bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Action of ciprofloxacin on planktonic bacteria and biofilm of Proteus mirabilis
Authors: Aiassa V. , Barnes A. I. , Albesa I.
Published: June 2007

Proteus mirabilis can persist in biofilms, with the bacteria in this state tending to resist antibiotic therapy. Until now, the relationship between the action of ciprofloxacin and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) has not been studied in planktonic and biofilmic P. mirabilis. Our results show that ciprofloxacin stimulates the production of ROS in planktonic P. mirabilis, but that the increase in ROS was observed in sensitive strains (n = 4) only in the absence of the extracellular matrix (ECM). This augmentation of ROS was principally intracellular, invoking an increase in intracellular superoxide dismutase (SOD). ROS were assayed by chemiluminescence (CL) and SOD by inhibition of reduction of nitroblue tetrazolium in the presence of methionine, riboflavin and light. The antibiotic-resistant strains (n = 4) did not suffer oxidative stress and exhibited a higher antioxidant capacity than antibiotic-sensitive ones, as indicated by tripyridyltriazine assay. Both types of bacterial strain showed a reduction in antioxidant capacity in the presence of ciprofloxacin, and only the resistant bacteria returned to normal count levels within 5 min of introduction of antibiotic. Ciprofloxacin stimulated ROS more than it did nitric oxide (NO) in planktonic bacteria, as determined by Griess's reaction. Proteus mirabilis biofilms treated with ciprofloxacin did not suffer any increase in ROS but there was an increase in NO and the ratio of intracellular ROS:NO decreased to 25%. Biofilms of P. mirabilis were neither stressed nor inhibited by 40 µg ciprofloxacin/ml, a dose higher than the minimum inhibitory concentration (i.e. supra MIC). Both resistant and sensitive strains maintained the number of viable bacteria in biofilms incubated with supra MIC ciprofloxacin at concentrations that stressed and reduced substantially the number of colony-forming units of planktonic bacteria per millilitre. These results contribute to understanding of the differences between biofilmic and planktonic bacteria, with respect to susceptibility to oxidative stress caused by ciprofloxacin and also the antioxidant effect of ECM.
Störungen des autobiographischen Gedächtnisses bei Alzheimer-Demenz
Authors: Seidl Ulrich , Ahlsdorf Elke , Schröder Johannes
Published: June 2007

Zusammenfassung: Störungen der Gedächtnisfunktionen bilden das Achsensymptom demenzieller Erkrankungen, insbesondere der Alzheimer-Demenz (AD) als ihrer häufigsten Form. Gerade Defizite des autobiographischen Gedächtnisses entstehen schon in den Anfangsstadien der Erkrankung und betreffen primär Erinnerungen an selbst Erfahrenes einschließlich prägender Lebensereignisse, während äußere Lebensdaten noch lange abrufbar bleiben. Autobiographische Gedächtnisdefizite wurden nur selten untersucht, vor allem da derartige Studien besondere methodische Anforderungen stellen, die sich aus der Individualität des erinnerten Materials und dem Charakter demenzieller Erkrankungen ergeben. Wir haben deshalb autobiographische Gedächtnisdefizite differenziert nach semantischen und episodischen Qualitäten mit dem “Bielefelder Autobiographischen Gedächtnisinventar” (BAGI) in einer modifizierten Version bei 230 Heimbewohnern (24 kognitiv Gesunde; 28 mit leichter kognitiver Beeinträchtigung; 178 mit manifester AD) untersucht. Eine nachhaltige Beeinträchtigung des autobiographischen Gedächtnisses zeigte sich dabei schon in frühen Phasen der AD. Bereits Bewohner mit leichter kognitiver Beeinträchtigung wiesen ausgeprägte Defizite des episodischen Gedächtnisses auf, die bei mittelgradiger oder schwerer AD fortbestanden. Demgegenüber gingen semantische autobiographische Gedächtnisinhalte graduell verloren, sodass weitreichende Defizite erst bei stark Eingeschränkten entstanden. Die Kenntnis dieser Zusammenhänge vertieft nicht nur unser Verständnis der Alzheimer- Demenz, sondern erweitert auch das verfügbare diagnostische Instrumentarium.
On differences in satellite wind products and their effects in estimating coastal upwelling processes in the south‐east Pacific
Authors: Croquette Marie , Eldin Gérard , Grados Carmen , Tamayo Myrian
Published: June 2007

Alongshore wind stress and curl obtained from ERS and QuikSCAT satellite wind products are routinely used to investigate coastal upwelling dynamics in the south‐east Pacific. North of 17°S and south of 26°S there is a good agreement in the seasonal cycle of both products. Data from Peruvian coastal wind stations are used to validate satellite coastal winds. Between 17°S and 26°S seasonal cycles from coastal stations are in phase with QuikSCAT but in opposition with ERS. This discrepancy is confirmed during the overlapping period of the satellite products. Therefore, data from ERS do not seem to capture the strong cross‐shore wind gradient in that area, while QuikSCAT renders at least part of it. These differences are dramatically enhanced when computing the wind stress curl along the coast: estimates of Ekman pumping obtained from QuikSCAT data in a coastal band are 2–3 times higher than those achieved with ERS data.
Dynamic rupture along bimaterial interfaces in 3D
Authors: Brietzke G. B. , Cochard A. , Igel H.
Published: June 2007

We perform numerical simulations of dynamic rupture propagation on a plane in a model consisting of two different elastic half spaces connected via a planar frictional interface governed by regularized Coulomb friction. Therefore, ruptures in this study are purely driven by the presence of a material contrast. Ruptures are nucleated on the fault using a circular symmetric expanding increase of pore‐pressure in a limited source region. We show how a wrinkle‐like rupture pulse can mature also in the 3D case where we have a mixing of in‐plane and anti‐plane modes, the instability specific of a bimaterial interface acting only for the in‐plane mode. The pulse develops inside a cone‐shaped region with its axis aligned with the direction of displacement in the softer material, its tip being at the nucleation region.
Vanishing viscosity limit for an incompressible fluid with concentrated vorticity
Authors: Marchioro Carlo
Published: June 2007

We study an incompressible fluid with a sharply concentrated vorticity moving in the whole space. First, we review some known results for the inviscid case, which prove, in particular situations, the local induction approximation. Then, we discuss the vanishing viscosity limit and we state a new result valid for a smoke ring with a very large radius.
Optical phonons via oblique-incidence infrared spectroscopy and their deformation potentials in In1−xGaxAs
Authors: Lockwood D. J. , Yu G. , Rowell N. L. , Poole P. J.
Published: June 2007

The concentration dependence of optical phonons in In1−xGaxAs epilayers grown by chemical beam epitaxy and lattice matched to InP(100), where the epilayer strain is zero for x=0.46809, has been characterized for 0.25<x<0.8 with polarized far infrared reflectivity measurements at an oblique angle of incidence. In this method, the reflectance spectra contain sharp Berreman peaks exactly at the optic phonon frequencies. For radiation polarized in the plane of incidence (p polarized), Berreman peaks for both transverse optic (TO) and longitudinal optic (LO) modes are observed, whereas for s polarization only TO modes are seen. The derivatives of the measured spectra were fitted to Lorentzian line shapes to evaluate the various phonon modes, which included GaAs-like TO and LO phonons, disorder induced TO and LO modes, and InAs-like TO and LO phonons. The concentration dependences of the phonon frequencies were used to estimate the phonon deformation potentials of the bulk alloy. Indirect evidence is obtained for LO mode repulsion at low x values from the concentration dependences of the GaAs-like modes in both strained and bulk In1−xGaxAs and from an unphysical variation with x of the GaAs-like LO phonon deformation potential.
Kinetic Alfvén waves and electron physics. I. Generation from ion-ion streaming
Authors: Yin L. , Winske D. , Daughton W. , Bowers K. J.
Published: June 2007

Short-wavelength kinetic Alfvén waves (KAWs) that propagate at large angles with respect to the magnetic field and interact with both electrons and ions have broad application to laboratory and space plasmas. Using linear Vlasov theory and particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations, the generation of KAWs by ion-ion streaming along the magnetic field at relatively low (2.5× the Alfvén speed) and low plasma beta (ratio of plasma thermal pressure to magnetic pressure ⩽0.1) are investigated. The instability has been examined previously using linear theory and a hybrid simulation method in which the ions are treated kinetically and the electrons as an adiabatic fluid. In this work it is found that when the electron Landau resonance factor or equivalently the ratio of the Alfvén speed to the electron thermal speed is large enough, the interaction of KAWs with the electrons produces strong parallel electron heating. The electron parallel heating in turn increases both the wave growth rates and the range of unstable modes of the instability, leading to enhanced saturated wave levels, increased perpendicular ion heating and larger spatial fluctuations in the drift speeds of the ions that appear as greater reductions of relative ion streaming in localized regions, compared to results from hybrid simulations. The interaction of KAWs with the electrons shifts from the bulk to the tail of the parallel velocity distribution at larger values of the resonant factor, corresponding to situations at lower electron beta or more obliquely propagating waves. Ion-to-electron mass ratio effects are considered together with the scaling to electron beta and the resonant factor in order to apply the results to systems of interest. In particular, KAWs and electron kinetics are discussed in the context of oblique slow shock formation and structure [Yin et al., Phys. Plasmas 14, 062105 (2007)].
Boundary-driven nonequilibrium gas flow in a grooved channel via kinetic theory
Authors: Naris Steryios , Valougeorgis Dimitris
Published: June 2007

The nonequilibrium flow of a gas in a two-dimensional grooved channel, due to the motion of the wall of the channel, is investigated based on kinetic theory. The presence of the rectangular grooves that are placed periodically on the stationary wall results in a two-dimensional flow pattern. The problem is modeled by the linearized Bhatnagar-Gross-Krook (BGK) and S-model kinetic equations, which are solved for the corresponding perturbed distribution functions by the discrete velocity method. Maxwell diffuse type reflecting boundary conditions are used to model the gas-surface interaction, while periodic boundary conditions are imposed at the inlet and outlet of the channel. The computed macroscopic quantities of practical interest include velocity profiles, contours of pressure, density, and temperature, as well as the flow rate and the heat flux through the channel and the drag coefficient along the moving boundary. The results are valid in the whole range of the Knudsen number, from the free molecular regime through the transition and slip regimes up to the hydrodynamic limit, for various values of the depth and the width of the groove and the periodic length of the channel. A comparison between the BGK and S-model results is performed. Several interesting flow patterns and characteristics are examined in terms of the geometrical parameters of the flow configuration, including an unexpected behavior of the velocity profile across the channel at large Knudsen numbers.
Theoretical studies toward understanding the excited state dynamics of a bichromophoric molecule
Authors: Gao Fang , Zhao Yi , Liang WanZhen
Published: June 2007

By means of the time-dependent density functional theory, the authors study the torsional dynamics of the lowest singlet electronic excited state (S1) of a bichromophoric molecule, 2-(9-anthryl)-1H-imidazo [4,5-f]-phenanthroline (AIP). The intramolecular dynamical relaxation process, the S1 potential energy surface, and the vibrationally resolved electronic absorption and fluorescence spectra are estimated. The results reveal that the strong electron-nuclear coupling leads to a dynamic structural distortion in S1 state so that the mirror-image symmetry of absorption and fluorescence spectra of AIP breaks down. The torsional motion between the donor and acceptor moieties in AIP favors the intramolecular electronic energy transfer process. The transfer rate is dominated by the relaxation time along S1 low-frequency torsional motion.
Improvement of speech recognition by nonlinear noise reduction
Authors: Urbanowicz Krzysztof , Kantz Holger
Published: June 2007

The success of nonlinear noise reduction applied to a single channel recording of human voice is measured in terms of the recognition rate of a commercial speech recognition program in comparison to the optimal linear filter. The overall performance of the nonlinear method is shown to be superior. We hence demonstrate that an algorithm that has its roots in the theory of nonlinear deterministic dynamics possesses a large potential in a realistic application.
Transition between collapsed state phases and the critical swelling of a hydrogen bonding gel: Poly(methacrylic acid-co-dimethyl acrylamide)
Authors: Yılmaz Yaşar
Published: June 2007

Transition between collapsed state phases and discontinuous volume phase transition for a hydrogen bonding gel, poly(methacrylic acid-co-dimethyl acrylamide), were observed by using both the volume measurements and fluorescence intensity of the pyranine fluoroprobe (8-hydroxypyrene-1,3,6-trisulfonic acid trisodium salt) bonded to the gel by means of electrostatic interactions. In the collapsed state, while there is no appreciable change in the volume of the gel, a considerable variation in the fluorescence intensity occurred around 30°C signaling a second order phase transition between collapsed state phases, from relatively frozen to a fluctuating phase. Our analysis of the data around 30°C indicates that the critical point of gel volume transition belongs to the so-called mean-field universality class, as predicted in Onuki [Phys. Rev. A 38, 2192 (1988)] and by Golubovic and Lubensky [Phys. Rev. Lett. 63, 1082 (1989)]. The relaxation time for the equilibrium swelling critically depends on the temperature and diverges near 60°C, where both fluorescence intensity and the volume of the gel change drastically and indicate the discontinuous volume phase transition. The swelling kinetics of the critical gel during the discontinuous volume phase transition can be modeled best with the first term in the expansion of the Li-Tanaka equation for a long initial period of the swelling time.
Energy-recycling pixel for active-matrix organic light-emitting diode display
Authors: Yang Che-Yu , Cho Ting-Yi , Chen Yen-Yu , Yang Chih-Jen , Meng Chao-Yu , Yang Chieh-Hung , Yang Po-Chuan , Chang Hsu-Yu , Hsueh Chun-Yuan , Wu Chung-Chih , Lee Si-Chen
Published: June 2007

The authors report a pixel structure for active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays that has a hydrogenated amorphous silicon solar cell inserted between the driving polycrystalline Si thin-film transistor and the pixel OLED. Such an active-matrix OLED pixel structure not only exhibits a reduced reflection (and thus improved contrast) compared to conventional OLEDs but also is capable of recycling both incident photon energies and internally generated OLED radiation. Such a feature of energy recycling may be of use for portable/mobile electronics, which are particularly power aware.
Silicon on insulator for symmetry-converted growth
Authors: Fujikawa Y. , Yamada-Takamura Y. , Yoshikawa G. , Ono T. , Esashi M. , Zhang P. P. , Lagally M. G. , Sakurai T.
Published: June 2007

Integration of metals and semiconductors having three- or sixfold symmetry on device-oriented [i.e., (001)] silicon wafers, which have fourfold symmetry, has been a long-standing challenge. The authors demonstrate that, by using symmetry-converted (111) silicon on insulator, wurtzite-structure gallium nitride, which has threefold symmetry, can be integrated with Si(001). The stability of the symmetry-converted Si(111) layer makes this technique appealing to the commercial integration of wide-ranging important materials onto Si(001) base wafers.
Dramatic change of guiding properties in heavily Yb-doped, soft-glass active fibers caused by optical pumping
Authors: Polynkin Pavel , Temyanko Valery , Moloney Jerome , Peyghambarian N.
Published: June 2007

The authors report experimentally observed qualitative changes of the waveguiding properties in ytterbium-doped fibers with high concentration of doping when the fibers are optically pumped with light at the 975nm wavelength. They found that when concentration of Yb2O3 in a single-mode fiber exceeds ∼10wt.% and the pump power is gradually increased, the fiber first looses index-induced guidance, and then regains guidance as the population inversion in Yb+3 ions becomes sufficient for gain guiding. The associated variation of the mode-field diameter is a practically important effect that will complicate design and operation of fiber lasers and amplifiers based on highly Yb-doped glass.
Determination of Epithelial Na+ Channel Subunit Stoichiometry from Single-Channel Conductances
Authors: Anantharam Arun , Palmer Lawrence G.
Published: June 2007

The epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) is a multimeric membrane protein consisting of three subunits, α, β, and γ. The total number of subunits per functional channel complex has been described variously to follow either a tetrameric arrangement of 2α:1β:1γ or a higher-ordered stoichiometry of 3α:3β:3γ. Therefore, while it is clear that all three ENaC subunits are required for full channel activity, the number of the subunits required remains controversial. We used a new approach, based on single-channel measurements in Xenopus oocytes to address this issue. Individual mutations that alter single-channel conductance were made in pore-lining residues of ENaC α, β, or γ subunits. Recordings from patches in oocytes expressing a single species, wild type or mutant, of α, β, and γ showed a well-defined current transition amplitude with a single Gaussian distribution. When cRNAs for all three wild-type subunits were mixed with an equimolar amount of a mutant α-subunit (either S589D or S592T), amplitudes corresponding to pure wild-type or mutant conductances could be observed in the same patch, along with a third intermediate amplitude most likely arising from channels with at least one wild-type and at least 1 mutant α-subunit. However, intermediate or hybrid conductances were not observed with coexpression of wild-type and mutant βG529A or γG534E subunits. Our results support a tetrameric arrangement of ENaC subunits where 2α, 1β, and 1γ come together around central pore.
Epidemiology of Infection and Colonization With Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci and Frequency of Cocolonization With Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Children
Authors: Benson Lacey , Sprague Bruce , Campos Joseph , Singh Nalini
Published: June 2007

We report the descriptive and molecular epidemiology of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) infection and colonization and cocolonization with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in children. Interunit and intraunit spread of VRE was detected, and 8 cases of VRE-MRSA cocolonization were identified. Seven of these cases were identified only via active surveillance, because clinical evidence of VRE colonization was absent.
Review of Clinical Trials of Skin Antiseptic Agents Used to Reduce Blood Culture Contamination
Authors: Malani Anurag , Trimble Kim , Parekh Vikas , Chenoweth Carol , Kaufman Samuel , Saint Sanjay
Published: June 2007

False-positive blood culture results may lead to prolonged hospitalization, inappropriate antibiotic administration, and increased healthcare costs. We conducted a review of the literature to assess the effect of skin antiseptic agents on the rate of false-positive blood culture Results. We found no clear evidence to suggest which antiseptic should be used to prevent false-positive Results. Studies suggest, however, a possible benefit from the use of prepackaged skin antiseptic kits and alcohol-containing antiseptics.
Alcohol dependence with comorbid drug dependence: genetic and phenotypic associations suggest a more severe form of the disorder with stronger genetic contribution to risk*
Authors: Dick Danielle M. , Agrawal Arpana , Wang Jen C. , Hinrichs Anthony , Bertelsen Sarah , Bucholz Kathleen K. , Schuckit Marc , Kramer John , Nurnberger John , Tischfield Jay , Edenberg Howard J. , Goate Alison , Bierut Laura J.
Published: June 2007

Background  Twin data suggest that alcohol dependence comorbid with illicit drug dependence represents a more heritable form of the disorder. In the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism sample, approximately half the alcohol‐dependent individuals also meet diagnostic criteria for illicit drug dependence. In this study, we tested for heterogeneity in the association between the muscarinic acetylcholine M2 receptor gene (CHRM2) and alcohol dependence, reported previously in the full sample, among the subgroups of alcohol‐dependent individuals with and without comorbid drug dependence.

Methods  Family‐based association tests were conducted separately (a) in individuals with alcohol dependence with comorbid drug dependence (n = 477) and (b) in individuals with alcohol dependence without comorbid drug dependence (n = 433). These subgroups were subsequently compared on other phenotypic characteristics.

Results  The evidence for association between CHRM2 and alcohol dependence came entirely from the subgroup of individuals with comorbid drug dependence. There was no evidence of association with CHRM2 among the alcohol‐dependent individuals without drug dependence. Subsequent phenotypic analyses suggest that the subgroup of alcohol‐dependent individuals with comorbid drug dependence differ on a number of other phenotypic characteristics, including several measures of the severity of their alcohol problems, personality traits and comorbid psychiatric disorders.

Conclusions  These analyses provide specific genetic evidence suggesting that alcohol dependence with comorbid drug dependence represents a particularly severe form of the disorder, with higher genetic contribution to vulnerability.
Combined coronary artery bypass grafting and phaeochromocytoma excision
Authors: To A. C. Y. , Frost C. , Grey A. B. , Croxson M. S. , Cooper J.
Published: June 2007

We report two patients who had successful combined coronary artery bypass grafting and excision of phaeochromocytoma. These cases represent the first reports of combined coronary artery bypass grafting and laparoscopic adrenalectomy for phaeochromocytoma and of combined coronary artery bypass grafting and excision of extra‐adrenal phaeochromocytoma. With careful peri‐ and intra‐operative management, especially in regard to haemostasis, combined operations for coronary artery disease and phaeochromocytoma are both feasible and safe.
13C and 15N in microarthropods reveal little response of Douglas‐fir ecosystems to climate change
Authors: HOBBIE ERIK A. , RYGIEWICZ PAUL T. , JOHNSON MARK G. , MOLDENKE ANDREW R.
Published: June 2007

Understanding ecosystem carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling under global change requires experiments maintaining natural interactions among soil structure, soil communities, nutrient availability, and plant growth. In model Douglas‐fir ecosystems maintained for five growing seasons, elevated temperature and carbon dioxide (CO2) increased photosynthesis and increased C storage belowground but not aboveground. We hypothesized that interactions between N cycling and C fluxes through two main groups of microbes, mycorrhizal fungi (symbiotic with plants) and saprotrophic fungi (free‐living), mediated ecosystem C storage. To quantify proportions of mycorrhizal and saprotrophic fungi, we measured stable isotopes in fungivorous microarthropods that efficiently censused the fungal community. Fungivorous microarthropods consumed on average 35% mycorrhizal fungi and 65% saprotrophic fungi. Elevated temperature decreased C flux through mycorrhizal fungi by 7%, whereas elevated CO2 increased it by 4%. The dietary proportion of mycorrhizal fungi correlated across treatments with total plant biomass (n= 4, r2= 0.96, P= 0.021), but not with root biomass. This suggests that belowground allocation increased with increasing plant biomass, but that mycorrhizal fungi were stronger sinks for recent photosynthate than roots. Low N content of needles (0.8–1.1%) and A horizon soil (0.11%) coupled with high C : N ratios of A horizon soil (25–26) and litter (36–48) indicated severe N limitation. Elevated temperature treatments increased the saprotrophic decomposition of litter and lowered litter C : N ratios. Because of low N availability of this litter, its decomposition presumably increased N immobilization belowground, thereby restricting soil N availability for both mycorrhizal fungi and plant growth. Although increased photosynthesis with elevated CO2 increased allocation of C to ectomycorrhizal fungi, it did not benefit plant N status. Most N for plants and soil storage was derived from litter decomposition. N sequestration by mycorrhizal fungi and limited N release during litter decomposition by saprotrophic fungi restricted N supply to plants, thereby constraining plant growth response to the different treatments.
Survival after breast cancer treatment: the impact of provider volume
Authors: Bailie Karen , Dobie Iain , Kirk Stephen , Donnelly Michael
Published: June 2007

Background  Research has not paid sufficient attention to the need for adequate case‐mix adjustment in studies of the relationship between provider volume and performance. This study attempted to address this limitation by capturing and including 5‐year survival outcomes and a wide range of case‐mix variables in multivariate analyses of the volume–outcome relationship relating to breast cancer treatments.

Methods  All patients diagnosed with invasive primary breast cancer during 1996 (n = 809) were included. Patient, disease and treatment data were extracted from medical records; survival data were corroborated using official death registrations. A Cox proportional hazards approach was used to model relationships between patient, disease and service variables and risk of death.

Results  There were 262 deaths among 807 patients followed up; overall 5‐year survival was 70%. Advancing age, higher levels of co‐morbidity, late‐stage disease, more positive nodes, and high‐grade tumour were independently associated with lower survival (P < 0.05). Patients who received hormonal therapy (HR 0.50, 95% CI 0.28–0.89) and radiotherapy (HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.53–1.03) had a survival advantage. Using a cut‐off point of ≥30 cases per annum, survival was lower for patients treated in low volume settings (HR 1.47, 95% CI 1.09–1.96) after adjustment for case mix.

Conclusions  There was some evidence to support treatment in high volume settings although patient and disease variables were the major determinants of survival for patients with breast cancer.
Hospital doctors’ views of factors influencing their prescribing
Authors: Ljungberg Christina , Lindblad Åsa Kettis , Tully Mary Patricia
Published: June 2007

Rationale, aim and objective  Factors influencing doctors in prescribing of drugs have mostly been studied in primary care. Studies performed in hospital care have primarily focused on new drugs, not prescribing in general. An in‐depth understanding of the prescribing process in the more specialized secondary care is not only important for secondary care itself, but because it also influences prescribing in primary care. The aim of this study is therefore to identify factors that secondary care doctors believe influence them in prescribing drugs, using a qualitative approach.

Method  Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 15 hospital doctors in different medical specialities and the interviews were analysed from an interpretivist perspective. The information gathered was on how prescribing decisions were made in general and how the doctors chose a specific drug therapy, including information sources used.

Results  According to our interviews, the hospital doctors took patient‐specific factors and cost into consideration when prescribing, informed by different written information sources and commercial verbal information. Personal practice, colleagues and therapeutic tradition at the hospital or clinic, were influential in the prescribing of drugs. The themes identified should not to be seen as individual influences; many of them probably act in combination.

Conclusions  If changes in prescribing behaviour are desired, factors warranting more attention include understanding how to influence therapeutic traditions and the doctor’s personal habits for prescribing. The importance of clinical experience and information exchange with colleagues should not be underestimated in providing information about drugs to hospital doctors.
The HvDOF19 transcription factor mediates the abscisic acid‐dependent repression of hydrolase genes in germinating barley aleurone
Authors: Moreno‐Risueno Miguel Ángel , Díaz Isabel , Carrillo Laura , Fuentes Rebeca , Carbonero Pilar
Published: June 2007

Upon germination of seed cereals, mobilization of the reserves stored in the endosperm is regulated by the phytohormones gibberellins (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA). In barley, the cis regulatory elements and the trans‐acting factors mediating the ABA response of hydrolase genes remain elusive. Two new barley genes, HvDof17 and HvDof19, encoding transcription factors (TFs) of the DNA binding with one finger (DOF) class have been characterized and their role upon germination investigated. HvDOF19 binds in a specific manner to the pyrimidine box within the GARC of a thiol‐protease gene (Al21), and mediates the ABA repression of this gene in the barley aleurone. Silencing of HvDof19 in transient expression assays diminishes the inhibitory effect of ABA upon expression of the Al21 gene promoter. Transcripts from HvDof17 and HvDof19 accumulate early in germinating aleurones with a peak at 16 h after seed imbibition (hai), whereas the mRNAs of the GA‐induced activator GAMYB remain little expressed. At 48 hai, mRNA content of both genes is comparatively insignificant compared with that of GAMYB, which reaches a maximum. Both TFs repress, in transient expression assays, the GA‐ and the GAMYB‐mediated activation of this thiol‐protease gene (Al21). In addition, HvDOF17 and HvDOF19 interact with GAMYB in plant cell nuclei, and HvDOF17, but not HvDOF19, interferes with the DNA binding of GAMYB to its target site in the promoter of the Al21 gene. A regulatory model of hydrolase gene expression upon germination is proposed.
Penetrating keratoplasty in a California Brown Pelican
Authors: Lynch Gwendolyn L. , Scagliotti Randall H. , Hoffman Allison , Dubielzig Richard R.
Published: June 2007

Fresh homologous penetrating keratoplasty (PK) was performed on the left cornea of a young adult female California Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) for the treatment of vision‐threatening corneal scarring and granulation tissue. The procedure appeared to be highly successful based on short‐term clinical follow‐up and histopathology results. However, the patient died from unrelated causes before long‐term follow‐up could be obtained.
High‐normal levels of albuminuria predict the development of micro‐ and macroalbuminuria and increased mortality in Brazilian Type 2 diabetic patients: an 8‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Murussi M. , Campagnolo N. , Beck M. O. , Gross J. L. , Silveiro S. P.
Published: June 2007

Aim  To analyse the risk factors for the development of micro‐ and macroalbuminuria and mortality rates in a cohort of normoalbuminuric Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients.

Methods  In this prospective study, 193 Type 2 DM patients with urinary albumin excretion (UAE) < 20 µg/min, 96 men (50%), aged 56.5 ± 9 years, were followed for a mean period of 8 ± 3 years. UAE and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; Modification of Diet in Renal Disease) were measured. The outcomes were development of persistent micro‐ and macroalbuminuria and mortality.

Results  Twenty patients were lost to follow‐up. Of the 173 remaining patients, 33 (19%) died. The Cox analysis [hazard ratio (HR), 95% confidence interval] revealed that the baseline significant predictors of mortality were higher UAE [above median (5 µg/min); HR 2.7, 1.2–6.1; P = 0.02], male sex (HR  3.9, 1.7–9.2; P = 0.002), age (HR 1.6, 1.3–1.9; P = 0.0001), and fasting plasma glucose (HR 1.2, 1.1–1.3; P = 0.004). Smoking and eGFR were not significant in this model. Follow‐up renal data were available for 158 patients: 34 (22%) progressed to microalbuminuria and seven (4%) to macroalbuminuria, and the baseline predictors were a higher UAE (> 5 µg/min, HR 2.5, 1.2–5.1; P = 0.02), presence of diabetic retinopathy (HR 2.5, 1.3–5.0; P = 0.009), fasting glucose (HR 1.1, 1.0–1.2; P = 0.015), and male sex (HR 2.2, 1.1–4.7; P = 0.04), independently of smoking and hypertension. Lower GFR (HR 0.98, 0.97–1.00; P = 0.07) was of borderline significance.

Conclusions  In normoalbuminuric Type 2 DM patients, the development of micro‐ or macroalbuminuria and mortality rates was independently and positively associated with higher levels of albuminuria, although still in the traditionally established normal range.
Is There Now a Political Climate for Policy Change? Policy and Politics after the Stern Review
Authors: JORDAN ANDREW , LORENZONI IRENE
Published: June 2007

Climate change is fuelling a significant renaissance in the national environmental movement in the UK. The broad aim of this article is better to understand the extent to which the 2006 Stern Review on climate change marked a decisive turning point in the battle against climate change or just another missed opportunity. Labelled as the most comprehensive review of the economics of climate change ever produced, the Stern Review was commissioned by the Chancellor in the summer of 2005 as part of the G8 Gleneagles Dialogue on Climate Change. The main themes of and reactions to the Stern Review are analysed against the backdrop of changing domestic party politics. Then, the follow through in terms of new political and policy pronouncements is examined. It is concluded that finding a way to tie together domestic and international actions on climate change represents an enormously tricky political challenge for whoever succeeds Blair as prime minister.
Mixed Unemployment and Differentiated Policies
Authors: Cette Gilbert , Taddei Dominique
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT: The works related to the disequilibrium theory often show that situations of classical unemployment and of Keynesian unemployment coexist on a long‐term basis. The following study deals with a theoretical model of mixed unemployment reflecting this coexistence. In this model, prices are assumed to be flexible upward, but not downward. Hence, classical unemployment leads to inflation, without quantitative rationing on demand, which is closer to reality.

The study analyses the asymmetric relations between the classical and the Keynesian sectors as well as the resulting implications for economic policy. What comes out is that differentiated policies always have a stronger impact than aggregate policies. The highest level of efficiency is obtained by stimulating the supply of firms set in the classical situation, provided that one acts on the non‐wage determinants of supply in order not to further depress the outlets for firms set in the Keynesian situation.
Twenty Years after the Hot Autumn: Work and Politics in Italy from Rupture to Change
Authors: Regini Marino , Lange Peter
Published: June 2007

Abstract. In the first paper the authors make a critical analysis of the interpretations and models generally used for it caso italiano(the Italian Case) and propose explanations that are not one‐sided, and that take into account all the elements of continuity which characterised the various phases of these last twenty years.

The second paper examines the institutional features of the Italian industrial relations system, and underlines its ‘constant characteristic’. that is. its under‐institutionalisation. The author emphasises the negative effects of these institutional shortcomings, and shows concern that the much exalted ‘flexibility’ of the Italian system could be detrimental, rather than positive, as it derives from these shortcomings.

The note by Guido Romagnoli. attempts to use some theoretical statements on union behaviour, as the key to interpret the events of the Italian case. The author then indicates some aspects and reasons for the crisis of Italian unions.

The fourth paper examines the relationship of the unions with the Italian political system over the last twenty years. This article suggests that it is characterised by considerable continuity in stabilising this political system, both in phases of strength and in times of weakness. This stabilising role has. however, not been reciprocated; in fact, not only has the political system not stabilised the unions and industrial relations, but has become a major obstacle to their strategic reorientation.

The last paper in this group of essays on the Autunno Caldo offers what could be termed an ‘institutional’ explanation of union continuity, analysing the various phases of collective mobilisation. political exchange and flexibility, and examines the relationships between the social actors during these phases.

The selection of papers published here is in memoriam of our colleague and friend Guido Romagnoli, who suddenly died shortly after the conference. For this reason it includes the outline that he presented at that conference which he could not develop into a full article.
Inequalities in Entry to Higher Education: a Comparison Over Time between Scotland and England and Wales
Authors: Iannelli Cristina
Published: June 2007

This paper uses data from the Scottish School Leavers Surveys and the England and Wales Youth Cohort Study to analyse changes over time in gender and social class inequalities in the opportunities of young people to participate in higher education (HE) in Scotland, England and Wales. The results show that in Great Britain, in the period from the end of the 1980s to 2001–2002, HE expansion has benefited more women than men, and in the most recent time points has led to a reduction in social inequalities. However, gender and social class differences persist at degree level and in the choice of subject studied. The results also show that higher proportions of working class students enter HE in Scotland than in England and Wales, but that social inequalities are more marked in Scotland. The larger availability of vocational routes in Scotland, at both sub‐degree and degree level, may explain country differences in HE participation rate of working class students.
Does Higher Education Need a Hippocratic Oath?
Authors: Watson David
Published: June 2007

Taking as a starting point Eric Ashby's proposal that academic staff should swear to inculcate ‘the discipline of constructive dissent’, this paper explores the question of whether or not contemporary society's ethical expectations of higher education should be codified. Three types of relationship between the university and its communities are explored: ‘first order’, arising from the university just being there; ‘second order’, being largely structured by contracts; and ‘third’ order, between the institution and its members. This leads to discussion of partnerships, stakeholding, of governance, of the public interest and of academic citizenship. Ashby's approach to academic values is then contrasted with that of the Institute of Business Ethics and the Council for Industry and Higher Education, as well as Macfarlane's concept of academic virtues. The author concludes with a proposed set of ‘10 commandments’ for members of universities and colleges.
A Framework for Transition: Supporting ‘Learning to Learn’ in Higher Education
Authors: Wingate Ursula
Published: June 2007

In this paper, a framework for developing first‐year students' learning is proposed. Its aim is to increase university managers' and teachers' awareness of two issues: (1) that the currently predominant ‘skills’ approaches to the enhancement of student learning are based on a deficiency model and achieve little more than remedying the overt problems of individual students and (2) that a holistic, subject‐specific approach is needed to support all students in the complex process of learning to learn in higher education. The framework aims at facilitating transition to university by helping students to understand what is expected from them at university, by addressing their conceptions of learning and knowledge and by gradually developing their competence as independent learners as well as their competence in constructing knowledge in their discipline. Different contexts are used to apply complementary methods for the development of learning.

As the framework relies on the engagement of academic teachers, it is critical that university managers and policy makers give appropriate recognition to effective teaching. This involves instigating changes in conceptions of teaching, providing opportunities for educational development and setting incentives for teachers' commitment to student learning.
Determinants of Migraine Emergency Department Utilization in the Georgia Medicaid Population
Authors: Kwong Winghan J.
Published: June 2007

Objective.—This study examined factors that may predispose migraine patients to emergency department (ED) visits.

Background.—Headache is noted as the sixth most common reason for ED visits. Previous studies found that migraine headache patients may repeatedly use ED services for headache care. An understanding of the profile of patients who are at high risk of using the ED is important so that interventions to reduce ED use for nonurgent care can be targeted to those that are affected the most.

Methods.—Retrospective analysis of medical and prescription claims data was performed. Patients who had at least 1 migraine medical claim (ICD‐9 of 346.xx) or 1 prescription claim of a triptan or ergot medication between January 2002 and December 2005, and were continuously eligible for at least 6 months before and 12 months after the date of the first migraine medical or prescription claim (index date) were included in the analysis.

Results.—A total of 43,791 migraine patients met the inclusion criteria. Mean age was 31 years (SD = 17). About 77% were females and 56% were whites. About 7% patients used a butalbital medication and 28% used a narcotic medication 6 months before index date. About 3% (n = 1211) patients had at least 1 migraine ED visit during the 12 months after index date. Female, non‐white patients or patients residing in counties that had fewer general practice physicians or more hospitals were significantly more likely to use the ED for migraine. Prior butalbital use had no effect on ED use, but prior narcotic medication use significantly increased the risk of ED visit.

Conclusions.—Patient demographics and health care resource availability significantly affected the likelihood of ED use of diagnosed migraine patients. Additional research is needed for the undiagnosed migraine population to inform the development of interventions to reduce ED utilization for migraines.
Heart Failure Practice Improvement Effort in the Outpatient Setting: A Health Care Financing Administration Initiative to Improve the Care of Medicare Beneficiaries with Heart Failure
Authors: Taylor Jane P. , Mulgrew Christine L. , Hayes Risa , Ordin Diana L. , Havranek Edward P.
Published: June 2007

This column is the fourth in a series describing Health Care Financing Administration initiatives to improve care for Medicare beneficiaries with heart failure. The first three papers addressed the background, design, and baseline results of the Health Care Financing Administration national initiative to improve quality of inpatient care for heart failure through the activities of each state's Health Care Financing Administration contractor Peer Review Organization. This paper describes a smaller‐scale but equally important endeavor: the Heart Failure Practice Improvement Effort, a pilot project to test the feasibility of assessing and improving heart failure care in the outpatient setting.
Familial Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Pahlevan Ioana , Longergan‐Thomas Helen , Ande Sewit , Burks James , Robin Erwin , Petropulos Tom , Silver Marc A.
Published: June 2007

While originally thought to be uncommon, familial dilated cardiomyopathy may occur quite often. Aside from symptoms of heart failure, these forms of dilated cardiomyopathy may be associated with arrhythmias and sudden death. The case detailed describes such a patient and emphasizes the importance of a careful family history. Also discussed is the importance of screening of first‐ and second‐degree relatives of these patients.
Optimal Use of Spironolactone for Treatment of Heart Failure
Authors: Parker Kathleen M. , Miller Nancy Houston , DeBusk Robert F.
Published: June 2007

Spironolactone has recently been shown to have a favorable impact on the prognosis and functional status of patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and severe symptoms who are receiving standard therapy. However, participants in clinical studies of spironolactone represent a selected group. Clinicians managing a less selected group must be mindful of selection criteria and appropriate methods to monitor patients who are initiated on these medications. In this review, two case studies are described that demonstrate the importance of careful selection of candidates for spironolactone, the need for close laboratory and symptom monitoring, and the need for patients' active participation in reporting changes in their clinical status.
The Renin‐Angiotensin‐Aldosterone System and Vascular Remodeling
Authors: Sun Yao
Published: June 2007

Cardiac fibrosis can be accompanied initially by diastolic and ultimately by systolic ventricular dysfunction. Clinical and experimental evidence suggests a clear association between such adverse structural remodeling and activation of the circulating renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system (RAAS). Infusion of either of two RAAS effector hormones, angiotensin II and aldosterone, in rats evokes perivascular fibrosis of arteries and arterioles of the heart and kidneys. Additionally, increasing evidence indicates locally produced angiotensin II and aldosterone have important paracrine and autocrine actions that play a role in vascular remodeling. Both angiotensin II and aldosterone receptor antagonists have been shown to attenuate the appearance of cardiac and renal fibrosis.