the incidence rate based on a statistical model of the garment manufacturing process. The model was developed primarily for use with the current U.S. Army Combat Uniform (ACU), but can be applied to any camouflage garment. Eight garment manufacturers were studied, and all sources of variation in the manufacturing process were characterized. The marking and spreading procedures were found to be dominant and consistent sources of variation. However, some sources of variation, in particular those because of human operators, were not consistent enough to accurately characterize. Sources of variation that could not be well‐characterized were ignored in the statistical model, yielding a worst‐case estimate that is an upper‐bound to the true incidence rate. The model was evaluated for a variety of cases. Depending on the quality of the surveillance image, the manufacturing parameters, and the local population, incidence rates range from about 3% to negligibly small. The model was validated by returning to one manufacturer, and sampling a large number of completed garments and estimating empirical match probabilities. The empirical probabilities validated the estimates of the worst‐case incidence rate and also demonstrated that typical incidence rates are significantly lower.
Determining an Optimal Sequence for Chemical Development of Latent Prints on Cartridge Casings and Shotgun Shells*,†
Authors: Edmiston Kelli E. , Johnson Julianne
Published: September 2009

Abstract:  In developing latent prints on cartridge casings and shotgun shells, multiple chemical processes should be used in order to obtain the best results. In Phase I, this study established an optimal chemical sequence for both Brass and Nickel cartridge casings based on six sequences involving four chemicals: Cyanoacrylate, Black Powder, Rhodamine 6G and Acidified Hydrogen Peroxide. Phase II was a validation study of Phase I involving a random sample of both Brass and Nickel cartridge casings, which were processed according to the determined optimal sequences. In addition, ribbed shotgun shells were processed under Phase I results and determined to be dependent upon the utilization of a CrimeScope at 515 nm. Consideration should be given to the type of cartridge case being examined. Although limitations exist, some chemical sequences undeniably work better than others. All photographs were manipulated with Adobe® Photoshop®. All results were verified by a senior latent print examiner.
The Stability of Collected Human Scent Under Various Environmental Conditions*,†
Authors: Hudson Davia T. , Curran Allison M. , Furton Kenneth G.
Published: September 2009

Abstract:  Human scent evidence collected from objects at a crime scene is used for scent discrimination with specially trained canines. Storage of the scent evidence is usually required yet no optimized storage protocol has been determined. Storage containers including glass, polyethylene, and aluminized pouches were evaluated to determine the optimal medium for storing human scent evidence of which glass was determined to be the optimal storage matrix. Hand odor samples were collected on three different sorbent materials, sealed in glass vials and subjected to different storage environments including room temperature, −80°C conditions, dark storage, and UVA/UVB light exposure over a 7‐week period. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the headspace of the samples were extracted and identified using solid‐phase micro‐extraction–gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (SPME–GC/MS). Three‐dimensional covariance mapping showed that glass containers subjected to minimal UVA/UVB light exposure provide the most stable environment for stored human scent samples.
Estimating the Time of Death in Domestic Canines
Authors: Proctor Keith W. , Kelch William J. , New, Jr. John C.
Published: September 2009

Abstract: Because 36.1% of U.S. households have dogs, the time of death (TOD) of dogs at crime scenes can be useful to forensic investigators. However, there are few published studies based on postmortem changes in dogs. This study, conducted indoors in still air at approximately room temperature, monitored the postmortem reduction in rectal, liver, brain, and aural temperatures in 16 dogs for 32 h after death. Graphs of temperature reduction were prepared to estimate the TOD of dogs within the first 32 h postmortem. Sex, body mass, and hair coat density did not affect the rate of body temperature reduction, but increased body weight and volume slowed it. Rectal temperature was the most convenient, reasonable site for measuring body temperature. Vitreous humor potassium ion concentration [K+] was measured in both eyes atc. 1.5 and 7 h after death. Both eyes had the same [K+] when measured simultaneously, and [K+] increased after death.
Bone marrow blasts level predicts prognosis in patients with refractory cytopenia with multilineage dysplasia
Authors: Wang Hong , Wang Xiao‐Qin , Xu Xiao‐Ping , Lin Guo‐Wei
Published: September 2009

Objectives:  Current prognostic models for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) do not consider the prognostic value of a bone marrow blast level that is <5%. Exploring the prognostic value of the International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS) and a marrow blast level that is <5% may lead to better risk‐adapted therapeutic strategies.

Methods:  According to the World Health Organization classification, most of our patients (65.5%) fell into the new category ‘refractory cytopenia with multilineage dysplasia’ (RCMD). We evaluated the prognostic value of the IPSS in 435 adult patients with de novo MDS and in the 285 of them that had RCMD in a Chinese population. We also analyzed the prognostic value of bone marrow blast levels in patients with RCMD and in different IPSS risk groups.

Results:  We found a significant difference in survival times between RCMD patients with a marrow blast level of 3.5% or higher vs. those with a blast level of <3.5%, with median survival times of 23.7 and 40.8 months, respectively. In addition, application of a marrow blast level cutoff of 3.5% in patients with RCMD could identify patients with a lower IPSS risk but with a potentially worse prognosis. Multivariate analysis showed marrow blast level (using 3.5% as the cutoff) to be an independent factor that impacted survival times of patients with RCMD. Furthermore, we also found that IPSS had strong prognostic value in Chinese RCMD population.

Conclusion:  In patients with RCMD, a higher percentage of marrow blasts was associated with a worse prognosis.
Topical 8‐methoxypsoralen increases the efficacy of narrowband ultraviolet B in psoriasis
Authors: Seckin Dilek , Usta Inan , Yazici Zuleyha , Senol Asli
Published: September 2009

Background: A combination of oral psoralen with narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB), defined as ‘psoralen‐narrowband UVB’, was shown to have a superior efficacy than UVB alone and even a comparable efficacy to psoralen and ultraviolet A in psoriasis.

Objective: To find out whether topical psoralen‐narrowband UVB provides any additional benefit to narrowband UVB alone in psoriasis.

Methods: Nineteen patients with plaque psoriasis were included. Phototherapy was given three times per week. Two symmetrical lesions were selected as target lesions. In the first 12 sessions of phototherapy, the target lesion on one side was treated with 1% 8‐methoxypsoralen (MOP) gel 30 min before UVB radiation whereas the target lesion on the other side served as a control. Target lesion scores were assessed at baseline, third, sixth, ninth and 12th sessions. Side effects were recorded.

Results: Sixteen patients completed the study. Target lesion scores decreased significantly on both sides (P<0.0001). The mean percentage of decreases was greater on the 8‐MOP‐applied sides compared with the control sides for all assessments, but the difference was statistically significant only at the ninth session (37.7% vs. 58.6%, P=0.043). Pigmentation was frequently seen in 8‐MOP gel‐applied lesions.

Conclusion: Topical 8‐MOP gel plus narrowband UVB has greater efficacy than narrowband UVB alone in psoriasis.
Successful treatment of cutaneous sarcoid by photodynamic therapy with minimal discomfort using a fractionated dosing regime
Authors: Patterson Clare
Published: September 2009

We report the case of a 42‐year‐old lady with an 8‐year history of a persistent tumid plaque on her forehead. Investigations and presentation were consistent with cutaneous sarcoid with no systemic involvement. Multiple topical and oral treatments had been ineffective. She received seven sessions of 5‐aminolaevulinic acid photodynamic therapy (PDT) over the course of 16 months. Each treatment was delivered in discontinuous and fractionated time intervals. Improvement was seen after the first treatment and continued with subsequent treatments. She found the treatment almost painless and was pleased with the cosmetic outcome. We conclude that PDT is a useful therapy in the treatment of facial cutaneous sarcoid. Fractionated exposure may allow the treatment to be less painful and therefore better tolerated.
Application of sunscreen preparations: a need to change the regulations
Authors: Reich Adam , Harupa Magdalena , Bury Marta , Chrzaszcz Justyna , Starczewska Anna
Published: September 2009

Background/purpose: To achieve photoprotection indicated on the package of sunscreen products they should be used appropriately. As previously published data documented that people usually applied much less than the recommended dose, the current study was undertaken to assess whether a detailed instruction can improve the use of sunscreens.

Methods: A total of 105 volunteers were asked to apply sunscreen to the whole skin surface in the same way that they would do it before sun exposure. A subgroup of patients (n=53) were precisely instructed about the proper usage of sunscreens and compared with uninstructed subjects (n=52). Each tube containing the tested product was weighed before and after application to determine the quantity of the substance, that was used, and to compare it with the recommended dose.

Results: Instructed subjects used significantly more sunscreens (mean 8.6 ± 4.1 g/m2) compared with uninstructed controls (mean 6.8 ± 3.9 g/m2, P=0.03). However, both groups used much less of sunscreens than was the recommended amount (i.e. 43.0% and 34.1% of the recommended dose, respectively).

Conclusion: Current regulations about the sunscreen use are inadequate when compared with clinical practice and better standards of photoprotection should be elaborated in the future.
A study of the way in which dermatologists and photosensitive patients apply sunscreen in China
Authors: Yang Hei Ping , Chen Kun , Ju Mei , Chang Bao Zhu , Wang Li Yin , Gu Heng
Published: September 2009

Objective: To study sunscreen product application by dermatologists and photosensitive patients in China for drawing up proper directions for most efficient use of sunscreen.

Methods: Thirty‐nine dermatologists and 41 photosensitive patients were enrolled in this study. They were asked to apply the cream in the same way they apply sunscreen products. The mimicking cream contained dipyridamole, which is fluorescent under Wood's light (WL). Cream distribution on skin and applied amount were visually assessed under WL using a grading scale.

Results: Based on results from mimicking cream use, sunscreen application by both dermatologists and photosensitive patients was shown to be inadequate, i.e. wrongly done with the palm of the hand, unevenly distributed, an insufficient amount applied, and/or sensitive areas left uncovered. The ears, neck, and dorsum of the hands were most often left unprotected.

Conclusion: Inadequate sunscreen application was found to be a common failing in both dermatologists and photosensitive patients. Suitable application was only provided on central, prominent areas, with a sharply decreasing gradient of product and low application toward lateral regions of the body as a result. Continuous education and further training programs are urgently needed to ensure the correct application of sunscreen and to provide effective sun protection.
Mitigation of acute ultraviolet B radiation‐mediated damages by baicalin in mouse skin
Authors: Zhou Bing‐Rong , Lin Bing‐Jiang , Jin Song‐Liang , Luo Dan
Published: September 2009

Background: Solar ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, in particular UVB with a wavelength range between 290 and 320 nm, induces different hazardous effects on the skin, including sunburn, photoaging and cancer. Protection against sun‐induced damage is therefore a highly desirable goal. Chemoprevention is being investigated as a potential approach for the management of UV damages including skin cancer.

Aim: In this study, to determine the relevance of our in vitro findings to in vivo situations, we assessed the effects of baicalin on UVB‐mediated damages in mice skin.

Methods: Balb/C hairless mice were topically pretreated (24 h before UVB) or post‐treated (5 min after UVB) with baicalin (1 mg/cm2 skin area/mouse/100 μl acetone) and were exposed to UVB 24 h later (180 mJ/cm2). The animals were sacrificed 1 and 24 h after the UVB exposure. Skin edema, histopathology changes, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs)‐positive cells were assessed to determine the UVB‐induced photodamage.

Results: Our data demonstrated that a topical application of baicalin, either as a pretreatment or as a post‐treatment, resulted in a significant decrease in UVB mediated increases in skin edema, skin hyperplasia and infiltration of leukocytes. Further, baicalin treatments (pre and post) also resulted in a significant decrease in UVB mediated (1) generation of H2O2 and (2) formation of DNA photolesions: CPDs.

Conclusion: Based on these data, we suggest that baicalin could be developed as an agent for the management of conditions elicited by UV exposure including skin cancer.
Phototoxic reactions in healthy volunteers following photodynamic therapy with methylaminolevulinate cream or with cream containing 5‐aminolevulinic acid: a phase II, randomized study
Authors: Steinbauer Julia , Schreml Stephan , Karrer Sigrid , Ackermann Günther , Babilas Philipp , Landthaler Michael , Szeimies Rolf‐Markus
Published: September 2009

Background: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is the selective destruction of abnormal cells through activation of a photosensitizer in the presence of oxygen. Local phototoxic reactions and pain are the most common limiting side effects.

Purpose: The primary objective was to compare the local phototoxic response following PDT with methylaminolevulinate (MAL) and 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA). The secondary objectives were to compare the two treatments regarding pain, detection of substance P, change in fluorescence intensity from before to 5 h after cream application and adverse events not related to local phototoxicity.

Methods: Thirty‐four healthy volunteers were treated by PDT using MAL 160 mg/g cream and ALA cream 20% randomly assigned to treatment areas on the inside of each upper arm. A composite score of local phototoxic events (erythema, edema, hyperpigmentation) was calculated.

Results: The area under the curve (AUC) analysis of composite scores showed a significantly higher AUC for ALA‐PDT (P≤0.0001). ALA‐ and MAL‐PDT showed equivalent local side‐effect frequencies, except for a higher frequency of hyperpigmentation after 28 d using ALA‐PDT (P=0.006).

Conclusion: MAL‐ and ALA‐PDT are nearly equivalent regarding individual side‐effect frequencies, but MAL‐PDT has a more favorable phototoxicity pattern as seen by AUC analysis and the lower frequency of long‐lasting hyperpigmentation.
Photodynamic therapy using direct‐current pulsed iontophoresis for 5‐aminolevulinic acid application
Authors: Mizutani Kimihiko , Watanabe Daisuke , Akita Yoichi , Akimoto Makio , Tamada Yasuhiko , Matsumoto Yoshinari
Published: September 2009

In photodynamic therapy (PDT) for skin cancer, 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is applied topically to the affected area to be absorbed percutaneously through passive diffusion, and typically requires 4–6 h before performing PDT. In this study, we attempted to reduce the absorption period in PDT by ionizing ALA using direct‐current pulsed iontophoresis to treat actinic keratosis (AK). Twenty percent ALA solution was applied to AK lesions of five patients using direct‐current pulsed iontophoresis. ALA‐PDT was repeated three times with a total irradiation of 150 J/cm2 (50 J/cm2 per irradiation, weekly). One week after the last PDT, therapeutic results were assessed by skin biopsy. In all subjects, protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) production was confirmed after iontophoresis, and its production levels were comparable to the conventional occlusive dressing technique (ODT). Skin biopsies from the treated lesion showed the disappearance of tumour cells. These results indicated that direct‐current pulsed iontophoresis for applying ALA before PDT is useful to treat AK.
Reversal of ultraviolet B‐induced immunosuppression by inhibition of the extracellular signal‐regulated mitogen‐activated protein kinase
Authors: Leng Hong , Luo Xiaoqun , Ma Li , Kang Kefei , Zheng Zhizhong
Published: September 2009

Objective: Topical treatment of the specific inhibitor PD98059 (PD) for extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 combined with ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure in an in vivo study was proposed to confirm the effectiveness of ERK1/2 involved in UVB‐induced immunosuppression that was reversed by PD.

Methods: Based on the mouse model of local UVB‐induced immunosuppression [UVB exposure, followed by sensitization with dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) on the abdomen skin before challenge on the ear site], the PD was applied on the abdomen‐irradiated area 1 h, immediately before and 6 h after UVB exposure, respectively. The baseline of ear thickness was measured and remeasured 24 h after the challenge of DNFB for evaluation of ear‐swelling response. Histopathologically, the ear biopsies were taken for hematoxylin and eosin staining.

Results: Mice that received PD post‐irradiation treatment showed a statistically significant contact hypersensitivity compared with the UVB‐irradiated mice (P<0.05), and paralleled with the biopsy showing a thickened epidermis with lymphocyte infiltration. Thus, the PD had abrogated the UV‐induced local suppression of contact hypersensitivity.

Conclusion: The ERK1/2 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway plays an important role in the local UVB‐induced immunosuppression, and its specific inhibitor PD can arrest its function, resulting in protection against UVB‐induced immunosuppression in the present in vivo study.
Sunscreens: expectation and realization
Authors: Diffey Brian
Published: September 2009

Background: The technical performance of sunscreens has improved dramatically over the past 20 years, so have we now succeeded in delivering protection that meets consumers' expectations?

Methods: From a public health perspective, the desire to prevent sunburn and protect against skin cancer are the two major drivers for using sunscreen. This review examines how well consumers can expect to realize these expectations.

Results: Sunscreens are used regularly by a minority of people, even during recreational summer exposure. The failure of sunscreen to prevent sunburn is almost always due to the way that sunscreens are applied rather than technical failure of the product. The mismatch between the labelled protection (sun protection factor) and that delivered in practice is a contributory factor to this ‘failure’. Sunscreens have been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of squamous cell cancer and with promising benefits for basal cell cancer. However, the evidence that they are effective in melanoma remains lacking.

Conclusion: The formulation and extinction of sunscreens have undoubtedly improved over recent years. Yet the notion that sunscreens provide unequivocal protection against the deleterious effects of sun exposure by everyone who uses them remains elusive.
Multiphoton laser scanning microscopy of localized scleroderma
Authors: Lu Kecheng , Chen Jianxin , Zhuo Shuangmu , Zheng Liqin , Jiang Xingshan , Zhu Xiaoqin , Zhao Jingjun
Published: September 2009

Background/purpose: A real‐time, non‐invasive method will confer a benefit for the diagnosis and treatment of localized scleroderma (LS) in the clinic. The aim of this work was to demonstrate the potential of multiphoton laser scanning microscopy (MPLSM) for diagnosing LS and monitoring the treatment response in vivo.

Methods: Three sclerodermatous skin specimens and two normal skin specimens were investigated using MPLSM based on two‐photon excitation fluorescence (TPEF) and second harmonic generation (SHG). MPLSM consists of a femtosecond Ti:sapphire laser and a scanning inverted microscope. Several parameters such as the epidermal thickness, the orientation ratio index of collagen bundles (ORICB), the spacing of collagen fibrin as well as the SHG to TPEF index of the dermis (STID) were developed to quantitatively discriminate the sclerodermatous skin from the normal skin.

Results: The morphological differences were visualized obviously in the TPEF/SHG images of human skin (normal and sclerodermatous). The values of the developed parameters in normal skin were significantly different from that in sclerodermatous skin (P<0.05).

Conclusion: MPLSM could discriminate the sclerodermatous skin from the normal skin. With the advent of the clinical portability of typical MPLSM, this technique has great potential for application in the in vivo diagnosis of LS as well as for monitoring the treatment response.