bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Testosterone on Lipid Peroxidation, Lipid Profiles and some Coagulation Parameters in Rabbits*
Authors: Aydilek N. , Aksakal M.
Published: October 2005

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of testosterone on some risk factors of atherosclerosis. Twenty‐four male New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into three groups of eight. The first group was used as control. Second group was injected with 10 mg of testosterone propionate. Third group was castrated bilaterally. At the end of 6 weeks, lipid peroxidation (LPO), lipid profile, fibrinogen (FBN) level and coagulation parameters were evaluated. Testosterone administration decreased the level of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), while castration increased this level (P < 0.05). Triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) levels in the castration group were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those in the testosterone group. The ratio of HDL‐C:low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) decreased, while TC:HDL‐C ratio increased (P < 0.05) in the testosterone group. No significant differences were found in the LDL‐C and FBN levels among groups. However, there was a tendency for higher FBN level in the testosterone group. Testosterone administration resulted in an increase in the level of LPO (P < 0.05). Clotting time and prothrombin time prolonged in the castration group compared with testosterone group (P < 0.05). As a result, testosterone has exacerbating effect on atherosclerosis risk factors including lipid profile, LPO, FBN and coagulation system.
Effect of ACTH Administration on Biochemical and Immune Measures in Boars
Authors: Bilandžić N. , ŠImić B. , ŽUrić M. , Lojkić M.
Published: October 2005

The effects of stress induced by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) on biochemical and immune changes in Swedish Landrace boars aged approximately 6–7 months were observed during ACTH administration and for 16 days after the cessation of treatment. Adrenocorticotropic hormone treated animals (n = 7) were given intravenously 10 μg/kg body mass of ACTH for 3 days. Control group of animals (n = 7) received intramuscularly 1 ml of sterile 0.9% saline. Total protein and globulin levels were significantly elevated during the induced stress period and for the next 16 days (P < 0.01 to P < 0.0001, respectively). Also, serum immunoglobulin IgG concentration was significantly elevated during and after ACTH injection (P < 0.001 to P < 0.0001). Adrenocorticotropic hormone treatment had no effect on serum albumin, IgA and IgM concentrations. Glucose concentration was significantly decreased on the second day of ACTH administration (P < 0.001) and on day 9 after treatment (P < 0.001). Calcium level was significantly decreased only for 24 h after the last ACTH dosage (P < 0.01). Also, serum phosphorus level was significantly decreased on the first (P < 0.05) and third (P < 0.001) days of ACTH challenge but remained unaffected after the cessation of ACTH treatment. It is concluded that the administration of ACTH to boars results in immune humoral and biochemical changes during stress and the post‐stress period.
Case Reports. Transient colonization with Scedosporium prolificans. Report of four cases in Madrid
Authors: Del Palacio Amalia , Garau M. , Amor E. , Martinez‐Alonso I. , Calvo T. , Carrillo‐Muñoz A. , Guarro J.
Published: October 2005

Summary. Four cases of transient colonization of the respiratory tract by Scedosporium prolificans are presented, two in patients with cystic fibrosis, one in a liver transplant patient and one in a patient with AIDS. Colonization versus infection by S. prolificans is discussed.
Case Reports. Six cases of infection due to Trichophyton verrucosum
Authors: Romano Clara , Massai L. , Gianni C. , Crosti C.
Published: October 2005

Summary. Dermatophyte infections due to Trichophyton verrucosum are not frequent in Europe. Six cases observed in Italy in the period 1995–99 are reported. Two were cases of tinea barbae, two of tinea corporis and two of tinea capitis, one of which had been preceded by tinea faciei. In three cases the source of contagion was horses, in two it was cattle and in one case it was another person. The two cases of tinea barbae were initially interpreted and treated as bacterial infections, a diagnostic error reported with increasing frequency in the literature regarding dermatophytosis due to T. verrucosum.
Emergence of Candida tropicalis as the major cause of fungaemia in India
Authors: Mathews Mary S. , Samuel Promila R. , Suresh Mercy
Published: October 2005

Summary. The fungal isolates (n= 191) from 1970 consecutive blood cultures over a 9‐year period were identified. Candida tropicalis was the predominant isolate accounting for 66% of all isolates whereas Candida albicans ranked only a distant second with 21%. The difference was highly significant (P < 0.00001) The other isolates included C. parapsilosis (5.8%), C. glabrata (2.1%), C. pelliculosa (1.2%), C. lipolytica (1.0%) C. krusei (1.0%) and Trichosporon beigelii (2.6%). The isolates were obtained predominantly from postoperative patients on therapy with more than one antibiotic.

Die Häufigkeit von Candida tropicalis als Fungämie‐Erreger in Indien

Zusamenfassung. Die Pilzisolate (n = 191) von 1970 fortlaufenden Blutkulturen einer 9‐Jahresperiode wurden differenziert. Candida tropicalis war mit einem Anteil von nur 66% am häufigsten, gefolgt von Candida albicans mit einem Anteil von 21%; die Differenz war hochsignifikant (P < 0.00001). Die übrigen Isolate waren C. parapsilosis (5.8%), C. glabrata (2.1%), C. pelliculosa (1.2%), C. lipolytica (1.0%) C. krusei (1.0%) und Trichosporon beigelii (2.6%). Die Isolate wurden hauptsächlich postoperativ von Patienten isoliert, die mehr als ein Antibiotikum erhielten.
Cutaneous zygomycosis: a case report and review of Japanese reports
Authors: Kobayashi M. , Hiruma M. , Matsushita A. , Kawai M. , Ogawa H. , Udagawa S.
Published: October 2005

Summary. A 69‐year‐old man, a carpenter with idiopathic thrombopenic purpura and interstitial pneumonia, was treated with steroid pulse therapy and antibiotics. On the seventh day of steroid therapy, a conglomeration of papules, vesicles and pustules appeared in an area of the left buttock in contact with his napkin. In a Parker KOH specimen of the crust of the lesion, many non‐septate hyphae were seen, and culture of material obtained by biopsy yielded Rhizopus microsporus var. microsporus. Ketoconazole cream was applied topically for 1 week, and the exanthema healed. After the third month of in‐patient treatment, the patient's overall condition had returned to normal, and he was discharged. Cutaneous zygomycosis is a rare disease, and only 19 cases have been reported in Japan. Its characteristics, as reported in these cases, have been collected and collated.
The Platelia®Aspergillus ELISA in diagnosis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA)
Authors: Siemann M. , Koch‐Dörfler M.
Published: October 2005

Summary. The sensitivity of a sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detecting Aspergillus galactomannan was evaluated with 66 serum samples and 113 specimens of the respiratory tract obtained from 52 patients with pulmonary diseases. The patients were divided into five groups: proven invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) (five patients), probable IPA (seven patients), Aspergillus colonization (eight patients) or unlikely Aspergillus infection (27 patients). Another five patients with doubtful diagnostic test results are discussed in detail. The results of the Platelia®Aspergillus ELISA (Sanofi Pasteur, Freiburg, Germany) in testing specimens of the respiratory tract were 90% sensitivity in proven (serum 38%), 60% in probable (serum 37%) and 71% in Aspergillus colonization (serum 0%). Furthermore, 85% of the Aspergillus spp. from positive cultures of specimens of the respiratory tract were also detected in the ELISA. A total of 57% of the culture negative specimens of patients with a least one positive culture or proven aspergillosis in a series of specimens were positive in the ELISA.
Efficient treatment of murine systemic infection with Candida albicans using amphotericin B incorporated in nanosize range particles (emulsomes)
Authors: Kretschmar M. , Amselem S. , Zawoznik E. , Mosbach K. , Dietz A. , Hof H. , Nichterlein T.
Published: October 2005

Summary. The effects of emulsome nanosize range lipid particles containing amphotericin B (EAmB) were compared with the reference formulation containing deoxycholate (Fungizone; Bristol‐Myers Squibb, Munich, Germany) and with the commercial amphotericin lipid complex preparation (AmBisome; Nexstar, San Dimas, CA, USA). The minimal inhibitory concentrations of Fungizone and EAmB were identical although killing of Candida albicans was delayed when EAmB was used. In a tissue culture model and in mice, the incorporation of AmB into emulsomes resulted in a considerable reduction of toxicity in comparison with Fungizone. For comparison of the in vivo effect of the preparations a mouse model of systemic infection with C. albicans was used. All preparations were able to reduce the fungal burden in the liver and kidneys in comparison with control animals treated with isotonic saline. AmBisome was more efficient in the reduction of the fungal burden of the liver than EAmB and Fungizone, even when applied in a similar dosage of 1 mg kg−1. In the kidneys, EAmB and Fungizone was slightly more effective than AmBisome. Therefore, in our models, the incorporation of AmB into nanosize particles was able to reduce toxicity without loss of efficiency. EAmB may be considered a candidate preparation for the treatment of infections with C. albicans in humans.
Further studies on the multiple forms of protease ALP of Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Kunert J.
Published: October 2005

Summary. The author studied the presence of multiple forms of the main extracellular protease ALP in three strains of Aspergillus fumigatus that differed in geographical origin, and in mutants of one of these strains with disrupted genes coding for the main proteases ALP and MEP. The pattern of multiple proteolytic bands after isoelectric focusing was, in all three wild strains, nearly the same and was not changed after inactivation of the MEP gene. However, in ALP‐deficient mutants all multiple forms also disappeared. The multiple forms observed must therefore be products of post‐translational processing of the protease ALP and not true isoenzymes (products of different genes of a gene family). Further experiments did not prove that phosphorylation and glycosylation were involved in the formation of the multiple forms under study.
Once daily treatment with terbinafine 1% cream (Lamisil®) for one week is effective in the treatment of tinea corporis and cruris. A placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Budimulja U. , Bramono K. , Urip K. S. , Basuki S. , Widodo G. , Rapatz G. , Paul C.
Published: October 2005

Summary. Duration of therapy is an important factor in determining patients' compliance in dermatomycosis. Terbinafine (Lamisil®) is an allylamine antifungal agent. Its fungicidal properties against dermatophytes should allow physicians to reduce treatment duration without affecting the cure rate. This study was carried out to determine the efficacy and tolerability of terbinafine 1% cream, applied once daily for 7 days, in adult patients with tinea corporis/cruris.

In a multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐group study, patients with a clinical diagnosis of tinea corporis/cruris confirmed by microscopy and culture received treatment with either terbinafine 1% cream (n = 57) or placebo cream (n = 60). The patients applied the cream once daily for 7 days, and were then observed for a further 7 weeks. The efficacy was assessed at the end of the study by comparing the rates of mycological cure in the two treatment groups. Total clinical signs and symptoms scores, clinical response, and overall treatment efficacy were also measured and compared between the two groups.

A 7‐day once‐daily course of terbinafine was significantly more effective than placebo in achieving and maintaining mycological cure (84.2 versus 23.3%, P < 0.001). Terbinafine was also significantly more effective than placebo in terms of clinical response, reduction in signs and symptoms scores, and overall efficacy. The short treatment regimen and the sustained high cure rate should contribute to making terbinafine a valuable treatment option in tinea corporis/cruris.
Ultrastructural identification of the antennal gland complement in Siagona europaea Dejean 1826, a myrmecophagous carabid beetle
Authors: Giglio Anita , Ferrero Enrico Antonio , Brandmayr Tullia Zetto
Published: October 2005

We examined antennal exocrine glands in adults of a myrmecophagous carabid beetle, Siagona europaea Dejean 1826 (Coleoptera, Carabidae), by light and electron microscopy and we identified two types of integumentary glands. The first type includes glands formed by three cells (a secretory cell, an intercalary cell and a duct cell) known as class 3 of Noirot and Quennedey (1991). The secretory cell has several large multivesicular electron‐lucent bodies, indicating a glycoprotein product associated with lipids. We hypothesize that this secretion protects the surface of antennae and sensilla from wear. The second group of glands includes unicellular glands known as oenocytes (class 2 of Noirot and Quennedey, 1991), which secrete epicuticular hydrocarbons through epidermal cells.
Differentiation of the epidermis of scutes in embryos and juveniles of the tortoise Testudo hermanni with emphasis on beta‐keratinization
Authors: Alibardi L. , Dipietrangelo L.
Published: October 2005

The sequence of differentiation of the epidermis of scutes during embryogenesis in the tortoise Testudo hermanni was studied using autoradiography, electron microscopy and immunocytochemistry. The study was mainly conducted on the epidermis of the carapace, plastron and nail. Epidermal differentiation resembles that described for other reptiles, and the embryonic epidermis is composed of numerous cell layers. In the early stages of differentiation of the carapacial ridge, cytoplasmic blebs of epidermal cells are in direct contact with the extracellular matrix and mesenchymal cells. The influence of the dermis on the formation of the beta‐layer is discussed. The dermis becomes rich in collagen bundles at later stages of development. The embryonic epidermis is formed by a flat periderm and four to six layers of subperidermal cells, storing 40–70‐nm‐thick coarse filaments that may represent interkeratin or matrix material. Beta‐keratin is associated with the coarse filaments, suggesting that the protein may be polymerized on their surface. The presence of beta‐keratin in embryonic epidermis suggests that this keratin might have been produced at the beginning of chelonian evolution. The embryonic epidermis of the scutes is lost around hatching and leaves underneath the definitive corneous beta‐layer. Beneath the embryonic epidermis, cells that accumulate typical large bundles of beta‐keratin appear at stage 23 and at hatching a compact beta‐layer is present. The differentiation of these cells shows the progressive replacement of alpha‐keratin bundles with bundles immunolabelled for beta‐keratin. The nucleus is degraded and electron‐dense nuclear material mixes with beta‐keratin. In general, changes in tortoise skin when approaching terrestrial life resemble those of other reptiles. Lepidosaurian reptiles form an embryonic shedding layer and crocodilians have a thin embryonic epidermis that is rapidly lost near hacthing. Chelonians have a thicker embryonic epidermis that accumulates beta‐keratin, a protein later used to make a thick corneous layer.
Human impacts, energy availability and invasion across Southern Ocean Islands
Authors: Chown Steven L. , Hull Bruce , Gaston Kevin J.
Published: October 2005

Aim  Ongoing biological invasions will enhance the impacts of humans on biodiversity. Nonetheless, the effects of exotic species on diversity are idiosyncratic. Increases in diversity might be a consequence of similar responses by species to available energy, or because of positive relationships between human density, energy and propagule pressure. Here we use data from the Southern Ocean island plants and insects to investigate these issues.

Location  The Southern Ocean Islands ranging from Tristan da Cunha to Heard Island and South Georgia.

Methods  Generalized linear models are used to explore the relationships between indigenous and exotic species richness for plants and insects on two different islands. Similar models are used to examine interactions between indigenous and exotic species richness, energy availability and propagule pressure at the regional scale.

Results  Positive relationships were found between indigenous and exotic species richness at local scales, although for plants, the relationship was partially triangular. Across the Southern Ocean Islands, there was strong positive covariation between indigenous and exotic plant species richness and insect species richness, even taking spatial autocorrelation into account. Both exotic and indigenous plant and insect species richness covaried with energy availability, as did human visitor frequency. When two islands with almost identical numbers of human visits were contrasted, it was clear that energy availability, or perhaps differences in climate‐matching, were responsible for differences in the extent of invasion.

Conclusion  In plants and insects, there are positive relationships between indigenous and exotic diversity at local and regional scales across the Southern Ocean islands. These relationships are apparently a consequence of similar responses by both groups and by human occupants to available energy. When visitor frequency is held constant, energy availability is the major correlate of exotic species richness, though the exact mechanistic cause of this relationship requires clarification.
Thinking at the global scale
Authors: Turner David P.
Published: October 2005

The noosphere concept was originally proposed as a sphere of mind or thought that has emerged from the biosphere over the course of human evolution. Two versions of the noosphere concept were developed in the 20th century and they differed with respect to whether the noosphere was to be considered separate from the biosphere or a new form of the biosphere. Both versions shared an assumption that collective human thought based on a scientific epistemology would achieve a benevolent relationship with the biosphere. Research in global ecology continues to reveal the growing influence of humanity on the biota and on the global biogeochemical cycles, but recent history has not confirmed humanity's ability to self‐regulate. Nevertheless, the noosphere concept remains useful because it acknowledges the uniquely subjective aspect of human brain functioning and the propensity for humans to share ideas and work collaboratively. Both of these features will be needed to develop a structured coupling of humanity and the biosphere that preserves the biophysical processes sustaining the ecosphere.
Reducing uncertainty in projections of extinction risk from climate change
Authors: Araújo Miguel B. , Whittaker Robert J. , Ladle Richard J. , Erhard Markus
Published: October 2005

Aim  Concern over the implications of climate change for biodiversity has led to the use of species–climate ‘envelope’ models to forecast risks of species extinctions under climate change scenarios. Recent studies have demonstrated significant variability in model projections and there remains a need to test the accuracy of models and to reduce uncertainties. Testing of models has been limited by a lack of data against which projections of future ranges can be tested. Here we provide a first test of the predictive accuracy of such models using observed species’ range shifts and climate change in two periods of the recent past.

Location  Britain.

Methods  Observed range shifts for 116 breeding bird species in Britain between 1967 and 1972 (t1) and 1987–91 (t2) are used. We project range shifts between t1 and t2 for each species based on observed climate using 16 alternative models (4 methods × 2 data parameterizations × 2 rules to transform probabilities of occurrence into presence and absence records).

Results  Modelling results were extremely variable, with projected range shifts varying both in magnitude and in direction from observed changes and from each other. However, using approaches that explore the central tendency (consensus) of model projections, we were able to improve agreement between projected and observed shifts significantly.

Conclusions  Our results provide the first empirical evidence of the value of species–climate ‘envelope’ models under climate change and demonstrate reduction in uncertainty and improvement in accuracy through selection of the most consensual projections.
A climatic stratification of the environment of Europe
Authors: Metzger M. J. , Bunce R. G. H. , Jongman R. H. G. , Mücher C. A. , Watkins J. W.
Published: October 2005

Aim  To produce a statistical stratification of the European environment, suitable for stratified random sampling of ecological resources, the selection of sites for representative studies across the continent, and to provide strata for modelling exercises and reporting.

Location  A ‘Greater European Window’ with the following boundaries: 11° W, 32° E, 34° N, 72° N.

Methods  Twenty of the most relevant available environmental variables were selected, based on experience from previous studies. Principal components analysis (PCA) was used to explain 88% of the variation into three dimensions, which were subsequently clustered using an ISODATA clustering routine. The mean first principal component values of the classification variables were used to aggregate the strata into Environmental Zones and to provide a basis for consistent nomenclature.

Results  The Environmental Stratification of Europe (EnS) consists of 84 strata, which have been aggregated into 13 Environmental Zones. The stratification has a 1 km2 resolution. Aggregations of the strata have been compared to other European classifications using the Kappa statistic, and show ‘good’ comparisons. The individual strata have been described using data from available environmental databases. The EnS is available for noncommercial use by applying to the corresponding author.

Main conclusions  The Environmental Stratification of Europe has been constructed using tried and tested statistical procedures. It forms an appropriate stratification for stratified random sampling of ecological resources, the selection of sites for representative studies across the continent and for the provision of strata for modelling exercises and reporting at the European scale.
Obesity and the electrocardiogram
Authors: Fraley M. A. , Birchem J. A. , Senkottaiyan N. , Alpert M. A.
Published: October 2005

Obesity is associated with a wide variety of electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities. Most of these reflect alterations in cardiac morphology. Some serve as markers of risk for sudden death. Key ECG abnormalities or alterations occurring with disproportionately high frequency in obese subjects include: leftward shifts of the P wave QRS and T wave axes, various changes in P wave morphology, low QRS voltage, various markers of left ventricular hypertrophy (particularly the Cornell voltage and product), T wave flattening in the inferior and lateral leads, lengthening of the corrected QT interval and prolonged QT interval duration. Alterations in the signal‐averaged ECG and in heart rate variability may be arrhythmogenic. Cardiac arrhythmias have been described in obese subjects, but are often accompanied by left ventricular hypertrophy or the sleep apnea syndrome. Many of these ECG abnormalities are reversible with substantial weight loss. Thus, obesity is associated with a wide variety of ECG abnormalities, many of which are corrected by weight loss.
Orlistat for the treatment of obesity: cost utility model
Authors: Foxcroft D. R.
Published: October 2005

This study aimed to assess the cost utility of orlistat treatment based on (i) criteria from recent guidance from the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) for England and Wales (treatment discontinued if weight loss < 5% at 3 months; and < 10% at 6 months); and (ii) alternative criteria from the European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products (EMEA) licence for orlistat prescription in the European Community (treatment discontinued if weight loss < 5% at 3 months). Subjects were 1398 obese individuals who participated in three large European Phase III trials of orlistat treatment for adults (BMI: 28–47 kg m−2). Measures were: response to treatment in orlistat and placebo treatment groups; health benefit expressed as quality adjusted life years (QALYs) gained associated with weight loss; costs associated with orlistat treatment. In the cost utility model with multiway sensitivity analysis, the cost/QALY gained using the NICE criteria was estimated to be £24 431 (sensitivity analysis range: £10 856 to £77 197). The cost/QALY gained using the alternative EMEA criteria was estimated to be £19 005 (range: £8840 to £57 798). In conclusion, NICE guidance for the continued use of orlistat was supported in this updated cost utility model, comparing favourably with a previously published estimate of £45 881 per QALY gained. Moreover, the value for money of orlistat treatment is improved further if EMEA treatment criteria for continued orlistat treatment are applied. The EMEA criteria should be considered in any future changes to the NICE guidance or in guidance issued by similar agencies.
PYY3‐36 as an anti‐obesity drug target
Authors: Boggiano M. M. , Chandler P. C. , Oswald K. D. , Rodgers R. J. , Blundell J. E. , Ishii Y. , Beattie A. H. , Holch P. , Allison D. B. , Schindler M. , Arndt K. , Rudolf K. , Mark M. , Schoelch C. , Joost H. G. , Klaus S. , Thöne‐Reineke C. , Benoit S. C. , Seeley R. J. , Beck‐Sickinger A. G. , Koglin N. , Raun K. , Madsen K. , Wulff B. S. , Stidsen C. E. , Birringer M. , Kreuzer O. J. , Deng X. Y. , Whitcomb D. C. , Halem H. , Taylor J. , Dong J. , Datta R. , Culler M. , Ortmann S. , Castañeda T. R. , Tschöp M.
Published: October 2005

The neuropeptide Y (NPY)/peptide YY (PYY) system has been implicated in the physiology of obesity for several decades. More recently, Batterhamet al.2002 ignited enormous interest in PYY3‐36, an endogenous Y2‐receptor agonist, as a promising anti‐obesity compound. Despite this interest, there have been remarkably few subsequent reports reproducing or extending the initial findings, while at the same time studies finding no anti‐obesity effects have surfaced. Out of 41 different rodent studies conducted (in 16 independent labs worldwide), 33 (83%) were unable to reproduce the reported effects and obtained no change or sometimes increased food intake, despite use of the same experimental conditions (i.e. adaptation protocols, routes of drug administration and doses, rodent strains, diets, drug vendors, light cycles, room temperatures). Among studies by authors in the original study, procedural caveats are reported under which positive effects may be obtained. Currently, data speak against a sustained decrease in food intake, body fat, or body weight gain following PYY3‐36 administration and make the previously suggested role of the hypothalamic melanocortin system unlikely as is the existence of PYY deficiency in human obesity. We review the studies that are in the public domain which support or challenge PYY3‐36 as a potential anti‐obesity target.
Diagnosis and management of the metabolic syndrome in obesity
Authors: Liberopoulos E. N. , Mikhailidis D. P. , Elisaf M. S.
Published: October 2005

The metabolic syndrome is a constellation of interrelated abnormalities that increase the risk for cardiovascular disease and progression to type 2 diabetes. The prevalence of this syndrome is increasing because of the ‘obesity epidemic’. The National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III defined practical criteria for the diagnosis of the metabolic syndrome and established the basic principles for its management. Also, the International Diabetes Federation recently proposed another definition. The metabolic syndrome is a secondary target for cardiovascular risk reduction. Clinicians should identify individuals with this condition, assess their cardiovascular risk and treat them by an aggressive and multifaceted approach. The most effective therapeutic intervention in patients with the metabolic syndrome should focus on modest weight reduction and regular physical activity. Adoption of a healthier diet and smoking cessation are necessary. Drug therapy may be needed to achieve recommended goals if therapeutic lifestyle changes are not sufficient. Low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol is the primary target of therapy (new aggressive goals should be achieved). Statins are probably the drugs of choice. Fibrates and nicotinic acid are also useful options. Hypertension should be managed aggressively probably starting with an inhibitor of the renin‐angiotensin system or a calcium channel blocker and adding a low dose of a thiazide diuretic if necessary. Aspirin should be administered if the cardiovascular risk is high. In the future acarbose, metformin, meglitinides and thiazolidinediones may be used in patients with the metabolic syndrome to delay the onset of type 2 diabetes and reduce cardiovascular risk. Such an intense and multifactorial approach is likely to reverse the bad prognosis associated with the metabolic syndrome.
Maximum Likelihood Estimation for a First‐Order Bifurcating Autoregressive Process with Exponential Errors
Authors: Zhou J. , Basawa I. V.
Published: October 2005

Abstract.  Exact and asymptotic distributions of the maximum likelihood estimator of the autoregressive parameter in a first‐order bifurcating autoregressive process with exponential innovations are derived. The limit distributions for the stationary, critical and explosive cases are unified via a single pivot using a random normalization. The pivot is shown to be asymptotically exponential for all values of the autoregressive parameter.
On Parameter Estimation for Exponential Dispersion Arma Models
Authors: Song Peter X.‐K. , Feng Dingan
Published: October 2005

Abstract.  A class of autoregressive moving‐average (ARMA) models proposed by Jørgensen and Song [Journal of Applied Probability (1998), vol. 35, pp. 78–92] with exponential dispersion model margins are useful to deal with non‐normal stationary time series with high‐order autocorrelation. One property associated with the class of models is that the projection process takes the exact form of the classical Box and Jenkins ARMA representation, leading to considerable ease to establish theories. This paper focuses on the issue of parameter estimation for such models, which has not been thoroughly investigated in Jørgensen and Song's paper. The key of the proposed approach is to treat the residual process associated with the projection essentially as a measurement error, which enables us to formulate directly an ARMA representation for the observed time series. The parameter estimation therefore becomes straightforward using the existing methods for the Box and Jenkins ARMA models such as the quasi‐likelihood method. The approach is illustrated by simulation studies and by an analysis of myoclonic seizure counts.
Bootstrap Approximation to Prediction MSE for State–Space Models with Estimated Parameters
Authors: Pfeffermann Danny , Tiller Richard
Published: October 2005

Abstract.  We propose simple parametric and nonparametric bootstrap methods for estimating the prediction mean square error (PMSE) of state vector predictors that use estimated model parameters. As is well known, substituting the model parameters by their estimates in the theoretical PMSE expression that assumes known parameter values results in underestimation of the true PMSE. The parametric method consists of generating parametrically a large number of bootstrap series from the model fitted to the original series, re‐estimating the model parameters for each series using the same method as used for the original series and then estimating the separate components of the PMSE. The nonparametric method generates the series by bootstrapping the standardized innovations estimated for the original series. The bootstrap methods are compared with other methods considered in the literature in a simulation study that also examines the robustness of the various methods to non‐normality of the model error terms. Application of the bootstrap method to a model fitted to employment ratios in the USA that contains 18 unknown parameters, estimated by a three‐step procedure yields unbiased PMSE estimators.
Random Walks with Drift – A Sequential Approach
Authors: Steland Ansgar
Published: October 2005

Abstract.  In this paper, sequential monitoring schemes to detect nonparametric drifts are studied for the random walk case. The procedure is based on a kernel smoother. As a by‐product we obtain the asymptotics of the Nadaraya–Watson estimator and its associated sequential partial sum process under non‐standard sampling. The asymptotic behaviour differs substantially from the stationary situation, if there is a unit root (random walk component). To obtain meaningful asymptotic results, we consider local nonparametric alternatives for the drift component. It turns out that the rate of convergence at which the drift vanishes determines whether the asymptotic properties of the monitoring procedure are determined by a deterministic or random function. Furthermore, we provide a theoretical result about the optimal kernel for a given alternative.
Clinical and immune responses correlate in glatiramer acetate therapy of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Weder C. , Baltariu G. M. , Wyler K. A. , Gober H.‐J. , Lienert C. , Schluep M. , Radü E. W. , De Libero G. , Kappos L. , Duda P. W.
Published: October 2005

Glatiramer acetate (GA) treatment for relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) leads to decreased GA‐specific proliferative responses and a Th2 cytokine shift. To study a possible correlation between immunological and clinical responses to GA therapy, we prospectively followed RRMS patients clinically, by magnetic resonance imaging and by primary immunological assays. Fluctuation of GA‐specific proliferative responses was significantly lower in treatment responders than in untreated patients, and GA‐specific proliferative responses were increased during relapses. These associations suggest a possible causal relationship between immunological and clinical responses to GA therapy. Primary proliferation assays may thus be a useful marker for treatment response.
Human photosensitivity: from pathophysiology to treatment
Authors: Verrotti A. , Tocco A. M. , Salladini C. , Latini G. , Chiarelli F.
Published: October 2005

Photosensitivity is a condition detected on the electroencephalography (EEG) as a paroxysmal reaction to Intermittent Photic Stimulation (IPS). This EEG response, elicited by IPS or by other visual stimuli of daily life, is called Photo Paroxysmal Response (PPR). PPRs are well documented in epileptic and non‐epileptic subjects. Photosensitivity rarely in normal individuals evolves into epilepsy. Photosensitive epilepsy is a rare refex epilepsy characterized by seizures in photosensitive individuals.

The development of modern technology has increased the exposition to potential seizure precipitants in people of all ages, but especially in children and adolescents. Actually, videogames, computers and televisions are the most common triggers in daily life of susceptible persons.

The mechanisms of generation of PPR are poorly understood, but genetic factors play an important rule.

The control of visually induced seizures has, generally a good prognosis. In patients known to be visually sensitive, avoidance of obvious source and stimulus modifications are very important and useful to seizure prevention, but in the large majority of patients with epilepsy and photosensitivity antiepileptic drugs are needed.
The impact of paclitaxel or cisplatin‐based chemotherapy on sympathetic skin response: a prospective study
Authors: Argyriou A. A. , Koutras A. , Polychronopoulos P. , Papapetropoulos S. , Iconomou G. , Katsoulas G. , Makatsoris T. , Kalofonos H. P. , Chroni E.
Published: October 2005

The current study aimed to assess the viability of sympathetic sudomotor fibers in cancer patients treated with cisplatin or paclitaxel‐based chemotherapy and to ascertain whether this method could contribute to the diagnostic sensitivity of conventional techniques. Sympathetic skin response (SSR) from the hand and sole of 23 cancer patients (nine females and 14 males, mean age 62.4 ± 10.5 years) was recorded unilaterally before and after chemotherapy with six courses of cumulative cisplatin or paclitaxel containing regimens. Clinical and electrophysiological data were also collected and correlated with the SSR results. Twenty‐three healthy subjects served as controls. SSR abnormalities were only present in patients with evidence of peripheral neuropathy assessed by conventional nerve conduction techniques. Three patients had absent SSR in the upper limb whilst six patients had absent SSR both in the upper and lower limbs. In the upper limb, the mean SSR latency was not significantly altered through time (P = 0.086). In the lower limb the mean delay from baseline to follow‐up was significantly changed (P = 0.029). In patients, the mean SSR latency was significantly prolonged compared with controls in both upper limb (P = 0.001) and lower limb (P = 0.000). SSR abnormalities were strongly related to sensory conduction abnormalities as detected by conventional techniques (r = 0.39, P = 0.004). Our results showed that SSR does not seem to add to the diagnostic sensitivity of conventional techniques in chemotherapy‐induced neuropathy. However, its role in the disclosure of small fibers neuropathy abnormalities is worth considering. Further studies are warranted to address this important issue.
Relationship between nigrostriatal dopaminergic degeneration, urinary symptoms, and bladder control in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Winge K. , Friberg L. , Werdelin L. , Nielsen K. K. , Stimpel H.
Published: October 2005

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) often have lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Studies have indicated a correlation between dopaminergic degeneration and LUTS and presence of overactive bladder. We evaluated 18 patients with Parkinson's disease using single‐photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) imaging of the dopamine transporter with [123I]‐FP‐CIT, and bladder symptoms were assessed using questionnaires and full urodynamic evaluation both in medicated state and after cessation. Bladder symptoms correlated with age, stage and severity of disease but not with uptake of the ligand in the striatum. Patients with bladder symptoms had a significant lower uptake in the striatum compared with patients without LUTS. In patients with severe bladder dysfunction, LUTS correlated with putamen/caudate ratio. The specific binding of the ligand did not correlate with urodynamics parameters or any change in these after wash‐out. Our findings suggest that the presence of LUTS is associated with the degeneration of the total number of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurones, whilst the severity of bladder dysfunction is correlated with the relative degeneration of the caudate nucleus. The effects of medication on bladder control, as evaluated by urodynamics are believed to involve structures outside the basal ganglia.
Absence of spinocerebellar ataxia type 3/Machado–Joseph disease within ataxic patients in the Czech population
Authors: Bauer P. O. , Zumrova A. , Matoska V. , Marikova T. , Krilova S. , Boday A. , Singh B. , Goetz P.
Published: October 2005

Although spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3)/Machado–Joseph disease is the most common type of SCA worldwide, we did not identify any cases of the disease amongst SCA patients in the Czech population. It has been proposed that the prevalence of large normal alleles correlates with the frequency of various types of SCA. We have therefore attempted to resolve the absence of SCA3 in our population by investigating, within 204 normal chromosomes, the frequency and nature of CAG repeats as well as two intragenic polymorphisms. We found that large normal alleles with more than 33 CAG repeats were observed at a frequency of only 0.49%. Whereas most of the expanded alleles worldwide have the CA haplotype, this was the least common (5.4%) variant observed in our study, although it was associated with a larger mean CAG repeat length (26.9). We postulate that the absence of SCA3 in the Czech population might be explained by the lack of large normal alleles and consequently a relatively small reservoir for aberrant CAG expansions at the SCA3 locus.
Medical resource use and costs of health care after acute stroke in Germany
Authors: Rossnagel K. , Nolte C. H. , Muller‐Nordhorn J. , Jungehulsing G. J. , Selim D. , Bruggenjurgen B. , Villringer A. , Willich S. N.
Published: October 2005

The purpose of this study was to determine the 12 months medical resource use following admission to hospital with acute stroke and to calculate costs from a societal perspective. Data of consecutive patients with confirmed stroke were analysed. Acute hospital data were taken from medical records, socio‐demographic variables from patients’ interviews. A follow‐up questionnaire about resource utilization was completed by patients or proxies 12 months after acute hospital admission. Costs were calculated by multiplying medical resource units used with cost factors per unit. Mean age of a total of 383 patients was 65 years and 41% were female. The median length of the initial stay in the acute hospital was 12 days at an average cost of €4650 per patient (49% of direct costs). Rehabilitation (16%), readmission (11%), medication (9%), and nursing costs (6%) were other contributors to the direct costs which amounted to a total of €9452 ± 7599 per patient during 12 months. Indirect cost amounted to a total of €2014 ± 5312. Patients’ age, severity and type of stroke influenced the total stroke‐associated costs. The large economic burden of stroke indicates the need for assessing and improving efficient health care for affected patients.
Seasonal, extratrigeminal, episodic paroxysmal hemicrania successfully treated with single suboccipital steroid injections
Authors: Rossi P. , Di Lorenzo G. , Faroni J. , Sauli E.
Published: October 2005

This case report describes a case of extratrigeminal, episodic paroxysmal hemicrania with a clear seasonal temporal pattern, successfully treated with repeated single suboccipital steroid injections. The pathophysiological and clinical implications of this observation are discussed.
Textural and isotopic evidence on the fluid source and transport mechanism of antitaxial fibrous microstructures from the Alps and the Appalachians
Authors: HILGERS C. , SINDERN S.
Published: October 2005

The source of fluid‐forming veins is of great importance in order to understand the hydraulic system acting in the earth's crust. The study of syntectonic antitaxial veins is one of the few methods by which the opening history can be deduced from rocks, and thus these veins are of primary importance in determining rock kinematics. Antitaxial veins were taken from black shales in two different tectonic settings in the Helvetic Alps, Switzerland, and the Taconic Appalachians, New York State. These syntectonic extension veins are regularly spaced and are oriented sub‐normal to bedding. The vein microstructure displays a symmetry around the median line in the centre of the vein, and a symmetry in cathodoluminescence banding parallel to the vein–wall interface, which suggests transport along bedding‐parallel dissolution planes from both vein‐walls. Antitaxial veins nucleated in transgranular fractures, but evidence for ongoing multiple crack‐seal increments is lacking; rather, veins grew continuously keeping close contact to the vein‐wall. Radiogenic 87Sr/86Sr ratios are higher in the surrounding matrix than in the vein, and higher than the corresponding seawater data in all samples. Variations are small and calcite in both the vein and the host rock were derived from the same source of fluid in the Helvetic samples. Mass balance of Sr suggests that the amount of calcite is too small in the surrounding host rock to be derived locally. Stable oxygen compositions are heavier in the host rock than in the veins, with overall low variation in both δ18O and δ13C values in the Mesozoic Helvetic samples. Data point to a rock‐buffered system, the precipitate most likely derived from an external source. The lower Palaeozoic Appalachian veins have lesser δ18O values than the host rock, similar to the Helvetic veins. Radiogenic 87Sr/86Sr data and a large heterogeneity in stable isotope values indicate an open system. Microstructural and isotopic evidence suggests that the antitaxial veins were formed by pervasive fluid flow, with the solute at least partly derived from an external source.
An experimental and modeling study of Na‐rich hydrothermal alteration
Authors: HARA J. , TSUCHIYA N.
Published: October 2005

Sodic alteration assemblages including clinoptilolite, mordenite, analcime and Na‐montmorillonite were locally observed in sediments in the eastern part of the Hachimantai geothermal region, northeast Japan. This study investigated the mechanisms of sodic enrichment in the sediments during alteration. Kinetic results for water/rock interaction experiments are reported here. Batch‐type experiments were conducted at 150–250°C under saturated vapor pressure. Pyroclastic rocks dissolved incongruently in these experiments, and the solubility and dissolution rates among elements varied as follows: the apparent steady‐state concentrations of major elements are Si > Na ≫ K > Ca > Al and the order of the dissolution rates is Si > Al > Na ≫ K > Ca. Na had the highest steady‐state concentration and fastest dissolution rate of the alkali and alkali earth metal ions. Based on surface analysis of plagioclase, dissolution was effected via a reaction layer of Na‐montmorillonite on the mineral surface. Additionally, a reaction model constructed based on the experimentally observed reaction mechanism quantitatively explains the dissolution behavior. These results show that Na‐montmorillonite can be precipitated by pyroclastic rock/meteoric water interactions without seawater involvement: the Na is derived from the host rocks.
Gas breakthrough pressure for hydrocarbon reservoir seal rocks: implications for the security of long‐term CO2 storage in the Weyburn field
Authors: LI S. , DONG M. , LI Z. , HUANG S. , QING H. , NICKEL E.
Published: October 2005

This paper reports a laboratory study of the gas breakthrough pressure for different gas/liquid systems in the Mississippian‐age Midale Evaporite. This low‐permeability rock formation is the seal rock for the Weyburn Field in southeastern Saskatchewan, Canada, where CO2 is being injected into an oil reservoir for enhanced recovery and CO2 storage. A technique for experimentally determining CO2 breakthrough pressure at reservoir conditions is presented. Breakthrough pressures for N2, CO2 and CH4 were measured with the selected seal‐rock samples. The maximum breakthrough pressure is over 30 MPa for N2 and approximately 21 MPa for CO2. The experimental results demonstrate that the Weyburn Midale Evaporite seal rock is of high sealing quality. Therefore, the Weyburn reservoir and Midale Beds can be used as a CO2 storage site after abandonment. The measured results also show that the breakthrough pressure of a seal rock for a gas is nearly proportional to the interfacial tension of the gas/brine system. The breakthrough pressure of a CO2/brine system is significantly reduced compared with that of a CH4/brine system because of the much lower interfacial tension of the former. This implies that a seal rock that seals the original gas in a gas reservoir or an oil reservoir with a gas cap may not be tight enough to seal the injected CO2 if the pressure during or after CO2 injection is the same or higher than the original reservoir pressure. Therefore, reevaluation of the breakthrough pressure of seal rocks for a given reservoir is necessary and of highest priority once it is chosen as a CO2 storage site.