bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Major changes in fecundity and the effect on population egg production for three species of north‐west Atlantic flatfishes
Authors: Rideout R. M. , Morgan M. J.
Published: May 2007

Temporal and spatial variability in fecundity was investigated for three species of north‐west Atlantic flatfishes: American plaice Hippoglossoides platessoides, yellowtail flounder Limanda ferruginea and witch flounder Glyptocephalus cynoglossus. Significant log10 linear relationships existed between fecundity and total length (LT) for all three species and for all combinations of area (NAFO regulatory areas) and year. Fecundity differed between areas for yellowtail flounder and witch flounder and changed significantly for all three species since the last reported fecundity studies in the region 30–40 years ago. Three populations experienced decreases in fecundity (3LNO American plaice and yellowtail flounder, 3Ps witch flounder), one experienced an increase (3NO witch flounder) and one did not change (3L witch flounder). Significant yearly variability in fecundity at length and relative fecundity existed for all three species within the 6 year sampling period (1993–1998). Estimates of population egg production based on new and historic fecundity data revealed that using the old, invariant fecundity and LT relationship resulted in overestimation of total annual egg production by up to 24% for 3LNO American plaice and as high as 41% for 3LNO yellowtail flounder. These results clearly demonstrate the variable nature of fecundity for flatfishes in Newfoundland waters and suggest that the use of an invariant fecundity and LT relationship may result in inaccurate estimates of stock reproductive potential.
Intra‐population variation in anadromy and reproductive life span in rainbow trout introduced in the Santa Cruz River, Argentina
Authors: Riva‐Rossi C. , Pascual M. A. , Babaluk J. A. , García‐Asorey M. , Halden N. M.
Published: May 2007

Scale patterns, maturational status and otolith microchemistry (strontium to calcium ratios) were analysed in sympatric anadromous and non‐anadromous rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss in the Santa Cruz River (Patagonia, Argentina) to investigate the life‐history differences of anadromous and non‐anadromous lifestyles and the association between maternal origin and progeny life history. The analyses revealed that both forms can give rise to one another, indicating a single population with alternative phenotypes. Anadromous fish smolted at ages 2 and 3 years, matured after 1 to 2 years in the ocean, and survived up to 11 years, spawning up to eight times. Non‐anadromous fish survived up to 6 years, spawning up to three times. The extended reproductive life span associated with anadromy in this river suggests that increased energetic and physiological demands associated with ocean migration may not necessarily result in reduced postspawning survival, as has been suggested for salmonids in general. Alternatively, reduction in parity may be regarded as the evolutionary outcome of reproductive traits resulting from the adoption of anadromy (i.e. augmented reproductive investment) coupled with long‐range migrations to and from the ocean. The life‐history patterns of Santa Cruz River rainbow trout provide a natural experiment for investigating the evolutionary transition and maintenance of anadromy and non‐anadromy within salmonid populations.
Trypsin and chymotrypsin as indicators of nutritional status of post‐weaned sea bass larvae
Authors: Cara B. , Moyano F. J. , Zambonino J. L. , Fauvel C.
Published: May 2007

The aim of the present work was to evaluate to what extent variation in the activity of either trypsin or chymotrypsin could be a sensitive and reliable indicator of nutritional deficiencies during post‐weaning stages in a marine fish. Sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax larvae obtained from two different spawns classified as high quality (HQ) or low quality (LQ) on the basis of their hatching variables, were used to evaluate if enzyme production could be conditioned by factors other than those related to the feeding regime. In addition, larvae in each group were either fed normally or received a ration reduced by 60%. Trypsin and chymotrypsin activities were separately measured in larvae at days 3 and 15 after weaning. Changes in mass and final survival were also recorded. Food limitation resulted in a lower final mass only in the HQ larvae. Survival was significantly higher in HQ larvae, but also in larvae suffering food restriction, irrespective of the quality of the spawn. In both groups of larvae, lower food availability was correlated to increased values of trypsin, and particularly, of chymotrypsin. Variations were high enough to support the usefulness of such enzymes as indicators of a modified nutritional status. It is suggested that the noticeable increase in the activity of both enzymes observed in the restrictedly fed larvae could compensate initial deficiencies and explain the good results in growth and survival obtained in LQ larvae.
Inhibition of ex vivo neutrophil activation by oral LY293111, a novel leukotriene B4 receptor antagonist
Authors: MARDER P. , SPAETHE S. M. , FROELICH L. L. , CERIMELE B. J. , PETERSEN B. H. , TANNER T. , LUCAS R. A.
Published: May 2007

1The effects of orally administered LY293111 on ex vivo neutrophil Mac‐1 upregulation were determined in a total of 24 healthy male subjects within three study periods.

2In the first period, eight volunteers received 60 mg LY293111 or placebo three times daily in 22 total doses over 8 days followed by a 1 week follow‐up. The average ex vivo Mac‐1 response of the LY293111 group was 56% of the pre‐dose control (95% confidence interval (CI) 44.3 to 67.9%; P<0.01). The inhibitory effect was maximum at the end of dosing and had disappeared by day 14.

3In the second period, eight subjects received 120 mg LY293111 or placebo three times daily in 22 total doses over 8 days followed by a 1 week follow‐up. The average response of the LY293111 group was 70% of the pre‐dose control (95% CI 59.7 to 81.0%; P<0.01). The inhibitory effect was maximum the day following the initial dose and continued throughout the dosing period.

4In the third period, eight subjects received 200 mg LY293111 or placebo twice daily in 15 total doses over 8 days followed by a 1 week follow‐up. Mac‐1 upregulation was 64% of pre‐dose levels (95% CI 53.8 to 75.1%; P<0.01) over the course of the study period. The inhibition had disappeared 2 days following the final dose. Alternate neutrophil stimulation by fMLP was not inhibited.

5No statistically significant inhibition was observed for placebo‐treated subjects.

6No statistically significant differences were apparent between the active dose regimens.

7The results indicate that orally administered LY293111 is pharmacologically active in humans. Results from this study may be useful in determining dose selection for efficacy trials.
Altered cardiovascular vagal responses in nonelderly female patients with subclinical hyperthyroidism and no apparent cardiovascular disease
Authors: Portella Renata Boschi , Pedrosa Roberto Coury , Coeli Claudia Medina , Buescu Alexandru , Vaisman Mario
Published: May 2007

Objective  Subclinical hyperthyroidism (SH) has been associated with exercise intolerance, changes in cardiac morphology, atrial arrhythmias and sympathovagal imbalance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the vagal reserve and modulation by a sympathetic stimulus in nonelderly patients with SH without cardiovascular problems.

Design  We carried out a cross‐sectional study, comparing data of the heart rate variability (HRV) of SH patients and healthy controls at rest and after vagal and sympathetic stimulation.

Patients  We studied 16 female patients with at least 6 months of SH and 16 healthy female controls with the same median age (40 vs. 34·5 years).

Measurements  We used the tilt test, with electrocardiographic record at rest, during the respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) manoeuvre and after tilting, in order to analyse HRV in the frequency domain (%high frequency (HF) and low/high frequency ratio (LF/HF) using Biopotentials Captation System software.

Results  The median TSH level was 0·03 mU/l in patients and 1·37 mUI/l in controls. The median free T4 was 1·37 ng/dl in patients and 1·20 ng/dl in controls. Patients demonstrated a significantly smaller difference between %HF during the RSA and %HF at rest than controls (median –7·5 vs. 36·6, P < 0·001). There was a lower difference between LF/HF ratio after tilting and LF/HF ratio at rest in patients than in controls (1·5 vs. 5·3, P = 0·005).

Conclusion  Subclinical hyperthyroidism affects cardiovascular autonomic balance in otherwise apparently healthy nonelderly females by blunting vagal responses.
The use of an automated image cytometer for screening and quantitative assessment of cervical lesions in the British Columbia Cervical Smear Screening Programme
Authors: ANDERSON G. , MACAULAY C. , MATISIC J. , GARNER D. , PALCIC B.
Published: May 2007

The use of an automated image cytometer for screeing and quantitative assessment of cervical lesions in the British Columbia Cervical Smear Screening Programme

The development of an automated device to screen cervical cytology slides for the detection of pre‐invasive lesions of the cervix has been the goal of many individuals for over 30 years. The increasing sophistication of the technology of automation and increasingly powerful computer technology have enabled a number of these systems to reach the stage at which they have become a practical reality. The Department of Cancer Imaging at the British Columbia Cancer Agency has developed such a device over the past few years. This study reports the preliminary results of a trial to determine the reliability of the device for the screening and quantitative assessment of cervical cells. A training set of over 1000 cervical slides was used to train the image cytometer. A test set of 1030 slides was screened by the image cytometer and in the Cytology Screening Laboratory. At the 50% sample split the sensitivity of the image cytometer was 95% for severe dysplasia and 90% for moderate dysplasia, compared with a sensitivity of 90% for both of these lesions using conventional screening. A combination of nuclear texture features was found which can be used for the quantitative assessment of both abnormal cells and apparently normal intermediate cells.
Evaluation of PAPNET‐assisted cervical rescreening
Authors: DOORNEWAARD H. , WOUDT J. M. C. , STRUBBE P. , VAN DE SEIJP H. , VAN DEN TWEEL J. G.
Published: May 2007

Evaluation of PAPNET‐assisted cervical rescreening

We have compared the results of targeted manual rescreening of 1211 randomly selected smears with the results of PAPNET‐assisted rescreening of 1613 cervical smears, containing at least 6.3% low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL). PAPNET diagnosis and the targeted rescreening diagnosis were compared with the initial report, issued on the corresponding smear. Reproducibility scores for inadequacy, presence of endocervical and endometrial cells, specific infections and squamous cell abnormalities were determined. The reproducibility scores for the diagnosis of inadequate smears and specific infections were lower with the PAPNET‐assisted rescreening. The detection of squamous cell abnormalities was excellent for both methods (>0.95), with a higher detection rate for false‐negative smears with the PAPNET testing system.
Efficacy of a training programme designed to teach cervical smear screeners to identify ocular surface squamous neoplasia using conjunctival impression cytology
Authors: NOLAN G. R. , HIRST L. W. , BANCROFT B. J.
Published: May 2007

Efficacy of a training programme designed to teach cervical smear screeners to identify ocular surface squamous neoplasia using conjunctival impression cytology

Ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) is a recently proposed term introduced to encompass both intraepithelial neoplasia and invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva and cornea. A teaching programme incorporating a manual, slide sets, and an evaluation test was developed. The aim was to teach experienced cervical smear screeners to evaluate ocular surface specimens collected by conjunctival impression cytology, with a minimum of individual tuition. The use of the manual was well accepted and half of the original six candidates were able to master the new skill adequately within 8 h. It was considered that the differences between the cytology of OSSN and the equivalent lesions of the uterine cervix are sufficient to prevent some experienced screeners acquiring these skills rapidly.
Small‐scale in vivo imaging of soft tissues by radioscopy using single X‐ray photon counting
Authors: HANUS ROBERT , DAMMER JIŘÍ , HOLÝ TOMÁŠ , JAKŮBEK JAN , POSPÍŠIL STANISLAV , TYKVA RICHARD
Published: May 2007

A method has been developed for routine laboratory visualisation of small‐scale soft tissue by means of transmission X‐ray radioscopy and tomography. Using termites as models, imaging quality with a spatial resolution of about 3 μm was achieved and 3D tomographic reconstruction was demonstrated. A termite worker individual was visualized before and after its metamorphosis towards the soldier caste. The developed methodology represents a non‐invasive and real‐time way of acquiring 3D anatomic data with a high contrast so that it is a promising candidate to become a tool for routine investigations in life sciences.
Knockdown resistance to heat stress and slow recovery from chill coma are genetically associated in a quantitative trait locus region of chromosome 2 in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: NORRY FABIAN M. , GOMEZ FEDERICO H. , LOESCHCKE VOLKER
Published: May 2007

In insects, two ecologically relevant traits of thermal adaptation are knockdown resistance to high temperature (KRHT) and chill‐coma recovery (CCR). Chromosome 2 of Drosophila melanogaster was tested for quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting both CCR and KRHT in backcrosses between homosequential lines that are fixed for the standard (noninverted) sequence of this autosome. These lines were obtained by artificial selection on KRHT and subsequent inbreeding from a stock that was derived from a single wild population. Heat‐induced expression of the 70KD heat‐shock protein (Hsp70) was also examined for variation between the lines. Composite interval mapping was performed for each trait on each reciprocal backcross, identifying one QTL region in the middle of chromosome 2 for both KRHT and CCR. The largest estimates of additive effects were found in pericentromeric regions of chromosome 2, accounting for 10–14% (CCR) and 10–17% (KRHT) of the phenotypic variance in BC populations. No QTL was found in the region of the heat‐shock factor (hsf) gene. However, the two parental lines have diverged in the heat‐induced Hsp70 expression. Distribution of KRHT QTL on chromosome 2 was similar between this study based on crosses between lines selected from a single wild population and previous work based on crosses between selection lines from different continents. Colocalized QTL showed a trade–off association between CCR and KRHT, which should be the result of either multiple, tightly linked trait‐specific genes or a single gene with pleiotropic effects on the traits. We discuss candidate loci contained within the QTL regions.
On the three-dimensional structure of edge-on disc galaxies
Authors: Pohlen Michael , Zaroubi Saleem , Peletier Reynier F. , Dettmar Ralf-Jürgen
Published: May 2007

A simple algorithm is employed to deproject the two-dimensional images of a pilot sample of 12 high-quality images of edge-on disc galaxies and to study their intrinsic three-dimensional (3D) stellar distribution. We examine the radial profiles of the stars as a function of height above the plane and report a general trend within our sample of an increasing radial scalelength with height outside of the dust lane. This could be explained by the widespread presence of a thick disc component in these galaxies. In addition, the 3D view allows the study of the vertical distribution of the outer disc, beyond the break region, where we detect a significant increase in scalelength with vertical distance from the major axis for the truncated discs. This could be regarded as a weakening of the ‘truncation’ with increasing distance from the plane. Furthermore, we conclude that the recently revised classification of the radial surface brightness profiles found for face-on galaxies is indeed independent of geometry. In particular, we find at least one example of each of the three main profile classes as defined in complete samples of intermediate to face-on galaxies: not-truncated, truncated and antitruncated. The position and surface brightness that mark the break location in the radial light distribution are found to be consistent with those of face-on galaxies.
Microvascular Architecture of the Near‐term Uterine Caruncles in Water Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Abd‐Elnaeim M. M. M. , Miglino M. A. , Leiser R.
Published: May 2007

The present investigation was carried out on five near‐term pregnant water buffaloes for studying the microvascular architecture of the uterine caruncles. The vascular casts were obtained by injection of 4:1 mixture of mercox and methylmethacrylate through the branches of the uterine arteries. After complete polymerization of the plastic, corrosion was conducted in 20% potassium hydroxide, then the vessel casts were immersed in distilled water, cut into small pieces, sputter coated with gold, and examined by using a scanning electron microscope. The buffalo uterine caruncle is highly vascularized through two slightly convoluted arteries and a single less tortuous vein. The arteries branch into several stem arteries at the base of the uterine caruncle, which follow nearly straight course in the primary septa towards the fetal side. During the courses of these stem arteries arterioles of variable diameters arise. The arterioles run in the secondary and tertiary septae and at this location arterioles and venules are connected through a voluminous capillary complex. The latter consists of capillaries of greatly variable diameters with vigorous coiling and sinusoidally dilated zones. From the capillary complexes the blood is driven through postcapillary venules back to the tertiary, secondary and primary septa, respectively, and then converge into stem veins which leave the caruncles through the branches of the uterine vein.
Safety, tolerability and satisfaction with tegaserod therapy in Asia–Pacific patients with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation
Authors: Fock Kwong M , Wagner Amy ,   the Asia Pacific Gastroenterology Group
Published: May 2007

Background and Aim:  The 5‐HT4 receptor agonist tegaserod (6 mg b.i.d.) provides significantly better overall multiple symptom relief compared with placebo in patients with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS‐C). The clinical benefit and safety of tegaserod in IBS‐C patients has been demonstrated worldwide in several studies. The aim of this study was to obtain further safety and tolerability data in patients with IBS in the Asia–Pacific region, and to assess patients' satisfaction and compliance with treatment and willingness to re‐use tegaserod in a post‐marketing setting.

Methods:  A multicenter, single‐arm, open‐label trial was conducted at 869 outpatient centers in 10 countries. Men and women with IBS, whose predominant bowel symptom was not diarrhea (non‐D‐IBS), received tegaserod for 4–12 weeks. Safety and tolerability were assessed by recording adverse events (AE). Patients were questioned about compliance, satisfaction with treatment and willingness to use tegaserod in future.

Results:  Data were available from 14 537 patients (18% men, 82% women). Four percent of patients reported at least one AE. The most common AE were diarrhea (2%) and abdominal pain (1%), and most treatment‐related AE occurred in the first week of treatment. Serious AE (SAE) were observed in eight patients, and no deaths were reported. Most patients (79%) reported to be satisfied or very satisfied with treatment, and 76% stated they would use tegaserod in the future. Compliance was 97%.

Conclusions:  Tegaserod has a favorable safety and tolerability profile for treating non‐D‐IBS and IBS‐C in men and women in the Asia–Pacific region. Satisfaction with tegaserod treatment can be expected in the majority of patients.
Switched‐on Sonic hedgehog: A gene whose activity extends beyond fetal development – to oncogenesis
Authors: Arsić Dejan , Beasley Spencer W , Sullivan Michael J
Published: May 2007

Abstract: Embryonic and fetal development is a highly complex process choreographed by several families of genes that regulate early development of the embryo. Disruption in the structure and/or function of developmental genes produces morphogenic errors of development. One such family is theHedgehog(Hh) signalling pathway, which plays an important role in the embryonal development of both invertebrates and vertebrates, including normal development of the brain, eye, limbs, foregut and its derivatives. Disruption of the Sonic hedgehog expression during critical periods of development is associated with developmental disorders of the brain, namely, holoprosencephaly, and the VATER association. Inappropriate activation of the pathway in post‐embryonic development has been demonstrated in several human malignancies, including those of the brain and skin, both in children and adults. Specific inhibition of Hh signalling in these tumours inhibits growth of a wide range of malignancies. This demonstrates a requirement for Hh signalling in these tumours. These observations suggest that a better understanding of the genetic control of morphogenesis can ultimately provide us with greater knowledge of how congenital structural abnormalities occur, as well as the processes that lead to several childhood and other tumours. There may be a closer relationship between embryogenesis and oncogenesis than previously realised.
Parent‐initiated oral corticosteroid therapy for intermittent wheezing illnesses in children: Systematic review
Authors: Vuillermin Peter J , Robertson Colin F , South Mike
Published: May 2007

Aim:  Intermittent wheezing illnesses, which include viral‐associated wheeze and asthma, are among the most common reasons for children to present urgently to a doctor. The objectives of this systematic review were to assess the benefits and harmful effects of parent‐initiated oral corticosteroids (PIOCS) in the management of intermittent wheezing illness in children.

Methods:  The Cochrane Airways Group Specialised Register, The Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, Web of Science and Dissertation Abstracts were searched. Only randomised clinical trials studying patients aged between 1 and 18 years, with an intermittent wheezing illness were included.

Results:  From 572 original citations, a total of two randomised clinical trials (303 randomised participants) were included. The quality of the included trials was high; however, marked clinical heterogeneity precluded a meta‐analysis. The two trials did not find evidence that PIOCS are associated with a benefit in terms of hospital admissions, unscheduled medical reviews, symptoms scores, or bronchodilator use.

Conclusion:  Limited current evidence is available and it is inconclusive regarding the benefit from PIOCS therapy in the treatment of intermittent wheezing illnesses in children. Oral corticosteroids have a clearly defined role in the management of acute asthma in the hospital setting. Therefore, it is reasonable for clinicians to recommend PIOCS when (i) the child has a history of severe acute asthma; and (ii) the parents are able to assess asthma status. However, widespread use of PIOCS cannot be recommended until the benefits and harms can be clarified further.
Developmental outcomes at the age of two years for very premature babies managed with nasal prong continuous positive airway pressure
Authors: Stack Jacqueline A , Jalaludin Bin
Published: May 2007

Aims:  To describe the developmental progress of very premature babies at the age of 2 years, who were managed in an era where nasal prong continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) was the preferred method for the management of initial respiratory disease.

Methods:  Two groups of very premature babies of <32 weeks gestation were compared, the first being managed with an intubation and mandatory ventilation approach, and the second being managed with a CPAP approach. The groups are compared with regard to the presence of brain injury, retinopathy and requiring discharge home on oxygen and then at 2 years, for language impairment, non‐ambulatory cerebral palsy and significant developmental delay. The study is designed as an audit of data collected prospectively and longitudinally for babies born from 1998 to 2002.

Results:  A significant number of babies were successfully managed on CPAP in the second era and significantly fewer received post‐natal steroids. The number being discharged home on oxygen, brain injury and retinopathy were similar in the two groups. Developmental outcome assessed at 2 years of age was the same in both eras.

Conclusions:  A CPAP approach to the management of initial respiratory disease in premature babies of less than 32 weeks gestation at birth is associated with no measurable developmental advantage or disadvantage at 2 years of age.
Collaborative decision‐making for extreme premature delivery
Authors: Kent Alison L , Casey Anne , Lui Kei ,   for the NSW and ACT Perinatal Care at the Borderlines of Viability Consensus Workshop Committee
Published: May 2007

Abstract:  A multidisciplinary workshop with parent/consumer involvement was held to determine a consensus in the difficult arena of perinatal care of women and babies at the borderlines of viability. Interactive forums produced consensus statements following an extensive consultation process. A grey zone between 230 and 256 weeks of gestation was identified and agreed upon. In this grey zone, while there was an increasing obligation to treat, it was acceptable not to initiate intensive care following appropriate counselling with parents. Important areas identified before birth, were continuing communication between the perinatal team and parents, a review of choice with continued counselling, decision support and empathy. The process must be transparent, open and honest, using the most relevant up to date outcome data in a collaborative framework.
Improving the management of acute coronary syndromes in Australia: translating evidence to outcomes
Authors: Huynh L. T. , Phillips P. A. , Chew D. P.
Published: May 2007

Cardiovascular disease imposes a heavy burden of morbidity and mortality on the Australian community. This situation is likely to exacerbate as the number of elderly Australians increase. Management of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) is underpinned by a robust evidence base, which is outlined in clinical practice guidelines. Yet, despite wide diffusion of guidelines, many Australians who experience acute coronary syndromes do not receive optimal care. This article reviews what we have learnt from previous quality improvement initiatives and discusses what we need to know to improve acute coronary syndromes management in Australia.
Long‐term effects of a short course of neoadjuvant luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone analogue and radical radiotherapy on the hormonal profile in patients with localized prostate cancer
Authors: Murthy Vedang , Norman Andrew R. , Barbachano Yolanda , Parker Christopher C. , Dearnaley David P.
Published: May 2007

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether a long‐term follow‐up shows any reduction in the level of luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion, which could result in declining testosterone levels in men with localized prostate cancer, as most (96%) men have testosterone levels within the normal range by 1 year after treatment with a short course of LH‐releasing hormone analogue (LHRHa) and radiotherapy, and LH and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) remain high at 1 year after treatment, maintaining the testosterone levels.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We prospectively evaluated 55 patients who previously had a short course of LHRHa (median 97 days, range 28–167) and radiotherapy for localized prostate cancer. Eligible patients had documented normal testosterone, LH and FSH levels at baseline and at 1–3 years after radiotherapy. LH, FSH and testosterone were then measured at 5 years after treatment.

RESULTS

The mean hormone levels before, at 1–3 years and at 5 years after treatment, respectively, were: testosterone (nmol/L), 15.33, 13.98, 12.97; LH (U/L), 5.51, 9.95, 6.95; and FSH (U/L), 7.95, 22.40, 17.00. The decrease in testosterone level at 5 years vs 1–3 years was not statistically significant and was of little clinical relevance (P = 0.057). LH and FSH levels were higher at 1–3 years than at baseline and decreased significantly (P < 0.001) at 5 years towards the baseline value. The decrease in FSH level was less marked than for LH.

CONCLUSION

After a short course of LHRHa and radiotherapy, the testosterone level was maintained at 5 years. LH levels decreased towards the baseline value, suggesting recovery of Leydig cell function. FSH levels remained high, suggesting persistent Sertoli cell damage from treatment.
HIGH AND LOW BIDS IN TENDERS: STRATEGIC PRICING AND OTHER BIDDING BEHAVIOUR IN PUBLIC TENDERS OF PASSENGER RAILWAY SERVICES
Authors: ALEXANDERSSON Gunnar , HULTÉN Staffan
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT**:  An important component in the deregulation of the public sector in the European Union is public procurement of services and products. This article studies the bidding behaviour of firms participating in public tenders of passenger railway services in Sweden. In a theoretical part of the article we discuss the various possible reasons behind high and low bids in tenders, linked to a discussion on pricing strategies and continuous and discontinuous economies of scale regarding costs of production. Detailed data on bids and bidders in Swedish tenders of railway services are then analyzed. 37 tenders taking place between 1989 and 2005 are included.
Financial Frictions and Risky Corporate Debt
Authors: Ruffino Doriana , Treussard Jonathan
Published: May 2007

We offer clarifications on Cooley and Quadrini (2001) regarding financial frictions and risky corporate debt pricing. Even in a frictionless world, the promised rate on corporate debt is not identical across firms and across capital structures and it is not equal to the risk‐free rate. Frictions are unnecessary for credit spreads to arise. Only if the macroeconomy is in actuality risk free or risk neutral do interest rates on corporate debt reflect default probabilities. To the extent that the firm's entire financial structure is traded, a bias in credit spreads introduces an exploitable arbitrage opportunity. Re‐establishing no‐arbitrage, firm dynamics move in the opposite direction to Cooley and Quadrini's.
Research Review: Can we justify the widespread dissemination of universal, school‐based interventions for the prevention of depression among children and adolescents?
Authors: Spence Susan H , Shortt Alison L.
Published: May 2007

This review examines the evidence concerning the efficacy and effectiveness of universal, school‐based interventions designed to prevent the development of depression in children and adolescents. It evaluates the outcomes of research in relation to standards of evidence specified by the Society for Prevention Research (Flay et al., 2005). The limited evidence available brings into doubt the efficacy and effectiveness of current universal, school‐based approaches to the prevention of depression, suggesting that the widespread dissemination of such interventions would be premature. Relatively brief programs, that focus specifically on enhancing individual skills and characteristics of the individual in the absence of environmental change, may be insufficient to produce lasting effects in the prevention of depression among children and adolescents.
An Analysis of the Political Complexion of the 1835/6 Select Committee on Arts and Manufactures
Authors: Romans Mervyn
Published: May 2007

The 1835/6 Select Committee on Arts and Manufactures is generally acknowledged as being the key political event in the establishment of a system of public art and design education in Britain. The immediate outcome of its deliberations was the opening of the Normal School of Design in London in 1837 followed by the steady expansion of the system over the course of the nineteenth century, with art schools being opened in most major towns and cities throughout the country. The Minutes and Report from this Select Committee therefore represent the most important primary source for historians seeking rationales for the introduction of governmentally funded art and design education in Britain. Despite this, the workings of this Select Committee remains under‐researched in a number of important directions. This article sets out to look at one of these ‐ namely, the politicians who sat on the 1835/6 Select Committee on Arts and Manufactures.
Regulation and guidance of cell behavior for tissue regeneration via the siRNA mechanism
Authors: Cheema Sangeeta K. , Chen Ellen , Shea Lonnie D. , Mathur Anshu B.
Published: May 2007

RNA intereference and short‐interfering RNA (siRNA) have been proven to be effective at decreasing the expression of target genes and provide a valuable tool for promoting and directing the growth of functional tissues for repair and reconstructive tissue engineering applications. siRNA is a gene‐silencing mechanism that involves double‐stranded RNA‐mediated sequence‐specific mRNA degradation and is a powerful mechanism for controlling cell behavior. The use of siRNA to reduce the expression of a target gene can induce the expression of one or more tissue‐inductive factors, direct the differentiation of stem or progenitor cells, or remove a factor that inhibits regeneration, which can be useful in fundamental studies of tissue formation or in applications to promote in vivo regeneration. The potential of siRNA is illustrated through specific examples within the fields of angiogenesis, bone and nerve regeneration, and wound healing. In addition, challenges to deliver siRNA effectively for tissue engineering applications are addressed. siRNA represents a powerful tool to investigate and/or promote tissue formation, and numerous opportunities exist for identifying targets that promote regeneration of tissue and developing effective delivery systems.
Treatment of recalcitrant venous leg ulcers with autologous keratinocytes in fibrin sealant: A multinational randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Vanscheidt W. , Ukat A. , Horak V. , Brüning H. , Hunyadi J. , Pavlicek R. , Emter M. , Hartmann A. , Bende J. , Zwingers Th. , Ermuth T. , Eberhardt R.
Published: May 2007

In a multicenter trial, the effect of a commercially available combination of autologous keratinocytes (3–6 × 106/mL) with fibrin sealant (Tissucol Duo S Immuno, Baxter Hyland Immuno) on the healing of recalcitrant venous leg ulcers (duration >3 months) was compared with standard care. The primary endpoint was time to healing, and the secondary endpoint was number of healed ulcers in both groups. Both groups received compression therapy with short‐stretch bandages. Forty‐four (38.3%) of the 116 patients who had BioSeed®‐S treatment achieved complete healing of the target ulcer compared with 24 (22.4%) of 109 patients who received standard treatment. The advantage for treatment with BioSeed®‐S over standard treatment was statistically significant (chi‐square test: p=0.0106). Time to complete healing of ulcers: the log‐rank test for equality over strata revealed a superiority of treatment with BioSeed®‐S+compression (median: 176 days) over compression+standard care (median >201 days) (p<0.0001). This study, to date the largest multicenter study with autologous keratinocytes, provides evidence for its efficacy in the treatment of patients with therapy‐resistant chronic venous leg ulcers.
Circadian Blood Pressure Variability as a Function of Parity in Normotensive Pregnant Women
Authors: Hermida Ramón C. , Ayala Diana E. , Iglesias Manuel
Published: May 2007

Studies based on office blood pressure measurements concluded that parity has significant effects on blood pressure during pregnancy. The authors evaluated possible differences in the circadian pattern of blood pressure as a function of parity in normotensive women systematically studied by ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. They analyzed 1400 blood pressure series sampled for 48 consecutive hours every 4 weeks from the first obstetric visit (usually within the first trimester of pregnancy) until delivery in 234 women. The circadian pattern of blood pressure variation for each group (nulliparous vs. multiparous) and trimester of gestation was established by population multiple‐component analysis. A highly statistically significant circadian pattern, described by a model that includes components with periods of 24 and 12 hours, was demonstrated for systolic and diastolic blood pressure for both groups of pregnant women in all trimesters (p<0.001). There was no significant difference in 24‐hour mean among groups divided by parity at any stage of pregnancy (p>0.315). Data obtained from systematic ambulatory monitoring in normotensive pregnant women indicate the lack of differences in blood pressure according to parity. Reference thresholds for blood pressure in pregnancy could thus be developed as a function of rest‐activity cycle and gestational age only, independent of parity.
Heart Failure Management in African Americans: Meeting the Challenge
Authors: Durand Jean‐Bernard
Published: May 2007

Heart failure affects 3% of African Americans. The etiology of disease and prognosis for these patients differs substantially from those for non‐African Americans. A history of hypertension is associated with development of heart failure more often in African Americans than in non‐African Americans and it also appears that target organ involvement is more severe in African Americans with hypertension than in other patient subgroups. Reviewing the results from large‐scale clinical end point studies suggests that optimal treatment for heart failure in African Americans may differ from that of their non‐African American counterparts. More importantly, concomitant use of β blockers and angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors may be as effective in African Americans as in non‐African Americans. Utilizing angiotensin–converting enzyme inhibitors alone may not represent ideal therapy. Of the drugs studied, especially among the β blockers, carvedilol may be the most effective to use for this population.
The Disproportionate Impact of Hypertensive Cardiovascular Disease in African Americans: Getting to the Heart of the Issue
Authors: Jamerson Kenneth A.
Published: May 2007

The prevalence of hypertension in African Americans is among the highest in the world. Persons in this group develop hypertension at a younger age than non‐African Americans and develop more severe complications, including stroke, cardiovascular disease, and renal failure. The factors that impart this high risk to this population remain poorly understood and, undoubtedly, environmental factors overshadow genetic predisposition. While identifying the pathophysiologic and environmental factors that contribute to ethnic disparity in disease is important, finding a long‐term solution is crucial. Steps that can have an important impact on health outcomes of African Americans are presently available. Awareness of ethnicity as a risk factor for hypertension can allow health care providers to identify persons who are likely to benefit most from early, aggressive intervention. Modifiable factors such as smoking, diet, and sedentary lifestyle, as well as undertreatment of hypertension by physicians, can be targeted immediately.
Relationship of Homocysteine With Cardiovascular Disease and Blood Pressure
Authors: Dinavahi Rajani , Falkner Bonita
Published: May 2007

Elevated plasma homocysteine (Hcy) concentration
is considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and may also be associated with hypertension. Although links have been established between hyperhomocysteinemia and elevated risk for cardiovascular events, the precise role of plasma Hcy in cardiovascular disease is unclear. Plasma Hcy increases with aging and is associated with other health‐related behaviors, including smoking and diet patterns. Both epidemiologic and longitudinal clinical investigations have investigated the possible contribution of plasma Hcy to cardiovascular disease, and most report an association of plasma Hcy with the risk for cardiovascular and cerebral events. Some reports describe a significant relationship between Hcy and blood pressure levels, as well as higher Hcy in hypertensives compared to normotensives. Other studies find that the effect of Hcy disappears following adjustment for other risk factors. Because Hcy cosegregates with other risk factors, it has been difficult to identify an independent effect of Hcy on cardiovascular disease or hypertension. Hcy can be modified to some extent by vitamin supplementation. Hcy reduction may have some benefit in reducing cardiovascular risk in some patients, particularly the elderly. Because the question of an independent role of Hcy on risk for cardiovascular disease has not been determined, the assessment and treatment of Hcy should be approached in the context of other modifiable risk factors.
Blood Pressure Goal Attainment: Meeting the Challenge of the JNC 7's Blood Pressure Goals and the Role of Renin‐Angiotensin‐Aldosterone System Blockade
Authors: Weber Michael , Basile Jan , Izzo Joseph , Oparil Suzanne
Published: May 2007

This roundtable discussion, held in December 2003, was convened to discuss the impact of the Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure's (JNC 7) challenging blood pressure goal objectives for the clinical management of hypertensive patients. The discussion was moderated by Michael Weber, MD, of the State University of New York Downstate College of Medicine in New York City. Participants included leading experts in the field Joseph Izzo, Jr., MD, of the School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo; Suzanne Oparil, MD, of the Vascular Biology and Hypertension Program, Division of Cardiovascular Disease, University of Alabama at Birmingham; and Jan Basile, MD, of the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center and Department of General Internal Medicine/Geriatrics, Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. The primary intention of this roundtable is to educate physicians about the importance of achieving the blood pressure goals agreed upon by the JNC 7 Committee and to present practical ways for the attainment of such goals in clinical practice.
Blunted Nocturnal Decline in Blood Pressure
Authors: Prisant L. Michael
Published: May 2007

Blood pressure normally declines 10%–20% from daytime to sleep. Patients with less than a 10% reduction in daytime blood pressure are referred to as nondippers. A blunted nocturnal decline in blood pressure may be due to diminished sodium excretory capacity, alteration in the autonomic nervous system, or other factors. Secondary hypertension should be considered as a possibility. Target organ damage appears to be more common in nondippers, however, poor reproducibility of nondipping status raises the question as to the appropriate duration of monitoring to establish a diagnosis. Nondippers tend to have a greater reduction in nocturnal blood pressure with nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic treatment.
Implications of Albuminuria on Kidney Disease Progression
Authors: Bakris George L.
Published: May 2007

Albuminuria is recognized in all hypertension guideline statements as a cardiovascular risk factor and indicator of kidney disease. Recent data also demonstrate a strong association between the presence of microalbuminuria and elevations in C‐reactive protein. Thus, the increased membrane permeability that generates microalbuminuria may be secondary to an inflammatory process. Progression from microalbuminuria (>30 and ≤300 mg albumin/g creatinine) to macroalbuminuria (>300 mg albumin/g creatinine) indicates a worsening of vascular disease and the presence of kidney disease. Recent outcome trials of kidney disease progression have demonstrated the best results among those with reductions in albuminuria in concert with blood pressure (BP) reduction. Thus, use antihypertensive agents that not only lower BP but also lower or normalize albuminuria levels. All recent guideline statements support the use of agents that block the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system as part of a regimen to achieve the BP goal. Further lowering of albuminuria may be achieved by adding either a nondihydropyridine calcium antagonist such as verapamil or diltiazem, or aldosterone receptor blockers. Use of an angiotensin receptor blocker added to an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor or vice versa can further lower albuminuria by an additional 30%–40%, which is not true of the additional lowering of BP.
Hypertension in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Moser Marvin , Giles Thomas D. , Falkner Bonita , Schwartz Allan B. , Townsend Raymond R.
Published: May 2007

Following a hypertension symposium held in Philadelphia, PA, on June 8, 2004, a roundtable discussion was held to discuss the treatment of hypertension in adolescents and children. The participants included Thomas D. Giles, MD, of Louisiana State College of Medicine, New Orleans, LA; Bonita Falkner, MD, of the Department of Medicine and Pediatrics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA; Allan B. Schwartz, MD, of the Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA; Raymond R. Townsend, MD, of the Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA; and Marvin Moser, MD, of the Department of Medicine/Cardiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT.
New Considerations Relating to Class Effect With Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors‐The PEACE Study
Authors: Sica Domenic A.
Published: May 2007

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor therapy provides positive outcome benefits in a number of cardiac scenarios including congestive heart failure, postmyocardial infarction, as well as in the hypertensive patient at cardiac risk. This benefit exists both in normotensive and hypertensive individuals and is present in those with various grades of cardiovascular risk. This beneficial cardiovascular effect has now been observed with several angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors, suggesting a class effect. The Prevention of Events with Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibition trial studied the effect of adding the angiotensinconverting enzyme inhibitor trandolapril to a contemporary therapeutic regimen of patients with stable coronary artery disease and preserved left ventricular function. In this study, the addition of trandolapril did not confer any additional benefit in terms of reducing the incidence of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or coronary revascularization. The neutral findings in this trial add a new wrinkle to the concept of class effect for cardiovascular protection with angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors in patients with coronary artery disease.
Pharmacotherapy Review: Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
Authors: Sica Domenic A.
Published: May 2007

On inspection of most treatment algorithms for hypertension, it is apparent that multiple drug classes are available. In choosing a medication class for hypertension therapy, nuances of the selection process often go unappreciated. This article is the first in a series describing important pharmacotherapeutic considerations of the individual drug classes used in the treatment of hypertension.