bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring in Secondary Arterial Hypertension Due to Adrenal Diseases
Authors: Ceruti Michele , Petramala Luigi , Cotesta Dario , Cerci Sabrina , Serra Valentino , Caliumi Chiara , Iorio Monica , De Toma Giorgio , Ciardi Antonio , Vitolo Domenico , Letizia Claudio
Published: February 2007

The aim of this study was to evaluate ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in patients with essential hypertension and hypertension caused by adrenal pathology. Sixty‐six patients with primary aldosteronism, 37 with pheochromocytomas, and 45 with adrenal incidentalomas were included. These patients were compared with 152 essential hypertensive patients and 64 normotensive subjects. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring evaluated daytime and nighttime systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate. The authors found that the “nondipper” phenomenon was present in 51.5% of patients with primary aldosteronism, 43.2% with pheochromocytomas, 42.2% with incidentalomas, 34.2% with hypertension, and 15% of subjects who were normotensive. In 58% of primary aldosteronism patients with idiopathic adrenal hyperplasia, there was an absence of the physiologic blood pressure nocturnal fall (nondipper), which was statistically significant (P<.001) compared with nondipper primary aldosteronism patients with adrenocortical adenoma (38%). In conclusion, the prevalence of the nondipping pattern was higher in patients with adrenal hypertension compared with patients with essential hypertension, suggesting an independent cardiovascular risk factor.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Authors: Prisant L. Michael , Dillard Thomas A. , Blanchard Amy R.
Published: February 2007

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is caused by upper airway collapse during inspiration, causing intermittent hypoxemia, hypercapnia, acidosis, sympathetic nervous system activation, and arousal from sleep. Nighttime blood pressure is higher, but unexpectedly, daytime hypertension occurs. The prevalence of hypertension is very high and the incidence of hypertension increases as the number of apneic and hypopneic events per hour rises. Obesity is a major predisposing factor for the development of obstructive sleep apnea. Daytime sleepiness, snoring, and breathing pauses are important symptoms to elicit from the patient or sleep partner. Resistant hypertension is an important clue. Overnight polysomnography is required for diagnosis. Weight loss, avoidance of nocturnal sedatives, cessation of evening alcohol ingestion, and avoidance of the supine position during sleep are initial therapeutic actions in mild obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Continuous positive airway pressure is the treatment of choice for patients unable to find relief from lifestyle changes. Blood pressure modestly improves with treatment.
Lower or higher doses for prophylactic platelet transfusions: results of a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Cid Joan , Lozano Miguel
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND: There are conflicting data regarding the optimal platelet (PLT) dose to transfuse prophylactically to patients with thrombocytopenia. A meta‐analysis has been performed to summarize the results of different randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: RCTs reported through December 2005 were retrieved; five of them met the criteria for meta‐analysis. Weighted mean difference (WMD) of posttransfusion PLT count increment (×109/L) and transfusion interval (days) and summary odds ratio (OR) of bleeding in higher PLT dose group (HDP) versus lower PLT dose group (LDP), according to the authors, were calculated across studies.

RESULTS: The use of HDP was associated with an increase in the transfusion interval (WMD, 1.04 days; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.89‐1.19; p < 0.00001) when compared with the use of LDP. When the studies that guaranteed the ABO compatibility of the PLT transfusions were combined, the use of HDP was statistically associated with an increase in the posttransfusion PLT count increment when compared with the LDP group (WMD, 23.6 × 109/L; 95% CI, 18.28 × 109 to 28.92 × 109/L; p < 0.00001). When bleeding was studied, data were available in only three studies and the hypothesis of homogeneity was rejected, in 4 of 10 subgroups analyses.

CONCLUSION: Few RCTs have addressed the issue of PLT dose for transfusion. It is shown that the transfusion of higher doses of PLTs is statistically associated with an increase in the transfusion interval and in the posttransfusion PLT count increment. A well‐designed study of enough power is essential to establish the most effective and efficient dose for prophylactic PLT transfusions.
Establishment of cell lines stably expressing HNA‐1a, ‐1b, and ‐2a antigen with low background reactivity in flow cytometric analysis
Authors: Yasui Kazuta , Miyazaki Toru , Matsuyama Nobuki , Kojima Yoshitaka , Furuta Rika A. , Fujisawa Jun‐ichi , Tani Yoshihiko , Shibata Hirotoshi , Sato Shin‐ichirou , Kato Toshiaki , Ikeda Hisami , Hirayama Fumiya
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND:Antibodies to neutrophil antigens have been implicated in neonatal alloimmune neutropenia, autoimmune neutropenia, and transfusion‐related acute lung injury. Most often, neutrophil‐specific antibodies are directed toward human neutrophil antigen (HNA)‐1 (Fcγ receptor 3b) and HNA‐2a (CD177) in these disorders.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:To detect the alloantibodies in the serum samples, a panel of cell lines was established in which the HNA‐1a, HNA‐1b (polymorphisms of HNA‐1), or HNA‐2a gene was transduced with a retrovirus vector to confer stable transgene expression in K562 cells that exhibited low background reactivity to human serum samples obtained from healthy donors in flow cytometric analysis.

RESULTS:It was shown that several well‐characterized human serum samples containing antibodies against HNA‐1a, ‐1b, and ‐2a were unambiguously identified by the established panel cell lines and observed a lower background reactivity and longer shelf life of the K562 panel cell lines compared with isolated neutrophils, which have been used for the cell panel to identify antibodies against HNA in human serum samples.

CONCLUSION:These results indicate that the K562 panel cell lines provide a good panel for detecting HNA‐reactive neutrophil antibodies in human serum samples.
Different inactivating mutations in theLUgenes of three individuals with the Lutheran‐null phenotype
Authors: Karamatic Crew Vanja , Mallinson Gary , Green Carole , Poole Joyce , Uchikawa Makoto , Tani Yoshihiko , Geisen Christof , Oldenburg Johannes , Daniels Geoff
Published: February 2007

BACKGROUND:The null phenotype of the Lutheran blood group system, Lunullor Lu(a–b–), is characterized by the lack of all Lutheran system antigens. It can arise from three genetic backgrounds: recessive, dominant, or X‐linked. Lunullof the recessive type appears to result from homozygosity for an inactiveLUgene.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:Three unrelated recessive Lunullindividuals were assessed by standard serologic tests. All exons of theLUgene were directly sequenced from amplified genomic DNA. The validity of the observed mutations within theLUgene was confirmed by the use of either restriction enzymes or allele‐specific primers.

RESULTS:All three individuals had the serologic characteristics of recessive Lunull. One individual was doubly heterozygous for a nonsense mutation 691C>T in exon 6 (Arg231STOP) and a deletion ofLUexons 3 and 4. The other two samples showed homozygous nonsense mutations: one had 711C>A in exon 6 (Cys237STOP) and the other 361C>T in exon 3 (Arg121STOP).

CONCLUSIONS:The results revealed four unique genetic backgrounds from three examples of the rare recessive Lunullphenotype, each encoding Lutheran glycoproteins with a disrupted structure.
Sustained Benefit of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: DELNOY PETER PAUL H.M. , OTTERVANGER JAN PAUL , LUTTIKHUIS HENK OUDE , NICASTIA DEBBIE M. , ELVAN ARIF , MISIER ANAND R. RAMDAT , BEUKEMA WILLEM
Published: February 2007

Introduction: Most data on cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) are from trials with highly selected patients, with limited long‐term echocardiographic data. This study was performed to evaluate long‐term echocardiographic remodeling after CRT in daily practice.

Methods and Results: A biventricular pacemaker was implanted in 130 patients with advanced heart failure who met the general accepted criteria for CRT or in heart failure patients with a conventional pacemaker indication. Two years echocardiographic follow‐up was available. Mean age (73 years) was higher than in the randomized trials. Forty‐one patients (32%) died during the 2 year follow‐up period. Mortality was higher in males, in patients with increased NT‐proBNP, renal dysfunction, or left atrial dilatation before implantation. Echocardiographic response (LVEF improvement of 5% or more) was documented in 69, 88, and 91% of the survivors, after 3 months, 1 year, and 2 years, respectively. Echocardiographic response after 3 months was associated with a significantly higher long‐term survival (P = 0.04). Mean LVEF was 22% at baseline compared to 31.8, 38.3, and 39.7% after 3 months, 1 year, and 2 years, respectively (P < 0.01). Reverse remodeling (a reduction of LV end systolic volume of more than 10%) was observed in 70.7, 81.0, and 91.7% of the survivors after 3 months, 1 year, and 2 years, respectively. Long‐term LV improvement was more pronounced in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy.

Conclusion: LV reverse remodeling and beneficial echocardiographic changes were sustained during 2 years follow‐up. A 5% or more increase in LVEF after 3 months was associated with a better long‐term survival.
Computed Tomography‐Fluoroscopy Image Integration‐Guided Catheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: SRA JASBIR , NARAYAN GIRISH , KRUM DAVID , MALLOY ANGELA , COOLEY RYAN , BHATIA ATUL , DHALA ANWER , BLANCK ZALMEN , NANGIA VIKRAM , AKHTAR MASOOD
Published: February 2007

Introduction: This study examines the feasibility of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation using registered three‐dimensional computed tomography (CT) images of the left atrium with fluoroscopy.

Methods and Results: A total of 50 consecutive patients with symptomatic AF refractory to medical therapy (32 paroxysmal, 18 persistent, age 55 ± 10 years) were randomized to undergo a catheter‐based AF ablation procedure with or without the CT‐fluoroscopy guidance system. All patients underwent preprocedural contrast‐enhanced CT imaging and segmentation of the left atrium. For the CT‐fluoroscopy group, circumferential lesions encompassing the pulmonary vein (PV) antrum and linear lesions along the roof of the left atrium between the superior PVs and the mitral isthmus were created on the CT image, which was registered with real‐time fluoroscopy. The registered images were then used to navigate the ablation catheters to the sites of planned ablation. After the ablation sites were completed, any remaining PV potentials were isolated with electrophysiological guidance. In the control patients, the same technique was performed without using the CT‐fluoro guidance system. CT scans were accurately registered to fluoroscopic images with minimal manual correction. Operators could navigate catheters on the registered images to preplanned, extraostial sites for ablation. CT‐fluoroscopy guidance decreased procedure duration and fluoro times (P < 0.05). At a mean follow‐up of 9 ± 2 months, 21 patients (84%) in the CT‐fluoro guidance group and 16 patients (64%) in the control group have had no recurrence of AF.

Conclusion: CT‐fluoroscopic‐guided left atrial ablation is feasible and allows appropriate catheter manipulation in the left atrium.
Dynamic Effects of Exercise and Different Escape Rhythms on the Supernormal Period of an Accessory Pathway
Authors: LUM JEREMY J. , HO REGINALD T.
Published: February 2007

Spontaneous conduction during the supernormal period (SNP) of accessory pathways (AP) is rare and observed only during atrio‐ventricular block (AVB). The effect of exercise and different escape rhythms on the SNP is unknown. We evaluated these factors on the SNP of a para‐Hisian AP after a failed ablation complicated by AVB. The SNP onset and duration were later and longer during paced versus junctional rhythm. Exercise caused linear shortening of the SNP that was directly related to junctional cycle length. The SNP is a dynamic window shifting in parallel with AP refractoriness and affected by exercise and type of escape rhythm.
Nonlinear Indices of Heart Rate Variability in Chronic Heart Failure Patients: Redundancy and Comparative Clinical Value
Authors: MAESTRI ROBERTO , PINNA GIAN DOMENICO , ACCARDO AGOSTINO , ALLEGRINI PAOLO , BALOCCHI RITA , D'ADDIO GIANNI , FERRARIO MANUELA , MENICUCCI DANILO , PORTA ALBERTO , SASSI ROBERTO , SIGNORINI MARIA GABRIELLA , LA ROVERE MARIA TERESA , CERUTTI SERGIO
Published: February 2007

Aims:We aimed to assess the mutual interrelationships and to compare the prognostic value of a comprehensive set of nonlinear indices of heart rate variability (HRV) in a population of chronic heart failure (CHF) patients.

Methods and Results:Twenty nonlinear HRV indices, representative of symbolic dynamics, entropy, fractality‐multifractality, predictability, empirical mode decomposition, and Poincaré plot families, were computed from 24‐hour Holter recordings in 200 stable CHF patients in sinus rhythm (median age [interquartile range]: 54 [47–58] years, LVEF: 23 [19–28]%, NYHA class II–III: 88%). End point for survival analysis (Cox model) was cardiac death or urgent transplantation. Homogeneous variables were grouped by cluster analysis, and in each cluster redundant variables were discarded. A prognostic model including only known clinical and functional risk factors was built and the ability of each selected HRV variable to add prognostic information to this model assessed. Bootstrap resampling was used to test the models stability. Four nonlinear variables showed a correlation >0.90 with classical linear ones and were discarded. Correlations >0.80 were found between several nonlinear variables. Twelve clusters were obtained and from each cluster a candidate predictor was selected. Only two variables (from empirical mode decomposition and symbolic dynamics families) added prognostic information to the clinical model.

Conclusion:This exploratory study provides evidence that, despite some redundancies in the informative content of nonlinear indices and strong differences in their prognostic power, quantification of nonlinear properties of HRV provides independent information in risk stratification of CHF patients.
Physiologic Evaluation of Translesion Pressure Gradients in Peripheral Arteries: Comparison of Pressure Wire and Catheter‐Derived Measurements
Authors: GARCIA LAWRENCE A. , CARROZZA JOSEPH P.
Published: February 2007

Background: Catheter‐derived pressure gradient (CPG) measurements across vascular lesions are used to determine the hemodynamic significance of a stenosis prior to peripheral vascular intervention. We tested the hypothesis that CPGs overestimate the true translesion gradient during hemodynamic interrogation.

Methods: We evaluated 20 lesions (iliac, subclavian, or renal) in 16 patients undergoing angiography for peripheral vascular disease. Mean arterial pressure gradients were measured across each lesion using a 4‐ or 5‐Fr fluid‐filled catheter and compared to gradients measured with a 0.014″ pressure wire (PWG).

Results: In all lesions, the CPG was higher than the PWG (28.3 ± 4.5 mmHg vs 11.6 ± 1.8 mmHg; P < 0.05). Both CPG and PWG correlated with diameter stenosis (CPG = 0.78 [DS]− 29; r2= 0.44; P < 0.05 and PWG = 0.30 [DS]− 10.5; r2= 0.43; P < 0.05), but the CPG overestimated the pressure gradient compared with the PWG.

Conclusion: Peripheral arterial vascular lesion pressure gradients assessed with large diameter catheters consistently overestimate the actual PG. Although both CPG and PWG correlated with anatomic stenosis, the overestimation of the physiologic significance of these lesions may lead to inappropriate intervention. Use of a pressure wire for hemodynamic interrogation may be a better tool for assessment of the hemodynamic significance of a peripheral vascular lesion.
Transcatheter Closure of Atrial Septal Defects in Adults ≥40 Years of Age: Immediate and Follow‐Up Results
Authors: PATEL ANGIRA , LOPEZ KEILA , BANERJEE ANIRBAN , JOSEPH ANNETTE , CAO QI‐LING , HIJAZI ZIYAD M.
Published: February 2007

Background: Controversy still exists regarding closure of atrial septal defects (ASDs) in patients >40 years of age who are largely asymptomatic or do not have large shunts (LS). If left unrepaired, the majority of patients will experience symptoms and will have a shorter life span compared to patients who undergo repair. This study presents the outcomes of closure of ASDs in adults >40 years using the Amplatzer septal occluder.

Methods: A total of 113 patients (79F/34M) with a mean age of 57.9 years (SD 11.9) who had indications for closure (right ventricular [RV] enlargement by echocardiograpy, clinically symptomatic) underwent an attempt of transcatheter closure. The mean size of ASD as measured by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) (30 patients) or intracardiac echocardiography (83 patients) was 17.2 mm (SD 7.3) with mean Qp:Qs of 2.2:1 (SD 1.1). Follow‐up at 24 hours, 6 month, and yearly thereafter included physical examination, TEE, and/or transthoracic echocardiography; furthermore, chart review (n = 112) as well as telephone interviews (n = 56) were conducted to determine clinical symptomatic status.

Results: The procedure was successful in 112 patients and 1 patient failed due to the presence of a large defect (44 mm). One hundred four patients had a single device implanted, 7 had two, and 1 had three. Following the procedure, 96 patients had immediate complete closure (CC), 3 had trivial shunt (TS), 11 had small shunt (SS), and 2 had moderate shunt (MS). At 24 hours postprocedure, 100 patients had CC, 7 had TS, 3 had SS, 1 had MS, and 1 had LS. Four patients had complications: one had device migration within 24 hours, two had atrial arrhythmias (supraventricular tachycardia, atrial tachycardia), and one had large hematoma. At 6 months postprocedure, 100 patients had CC, 6 had TS, 5 had SS, and 1 had MS. At 6‐month follow‐up, the right ventricle end‐diastolic dimension decreased from 35.3 mm (SD 7.6) preprocedure to 23.8 mm (SD 6.6) (P < 0.001) and the majority of patients reported improvement in their symptoms.

Conclusions: ASD closure is safe and effective in patients over 40 years of age with minimal complications. The procedure resulted in a decrease in the RV size that was accompanied by improvement in clinical symptoms. Our findings suggest that device closure of ASDs in adult patients >40 years of age should be the first option of management.
Political Science and Prediction: What's Next for U.S. Climate Change Policy?
Authors: Selin Henrik , VanDeveer Stacy D.
Published: February 2007

This article analyzes how U.S. climate change politics and policy making are changing in the public, private and civil society sectors, and how such changes are likely to influence U.S. federal policies. It outlines the current status of U.S. climate change action and explores four overlapping pathways of policy change: (1) the strategic demonstration of the feasibility of climate change action; (2) the creation and expansion of markets; (3) policy diffusion and learning; and (4) the creation and promulgation of norms about the need for more aggressive climate change action. These four pathways seek to fruitfully draw from rationalist and constructivist approaches to policy analysis, without collapsing or confusing the different logics. Building on this analysis, it predicts that future federal U.S. climate policy will include six major components: (1) A national cap on GHG emissions; (2) A national market based cap‐and‐trade GHG emissions trading scheme; (3) Mandatory renewable energy portfolio standards; (4) Increased national product standards for energy efficiency; (5) Increased vehicle fleet energy efficiency standards; and (6) Increased federal incentives for research and development on energy efficiency issues and renewable energy development. In addition, expanding federal climate policy may bring about significant changes in U.S. foreign policy as U.S. international re‐engagement on climate change is likely to occur only after the development of more significant federal policy.
State Environmental Policies: Analyzing Green Building Mandates
Authors: May Peter J. , Koski Chris
Published: February 2007

This research addresses state requirements that public facilities be constructed as “green buildings” that promote environmental friendly, energy efficient, and healthy workplaces. We consider state choices to adopt green building mandates and the form of their policy enactment. In considering the way that low salience issues like green buildings get on state agendas and the circumstances under which governors decide to engage the issue, we extend William Gormley's (1986) depiction of “board room” regulatory politics. State energy agencies provide an attention‐focusing role while governors behave strategically in deciding whether to issue executive orders about green buildings. This research adds to the growing understanding of states as innovators in aspects of environmental policy not normally subject to state regulation.
Mixing God's Work and the Public Business: A Framework for the Analysis of Faith‐Based Service Delivery
Authors: Hula Richard , Jackson‐Elmoore Cynthia , Reese Laura
Published: February 2007

Over the past thirty years, there has been a dramatic transformation in the way the American political process operates. There has been a growing public perception that traditional political institutions lack the capacity to meet existing challenges. This has led many observers to call for a rethinking of how government does its work. Numerous alternatives, including the use of faith‐based organizations, have been suggested. The current popular debate on the appropriate role of faith‐based organizations in public service delivery has shed little light on a number of important issues raised by engaging such actors in governance issues. The impact of using faith‐based institutions to design and implement public policy must be considered not only in terms of traditional evaluation standards, but also regarding potential long‐term impacts on the political process itself. This article outlines a theoretical framework for the evaluation of faith‐based organizations as “alternatives” to conventional governance structures. It identifies key practical and theoretical issues raised by such substitution, in both short and long range systemic terms.
Personal Identification Based on Prescription Eyewear*
Authors: Berg Gregory E. , Collins Randall S.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: This study presents a web‐based tool that can be used to assist in identification of unknown individuals using spectacle prescriptions. Currently, when lens prescriptions are used in forensic identifications, investigators are constrained to a simple “match” or “no‐match” judgment with an antemortem prescription. It is not possible to evaluate the strength of the conclusion, or rather, the potential or real error rates associated with the conclusion. Three databases totaling over 385,000 individual prescriptions are utilized in this study to allow forensic analysts to easily determine the strength of individuation of a spectacle match to antemortem records by calculating the frequency at which the observed prescription occurs in various U.S. populations. Optical refractive errors are explained, potential states and combinations of refractive errors are described, measuring lens corrections is discussed, and a detailed description of the databases is presented. The practical application of this system is demonstrated using two recent forensic identifications. This research provides a valuable personal identification tool that can be used in cases where eyeglass portions are recovered in forensic contexts.
Particle Characteristics of Trace High Explosives: RDX and PETN*
Authors: Verkouteren Jennifer R.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: The sizes of explosives particles in fingerprint residues produced from C‐4 and Semtex‐1A were investigated with respect to a fragmentation model. Particles produced by crushing crystals of RDX and PETN were sized by using scanning electron microscopy, combined with image analysis, and polarized light microscopy was used for imaging and identifying explosive particles in fingerprint residues. Crystals of RDX and PETN fragment in a manner that concentrates mass in the largest particles of the population, which is common for a fragmentation process. Based on the fingerprints studied, the particle size to target for improving mass detection in fingerprint residues by ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) is ≥10 μm in diameter. Although particles smaller than 10 μm in diameter have a higher frequency, they constitute <20% of the total mass. Efforts to improve collection efficiency of explosives particles for detection by IMS, or other techniques, must take into consideration that the mass may be concentrated in a relatively few particles that may not be homogeneously distributed over the fingerprint area. These results are based on plastic‐bonded explosives such as C‐4 that contain relatively large crystals of explosive, where fragmentation is the main process leading to the presence of particles in the fingerprint residues.
Third Molar Development in the Estimation of Chronologic Age in American Blacks as Compared With Whites*
Authors: Blankenship Jane A. , Mincer Harry H. , Anderson Kenneth M. , Woods Marjorie A. , Burton Eddie L.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: Third molar (M3) development determined from dental radiographs in American blacks (African Americans; n=637) aged 14–24 years was contrasted against American whites (n=563) from a previous study using the method of Demirjian et al. Differences were assessed using descriptive statistics and the parametric proportional hazards model. For each developmental stage, the probability of an individual being at least 18 years old was evaluated. As in other M3 studies, there were highly significant modal differences, but the age ranges at each stage overlapped considerably. Black–white differences were highly significant with developmental stages occurring in blacks a year or so earlier. Gender differences also varied significantly, both with increasing age and between races. The empirical likelihood that an African American male with fully developed M3's is at least 18 years old is 93% and that for African American female is 84%. Corresponding risks for whites are 90% and 93%.
A Two‐Level Model for Evidence Evaluation
Authors: Aitken Colin G. G. , Zadora Grzegorz , Lucy David
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT:A random effects model using two levels of hierarchical nesting has been applied to the calculation of a likelihood ratio as a solution to the problem of comparison between two sets of replicated multivariate continuous observations where it is unknown whether the sets of measurements shared a common origin. Replicate measurements from a population of such measurements allow the calculation of both within‐group and between‐group variances/covariances. The within‐group distribution has been modelled assuming a Normal distribution, and the between‐group distribution has been modelled using a kernel density estimation procedure. A graphical method of estimating the dependency structure among the variables has been used to reduce this highly multivariate problem to several problems of lower dimension. The approach was tested using a database comprising measurements of eight major elements from each of four fragments from each of 200 glass objects and found to perform well compared with previous approaches, achieving a 15.2% false‐positive rate, and a 5.5% false‐negative rate. The modelling was then applied to two examples of casework in which glass found at the scene of the criminal activity has been compared with that found in association with a suspect.
Waxing Grave About Adipocere: Soft Tissue Change in an Aquatic Context*
Authors: O'Brien Tyler G. , Kuehner Amy C.
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT:When postmortem environmental conditions are “just right,” according to the “Goldilocks Phenomenon,” soft tissues (and associated fatty acids) are converted into and preserved as adipocere. To better understand this conversion process and the development of adipocere three human cadavers were immersed in outside, water‐filled pits for over 3 months to observe adipocere formation in an underwater context simulating actual field conditions. Recordings of environmental conditions showed that temperatures were between 21°C and 45°C, a range sufficient for the growth ofClostridium perfringens. Chemical analysis of liquid and tissue samples revealed an increase in palmitic acid and decrease in oleic acid. This study tracked the remarkable gross morphological changes that can occur in human bodies subjected to an aquatic postmortem environment. The results support the “Goldilocks Phenomenon” and substantiate previous findings that the presence of bacteria and water is crucial for adipocere to form.
Comparison of Four Skeletal Methods for the Estimation of Age at Death on White and Black Adults*
Authors: Martrille Laurent , Ubelaker Douglas H. , Cattaneo Cristina , Seguret Fabienne , Tremblay Marie , Baccino Eric
Published: February 2007

ABSTRACT: When analyzing human adult skeletal remains, it is often difficult to decide whether a single aging method will give a more reliable age estimation than a combination of methods. This study evaluates four macroscopic indicators for age estimation on 218 American White and Black individuals, ranging in age from 25 to 90 years of age, from the Terry collection. Individuals in the sample were selected to have a balanced race, sex, and age distribution. The following aging methods were applied to each skeleton by one experienced observer: the Suchey–Brooks (SB) pubic symphysis method, the Lovejoy auricular surface method, the monoradicular teeth Lamendin (LM) method, and the Işcan (IC) method for fourth ribs. The statistical study involved the evaluation of inaccuracy and bias (based on median age) for each age indicator and the combination of methods using Principal component analysis (PCA). Analysis was performed on the entire sample, then by race, then sex, and then age group (25–40 years, 41–60 years, and >60 years). PCA was the most accurate method for both racial groups when all age groups are analyzed together. When the sample was divided into age groups, SB was the most accurate for young adults (25–40 years) and LM was the most accurate for middle adults (41–60 years). After the age of 60, all methods are highly inaccurate, although IC gives the lowest inaccuracy. As regards bias, the study highlights the tendency of all methods to overestimate the age of young individuals and to underestimate in the older age group. No single skeletal indicator of age at death is ever likely to reflect accurately the many factors that accumulate with chronological age. In fact, one must use as many dental and skeletal indicators as possible. However, in order to maximize the potential of each method, in the final evaluation one should consider mainly the method or methods that have a higher accuracy for a particular age range.
Why do transaction costs of agricultural policies vary?
Authors: Rørstad Per Kristian , Vatn Arild , Kvakkestad Valborg
Published: February 2007

Policy related transaction costs (TCs) is an important issue when evaluating different policy options. However, TCs are often not taken into account in policy evaluations, but may be as important for efficiency as the direct production costs. Different policies may result in different TCs, and the main aim of this article is to explore possible reasons for these differences. We compare the level of TCs for 12 different agricultural policy measures in Norway, and we analyze the causes of the differences along three different dimensions: asset specificity, frequency, and point of policy application. At the national level we find that all three dimensions are of importance when explaining the differences, while variation in TCs incurred by farmers are mainly due to differences in point of policy application and asset specificity. Data show that direct price support has the lowest TCs, while more direct payments for environmental amenities has the highest.
How sustainable is participatory watershed development in India?
Authors: Bouma Jetske , Van Soest Daan , Bulte Erwin
Published: February 2007

Watershed conservation is widely recognized as a major strategy for rural development throughout the developing world. In India, the apparent success of participatory approaches to watershed development resulted in a decentralization of project planning, implementation, and management to local communities at the village scale. We explore the effectiveness of this so‐called community‐based approach in achieving sustainable soil and water conservation in four semi‐arid regions in India, and analyze what factors explain project success. We confirm the result of earlier studies that participatory approaches are more effective in establishing soil and water conservation in the short run. However, our main result is that investments in community organization fail to ensure household commitment to maintenance in the longer term. Without better returns to investment in soil and water conservation and without local institutions to coordinate investment in the long run, the sustainability of participatory watershed management is seriously threatened.
Visual dysfunctions and ocular disorders in children with developmental delay. I. prevalence, diagnoses and aetiology of visual impairment
Authors: Sandfeld Nielsen Lisbeth , Skov Liselotte , Jensen Hanne
Published: February 2007

Purpose:  To describe the prevalence, diagnoses and aetiologies of visual impairment in children with developmental delay (DD) in a Danish county with a population of 618 000 citizens.

Methods:  We carried out a cross‐sectional study in Copenhagen County of children aged 4–15 years with profound to borderline DD (IQ ≤ 80). Children were located through school psychologists or paediatric clinics. The number of children with DD was estimated using the capture‐recapture method.

Results:  A total of 1126 children fulfilled the inclusion criteria, corresponding to 97.7% of the estimated number of children with DD in the county. Ophthalmological examinations were performed in 923 children. The prevalence of visual impairment was 10.5% in the study group and 22.4% in those with an IQ ≤ 50. The diagnoses were predominantly cerebral visual impairment, optic atrophy, retinal dystrophies and congenital nystagmus. The aetiology of visual impairment was prenatal in 54 children, perinatal in 29 children and postnatal in seven children.

Conclusions:  Visual impairment is highly increased in children with DD and is correlated to low IQ.
Factors associated with parents’ and adolescents’ perceptions of oral health and need for dental treatment
Authors: Weyant Robert J. , Manz Michael , Corby Patricia , Rustveld Luis , Close John
Published: February 2007

Abstract –  Objective:  The aim of this study was to characterize the association between clinical and psychosocial factors as they related to perceptions by parents and adolescents to the adolescent's oral health status and treatment need. Additionally, the degree to which adolescent's and parent's perceptions of oral health and treatment need were related was examined.

Methods:  Data from the Pennsylvania oral health needs assessment for 530 parent–adolescent pairs were used to address the objectives of this study. Comparisons between clinical oral health measures, psychosocial factors, and the parent‐ and adolescent‐reported perceptions of the adolescent's oral health status were made using descriptive and inferential statistics, including exploratory factor analysis and path analysis.

Results:  Parents and adolescents exhibited only modest concordance on ratings of the adolescent's oral health status and need for dental treatment. Furthermore, parents tended to rate their adolescent's oral health status as better than did the adolescent. The results of the path analysis showed that adolescents based their ratings of oral health status more on oral symptoms, while parents rated their adolescent's oral health more on esthetic or psychosocial factors.

Conclusions:  Adolescents and parents based their perceptions of oral health status and treatment need on different underlying factors. Additionally, adolescents’ perceptions of their oral health status and treatment needs did not appear to be communicated to their parents.
A randomized trial of the effectiveness of home visits in preventing early childhood caries
Authors: Feldens Carlos Alberto , Vítolo Márcia Regina , Drachler Maria de Lourdes
Published: February 2007

Abstract –  Objectives:  Assess the effectiveness of home visits for advising mothers about breast feeding and weaning on early childhood caries (ECC) at the age of 12 months.

Methods:  A randomized field trial was conducted in mothers who gave birth within the public health system in the Brazilian city of Sao Leopoldo (intervention group = 200; controls = 300). The intervention group received the advice 10 days after the child's birth, monthly up to 6 months, at 8, 10 and 12 months, based on the ‘Ten Steps for Healthy Feeding’, a Brazilian national health policy for primary care, based on WHO guidelines. Both groups had research assessment at 6 and 12 months, with dental caries investigated in this last assessment; 122 children were lost in the 1‐year follow‐up; 378 were assessed for caries: two predentulous children were excluded from the analysis. Mann‐Whitney U was used to test if the average number of decayed surfaces (DS; white spots and cavities) differed between the intervention and control groups, and logistic regression to estimate the effects of the intervention on the odds of ECC. Chi‐square test was used to test for differences between the intervention and control groups in the distribution of feeding behaviours tackled by the dietary intervention.

Results:  10.2% of the children in the intervention group and 18.3% of the controls had caries. The odds of caries was 48% lower for the intervention group, adjusted for number of teeth (OR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.27–0.97). Mean DS were lower for the intervention group (0.37) when compared with the control group (0.63), (Mann‐Whitney U, P = 0.03). The intervention group had significantly longer duration of exclusive breast feeding (P = 0.000), later introduction of sugar (P = 0.005), and smaller probability of ever having eaten biscuits (P = 0.000), honey (P = 0.003), soft drinks (P = 0.02), fromage‐frais (P = 0.001), chocolate and sweets (P = 0.001).

Conclusions:  ECC is a public health problem in that population. The home visits for dietary advice appear to help reducing dental caries in infants. Greater efforts are needed to tackle cariogenic dietary behaviours even further, as a relevant proportion of children of the intervention group were shown to present with dental caries. Further studies should examine the effect of the intervention in the longer term.
Comparison of the Effects of β‐Adrenergic Agents on Pineal Serotonin N‐Acetyltransferase Activity and Melatonin Content in Two Species of Hamsters
Authors: Steinlechner Stephan , King Thomas S. , Champney Thomas H. , Spanel‐Borowski Katharina , Reiter Russel J.
Published: February 2007

The nighttime rise in pineal melatonin levels can be blocked by administration of the β‐adrenergic receptor antagonist, propranolol, in both Syrian hamsters and rats. Although the administration of β‐adrenergic receptor agonists such as norepinephrine or isoproterenol stimulates pineal melatonin production in the rat, these drugs are without apparent effect on indole production in the Syrian hamster. To determine whether this lack of stimulatory effect in the Syrian hamster is characteristic of this species, a comparison of the effects of norepinephrine and isoproterenol on pineal serotonin N‐acetyltransferase activity and melatonin content was conducted. In contrast to their lack of effect in the Syrian hamster, norepinephrine and isoproterenol stimulated pineal serotonin N‐acetyltransferase activity and melatonin content in the Djungarian hamster. Hourly injection of norepinephrine during a continuation of light into the normal dark period stimulated increases in the activity of serotonin N‐acetyltransferase and melatonin content in the Djungarian hamster but was without effect on these pineal parameters in the Syrian hamster.
A Stereological Study of the Effects of the Pineal Gland on the Ventral Prostate of the Rat
Authors: Buzzell Gerald R. , Toma Jean G. , Casey Ronald J. , Haskins Julie
Published: February 2007

Several procedures known to influence pineal gland secretion were studied for their effects on the ventral prostate of rats. Stereological measurements were made of volume fractions of acini and glandular epithelium, surface fractions of glandular epithelium, and length fractions of acini. From these figures and the weights of the glands, the volumes, surface areas, and lengths of these features were calculated, as well as the mean epithelial heights, mean acinar diameters, and mean distances between glandular acini. None of these measurements differed in sham‐operated controls, pinealectomized, or blinded rats. In blind‐anosmic rats, however, there were significant decreases in the weights of the prostates and the volumes of the acini, reflecting significant decreases in the mean diameters of acini. None of the other parameters differed from those of controls, except the length fraction of acini. These results differ from those described by others following castration in rats, indicating that the action of the pineal gland on the ventral prostate may be different from that of androgen deprivation, in this species. Caution should therefore be exercised in the interpretation of the results of experiments in which prostate weights are used as indications of the actions of pineal hormones on the neuroendocrine‐gonadal axis.
Structure and Ultrastructure of the Aging Rat Pineal Gland
Authors: Boya J. , Calvo J.
Published: February 2007

The pineal gland of rats 12–28 months old was studied with light and electron microscopes. All pineal components exhibited regressive changes of different intensity with age. In type I pinealocytes, there was a marked increase in dense bodies as well as the occasional appearance of wide cell profiles full of vesicles. Type II pinealocytes showed nuclear infoldings and cytoplasmic deposits of lipofuscin. Pineal stroma displayed an increase in connective tissue fibers, both collagen and oxytalan, as well as remains of basement membranes and other materials of unknown nature. Calcareous concretions were also found, mostly in the pineal capsule. All regressive changes were more intense with increasing age.
Studies on the Kinetics of Melatonin and N‐Acetylserotonin in the Rat at Mid‐Light and Mid‐Dark
Authors: Chan Mo‐Yin , Pang S.F. , Tang P.L. , Brown G.M.
Published: February 2007

The distribution and disappearance of melatonin and N‐acetylserotonin after intravenous injection were studied at mid‐light and mid‐dark. Male rats were adapted under a photoperiod of 12 h light and 12 h dark cycle for a minimum of 1 week. After the intravenous injection of melatonin (10 μg), N‐acetylserotonin (10 μg), or 3H‐melatonin (76 ng), blood samples were collected at 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, and 120 min. The concentrations of indoles in the plasma samples were determined by radioimmunoassay, while the radioactivity of 3H‐melatonin was determined by scintillation counting.

The distribution of melatonin and N‐acetylserotonin followed a two‐compartment model, showing an initial distribution phase followed by an elimination phase. The biological half‐life of melatonin at mid‐light and mid‐dark were similar but the volume of distribution (Vβ and Vc.) and metabolic clearance rate (C1s) were greater at mid‐dark than at mid‐light. The estimated melatonin secretory rate at mid‐dark was fivefold greater than that at mid‐light. When 3H‐melatonin was used, the half‐life was significantly longer. A diurnal difference in the distribution was also evident in the N‐acetylserotonin studies. The volume of distribution (Vβ and Vc) was greater at mid‐dark while the CIs was not significantly faster at mid‐dark compared with that at mid‐light. However, the estimated N‐acetylserotonin secretory rate at mid‐dark was eightfold greater than at mid‐light.
Nuclear and Cytoplasmic Inclusion Bodies in Pinealocytes of the Cotton Rat, Sigmodon hispidus: An Electron Microscopic Study
Authors: Matsushima Shoji , Sakai Yuko , Aida Ichiro , Reiter Russel J.
Published: February 2007

Electron microscopic observations on pinealocytes of cotton rats (Sigmodon hispidus) killed in October revealed the presence of cytoplasmic inclusion bodies (CIBs) and two kinds of nuclear inclusions—coiled bodies and granular inclusion bodies. These inclusions were usually not bounded by a membrane. CIBs showed round or irregular profiles and consisted of granular and filamentous materials of moderate electron opacity intermingled with electron‐lucent areas. Nuclear granular inclusions appeared as homogeneous or heterogeneous granules of variable electron opacity, which usually exhibited round profiles of variable diameters and consisted of granular and filamentous elements. Electron‐opaque granules were observed in perinuclear spaces, dilated cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum, as well as in the central portion of CIBs. In CIBs containing granules, the peripheral region was composed of the moderately electron‐opaque substance seen in usual CIBs, while the central core was occupied by a granular and filamentous substance and an intervening electron‐lucent matrix. Since an electron‐opaque granular substance in nuclei, perinuclear spaces, cisternae of rough endoplasmic reticulum, and the central portion of CIBs may occur concomitantly, the granules seen in these sites may be related. Coiled bodies were round in profile and were composed of electron‐opaque strands consisting of granular and filamentous elements and intervening material of low electron opacity. This structure, frequently located in close proximity to the nuclear granular inclusions, may play a role in the formation of the intranuclear granules in cotton rat pinealocytes.
The Ultrastructure of the Nerve Fibers and Pinealocytes in the Rat Pineal Stalk
Authors: Luo Z.R. , Schultz R.L. , Whitter E.F. , Vollrath L.
Published: February 2007

In view of the increasing interest in the central innervation of the mammalian pineal gland, this aspect was studied in depth in the rat. This species is especially suited since the nerve fibers in question form a distinct bundle running from the deep to the superficial pineal gland through the pineal stalk. The axons were counted and analysed ultrastructurally in the pineal stalks cut transversely at three levels (proximal, intermediate, and distal) relative to the neural axis and in longitudinal sections. The number of nerve fibers was highly variable, ranging from 551 to 1, 132 proximally and from 110 to 448 distally, indicating that many fibers terminate in the stalk or leave the stalk after forming a loop. Large myelinated axons, which are abundant proximally, appear to lose their sheaths along their course through the stalk. Most of the axons were small and unmyelinated. A few of these had the appearance of sympathetic fibers and disappeared after sympathectomy. Others contained abundant neurosecretory granules, and, according to the literature, may originate in the hypothalamic paraventricular nuclei. The majority of the small axons which are apparently devoid of granules and dense‐cored vesicles may come from the habenular nuclei and the stria medullaris. In addition to axons, the stalk contains astrocytes, a few oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells, as well as pinealocytes identical to those of the superficial pineal gland.