bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐α agonist fenofibrate regulates IL‐12 family cytokine expression in the CNS: relevance to multiple sclerosis
Authors: Xu Jihong , Racke Michael K. , Drew Paul D.
Published: September 2007

The interleukin‐12 (IL‐12) family of cytokines which includes IL‐12, IL‐23, and IL‐27 play critical roles in T cell differentiation and are important modulators of multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis. Previously, we demonstrated that peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) ‐α agonists suppress the development of EAE. The present studies demonstrated that the PPAR‐α agonist fenofibrate inhibited the secretion of IL‐12p40, IL‐12p70 (p35/p40), IL‐23 (p19/p40), and IL‐27p28 by lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated microglia. The cytokines interferon‐γ and tumor necrosis factor‐α also stimulated IL‐12 p40 and IL‐27 p28 expression by microglia, which was suppressed by fenofibrate. Furthermore, fenofibrate inhibited microglial expression of CD14 which plays a critical role in TLR signaling, suggesting a mechanism by which this PPAR‐α agonist regulates the production of these pro‐inflammatory molecules. In addition, fenofibrate suppressed the secretion of IL‐12p40, IL‐23, and IL‐27p28 by lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated astrocytes. Importantly, fenofibrate suppression of EAE was associated with decreased expression of IL‐12 family cytokine mRNAs as well as mRNAs encoding TLR4, CD14, and MyD88 known to play critical roles in MyD88‐dependent TLR signaling. These novel observations suggest that PPAR‐α agonists including fenofibrate may modulate the development of EAE, at least in part, by suppressing the production of IL‐12 family cytokines and MyD88‐dependent signaling.
PERMANENT GENETIC RESOURCES: Twelve polymorphic microsatellite markers for the bonefish, Albula vulpes and two congeners
Authors: SEYOUM SEIFU , WALLACE ELIZABETH M. , TRINGALI MICHAEL D.
Published: September 2007

Twelve polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated for the bonefish, Albula vulpes using a polymerase chain reaction‐based procedure. The number of alleles ranged from two to 23 (mean = 8.8) in 37 specimens from south Florida. Observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.07 to 0.77 (mean = 0.42) and from 0.07 to 0.84 (mean = 0.48), respectively. There were no significant departures from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium and no evidence of genotypic disequilibrium between any pair of loci. In a cross‐amplification test, all markers yielded appropriately sized alleles for specimens of the provisional Albula sp. B and 11 of the 12 loci amplified for those of Albula glossodonta.
Phosphorus losses at the catchment scale within Europe: an overview
Authors: Kronvang B. , Vagstad N. , Behrendt H. , Bøgestrand J. , Larsen S. E.
Published: September 2007

Quantifying P losses to surface waters at different scales and partitioning of the loads into P losses from point sources and diffuse sources are significant future challenges for river basin managers. The agricultural share of P losses to surface waters is, in many river basins, increasing and therefore becoming more important to quantify and analyse. The importance of phosphorus losses from agricultural land was analysed using monitoring data and two different models for 35 micro‐catchments (<30 km2) in the Nordic–Baltic region of Europe, 17 European macro‐catchments (250–11 000 km2) and 10 large European river basins (>50 000 km2). Average annual phosphorus loss from agricultural land in the micro‐catchments varied from 0.1 to 4.7 kg P ha−1 and showed no relationship with the short‐term P surplus on agricultural land. The average annual total P loss from agricultural land showed equally large variation in the 17 macro‐catchments (0.1–6.0 kg P ha−1), but the range was less for the 10 larger river basins (0.09–2.0 kg P ha−1). The annual P loss from the 35 micro‐catchments was greatest in the micro‐catchments characterized by soil erosion and a high proportion of surface run‐off as in the Norwegian catchments. The same pattern was true for the 17 macro‐catchments where the model‐simulated total P loss from agricultural land was greatest in the catchments in northern and southern parts of Europe. The main diffuse pathways for total P loads in the 17 macro‐catchments were simulated with the MONERIS model. On average, soil erosion and surface run‐off was estimated to have contributed 53% (4.1–81%), groundwater 14% (0.2–41.7%) and tile drainage water 3% (0–14.0%).
Reducing phosphorus losses from over‐fertilized grassland soils proves difficult in the short term
Authors: Schärer M. , Stamm C. , Vollmer T. , Frossard E. , Oberson A. , Flühler H. , Sinaj S.
Published: September 2007

Phosphorus (P) losses from many agricultural soils are driven by fast transport processes, such as surface runoff, shallow interflow and macropore flow. Close interaction of rain with topsoil layers (0–5 cm), rich in available P, results in high P concentrations in these rapid runoff pathways. This is particularly pronounced in permanent grassland soils typically characterized by a P enrichment of the topsoil. One option to mitigate P losses from grassland is therefore to reduce soil P content, particularly available P, in this critical surface layer. Omitting application of P fertilizer will reduce soil P in the long term but more drastic methods may be necessary to achieve P loss reductions in shorter timescales. In this study, three management options to reduce P in runoff from grassland soils were evaluated in a field experiment lasting 2 years on two grassland sites: (i) no P inputs, (ii) no P inputs plus soil tillage and (iii) no P inputs plus tillage combined with application of a P sorbing soil amendment (iron oxide). Withholding P inputs did not decrease either the available P in the soil or the P concentrations in runoff from sprinkler experiments over a 2‐year period. Both the treatments which included tillage caused immediate reductions in both soil available P and runoff P, with Fe/OH amendment being more effective. However, in the second year the effects of both tillage treatments were less apparent and only the Fe/OH treatment significantly decreased runoff P. The results indicate that the long‐term enrichment of soils due to P application in excess of plant needs is unlikely to be remedied by short‐term treatments. However, further work is required to assess the applicability of our conclusion to other sites.
Agriculture as a phosphorus source for eutrophication in the north‐west European countries, Norway, Sweden, United Kingdom and Ireland: a review
Authors: Ulén B. , Bechmann M. , Fölster J. , Jarvie H. P. , Tunney H.
Published: September 2007

In the north‐western European countries Norway, Sweden, United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland, variability in the forms, amounts and timing of phosphorus (P) loss from agricultural land is related to national differences in climate, soil, hydrological conditions and agricultural production. The dissolved form of P constitutes 9–93% of the total phosphorus (TP) in water, subsurface drainage can contribute 12–60% and surface erosion 40–88% of TP transfer. TP export in small agricultural streams is generally in the range 0.3–6 kg ha−1 year−1, with the highest losses in Norway and UK. All four countries are complying with the EU Water Framework Directive and developing a range of measures based on P source with transport controls over P losses. A decreasing trend in TP losses has been detected in agricultural streams following the introduction of measures to reduce erosion in Norway. Average P concentrations in Swedish streams have shown a reduction of nearly 2% per year since 1993 as a result of measures introduced in southern Sweden. However, in two large rivers in agricultural regions of Sweden, the concentrations of suspended solids (SS) and TP were shown to increase by 0.4% and 0.7% per year, respectively, over the period 1975–2004, possibly as a result of climate change. It is too early to detect trends in agricultural contributions to P in surface waters as a result of catchment‐sensitive farming (CSF) in the UK and Ireland.
A TWO FACTOR MODEL OF INCOME DISTRIBUTION DYNAMICS
Authors: Nirei Makoto , Souma Wataru
Published: September 2007

This paper analyzes empirical income distributions and proposes a simple stochastic model to explain the stationary distribution and deviations from it. Using the individual tax returns data in the U.S. and Japan for 40 years, we first summarize the shape of the income distribution by an exponential decay up to about the 90th percentile and a power decay for the top 1 percent. We then propose a minimal stochastic process of labor and asset income to reproduce the empirical characteristics. In particular, the Pareto exponent is derived analytically and matched with empirical statistics.
CONSUMPTION GROWTH ACCOUNTING
Authors: Dietzenbacher Erik , De Groot Olaf J. , Los Bart
Published: September 2007

The methodology in this paper combines an input–output structural decomposition approach with the supply‐side perspective of mainstream growth accounting. In explaining the intertemporal change in consumption per worker, three sets of effects are distinguished. First, contributions due to several types of technological changes are considered. Second, effects caused by changes in international trade are discerned. Third, composition effects that reflect structural shifts in demand (including changes in tastes) are quantified. As an empirical illustration, we analyze the developments in the U.K. between 1979 and 1990.
Acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndromes in veterinary medicine: consensus definitions: The Dorothy Russell Havemeyer Working Group on ALI and ARDS in Veterinary Medicine
Authors: Wilkins Pamela A. , Otto Cynthia M. , Baumgardner James E. , Dunkel Bettina , Bedenice Daniela , Paradis Mary Rose , Staffieri Francesco , Syring Rebecca S. , Slack Joanne , Grasso Salvatore , Pranzo, Esq. Gene
Published: September 2007

Background:As veterinary medicine has become more sophisticated, with greater numbers of veterinary patients receiving intensive care, more patients with an acute respiratory distress (ARDS)‐like syndrome have been recognized.

Methods:A consensus definition meeting was held for the purpose of developing veterinary‐specific definitions for acute lung injury (ALI) and ARDS.

Results/conclusions:Three clinically based definitions for acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress‐like syndromes occurring in veterinary patients were described. Neonatal equine respiratory distress syndrome (NERDS) was defined separately due to the specific requirement for primary developmental surfactant dysfunction and lack of an inflammatory component. Five diagnostic criteria categories were established for Veterinary ALI/ARDS (Vet ALI/ARDS) with 4 required and a fifth highly recommended criteria. A strong consensus was reached that onset of respiratory distress must have been acute and that known risk factors must be present. Additional criteria included evidence of pulmonary capillary leak with no evidence of increased pulmonary capillary pressure, evidence of inefficient gas exchange and, finally, evidence of inflammation. Some features of ALI/ARDS in the neonatal horse were recognized as unique, therefore, equine neonatal ALI/ARDS (EqNALI/EqNARDS) was similarly defined but with a graded gas exchange inefficiency table to allow for normal developmental changes in gas exchange. Use of these definitions in planning prospective studies of these problems in veterinary patients should allow for more direct comparisons of studies and clinical trials, with a larger goal of improving outcome in veterinary patients.
Malnutrition and diabetes mellitus are related to hepatic encephalopathy in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Kalaitzakis Evangelos , Olsson Rolf , Henfridsson Pia , Hugosson Irene , Bengtsson Maria , Jalan Rajiv , Björnsson Einar
Published: September 2007

Background/Aims: Studies on animal models of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) suggest that poor nutritional status may facilitate the development of HE. Insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus have recently been reported to affect cognition in patients with hepatitis C cirrhosis awaiting liver transplantation. Our aim was to investigate the effects of malnutrition and diabetes mellitus on HE in unselected patients with liver cirrhosis.

Methods: A total of 128 consecutive cirrhotic patients were prospectively evaluated for the presence of HE according to the West‐Haven criteria as well as by means of two psychometric tests and fasting plasma ammonium ion concentrations. Nutritional status was assessed by anthropometry and estimation of recent weight change. Fasting plasma glucose was measured, and in a subgroup of 84 patients fasting serum insulin and insulin resistance were also determined.

Results: Fifty‐one (40%) cirrhotics were malnourished, 33 (26%) had diabetes and 42 (34%) had HE. Patients with vs. without malnutrition had more frequently HE (46 vs. 27%; P=0.031) but did not differ in age, aetiology or severity of liver cirrhosis (P>0.1). Multivariate analysis showed that the time needed to perform number connection test A was independently correlated to age, the Child–Pugh score, diabetes and malnutrition (P<0.05 for all). Plasma ammonium ion levels were related to insulin resistance (r=0.42, P<0.001) and muscle mass (r=0.28, P=0.003).

Conclusion: Malnutrition and diabetes mellitus seem to be related to HE in patients with liver cirrhosis. Nutritional status and insulin resistance might be implicated in the pathogenesis of HE.
The benign course of liver disease in adults with cystic fibrosis and the effect of ursodeoxycholic acid
Authors: Desmond Christopher Paul , Wilson John , Bailey Michael , Clark Denise , Roberts Stuart Keith
Published: September 2007

Background and Aims: The life expectancy of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) has been increasing and the associated liver disease has emerged as a significant medical issue. Our aim was to describe the clinical features, course and effect of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) on liver disease in an adult CF population.

Study: From 1983 to 2005, 278 patients with CF were followed up at the Alfred Hospital, an adult tertiary referral centre. Twenty‐seven patients (9.7%) satisfied the criteria for liver disease and their clinico‐pathological features were assessed. The effect of UDCA on hepatobiliary symptoms and biochemical parameters was determined.

Results: The mean age at liver disease diagnosis was 23 years (range 8–47 years). Portal hypertension was present in 18 (67%) patients. During a median follow‐up of 7 years (range 1.5–15), variceal haemorrhage occurred in two patients and ascites in three (one spontaneously). Nine (33%) patients died and five (19%) underwent lung transplantation. There was no encephalopathy, liver transplantation or liver‐related deaths. UDCA was taken by 22 patients and was associated with a significant improvement in hepatobiliary symptoms [11/22 (50%) in the pre‐UDCA period vs 1/22 (4%) in the post‐UDCA period; P=0.0003] and a significant reduction in aspartate aminotransferase (P=0.005); alanine aminotransferase (P<0.001); γ‐glutamyltranspeptidase (P=0.021); and alkaline phosphatase (P<0.001).

Conclusions: Liver disease in adults with CF is commonly complicated by portal hypertension, but morbidity and mortality associated with this in our small patient population were low. UDCA is associated with improvement in hepatobiliary symptoms and liver function tests.
Using pressure–volume curves to set proper PEEP in acute lung injury
Authors: LaFollette Ryan , Hojnowski Katy , Norton Jillian , DiRocco Joseph , Carney David , Nieman Gary
Published: September 2007

The evolution of respiratory care on patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has been focused on preventing the deleterious effects of mechanical ventilation, termed ventilator‐induced lung injury (VILI). Currently, reduced tidal volume is the standard of ventilatory care for patients with ARDS. The current focus, however, has shifted to the proper setting of positive end‐expiratory pressure (PEEP). The whole lung pressure–volume (P/V) curve has been used to individualize setting proper PEEP in patients with ARDS, although the physiologic interpretation of the curve remains under debate. The purpose of this review is to present the pros and cons of using P/V curves to set PEEP in patients with ARDS. A systematic analysis of recent and relevant literature was conducted. It has been hypothesized that proper PEEP can be determined by identifying P/V curve inflection points. Acquiring a dynamic curve presents the key to the curve‘s bedside application. The lower inflection point of the inflation limb has been shown to be the point of massive alveolar recruitment and therefore an option for setting PEEP. However, it is becoming widely accepted that the upper inflection point (UIP) of the deflation limb of the P/V curve represents the point of optimal PEEP. New methods used to identify optimal PEEP, including tomography and active compliance measurements, are currently being investigated. In conclusion, we believe that the most promising method for determining proper PEEP settings is use of the UIP of the deflation limb. However, tomography and dynamic compliance may offer superior bedside availability.
Implementation and evaluation of the critical care assistant role
Authors: McGuire Anita , Richardson Annette , Coghill Elaine , Platt Alan , Wimpenny Sarah , Eglon Pamela
Published: September 2007

This paper provides an overview of the implementation and evaluation of the critical care assistant (CCA) role within a large teaching trust. Nine CCAs were employed as a pilot across six critical care units. A multistakeholder evaluation was performed to establish the impact of the new role on the critical care team and the contribution to patient care. The evaluation was undertaken over 6 months and used questionnaire format and focus group interviews. The results of the evaluation were overall mixed with some improvements noted especially within high‐dependency care where the introduction of the role eased some of the workload pressures on qualified staff and allowed nurses to focus on the more dependent patients. A structured education and training programme supported by the National Vocational Qualification level 3 assessment strategy helped to prepare the CCAs theoretically for the extension in their role; however, difficulties were experienced with the appropriate allocation of tasks and general communication with nursing staff. The perceptions of both patients and relatives were sought and evaluated positively as they were satisfied with the standard of care received and were comfortable with a CCA providing their care, which supports the future development of the role.
Physiological risk factors, early warning scoring systems and organizational changes
Authors: Johnstone Carolyn C , Rattray Janice , Myers Liz
Published: September 2007

Currently, medical and surgical wards tend to have a higher number of sicker and more dependent patients. There is also a growing recognition that several indicators of acute deterioration are being missed, leading to adverse consequences for the patients. As a result, many initiatives have been designed to try to reduce these consequences, including the development of early warning scoring or track and trigger systems and medical response and critical care outreach teams. This paper briefly discusses the risk factors associated with acute deterioration, the use of early warning scoring or track and trigger systems and the role of outreach teams. The aim of this paper is to discuss the development and subsequent implementation of early warning scoring systems (EWS) or track and trigger systems. It will also discuss the associated organizational changes; the main organizational change discussed will be the introduction outreach teams. For this paper, a pragmatic search strategy was implemented using the following terms: early warning score and scoring, track and trigger systems, decision‐making tools, critical care outreach and medical emergency teams. The databases used included CINHAL (1997–2007), Medline, Blackwell Synergy and Science Direct, as these would enable the retrieval of relevant literature in the area of triggering of response to acute deterioration in clinical condition. A 10‐year limit was initially set, although review of the literature identified resulted in a widening of this to include some of the relevant (and occasionally more dated) literature referred to in these papers. A total of 645 were accessed; of these 135 were retrieved as they appeared to meet the inclusion criteria, but only 35 have been included in this review. The term decision‐making tools accounted for the largest number (500), but most of these were irrelevant. EWS are not always used to their full potential, raising the question of their impact. The impact of outreach teams and medical emergency teams has yet to be fully defined. For clinical practice, this means that care must be taken when developing and implementing these changes. The rigour of the development process needs to be considered along with reflection upon how to best meet local requirements.
Multimodal, Multidimensional Models of Mouse Brain
Authors: MacKenzie‐Graham Allan J. , Lee Erh‐Fang , Dinov Ivo D. , Yuan Heng , Jacobs Russell E. , Toga Arthur W.
Published: September 2007

Summary:  Naturally occurring mutants and genetically manipulated strains of mice are widely used to model a variety of human diseases. Atlases are an invaluable aid in understanding the impact of such manipulations by providing a standard for comparison and to facilitate the integration of anatomic, genetic, and physiologic observations from multiple subjects and experiments. We have developed digital atlases of the C57BL/6J mouse brain (adult and neonate) as comprehensive frameworks for storing and accessing the myriad types of information about the mouse brain. Along with raw and annotated images, these contain database management systems and a set of tools for comparing information from different techniques and different animals. Each atlas establishes a canonical representation of the mouse brain and provides the tools for the manipulation and analysis of new data. We describe both these atlases and discuss how they may be put to use in organizing and analyzing data from mouse models of epilepsy.
Application of Coregistration for Imaging of Animal Models of Epilepsy
Authors: Jupp Bianca , O'Brien Terence J.
Published: September 2007

Summary:  The past decade has seen a surge in the utilization of small animal imaging for epilepsy research. In vivo imaging studies have the potential to provide important insights into the structural and functional correlates of the development and progression of epilepsy in these models. However, the small size of the rodent brain means that anatomic resolution is often relatively poor for many imaging modalities, particularly those providing functional information such as positron emission tomography. Coregistration of these images with those of higher structural resolution, such as MRI, provides an attractive approach to this problem, and also allows correlations between structural and functional imaging data. Image coregistration is commonly utilized in clinical research and practice. However, its application for small animal images has been, to date, relatively under utilized and largely unvalidated. The current review aims to provide an overview of image coregistration methods, particularly for MRI and PET, and their application to imaging of small animal models of epilepsy. Methodological advantages and potential traps are highlighted.
Effects of plant growth substances on the conchocelis phase of Alaskan Porphyra (Bangiales, Rhodophyta) species in conjunction with environmental variables1
Authors: Lin Rulong , Stekoll Michael S.
Published: September 2007

The effect of plant growth substances (PGSs) on conchocelis growth of Alaskan Porphyra (P. abbottiae V. Krishnam., P. pseudolanceolata V. Krishnam., P. pseudolinearis Ueda) was investigated. Growth was measured under different combinations of PGS concentrations (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1.6, and 3.2 ppm), PGS type (gibberellic acid, kinetin, and indole‐3‐acetic acid), temperature (7, 11, and 15°C), and photoperiod (16:8 light:dark [L:D] cycle and 8:16 L:D cycle). Plant growth substances effectively promoted the growth of Porphyra conchocelis. Depending on culture conditions, growth rates were increased relative to controls 6.9%–31.7% for P. abbottiae, 4.7%–25.7% for P. pseudolanceolata, and 8.9%–35.1% for P. pseudolinearis. Maximal growth of P. abbottiae occurred with 0.8 ppm kinetin, 15°C, and short‐day conditions (8:16 L:D). Porphyra pseudolanceolata exhibited maximal growth with 0.4 ppm indole‐3‐acetic acid, 7°C, and long days (16:8 L:D). Indole‐3‐acetic acid also effected maximal growth of P. pseudolinearis at 0.4 ppm, 15°C, and long‐day conditions (16:8 L:D). For P. abbottiae and P. pseudolinearis, intermediate PGS concentrations (0.4–1.6 ppm) had the greatest growth‐stimulating effects, whereas for P. pseudolanceolata, higher growth generally occurred at lower concentrations (0.1–0.8 ppm). Kinetin and indole‐3‐acetic acid had more influence on the conchocelis phase than gibberellic acid. The PGS concentrations greater than 1.6 ppm had a diminishing effect on growth, especially in P. pseudolanceolata. For P. abbottiae and P. pseudolinearis, higher temperatures resulted in higher growth rates, in contrast to P. pseudolanceolata, which grew faster at the lower temperatures.
Short‐term variations in development of a recurrent toxic Alexandrium minutum–dominated dinoflagellate bloom induced by meteorological conditions1
Authors: Van Lenning Kees , Vila Magda , Masó Mercedes , Garcés Esther , Anglès Silvia , Sampedro Nagore , Morales‐Blake Alejandro , Camp Jordi
Published: September 2007

Development of an Alexandrium minutum Halim bloom affecting a Mediterranean harbor was monitored in detail using a multidisciplinary approach. A. minutum was by far the most abundant species at and near the bloom maximum, but always coexisted with members of three additional dinoflagellate genera and prasinophytes. Bloom initiation (early February) occurred during prolonged influences of sunny weather conditions, when day length exceeded 10.5 h and water temperatures reached 10.2°C. Subsequent development toward its maximum (end of March) also relied on good weather conditions, with specific wind directions favoring accumulation of cells. Arrival of rainy weather, associated with frontal boundaries of large‐scale low‐atmospheric‐pressure systems and characterized by reduced solar irradiance (heavy cloud coverage), opposite wind directions, and enhanced wind speeds, always caused temporal declines of the bloom. These declines were attributed to dispersal or displacement of algae, but a vertical migration of A. minutum cells toward the sediment was not excluded. Delayed inflows of excess terrestrial rainwater along the inner harbor wall strongly reduced salinity and prolonged a temporal decline far beyond influences of bad weather. The associated nutrient supply favored development of the phytoplankton population but reduced the toxin production of A. minutum cells. The HPLC‐determined Gonyautoxin (GTX) 1 + 4/GTX 2 + 3 ratio strongly increased toward the bloom maximum. This ratio was influenced by nutrient status and cell density and has a potential value for monitoring developmental stages of blooms. Prolonged bad weather conditions eventually hindered continuation of bloom development, and subsequent declines of algal biomass were attributed to grazing.
Diagnosing and Treating Breast Cancer in Elderly Women: A Call for Improved Understanding
Authors: Downey Leona , Livingston Robert , Stopeck Alison
Published: September 2007

Breast cancer is the most common nondermatological malignancy in women, and the incidence increases with age until the eighth decade. Breast cancer pathology and biology appear to be different in elderly patients than in younger ones, and therefore treatment recommendations cannot be generalized from one group to the other. Most elderly women can tolerate breast cancer surgery without significant complications and should be offered a definitive surgical procedure. Improved mechanisms to predict which patients will tolerate and benefit from various therapies are under development. Because most breast cancers in the elderly are hormone responsive, hormonal therapy remains the mainstay of systemic treatment in the adjuvant and metastatic settings. Chemotherapy can be used in elderly women, but treatment decisions must be individualized based upon risk–benefit analyses. Elder‐specific studies are underway to identify the most‐efficacious and best‐tolerated therapies for breast cancer in this population. Primary care physicians must be aware of these issues to provide adequate counseling and care to these patients.
Effect of Light‐Curing Method and Cement Activation Mode on Resin Cement Knoop Hardness
Authors: Tango Rubens Nisie , Sinhoreti Mário Alexandre Coelho , Correr Américo Bortolazzo , Correr‐Sobrinho Lourenço , Henriques Guilherme Elias Peçanha
Published: September 2007

Purpose:
To evaluate the Knoop hardness (KHN) of the resin cement Enforce activated by chemical/physical mode or physical mode solely; light‐cured directly or through a 1.5 mm thick ceramic disc (HeraCeram) on shade DD2.

Materials and Methods:
Light‐curing was carried out using a conventional quartz tungsten halogen light (QTH) (XL2500) for 40 seconds at 700 mW/cm2; light‐emitting diodes (LED) (Ultrablue Is) for 40 seconds at 440 mW/cm2; and Xenon plasma arc (PAC) (Apollo 95E) for 3 seconds at 1600 mW/cm2. Bovine incisors had their buccal faces flattened and hybridized. A mold was seated on these surfaces and filled with cement. A disc of the acid‐etched and silanized veneering material was seated over this set for light‐curing. After dry storage (24 hours at 37°C), specimens (n= 10) were sectioned for KHN measurements performed in a microhardness tester (50 gf load for 15 seconds). Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey's test (α= 0.05).

Results:
The highest KHN values were obtained with LED, for both dual‐cured and light‐cured cement. The lowest KHN value was obtained with light‐cured PAC. Light‐curing with QTH resulted in hardness values similar to PAC in dual‐cured groups.

Conclusions:
Light‐curing through HeraCeram can influence resin cement hardness.
The Great Capitol Hill Baby Sitting Co‐op: Anecdote or Evidence for the Optimum Quantity of Money?
Authors: HENS THORSTEN , REINER SCHENK‐HOPPÉ KLAUS , VOGT BODO
Published: September 2007

This paper studies a centralized market with idiosyncratic uncertainty and money as a medium of exchange from a theoretical as well as an experimental perspective. In our model, prices are fixed and markets are cleared by rationing. We prove the existence of stationary monetary equilibria and of an optimum quantity of money. The rational solution of our model, which is based on the assumption of individual rationality and rational expectations, is compared with actual behavior in a laboratory experiment. The theoretical results are strongly supported by this experiment.
Optimal Constrained Interest‐Rate Rules
Authors: EVANS GEORGE W. , McGOUGH BRUCE
Published: September 2007

We show that if policymakers compute the optimal unconstrained interest‐rate rule within a Taylor‐type class, they may be led to rules that generate indeterminacy and/or instability under learning. This problem is compounded by uncertainty about structural parameters since an optimal rule that is determinate and stable under learning for one calibration may be indeterminate or unstable under learning under a different calibration. We advocate a procedure in which policymakers restrict attention to rules constrained to lie in the determinate learnable region for all plausible calibrations, and that minimize the expected loss, computed using structural parameter priors, subject to this constraint.
The Relationship of Methanol and Formate Concentrations in Fatalities Where Methanol Is Detected
Authors: Jones Graham R. , Singer Peter P. , Rittenbach Katherine
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  An automated headspace gas chromatography method was developed for the determination of formate (formic acid) in postmortem specimens, based on the in situ sulfuric acid–methanol methylation of formic acid to methyl formate. Diisopropyl ether was used as an internal standard. The method was applied to over 150 postmortem cases where methanol was detected. Of the 153 cases presented, 107 deaths were attributed to acute methanol toxicity. In the vast majority of the remaining 46 deaths, the methanol was determined to be present as a postmortem or perimortem artifact, or was otherwise incidental to the cause of death. Of the 76 victims who were found dead and blood was collected by the medical examiner, all but one had a postmortem blood formate concentration greater than 0.50 g/L (mean 0.85 g/L; n = 74). The sole exception involved suicidal ingestion of methanol where the blood methanol concentration was 7.9 g/L (790 mg/100 mL) and blood formate 0.12 g/L. In 97% (72/74) of the cases where blood was available, the blood formate was between 0.60 and 1.40 g/L. In 31 of the 153 cases, the victim was hospitalized and blood obtained on admission or soon after was analyzed for methanol and formate during the subsequent death investigation; the vast majority (27/30) had antemortem blood formate concentrations greater than 0.50 g/L. Cases with samples taken prior to death with blood formate concentrations less than 0.5 g/L can readily be explained by active treatment such as dialysis. The blood formate method has also been useful in confirming probable perimortem or postmortem contamination of one of more fluids or tissues with methanol (e.g., windshield washer fluid or embalming fluid), where methanol ingestion was unlikely.
Utilitarians Are Not Always Fair and the Fair Are Not Always Utilitarian: Distinct Motives for Cooperation1
Authors: Markóczy Lívia
Published: September 2007

This paper investigates the effect of utilitarianism and fairness motives on cooperative behavior in a real‐life, large‐scale social dilemma while also looking at the moderating effect of various situational factors on this relationship. Perceived criticality of the situation and high‐efficacy beliefs are shown to increase cooperation of utilitarians more than they increase cooperation of those with a fairness motive. Ownership of the problem and the expected cooperation of others on the other hand are shown to increase cooperation of those with a fairness motive more so than they increase cooperation of utilitarians. Implications of these findings for increasing cooperation in social dilemmas are discussed.
Patient Characteristics That Impact Healthcare Resource Allocation Choices: Relative Impact of Mental Illness, Age, and Parental Status1
Authors: Wiseman David
Published: September 2007

This study assessed how changes in descriptions of hypothetical patients suffering from kidney disease impact choices about whether they should be allocated access to a life‐supporting artificial kidney machine. In 2 experiments, each using a different sample, participants were given a list of prospective (fictional) patients, all of whom were described as having kidney disease, yet varied with respect to characteristics of parental status, age, and mental health status. Participants rank‐ordered patients on the basis of priority for treatment. Participants favored patients who had children, were young, and were mentally healthy. Age was a larger determinant of participant choices than mental health status. Implications of these results for prejudice against those who are childless, elderly, and mentally ill are noted.
We Believe in Being Honest: Examining Subcultural Differences in the Acceptability of Deception1
Authors: Ning Susanna Robinson , Crossman Angela M.
Published: September 2007

Perceptions of lie acceptability vary as a function of the motivation for the lie, the relationship between deceiver and deceived, and the perceiver's cultural background. The current study examines the relation between one cultural background—that is, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‐Day Saints (LDS)—and perceptions of lie acceptability, and whether this varies as a function of lie and rater characteristics. Participants rated lie acceptability in 12 scenarios varying lie motivation and lie recipient. Overall, the LDS group rated lies as less acceptable than did the non‐LDS group, and lie acceptability varied according to lie motivation and lie recipient. Participant age was negatively correlated with lie acceptability. Implications of the findings and directions for future research are discussed.
Rituximab responsive immune thrombocytopenic purpura in an adult with underlying autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome due to a splice‐site mutation (IVS7+2 T>C) affecting the Fas gene
Authors: Wei Andrew , Cowie Tiffany
Published: September 2007

A 36 yr‐old man of Israeli descent with a history of childhood splenectomy for severe thrombocytopenia and a family history of autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS), presented with severe immune thrombocytopenic purpura refractory to standard therapy. He was found to possess a heterozygous mutation in the Fas gene (also termed TNFRSF6, CD95, Apo‐1) affecting the donor splice site of intron 7 (IVS7+2 T>C). This frameshift mutation truncates the cytoplasmic domain of the Fas death receptor, resulting in circulating CD4/8 double negative T lymphocytes, lymphadenopathy and autoimmune complications typical of ALPS. Administration of Rituximab in this patient was associated with a durable hematologic response (currently more than 12 months). This report highlights the need to consider rare inherited causes of thrombocytopenia in adults with a family history of immune cytopenia(s) and the effective use of anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody in patients unresponsive to immunosuppression and splenectomy.
Eosinophilic bronchitis‐like lesion as the cause of death in a Macaca mulatta: a first case report
Authors: Christal J.L. , Hubbard G.B. , Dick E.J. , Brasky K.M. , Jagirdar J.
Published: September 2007

Background  Eosinophilic bronchitis is a recently described, relatively benign condition in humans that is characterized by a corticosteroid‐responsive chronic cough and sputum eosinophilia without the abnormalities of airway function seen in asthma. The exact cause of this condition is currently unknown, however has been associated with various occupational exposures in humans. It has also been reported to progress to irreversible airway obstruction. This disease has been reported in dogs and horses, but not in non‐human primates.

Methods  Gross examination of an otherwise healthy 13‐year‐old, colony‐born Macaca mulatta, which died of severe non‐responsive respiratory distress revealed that the lungs were markedly inflated and moist.

Results  Hematoxylin and eosin‐stained sections from the lungs contained widespread accumulation of eosinophils, sloughed epithelial cells, and mucus centered around bronchioles and adjacent airways. There was no evidence of mast cell infiltration of peribronchiolar smooth muscle, goblet cell hyperplasia, or basement membrane thickening.

Conclusions  This ruled out recurrent episodes as would be expected in asthma, favoring the diagnosis of an eosinophilic bronchitis‐like lesion. We report a first case of eosinophilic bronchitis‐like features in a M. mulatta.
Hepatic mesenchymal hamartoma in a preterm newborn: demonstration by low‐dose multidetector CT
Authors: Heyer Christoph , Weitkaemper Almut , Teig Norbert , Mueller Annette , Rieger Christian , Nicolas Volkmar
Published: September 2007

Primary liver tumours are very rare in the neonatal period. Differential diagnoses include haemangioendothelioma, malignant hepatoblastoma and mesenchymal hamartoma. Due to non‐specific clinical symptoms and indecisive imaging findings, correct diagnosis may be difficult to establish. We report a female preterm newborn who was delivered at 33 weeks of gestation and in whom ultrasonography (US) revealed a large cystic intraabdominal tumour of unknown origin. For further evaluation, contrast‐enhanced multidetector computed tomography (CT) was performed on the 4th day of life using a low‐dose protocol (80 kVp, 50 mAs, collimation 0.75 mm, total effective dose 3.6 mSv). Based on CT findings, diagnosis of an intrahepatic mesenchymal hamartoma was made and confirmed by tumour resection and histopathological examination. In conclusion, multidetector CT (MDCT) using a low‐dose protocol can be exceptionally used to establish diagnosis of a mesenchymal hamartoma in a preterm newborn.
Epidemiology of hospital admissions for chickenpox in children: an Italian multicentre study in the pre‐vaccine era
Authors: Marchetto S , De Benedictis F M , De Martino M , Versace A , Chiappini E , Bertaine C , Osimani P , Cordiali R , Gabiano C , Galli L
Published: September 2007

Aim: To describe the chickenpox complications in children in Italy.

Methods: Hospital discharge data from 1 January 2002 to 15 June 2006 were queried for patients less than 18 years of age in three Italian paediatric university hospitals.

Results: During the study period, 349 children (189 males, 160 females) were admitted. Thirteen out of 349 (3.7%) of them had serious underlying diseases. Two hundred and sixty‐one (74.8%) children (median age: 41 months, range: 6 days –to 200 months) had complicated chickenpox. Among complications, neurological disorders were the most common (100/261 = 38.3%), followed by skin and soft tissue infections (63/261 = 24.1%), lower respiratory tract infections (57/261 = 21.8%) and haematological disorders (24/261 = 9.2%). Children with neurological complications were significantly older and had a longer hospital stay than those with other complications. Three children with encephalitis and cerebellitis had developed long‐term sequelae by the 6‐month follow‐up. The mortality rate was 0.4% (1/261 children with complicated chickenpox).

Conclusion: Chickenpox is a disease that can provoke serious complications and long hospital stays, even in healthy children. Our findings may be useful as background to evaluate the impact of a tetravalent measles‐mumps‐rubella‐varicella vaccine (MMRV) which is going to be introduced in Italy.
Casein phosphopeptide promotion of calcium uptake in HT‐29 cells − relationship between biological activity and supramolecular structure
Authors: Gravaghi Claudia , Del Favero Elena , Cantu' Laura , Donetti Elena , Bedoni Marzia , Fiorilli Amelia , Tettamanti Guido , Ferraretto Anita
Published: September 2007

Casein phosphopeptides (CPPs) form aggregated complexes with calcium phosphate and induce Ca2+influx into HT‐29 cells that have been shown to be differentiated in culture. The relationship between the aggregation of CPPs assessed by laser light scattering and their biological effect was studied using the CPPs β‐CN(1–25)4P and αs1‐CN(59–79)5P, the commercial mixture CPP DMV, the ‘cluster sequence’ pentapeptide, typical of CPPs, and dephosphorylated β‐CN(1–25)4P, [β‐CN(1–25)0P]. The biological effect was found to be: (a) maximal with β‐CN(1–25)4P and null with the ‘cluster sequence’; (b) independent of the presence of inorganic phosphate; and (c) maximal at 4 mmol·L−1Ca2+. The aggregation of CPP had the following features: (a) rapid occurrence; (b) maximal aggregation by β‐CN(1–25)4P with aggregates of 60 nm hydrodynamic radius; (c) need for the concomitant presence of Ca2+and CPP for optimal aggregation; (d) lower aggregation in Ca2+‐free Krebs/Ringer/Hepes; (e) formation of bigger aggregates (150 nm radius) with β‐CN(1–25)0P. With both β‐CN(1–25)4P and CPP DMV, the maximum biological activity and degree of aggregation were reached at 4 mmol·L−1Ca2+.
Action of Celecoxib on Hepatic Metabolic Changes Induced by the Walker‐256 Tumour in Rats
Authors: Acco Alexandra , Da Rocha Alves da Silva Mário Henrique , Batista Márcia Regina , Yamamoto Nair Seiko , Bracht Adelar
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  The purpose of the present work was to investigate the influence of celecoxib on some hepatic metabolic parameters affected by the Walker‐256 tumour in rats. Celecoxib was administered daily (5–50 mg/kg body weight) beginning at the day in which the tumour cells were inocculated. At day 14, the liver was isolated and perfused in order to measure alanine transformation, glycolysis and arginine transformation. Maximal reduction of tumour growth (75%), accompanied by an almost normal weight gain, was attained with a celecoxib dose of 12.5 mg/kg. Diminution of glucose utilization (glycolysis) and inhibition of gluconeogenesis and ureogenesis from alanine caused by the tumor were totally reversed by celecoxib. Oxygen uptake by the liver was also normalized by the drug. Hepatic arginine transformation, which is normally enhanced in rats bearing the Walker‐256 tumour, remained elevated in celecoxib‐treated animals. It was concluded that preservation of gluconeogenesis and normalization of hepatic glucose utilization can explain, partly at least, the clinical improvement of cancer patients treated with the drug. The lack of action of celecoxib on arginine hydrolysis might indicate that reduction in polyamine synthesis is not a factor contributing to the diminished tumour growth.
THERMAL DEATH KINETICS OF B. STEAROTHERMOPHILUS SPORES IN SUGARCANE MUST
Authors: JUNIOR J. NOLASCO , DE MASSAGUER P.R.
Published: September 2007

Thermal death kinetic parameters for Bacillus stearothermophilusspores were evaluated in sugarcane must (21.5°Brix, pH = 6.14) at temperatures ranging from 98 to 130C, using the thermal‐death‐time tube method and survivors count. Resulting survival curves showed strong nonlinearity and different shapes according to heating temperature. The 98 and 110C curves showed an initial shoulder or thermal lag and were adjusted to the logistic model. At the temperature range of 120–125C, the two‐term exponential model for population with heterogeneous heat resistance was fitted, and at 130C, the classic linear model was suitable. It was shown that rate constants are influenced by temperature according to two irreconcilable methods: the Arrhenius and the Bigelow methods. Activation energy (Ea) obtained was 249.52 kJ/mol while thermal resistance parameter (z‐value) calculated from Ea and the Bigelow method were 11.48 and 9.19C, respectively. Thermal death kinetic constant, k values, varied from 0.019 to 13.63/min.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The thermal degradation kinetics from this work, in conjunction with the appropriate sugar degradation kinetic data (Nolasco Junior 2005, Nolasco Junior and De Massaguer 2006), can be used to properly design an optimal thermal process to inactivate sugarcane must contaminants with optimal sugar content retention. Contaminant control in ethanolic fermentation processes could namely be based on temperature, a physical agent, instead of the current control practice based on antibiotics. Besides, the data from this research meet the more frequently found nonlinear microbial thermal death kinetic model application.