bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking Terrestrial and Marine Conservation Planning and Threats Analysis
Authors: TALLIS HEATHER , FERDAÑA ZACH , GRAY ELIZABETH
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  The existence of the Gulf of Mexico dead zone makes it clear that marine ecosystems can be damaged by terrestrial inputs. Marine and terrestrial conservation planning need to be aligned in an explicit fashion to fully represent threats to marine systems. To integrate conservation planning for terrestrial and marine systems, we used a novel threats assessment that included 5 cross‐system threats in a site‐prioritization exercise for the Pacific Northwest coast ecoregion (U.S.A.). Cross‐system threats are actions or features in one ecological realm that have effects on species in another realm. We considered bulkheads and other forms of shoreline hardening threats to terrestrial systems and roads, logging, agriculture, and urban areas threats to marine systems. We used 2 proxies of freshwater influence on marine environments, validated against a mechanistic model and field observations, to propagate land‐based threats into marine sites. We evaluated the influence of cross‐system threats on conservation priorities by comparing MARXAN outputs for 3 scenarios that identified terrestrial and marine priorities simultaneously: (1) no threats, (2) single‐system threats, and (3) single‐ and cross‐system threats. Including cross‐system threats changed the threat landscape dramatically. As a result the best plan that included only single‐system threats identified 323 sites (161,500 ha) at risk from cross‐system threats. Including these threats changed the location of best sites. By comparing the best and sum solutions of the single‐ and cross‐system scenarios, we identified areas ideal for preservation or restoration through integrated management. Our findings lend quantitative support to the call for explicitly integrated decision making and management action in terrestrial and marine ecosystems.
Habitat Use and Life History as Predictors of Bird Responses to Habitat Change
Authors: OKES NICOLA C. , HOCKEY PHILIP A. R. , CUMMING GRAEME S.
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  In theory the consideration of life‐history characteristics should provide a way of making predictive generalizations about the responses of different species to environmental modification. Nevertheless, few studies have tested the validity of this assumption or attempted to apply it across large numbers of related species. We explored both quantitative and qualitative contrasts between species of waterbirds that have either expanded or contracted their ranges in southern Africa over the past 40 years to test the hypothesis that expansionists and contractionists, respectively, should share life‐history characteristics and/or ecological attributes. Similarities and differences in life history and ecology were explored through multivariate statistics. Overall, life‐history traits provided an inadequate explanation of whether species would be range expansionists or contractionists. By contrast, ecological attributes of species that related to habitat use correlated well with range changes. In particular, waterbird species that inhabit pans seemed to be preadapted to using human‐made dams and impoundments. The ability of many species to use artificial wetlands has aided their westward range expansions into arid regions of southern Africa. By contrast, species that rely on vegetated wetlands and that require reeds for nesting were predisposed to range contraction because their habitats have been severely affected by agricultural development and urbanization. In direct contrast to range expansions, most range contractions were west to east, the eastward contraction reflected the high level of wetland loss and degradation in the eastern lowlands of South Africa. Based on analysis of ecological attributes of regional contractionists, several additional species were identified as of potential conservation concern, although such concern may not as yet have been expressed.
How I Do It: Preferential Use of the Right External Jugular Vein for Tunneled Catheter Placement
Authors: Yevzlin Alexander S. , Chan Micah , Gimelli Giorgio
Published: February 2008

We describe a case in which the right external jugular vein (REJ) was preferentially used to place a tunneled catheter, even though the left internal jugular vein (LIJ) was widely patent. The possible advantage of placing REJ catheters over LIJ is that doing so may function to preserve better the left‐sided vasculature in general, and, in particular, when future left‐sided access is planned. Contrast venography was required. While REJ is a viable option for catheter insertion, the effect of REJ vs. LIJ catheter placement on long‐term vessel patency as well as catheter function must be more rigorously defined to conclusively establish the superiority of one over the other.
Can the Risk of Gadolinium be Extrapolated to Lanthanum?
Authors: De Broe Marc E.
Published: February 2008

The recent recognition of gadolinium (Gd) administration as a cause of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a growing concern. The similarity of Gd and lanthanum (La), based on their place in the table of Mendeljev, has led to assumptions that the NSF risk of Gd in patients with kidney disease can de extrapolated to La. However, Gd and La, two trivalent cations, differ substantially in their metabolism, pharmacokinetics, and most importantly in their clinical use and toxicity. Thus, it is extremely unlikely that La can cause NSF.
ASDIN Original Investigations: How I Do It: Directional Atherectomy for In‐Stent Restenosis of a PTFE Arteriovenous Graft
Authors: Yevzlin Alexander S. , Guttormsen Brian , Chan Micah R. , Gimelli Giorgio
Published: February 2008

We describe the use of directional atherectomy (DA) to restore patency of a thrombosed polytetrafluoroethylene arteriovenous graft with an in‐stent restenosis at the venous anastomosis. Technically, the procedure described is not an atherectomy per se, but rather the removal of fibrosis and intimal hyperplasia with sharp endoluminal dissection. Certainly, the operator must be cautious when performing DA directly adjacent to a previously deployed stent. Nevertheless, our report suggests that there may be a role for DA in the treatment of severe, resistant in‐stent stenosis. Further investigation is necessary to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the described technique.
DCEP chemotherapy followed by a single, fixed dose of pegylated filgrastim allows adequate stem cell mobilization in multiple myeloma patients
Authors: Zappasodi Patrizia , Nosari Anna Maria , Astori Cesare , Ciapanna Dennis , Bonfichi Maurizio , Varettoni Marzia , Mangiacavalli Silvia , Morra Enrica , Lazzarino Mario , Corso Alessandro
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND: Pegylated filgrastim (PEG‐f), a long‐lasting granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor, has been used in different hematologic conditions to shorten chemotherapy‐induced neutropenia and to mobilize peripheral blood stem cells. Data on mobilization efficacy in patients with multiple myeloma are, however, still limited.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The feasibility and mobilizing capacity of DCEP chemotherapy followed by a single subcutaneous dose of 6 mg of PEG‐f in 23 myeloma patients (11 females and 12 males) whose median age was 55 years (range, 31‐67 years) were investigated.

RESULTS: The median number of CD34+ cells collected was 5.72 × 106 per kg body weight with a range between 0 × 106 and 29.4 × 106 per kg body weight. Twenty patients (87%) yielded more than 2 × 106 per kg body weight CD34+ cells. Among the 22 patients who mobilized some CD34+ cells, 27 leukapheresis procedures were carried out (a single leukapheresis procedure in 17 patients and 2 leukapheresis procedures in 5). The median interval between the start of chemotherapy and the first leukapheresis procedure was 12 days (range, 11‐16 days). With regard to tolerability, 7 patients complained of mild to moderate back pain, controlled with oral analgesics. No patient was hospitalized, and no fever or infections occurred.

CONCLUSION: These results, compared with those previously reported for the DCEP‐filgrastim combination, suggest that DCEP chemotherapy followed by PEG‐f is a promising combination to mobilize peripheral blood stem cells in myeloma patients.
Lack of Duffy antigen expression is associated with organ damage in patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: Afenyi‐Annan Araba , Kail Melanie , Combs Martha R. , Orringer Eugene P. , Ashley‐Koch Allison , Telen Marilyn J.
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND: The Duffy glycoprotein (Fy) on red blood cells (RBCs) has been hypothesized to promote clearance of inflammatory cytokines, which may play a role in the pathogenesis of vasoocclusion in sickle cell disease (SCD). Persons with the African‐type Fy(a–b–) phenotype—whose RBCs lack expression of Duffy—may less efficiently clear inflammatory cytokines. Therefore, the Duffy‐negative genotype may be associated with more severe disease among patients with SCD.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Genotyping was performed on blood samples from 249 adult patients with HbSS at the Duffy gene (FY) locus GATA site (rs2814778) that determines RBC expression of Duffy antigens. Patients with discordant genotype and phenotype data were excluded (n = 12). Differences in demographic, clinical and laboratory findings, end‐organ damage, and overall disease severity were compared between FY+ and FY– patients.

RESULTS: Of the 237 patients studied, 174 (73%) were FY–. FY+ patients had a higher mean white blood cell (WBC) count (13.2 × 109 ± 4.1 × 109/L vs. 11.8 × 109 ± 3.3 × 109/L; p = 0.03) and higher rates of treatment with hydroxyurea (72% vs. 49%; p = 0.002). In contrast, FY– status was strongly associated with chronic organ damage (85% of FY– patients vs. 65% of FY+ patients; p = 0.018) and proteinuria (32% vs. 12%; p = 0.02). These associations remained, even after controlling for the effects of age and sex.

CONCLUSIONS: Duffy genotype may be a potential biomarker for the development of end‐organ damage in SCD, particularly kidney dysfunction. The association of both WBC counts and hydroxyurea use with Duffy expression provides another avenue for investigation of the biologic role of this protein.
Blood clearance of the prion protein introduced by intravenous route in sheep is influenced by host genetic and physiopathologic factors
Authors: Gayrard Véronique , Picard‐Hagen Nicole , Viguié Catherine , Jeunesse Elisabeth , Tabouret Guillaume , Rezaei Human , Toutain Pierre‐Louis
Published: February 2008

BACKGROUND: The risk of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) transmission by blood transfusion is dependent on the blood concentrations of the pathologic isoform of prion protein (PrPsc) but may also be influenced by blood concentrations of cellular PrP (PrPc). These concentrations are controlled by the blood clearance of PrP, which has never been evaluated.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The blood (actually plasma) clearance of ovine purified prokaryote recombinant PrP (rPrP) was measured in genotyped and in nephrectomized sheep. The exposure to proteinase K‐resistant fragments of PrP (PrPres) after intravenous (IV) administration of scrapie‐associated fibrils (SAFs) was also investigated in a sheep.

RESULTS: The ARR variant of rPrP was eliminated more rapidly than its VRQ counterpart. The PrPc plasma concentrations in homozygous highly susceptible VRQ sheep were greater than in homozygous ARR‐resistant sheep, suggesting that clearance of the ARR variant of PrPc was higher than that of the VRQ variant. The plasma clearance of rPrP was decreased by 52 percent after a bilateral nephrectomy indicating the significant contribution of the kidneys in eliminating rPrP. PrPres was shown to be slowly eliminated after IV administration of scrapie‐associated fibrils.

CONCLUSION: PrP host genotype and physiopathologic factors could influence the risk of TSE transmission by modulating blood PrP clearance. This risk was increased by the sustained exposure to PrPres after IV administration. It should be noted that although the materials that have been administered (rPrP and SAFs) were not the actual species of interest, they can be of value as probes for investigating PrP clearance mechanisms.
An Economic Theory of Mortgage Redemption Laws
Authors: Baker Matthew J. , Miceli Thomas J. , Sirmans C.F.
Published: February 2008

Redemption laws give mortgagors the right to redeem their property following default for a statutorily set period of time. This article develops a theory that explains these laws as a means of protecting landowners against the loss of nontransferable values associated with their land. A longer redemption period reduces the risk that this value will be lost but also increases the likelihood of default. The optimal redemption period balances these effects. Empirical analysis of cross‐state data from the early twentieth century suggests that these factors, in combination with political considerations, explain the existence and length of redemption laws.
Adjustment in Property Space Markets: Taking Long‐Term Leases and Transaction Costs Seriously
Authors: Englund Peter , Gunnelin Åke , Hendershott Patric H. , Söderberg Bo
Published: February 2008

Markets for property space adjust only gradually because tenants and landlords are constrained by long‐term leases and transaction and information costs. Not only do rents adjust slowly, but space occupancy, which depends on historical rents, often differs from demand at current rent. This creates “hidden vacancies,” vacancies that will develop in the future if market rent and the space demand driver are unchanged. That is, if current rent is greater/lesser than average rent, then hidden vacancies are positive/negative. Moreover, because of hidden vacancies, open vacancies and rent are not mirror images of each other. Thus it is necessary to estimate both rental and vacancy rate adjustment processes. We do this using annual data for Stockholm offices during the 1977–2002 period and simulate the response of rent and vacancies (open and hidden) to an employment shock.
Explaining the Variation in REIT Capital Structure: The Role of Asset Liquidation Value
Authors: Giambona Erasmo , Harding John P. , Sirmans C.F.
Published: February 2008

We test the Shleifer‐Vishny hypothesis that asset liquidation values influence both firm leverage and the choice of debt maturity. Using panel data on real estate investment trusts, we estimate a simultaneous equation model and find that firms specializing in the most (least) liquid assets use more (less) leverage and longer (shorter) maturities. The evidence also suggests that, for REITs, debt maturity and leverage are substitutes, consistent with the theory and predictions of Barclay, Marx and Smith.
Personal Residential Real Estate Investment in Australia: Investor Characteristics and Investment Parameters
Authors: Brown Rayna M , Schwann Gregory , Scott Callum
Published: February 2008

To date our understanding of the factors affecting the housing supply stem from the private provision of new units through real estate development. This article investigates a different aspect of housing supply, the private provision of rental housing through investment in existing properties. Using logistic regression and a series of micro data sets of Australian households, we examine the investment decision of residential rental property investors over the period 1990–2004. The sample period incorporates a full real estate cycle. Our results indicate that wealth‐related factors are the dominant factors driving these investments. Life‐cycle factors such as marriage and children play a less important role. Most of the determinants of income property investment do not vary with the property cycle. Marriage is an exception. It became more important as house prices rose.
Institutional Environments, Sociopolitical Processes, and Health Movement Organizations: The Growth of Self‐Help/Mutual‐Aid1
Authors: Archibald Matthew E.
Published: February 2008

This study examines the relationship between sociopolitical processes and health social movement organization formation. Two central research questions are posed: How do self‐help/mutual‐aid institutional environments characterized by professional actors, the state, and social movements influence organizational formation, and do these influences grow stronger or weaker as the self‐help/mutual‐aid movement matures? Analyses comparing the impact of institutional factors such as physician hegemony and autonomy, professional affiliation, state spending, and political ties on self‐help/mutual‐aid founding rates reveal negative effects of professionals but positive effects of the state. These relationships tend to grow stronger as the movement matures. For example, declining professional authority increasingly eases organizational foundings during movement maturity as does the beneficial impact on formation of state expansion in health markets and political ties. Implications are discussed.
Differential Labeling of Mental Illness Revisited: Patterns Before and After the Rise of Managed Care
Authors: Thoits Peggy A. , Evenson Ranae J.
Published: February 2008

With the National Comorbidity Survey of the early 1990s,Thoits (2005)recently showed that lower‐status mentally ill individuals were not more often hospitalized or pressured into psychiatric treatment than comparably ill persons of higher status, disconfirming a central hypothesis of labeling theory. However, that finding may have been due to changes in the mental health treatment system introduced by the spread of managed care. The differential labeling hypothesis is reexamined here with data from the Epidemiological Catchment Area Studies (ECA) collected in the early 1980s before managed‐care plans began to dominate the insurance marketplace and from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication conducted in the early 2000s when managed care had saturated the market. Little systematic support for the differential labeling hypothesis was found in the three studies, although, over time, the higher rates of mental hospitalization among less educated and low‐income individuals found in the ECA survey disappeared. Trends across the studies suggest that educated and affluent persons with psychiatric problems more frequently sought hospital care. These findings further undermine the validity of the differential labeling hypothesis and suggest that service utilization or treatment‐seeking factors may help explain mental hospitalization rates.
Development and implementation of communication skills in dentistry: an example from South Africa
Authors: White J. G. , Krüger C. , Snyman W. D.
Published: February 2008

Dental students should realise early in their careers – in dental school – the importance of developing and mastering sound communication skills with patients. As a result, the aim of this study was to develop and implement a course in communication skills for third year dental students. The methodology employed in the study comprised the following three phases: Phase I: identification of specific outcomes essential for the dentist to be competitive in the emerging South African dental environment. Phase II: development of an outcome‐based course according to the South African Qualifications Authority format (Purpose, Embedded knowledge, Assessment criteria). Phase III: implementation of the course. Implementation of the course involved a pre‐ and post‐training cycle. The subjects were 67 third year dental students. The following instruments were employed: a study guide; a case study; an assessment rubric; two questionnaires, namely “Patient’s” feedback and “Dentist’s” feedback; a standardised patient. The results were as follows: the class as a whole scored significantly higher during training cycle 2 compared with training cycle 1 (P < 0.0001). The important roles of trust, empathy and active listening in establishing a meaningful relationship with a patient, which was conveyed by means of the course, were emphasised by the majority of students.
Development of a rational antibiotic usage course for dentists
Authors: Öcek Z. , Sahin H. , Baksi G. , Apaydin S.
Published: February 2008

Aim:  The aims of this report are to describe the development process of this rational antibiotic usage course and to evaluate the short‐term efficiency of the course in terms of the level of improvement in knowledge and feedbacks of the participants.

Materials and Methods:  A needs assessment survey was carried out on the curriculum development process in order to determine the patterns of drug usage and level of knowledge on antibiotics of potential participants. A total of 162 dentists from two dental hospitals in Izmir were interviewed using standard questionnaires. The course content and educational strategies were determined according to the needs assessment results. Fifty‐eight dentists applied to the first three courses conducted between 2002 and 2004. Pre/post‐test design was performed for level of improvement in knowledge and a questionnaire form, scored by Likert Scale with 5 point, was used for participants’ feedback.

Results:  The mean score, which was 9.74 ± 2.71 in pre‐test, increased to 18.16 ± 1.58 in post‐test and the difference was significant (t = −28.805; P = 0.000). The knowledge and approach of the trainers was appreciated most of all. Participants enjoyed the course very much, and reported a high level of satisfaction regarding the content, trainers, educational techniques and teaching material. The suggestions for future courses included increasing the course length (21.2%). Results from the needs assessment survey revealed that the study population over‐used antibiotics, relied on incorrect sources of information, was unaware of the results of irrational antibiotic usage and did not check sufficiently with patients before prescribing.

Conclusions:  These findings supported the need for regular courses in the application of antibiotics in dental practice and continuous refreshment of knowledge.
Expression of oestrogen‐related receptor alpha in human epidermis
Authors: Bertil Elodie , Bolzinger Marie‐Alexandrine , André Valérie , Rousselle Patricia , Damour Odile
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Skin is a non‐classical target for oestrogens. Despite evidence showing that oestrogen receptors (ER) are expressed in skin, there are still extensive gaps in our understanding of how oestrogens exert their action in non‐reproductive tissues. Oestrogen‐related receptor‐α (ERRα), orphan member of the nuclear receptor superfamily, shows a strong sequence homology with ERα but it does not bind oestradiol. Here, for the first time, we demonstrate ERRα expression in the epidermis of adult human skin. ERRα mRNA was detected in the epidermis of eight female donors using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The presence of the protein was confirmed using western blotting and immunohistochemistry on 5 and 11 adult human skins, respectively. This study shows that ERRα is expressed in human epidermis and could intervene in a potentially new oestrogen signalling pathway in the skin.
The Problem with Fundamentalism
Authors: Danaher James P.
Published: February 2008

We believe that the God who spoke the universe into existence actually became a human being and dwelt among us. Furthermore, he left us a rich text full of his teachings. Sadly, however, the Jesuit revelation is easily negated by a fundamentalist theory about how to read the biblical text. This paper argues that the whole of Scripture must be read from the perspective of the Gospel lest we make the Jesus revelation into merely one prophetic revelation among many.
Poetry, Attentiveness and Prayer: One Poet's Lesson
Authors: Block Ed
Published: February 2008

In The Grain of Wheat, Hans Urs von Balthasar quotes St. Basil on the intent contemplation of God's works. In Letters to Malcolm, C. S. Lewis speaks of making “every pleasure into a channel of adoration”, by praising “these pure and spontaneous pleasures” as “‘patches of Godlight’ in the woods of our experience.” According to Iris Murdoch, such attentiveness requires a degree of “selflessness” that resembles aesthetic contemplation and— it may be inferred — prayerful reflection. Using these passages and others by Kathleen Norris and Simone Weil, this essay offers related perspectives on the process and the effects of attentiveness, in poetry and prayer. Poets practise, and thereby teach an attentiveness that is analogous to that achieved in certain forms of prayer. Prayer, like poetry, gives thanks for the mysteries — even as it seeks to understand and respond to the injustices and sufferings — of life. Denise Levertov illustrates in her poetry an awareness of how such attentiveness can be productive, in her late religious poems especially.
Anselm and the Apophatic: “Something Greater than Can Be Thought”
Authors: Fulmer J. Burton
Published: February 2008

Anselm's ontological proof, which sets out to show that God must exist and which depends upon the premise that human beings can conceptualize God, seems antithetical to the apophatic tradition, but Anselm's work in general and his proof in particular are, nonetheless, exemplars of apophasis. The proof shows the atheist's position to be untenable, while also revealing the ambiguities of the believer's claim. In proving the necessary existence of God, Anselm destroys all idols and with them, all human conceptions of divinity, for whatever conception can be achieved always stands vulnerable to being overcome. Thus, Anselm is left to conclude that God is in fact “something greater than can be thought.” Anselm shows that language can never offer a final and complete formulation for God, and he does so through his own name for God (“something-than-which-nothing-greater-can-be-thought”), a name that remains brilliantly open and which is ingenious, not for what it affirms about God, but rather for what it denies.
Between Charybdis and Scylla: Catholic Theology and Interreligious Dialogue
Authors: Lévy Antoine
Published: February 2008

Why should Catholics enter into dialogue with representatives of non-Christian religious traditions? Although the last decades have witnessed an impressive involvement of Catholic theologians in these contacts, a positive dogmatic framework of interreligious dialogue is still waiting in the wings. On one hand, one can no longer be satisfied with trying to make non-Christians realize that Christianity is their beliefs ultimate truth (what about a dialogue with non-Christians then?). On the other hand, one cannot admit of expecting to get some additional knowledge about God that would not already be contained in Tradition and Scriptures, believed to convey the fullness of Gods Revelation to mankind. Putting forward the Traditions legitimate development, the present paper argues that new insights into the fullness of Gods Revelation can be gained from types of religious thinking born beyond the historical limits of Gods Revelation. According to its essence, this Revelation appeals to the contribution of those who have never heard of it.
Performing the Same Score: Repentance, Truth and Doctrine in Ecumenical Theology
Authors: McCurry Jeffrey
Published: February 2008

This article develops the fruitful metaphor of musical performance to think about church-dividing conflicts over doctrine. In particular, I show that just as there is more than one way for a score of music to be faithfully performed, so there can be more than one way for shared fundamental dogma to be faithfully articulated in different confessional or doctrinal traditions. When the disagreements between the Chalcedonian and non-Chalcedonian churches over christological doctrine are reframed as contrasting but not contradictory “performances” of one shared scriptural and Nicene dogma, possibilities for ecumenical reconciliation are strenghthened. Indeed, while not articulating its practice by means of the metaphor of a musical performance, the Roman Catholic magisterium is already approaching doctrinal reconciliation in just this way.
De Lubac, Christ and the Buddha
Authors: Grumett David
Published: February 2008

Cardinal Henri de Lubac (1896–1991) considered Buddhism to be, after Christianity, the greatest spiritual fact of history. His groundbreaking studies of it have nevertheless received little previous scholarly attention. De Lubac focuses on Amidism, also known as Pure Land Buddhism, because he regards this as the form of Buddhism possessing greatest affinity with Christian faith, particularly in its conceptions of charity and divine personality. Religion cannot be considered in isolation from culture, however. De Lubac argues that Christian-Buddhist encounter is, wherever it occurs, necessarily also an encounter between Western culture and Buddhism, in the course of which boundaries between religions and cultures are continually defined, dissolved and redefined, especially in the understanding of human personhood. He nevertheless defends the universality of faith in Christ, the Word made flesh, in whom the desire of nature for God characteristic of the whole of humanity is fully expressed and realized.
Polymorphisms of DNA repair genes, XRCC1 and XRCC3, and susceptibility to familial prostate cancer in a Japanese population
Authors: HAMANO Tatsuya , MATSUI Hiroshi , OHTAKE Nobuaki , NAKATA Seiji , SUZUKI Kazuhiro
Published: February 2008

Aim:  DNA repair systems play an important role in protecting the genome damaged by endogeneous and exogeneous mutagens. Deficiency in these systems has been reported to increase the risk of various types of cancer. We investigated two DNA repair genes, X‐ray repair cross‐complementing group 1 (XRCC1) and X‐ray repair cross‐complementing group 3 (XRCC3), to assess the association between DNA repair genes and familial prostate cancer susceptibility in the Japanese population.

Methods:  We performed a case‐control study consisting of 142 familial prostate cancer cases and 119 normal control subjects. The genetic polymorphism was analyzed by the polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism method.

Results:  Of the three polymorphisms investigated, the frequency of the XRCC1 codon 194 Arg/Trp genotype, was significantly observed in cases (odds ratio [OR] = 2.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.28–3.73, P = 0.0058) and the Arg/Trp and Trp/Trp genotypes were also significantly observed in cases (OR = 2.03, 95% CI = 1.23–3.36, P = 0.0080). For the Arg399Gln genotype in XRCC1 and the Thr241Met genotype in XRCC3, no significant differences were observed between cases and controls. Stratification of cases according to clinical stages and pathological grades showed no significant difference among clinical parameters and genotypes.

Conclusion:  The Trp allele in the XRCC1 codon 194 was significantly associated with individuals in the Japanese population with a family history of prostate cancer.
Darbepoetin Alfa (KRN321) Administered Intravenously Once Monthly Maintains Hemoglobin Levels in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Hiramatsu Makoto , Kubota Minoru , Iwasaki Manabu , Akizawa Tadao , Koshikawa Shozo ,   the KRN321 A09 Study Group
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Darbepoetin alfa (KRN321) is a novel molecule that stimulates erythropoiesis by the same mechanism as endogenous erythropoietin. Due to its longer half‐life and greater biological activity than recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO), KRN321 maintains an effective hemoglobin (Hb) level at extended dose intervals compared with rHuEPO. This multicenter, open‐label, single‐arm study of 72 patients with end stage renal failure on peritoneal dialysis (PD) evaluated the efficacy and safety of KRN321 administered intravenously with the dosing intervals extended to monthly. PD patients that were either rHuEPO‐naïve or rHuEPO‐receiving were enrolled. In rHuEPO‐naïve patients, the initial dose of KRN321 was 40 μg weekly by intravenous administration. For rHuEPO‐receiving patients, an initial regimen of fortnightly intravenous administration was given and the initial dose was based on the dose of rHuEPO used before switching to KRN321. After starting the study medication, the Hb concentration was maintained between 10.0 g/dL and 13.0 g/dL. In those patients whose Hb concentrations showed a stable time‐course, the dosing intervals of KRN321 were extended. The results suggest that it may be feasible to reduce the frequency of treatment to a monthly schedule, with an associated adjustment of dose, in most patients. Adverse events were observed in 67 of the 72 patients (93.1%, 267 events). Most of all the adverse events were reported in patients with chronic renal failure receiving conventional rHuEPO. No safety problems specific to KRN321 were noted. These results suggest that KRN321 could reduce of frequency of hospital visits for PD patients receiving erythropoietic therapy for renal anemia.
Elimination of Liposomes by Different Separation Principles Used in Low‐density Lipoprotein Apheresis
Authors: Pütz Gerhard , Eckes Jürgen , Schmah Oliver , Winkler Karl , Wieland Heinrich
Published: February 2008

Abstract: Clinical success of many therapies is impaired by dose limiting toxicities. Nanoscale particle‐based drug delivery systems such as liposomes show unique pharmacokinetic properties and improved toxicity profiles. Liposomes accumulate in tumor tissue, but only a small fraction of a total dose reaches the target site. The overwhelming amount of a given dose is needed only to build up a diffusion gradient for effective accumulation at the target site. In order to find a way to detoxify this predominant fraction after accumulation is completed, the different separation principles used for the apheresis of lipoproteins were evaluated for the extracorporeal elimination of liposomes. Appropriate radiolabeled model liposomes were prepared by extrusion. Separation efficacy, leakage of liposomal content and influence of plasma contact were measured. Membranes with pore sizes between 25 and 400 nm were used to investigate filtration properties of liposomes. Liposomes were precipitated by adding heparin and Ca2+. Adsorption chromatography was investigated using dextran sulfate, heparin sepharose and functionalized polyacrylamide beads. Membrane filtration allowed the elimination of various liposomes, while precipitation and adsorption were only useful for positively charged liposomes. Leakage of liposomal content was not induced by adsorption, but precipitation induced leakage. Leakage during filtration was dependent on liposomal membrane lipids. Plasma contact reduced precipitation and adsorption efficacy of positively charged liposomes, while filtration properties of liposomes remained unchanged. For extracorporeal elimination of liposomal drug delivery systems, filtration‐based techniques are presumably more convenient and versatile than precipitation‐ or adsorption‐based apheresis technologies.
Lanthanum Carbonate Effectively Controls Serum Phosphate Without Affecting Serum Calcium Levels in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Shigematsu Takashi ,   the Lanthanum Carbonate Research Group
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Treating hyperphosphatemia without increasing the calcium load in chronic kidney disease patients on dialysis is important, as conventional treatment frequently results in ectopic calcification. Sevelamer, a monotherapy for hyperphosphatemia is frequently associated with gastrointestinal disorders, often resulting in discontinuation of treatment. Lanthanum carbonate is a novel non‐calcium‐based phosphate binder for the treatment of chronic kidney disease. Here, its clinical efficacy and safety were assessed in Japanese dialysis patients. A placebo‐controlled, randomized, double‐blind, parallel group, multicenter study was performed in Japanese dialysis patients. Patients were treated with various dosages of lanthanum carbonate or a placebo daily for six weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change in serum phosphate level from the baseline. Secondary endpoints included achievement rates to target serum phosphate levels and changes in serum calcium levels. Safety was evaluated by the incidence of drug‐related and treatment‐emergent adverse events. A significant reduction in serum phosphate level was demonstrated for all dosages from Week 1. This dose‐dependent effect was also observed in the changes in serum calcium × phosphate product, yet there was no notable difference in serum calcium or serum intact parathyroid hormone levels. The incidence of drug‐related adverse events was dose‐dependent, with the most common being gastrointestinal symptoms. Lanthanum carbonate effectively controls serum phosphate levels and is generally tolerable to Japanese chronic kidney disease patients on dialysis, as reported for the Caucasian population. The optimal dosage in Japanese patients needs to be confirmed using a flexible‐dose titration schedule.
Pharmacokinetic Study of Interleukin‐2 Following Intravenous Injection in Hemodialysis Patients With Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Kamikawa Sadanori , Sugimoto Toshikado , Asai Toshihiro , Ishii Keiichi , Kim Taku
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  The purpose of the present study is to determine the change in blood concentration of interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) after intravenous injection in hemodialysis patients and to assess its safety. Four hemodialysis patients who underwent nephrectomy due to renal cell carcinoma were treated with IL‐2 at a dose of 350 000–700 000 JRU by intravenous injection. Pharmacokinetic parameters were analyzed from the serum IL‐2 concentration, which reached its peak just after the end of infusion, followed by biphasic elimination, and was below the detection limit in all patients at 24 h postinfusion. In comparison with patients with normal renal function, the volume of distribution in the serum compartment was almost comparable (3820 ± 2020 mL). Clearance (50.47 ± 11.50 mL/min) decreased to 40%, and the half‐life of the distribution phase (0.45 ± 0.19 h) and that of the terminal phase (1.72 ± 0.20 h) were distinctly longer. The area under the blood concentration–time curve was about two‐fold higher than that of non‐hemodialysis patients. In all patients, there were no serious adverse reactions. The results of the present study suggest that intravenous IL‐2 therapy can be safely performed in hemodialysis patients.
A Case Report of Plasmapheresis Treatment in a Patient With Paraneoplastic Cerebellar Degeneration and High Anti‐Yo Antibody Titers
Authors: Landtblom Anne‐Marie , Lindvall Björn , Ledin Torbjörn , Berlin Gösta
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  A patient with paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration due to anti‐Purkinje cell antibodies (anti‐Yo) arising from ovarian carcinoma with metastases was treated with three plasmapheresis (PP) series (a total of 22 PP treatments) over one year and was monitored by repeated otoneurological testing, balance tests and clinical investigations. Blood samples for antibody titers were checked on several occasions. Initially there was a weak clinical response and significantly improved test results regarding the caloric response, as well as a possible effect on visual suppression of the vestibulo–ocular reflex after caloric ear irrigation. After the first series of PP treatment, new metastases were found. A half year later there was a progressive course with increasing general symptoms. Serology tests showed continuously high titers of anti‐Yo antibody, although somewhat lower after PP. We thus report a minor and short‐lived effect of PP, possibly inhibited by the natural course of metastatic disease.
Home Health Care Agency Staffing Patterns Before and After the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, by Rural and Urban Location
Authors: McAuley William J. , Spector William , Van Nostrand Joan
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACT: Context:The Balanced Budget Act (BBA) of 1997 and other recent policies have led to reduced Medicare funding for home health agencies (HHAs) and visits per beneficiary.Purpose:We examine the staffing characteristics of stable Medicare‐certified HHAs across rural and urban counties from 1996 to 2002, a period encompassing the changes associated with the BBA and related policies.Methods:Data were drawn from Medicare Provider of Service files and the Area Resource File. The unit of analysis was the 3,126 counties in the United States, grouped into 5 categories: metropolitan, nonmetropolitan adjacent, and 3 nonmetropolitan nonadjacent groups identified by largest town size. Only relatively stable HHAs were included. We generated summary HHA staff statistics for each county group and year.Findings:All staff categories, other than therapists, declined from 1997 to 2002 across the metropolitan and nonmetropolitan county groupings. There were substantial population‐adjusted decreases in stable HHA‐based home health aides in all counties, including remote counties.Conclusions:The limited presence of stable HHA staff in certain nonmetropolitan county types has been exacerbated since implementation of the BBA, especially in the most rural counties. The loss of aides in more rural counties may limit the availability of home‐based long‐term care in these locations, where the need for long‐term care is considerable. Future research should examine the degree to which the presence of HHA staff influences actual access and whether other paid and unpaid sources of care substitute for Medicare home health care in counties with limited supplies of HHA staff.
Rural–Urban Differences in Physical Activity, Physical Fitness, and Overweight Prevalence of Children
Authors: Joens‐Matre Roxane R. , Welk Gregory J. , Calabro Miguel A. , Russell Daniel W. , Nicklay Elizabeth , Hensley Larry D.
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Context:

The increasing prevalence of overweight in youth has been well chronicled, but less is known about the unique patterns and risks that may exist in rural and urban environments. A better understanding of possible rural–urban differences in physical activity profiles may facilitate the development of more targeted physical activity interventions. Methods: Participants (1,687 boys; 1,729 girls) were recruited from fourth, fifth, and sixth grade classes in schools from urban areas, small cities, and rural areas. Multilevel modeling analysis was used to examine rural–urban differences in physical activity and prevalence of overweight. Physical activity was assessed by self‐report and body mass index was calculated from measured height and weight. Findings: Prevalence of overweight was higher among rural children (25%; P < .001) than children from urban areas (19%) and small cities (17%). Urban children were the least active overall (Cohens' d =−0.4), particularly around lunchtime while at school (d =−0.9 to −1.1). Children from small cities reported the highest levels of physical activity. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest there are rural–urban differences in children's prevalence of overweight and physical activity even within a fairly homogenous Midwestern state.
Tobacco Use Among the Amish in Holmes County, Ohio
Authors: Ferketich Amy K. , Katz Mira L. , Kauffman Ross M. , Paskett Electra D. , Lemeshow Stanley , Westman Judith A. , Clinton Steven K. , Bloomfield Clara D. , Wewers Mary Ellen
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Purpose:

The objective of this study was to estimate tobacco use prevalence among the Amish in Holmes County, Ohio, using both self‐report and a biochemical marker of nicotine exposure. Methods: Amish adults (n = 134) were interviewed as part of a lifestyle study. Self‐reported tobacco use was measured using standardized questions, and cotinine was measured from a saliva sample. The prevalence of smoking, total tobacco use, and misclassification were estimated separately by gender, and then compared to 2 non‐Amish groups. One group was selected from 2 counties contained within the Holmes County Amish settlement (n = 154) and the other was representative of non‐Hispanic whites in the United States (n = 4,099). Findings: No Amish women reported current tobacco use and only 2 reported former use. This was significantly different (P < .0001) from the patterns observed among non‐Amish in the settlement counties (15.7%) and US white (23.3%) women. The prevalence of tobacco use among Amish men was 17.6% and this was significantly lower than estimates from non‐Amish in the settlement counties (38.8%, P= .04) and US white (32.2%, P= .005) men. No Amish women and only 2 Amish men underreported tobacco use and misclassification was similar in the comparison groups. Conclusions: Tobacco use is significantly lower among adults in the largest Amish settlement in the world compared to their non‐Amish neighbors in Appalachia Ohio and US whites. A strength of this study is that self report was verified with a marker of nicotine, a critical measure to include in any study conducted in a group that stigmatizes tobacco use.
Pedometer Readings and Self‐Reported Walking Distances in a Rural Hutterite Population
Authors: Samra Haifa Abou , Beare Tianna , Specker Bonny
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACT: 
Purpose:

This study assessed the accuracy with which a rural population reported daily walking distances using a 7‐day activity recall questionnaire obtained quarterly compared to pedometer readings.

Methods:

Study participants were 48 Hutterite men and women aged 11‐66 years.

Findings:

Pedometer‐miles quartiles were associated with self‐reported daily miles (P= .008) and self‐reported previous‐year average miles (P= .03) quartiles. Among males, the relationship between pedometer‐miles and self‐reported daily miles differed depending upon walking pace, with a stronger correlation at a faster pace (interaction, P= .006). Among females, pedometer‐miles correlated with age and remained associated with self‐reported daily and previous‐year average miles when age was in the statistical model (P= .006 and .008). The difference between pedometer‐miles and self‐reported previous‐year average miles tended to increase with age (P= .06).

Conclusions:

SDPAR may be a useful instrument in measuring miles walked/day among rural populations.
Induction of natural competence in Bacillus cereus ATCC14579
Authors: Mirończuk Aleksandra M. , Kovács Ákos T. , Kuipers Oscar P.
Published: February 2008

Natural competence is the ability of certain microbes to take up exogenous DNA from the environment and integrate it in their genome. Competence development has been described for a variety of bacteria, but has so far not been shown to occur in Bacillus cereus. However, orthologues of most proteins involved in natural DNA uptake in Bacillus subtilis could be identified in B. cereus. Here, we report that B. cereus ATCC14579 can become naturally competent. When expressing the B. subtilis ComK protein using an IPTG‐inducible system in B. cereus ATCC14579, cells grown in minimal medium displayed natural competence, as either genomic DNA or plasmid DNA was shown to be taken up by the cells and integrated into the genome or stably maintained respectively. This work proves that a sufficient structural system for DNA uptake exists in B. cereus. Bacillus cereus can be employed as a model system to investigate the mechanism of DNA uptake in related bacteria such as Bacillus anthracis and Bacillus thuringiensis. Moreover, natural competence provides an important tool for biotechnology, as it will allow more efficient transformation of B. cereus and related organisms, e.g. to knockout genes in a high‐throughput way.