bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assimilation of radar‐derived rain rates into the convective‐scale model COSMO‐DE at DWD
Authors: Stephan K. , Klink S. , Schraff C.
Published: July 2008

To improve very‐short‐range forecasts particularly in convective situations, a version of the COSMO‐Model (formerly known as LM) which simulates deep convection explicitly (horizontal grid length: 2.8 km) has been developed and is now run operationally at DWD. This model uses a prognostic type of precipitation scheme accounting for the horizontal drift of falling hydrometeors. To initialise convective‐scale events, the latent heat nudging (LHN) approach has been adopted for the assimilation of surface precipitation rates derived from radar reflectivity data. It is found that a conventional LHN scheme designed for larger‐scale models with diagnostic treatment of precipitation does not perform well and leads to strong overestimation of precipitation when applied to the convective‐scale model with a prognostic treatment of precipitation. As illustrated here, surface precipitation and vertically integrated latent heating are far less correlated horizontally and temporally in such a model than with diagnostic precipitation, and this implies a violation of the basic assumption of LHN.

Several revisions to the LHN scheme have therefore been developed in view of the characteristic model behaviour so as to re‐enhance the validity of the basic assumption and to reduce greatly the overestimation of precipitation during assimilation. With the revised scheme, the model is able to simulate the precipitation patterns in good agreement with radar observations during the assimilation and the first hours of the forecast. The scheme also has a positive impact on screen‐level parameters and on the longer‐term climatology of the model. Extending the temporal impact of the radar observations further into the free forecast will be the focus of future research. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
A facile microdialysis interface for on‐line desalting and identification of proteins by nano‐electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Sun Liangliang , Duan Jicheng , Tao Dingyin , Liang Zhen , Zhang Weibing , Zhang Lihua , Zhang Yukui
Published: July 2008

The adverse effect of salts, especially inorganic salts, on electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) is one of the most serious obstacles that might limit its application. Among the numerous desalting approaches, the microdialysis technique is favorable for large molecules, such as proteins. In this work, employing a hollow fiber membrane of cellulose acetate (MWCO 3000 Da), a simple, facile and efficient microdialysis interface with the dead volume of less than 1 µL was constructed for the on‐line desalting and identification of proteins dissolved in high salt concentration buffer by nano‐ESI‐MS. Furthermore, with counterflow added, the desalting procedure was accelerated, and could be finished within 1 min. This system was successfully applied to the analysis of myoglobin dissolved in either high concentration ammonium acetate or sodium chloride buffer. The experimental results showed that, by using such a microdialysis interface, the salt concentration, even as high as 1 M, could be decreased by at least 2 orders of magnitude, while sample loss was less than 10%, demonstrating the potential of such an interface in broadening the application of nano‐ESI‐MS in the analysis of large molecules. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Incorporating fine‐scale seascape composition in an assessment of habitat quality for the giant sea anemone Stichodactyla gigantea in a coral reef shore zone
Authors: Hattori Akihisa , Kobayashi Miyako
Published: July 2008

Habitat loss due to land reclamation often occurs in sandy coral reef shore zones. The giant sea anemone Stichodactyla gigantea, which harbors the false clown anemonefish Amphiprion ocellaris, both of which are potentially flagship species, inhabit these places. To assess habitat quality for S. gigantea, we examined correlative associations between the number and the body size of S. gigantea and the amount of habitat types in fine‐scale seascape composition quantified from an enlarged section of a high‐resolution (1/2,500) color aerial photograph of the shallow shore zone of Shiraho Reef, Ishigaki Island, Japan. This study confirmed that anemones were most abundant at the edges of dense seagrass beds characterized by shallow sandy bottoms, rock beds, and sparse seagrass beds, while they were less abundant in coral patch reefs. However, anemones inhabiting coral patch reefs were significantly larger and their rate of disappearance over 3 years was lower than those inhabiting other habitats. This suggests that coral patch reefs may be more suitable habitats supporting larger animals and greater persistence of S. gigantea. The visual census techniques applied here, combined with aerial photography and image‐analysis software, may be useful as a simple analytical tool for local assessment of suitable habitats for relatively small‐bodied marine fauna in shallow‐water seascapes.
La sociologie de la musique de max weber après un siècle
Authors: Molino Jean
Published: July 2008

Dans cet article, l'auteur se demande comment nous apparaît aujourd'hui le programme de recherche esquissé par Weber au début des années 1910, mais aussi comment il se présenterait si on voulait, cent ans plus tard, le reprendre en modifiant ce qui devrait l'être tout en restant fidèle à son esprit. Pour ce faire, l'auteur envisage successivement chacune des trois composantes fondamentales du programme de Weber (l'évolution particulière de la musique occidentale, l'accent mis par Weber sur les « techniques » musicales et le fait que pour Weber, le moteur du changement est la rationalisation) et les replace aussi bien dans le contexte de l'oeuvre de Weber que dans celui d'aujourd'hui.
Une note de max weber sur les danseuses indiennes
Authors: Kalinowski Isabelle
Published: July 2008

La longue note consacrée par Max Weber aux danseuses traditionnelles indiennes dans son étude sur la sociologie religieuse de l'inde,Hindouisme et bouddhisme, est commentée ici à partir d'une comparaison avec une des premières études allemandes évoquant la danse de l'Inde,L 'Histoire universelle de la dansede Curt Sachs. Trois thématiques sont abordées: le rapport entre arts du corps et savoir lettré; la spécificité des arts sacrés, en l'occurrence des arts magiques et des formes qui leur correspondent, ainsi que des modes d'apprentissage qui assurent leur transmission (entendue comme un « charisme héréditaire ») ; la vision des femmes et la notion du pur et de l'impur.
Lacan et les probabilités
Authors: Cléro Jean-Pierre
Published: July 2008

L'intérêt que Lacan porte aux probabilités, à la théorie des jeux et à la théorie de la décision, lui permet d'interpréter le calcul des partis et le fameux argument du pari. Partant d'une critique de l'esthétique transcendantale de Kant, que Lacan propose aux philosophes de remplacer par l'espace et le temps logiques de la théorie des jeux, le psychanalyste se tourne vers Pascal pour montrer qu'il est probablement l'ancêtre de la théorie des jeux et de la décision. Nombre d'interprétations de Pascal qui auront cours dans les années 1970, devront, peut-être sans le savoir, à cette interprétation lacanienne, des éléments essentiels
An audit of postoperative intravenous patient‐controlled analgesia with morphine: Evolution over the last decade
Authors: Cheung Chi Wai , Ying Chee Lun A. , Lee Libby H.Y. , Tsang Suk Fung , Tsui Siu Lun , Irwin Michael G.
Published: July 2008

The development and refinement of an acute pain service based on the increased availability of clinical evidence would be expected to improve the quality of postoperative pain control. This report reviews the application of postoperative patient‐controlled analgesia (PCA) using intravenous morphine in a single institution between 2002 and 2005. More than 5000 patients were evaluated and the results were compared with a similar study performed 10 years ago. Prescription of PCA had increased by more than threefold. Morphine consumption from post‐operative day 1 to day 3 (19.1 vs. 26.1, 8.6 vs. 18.1 and 4.5 vs. 19.0μg/kg/h, respectively), demand‐to‐delivery ratio (1.35–1.76 vs. 2.4–2.8) and the incidence of respiratory depression (0.06% vs. 2%) were significantly reduced (p<0.001), but there was no improvement in pain relief. A substantial proportion of patients still experienced postoperative nausea (47%) and vomiting (18.5%) despite a reduction in morphine consumption. Most patients ranked PCA as good and only 0.3% were dissatisfied. We conclude that, in our institution over the last decade, PCA has become more popular for postoperative pain management but with no attendant improvement in pain relief or reduction in side effects. Using PCA alone may result in poorer quality postoperative analgesia. Our findings add to the growing body of evidence that postoperative pain management has not substantially improved despite increased adoption of acute pain services.
Modification of the Ingram bicycle seat stool for the treatment of vaginal agenesis and stenosis
Authors: Lankford Jillian A. , Haefner Hope K.
Published: July 2008

The use of nonsurgical techniques for the creation of a neovagina for vaginal agenesis and stenosis has been successful for many patients and is currently recommended as first‐line therapy. The Ingram bicycle seat stool technique, a nonsurgical approach, has largely replaced the surgical McIndoe technique as the method of choice for vaginal dilation. It provides an easy and comfortable way for patients to engage in dilation. However, the Ingram bicycle seat stool is not height adjustable. We have created a bicycle seat stool that is height adjustable and will likely provide patients with an improved, more comfortable, and individualized method of dilation.
Effect of parity and advanced maternal age on obstetric outcome
Authors: Chan Ben Chong‐Pun , Lao Terence Tsz‐Hsi
Published: July 2008

Objectives

To examine the effect of parity on obstetric outcome in women aged 40 years or older.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of 16 427 singleton pregnancies delivered between 1998 and 2001 was studied. Obstetric outcomes in women aged 40 years or older versus women younger than 40 years were compared for both nulliparous and multiparous women.

Results

Of the 15 727 pregnancies (95.7%) that satisfied the inclusion criteria, 606 (3.9%) were in women aged 40 years or older. Advanced age was independently associated with cesarean delivery, birth and spontaneous preterm labor before 37 weeks, and low birth weight neonates in nulliparous women, but only with preterm birth before 37 weeks and cesarean delivery in multiparous women.

Conclusion

Obstetric outcome in women aged 40 years or older was influenced by parity. Cesarean delivery and preterm birth before 37 weeks were independently associated with older age irrespective of parity. Advanced age is a risk factor for preterm birth.
Biomarkers of micronutrient status
Authors: Fairweather-Tait Susan J.
Published: July 2008

An international workshop of invited experts and partners in the EC-funded Network of Excellence, EURRECA (www.eurreca.org) was held in Norwich on 18–20 February 2008 to discuss biomarkers of micronutrient status.
Methods to assess iron and iodine status
Authors: Zimmermann Michael B.
Published: July 2008

Four methods are recommended for assessment of iodine nutrition: urinary iodine concentration, the goitre rate, and blood concentrations of thyroid stimulating hormone and thyroglobulin. These indicators are complementary, in that urinary iodine is a sensitive indicator of recent iodine intake (days) and thyroglobulin shows an intermediate response (weeks to months), whereas changes in the goitre rate reflect long-term iodine nutrition (months to years). Spot urinary iodine concentrations are highly variable from day-to-day and should not be used to classify iodine status of individuals. International reference criteria for thyroid volume in children have recently been published and can be used for identifying even small goitres using thyroid ultrasound. Recent development of a dried blood spot thyroglobulin assay makes sample collection practical even in remote areas. Thyroid stimulating hormone is a useful indicator of iodine nutrition in the newborn, but not in other age groups. For assessing iron status, haemoglobin measurement alone has low specificity and sensitivity. Serum ferritin remains the best indicator of iron stores in the absence of inflammation. Measures of iron-deficient erythropoiesis include transferrin iron saturation and erythrocyte zinc protoporphyrin, but these often do not distinguish anaemia due to iron deficiency from the anaemia of chronic disease. The serum transferrin receptor is useful in this setting, but the assay requires standardization. In the absence of inflammation, a sensitive method to assess iron status is to combine the use of serum ferritin as a measure of iron stores and the serum transferrin receptor as a measure of tissue iron deficiency.
Longitudinal selenium status in healthy British adults: assessment using biochemical and molecular biomarkers
Authors: Sunde Roger A. , Paterson Elaine , Evenson Jacqueline K. , Barnes Kimberly M. , Lovegrove Julie A. , Gordon Michael H.
Published: July 2008

Human selenium (Se) requirements are currently based on biochemical markers of Se status. In rats, tissue glutathione peroxidase-1 (Gpx1) mRNA levels can be used effectively to determine Se requirements; blood Gpx1 mRNA levels decrease in Se-deficient rats, so molecular biology-based markers have potential for human nutrition assessment. To study the efficacy of molecular biology markers for assessing Se status in humans, we conducted a longitudinal study on 39 subjects (age 45 ± 11) in Reading, UK. Diet diaries (5 day) and blood were obtained from each subject at 2, 8, 17 and 23 weeks, and plasma Se, glutathione peroxidase (Gpx3) enzyme activity, and selenoprotein mRNA levels were determined. There were no significant longitudinal effects on Se biomarkers. Se intake averaged 48 ± 14 μg/d. Plasma Se concentrations averaged 1·13 ± 0·16 μmol/l. Plasma Sev.energy-corrected Se intake (ng Se/kJ/d) was significantly correlated, but neither Gpx3 activityv.Se intake (ng Se/kJ/d) nor Gpx3 activityv.plasma Se was significantly correlated. Collectively, this indicates that subjects were on the plateaus of the response curves. Selenoprotein mRNAs were quantitated in total RNA isolated from whole blood, but mRNA levels for Gpx1, selenoprotein H, and selenoprotein W (all highly regulated by Se in rodents), as well selenoprotein P, Gpx3, and phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase were also not significantly correlated with plasma Se. Thus selenoprotein molecular biomarkers, as well as traditional biochemical markers, are unable to further distinguish differences in Se status in these Se replete subjects. The efficacy of molecular biomarkers to detect Se deficiency needs to be tested in Se-deficient populations.
Dietary reference intake (DRI) value for dietary polyphenols: are we heading in the right direction?
Authors: Williamson Gary , Holst Birgit
Published: July 2008

Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) values exist for vitamins and minerals, and provide a guideline on the optimal dose range to avoid deficiency and prevent toxicity. Polyphenols are widely distributed in plant foods, and have been linked to improved human health through reduced risk of chronic diseases, especially cardiovascular. Although they do not cause classical deficiencies, recently they have been discussed as ‘lifespan essentials because they are needed to achieve a full lifespan by reducing the risk of a range of chronic diseases. A recent meta analysis shows promising actions of polyphenols from cocoa, soya and tea on flow mediated dilation, blood pressure and LDL cholesterol. Many epidemiological studies support the action of polyphenols or polyphenol-rich foods on health, but there are still many gaps in our knowledge. More adequately powered, randomised, placebo controlled human studies are needed on polyphenols. There is a large number of structurally different polyphenols which are relevant for health, and obtaining enough information to set a DRI for each of these will not be feasible in the foreseeable future. A new approach is needed, and a new way of thinking, which would apply not only to polyphenols but also to other phytochemicals. Today, a target intake value of polyphenols as ‘lifespan essentials’ needs to be based on the amount of polyphenols in ‘5-a-day’. We are heading in the right direction towards a DRI, but bioavailability and dose-effects, including toxic levels, need to be established before DRIs can be considered.
Transcriptomics and micronutrient research
Authors: Elliott Ruan M.
Published: July 2008

This review examines the extent to which transcriptomic methods have lived up to their promise in the context of nutrition research, placing particular emphasis on examples from micronutrient research. A case is made that the high quality platform technologies now available, together with established standards and systems for data storage and exchange and powerful new methods of data analysis, mean that microarrays have reached a level of technical maturity at which they can be exploited to their full potential. In the context of nutrition and micronutrient research, transcriptomic methods have already been widely applied, albeit primarily in studies using cell lines and animal models. Using this type of approach, a multitude of genes regulated at the mRNA level by dietary components has been identified and this, in turn, has provided new insights into the biological processes affected by nutritional parameters. Evidence from the very limited number of published transcriptomics-based nutritional studies performed in human volunteers suggests that, with appropriate study design, it is feasible to apply transcriptomic methods successfully in dietary intervention trials. On the other hand, gene expression-based biomarker development still poses a major challenge. Here the use of expression profile ‘signatures’, rather than single genes, may provide a solution. Approaches designed to identify such ‘signatures’ are being developed and tested widely, primarily in the context of medical research. The applicability and power of such approaches should also be evaluated in the context of nutrition.
Effect of a pen in group-feeding trials: modelling data from suckler cows
Authors: JAUHIAINEN L. , MANNINEN M. , ÖFVERSTEN J.
Published: July 2008

This paper provides information on the extent and containment of intraclass correlation (ICC) concerning group-feeding trials on suckler cows. The research comprised the re-analysis of six previously reported experiments and a parallel simulation study. ICC coefficients were estimated for eight variables. They were seen to be higher in experiments on bulls compared with those on cows and more notable in the measurements of live weight gain compared with final weight. Moreover, the ICC coefficients were generally high for all variables measuring behavioural patterns. The simulation study showed that using a single animal as an experimental unit could be valid in certain situations, but it could not be extended to cover all the cases. The simulation study also showed that the common mixed model approach had significant problems when the ICC was slight. In general, the research strengthened the arguments that much more effort should be placed on the planning and statistical analysis of group-feeding experiments, especially in behavioural studies.
Temporal and between-site variation in helminth communities of bank voles (Myodes glareolus) from N.E. Poland. 1. Regional fauna and component community levels
Authors: BEHNKE J. M. , BAJER A. , HARRIS P. D. , NEWINGTON L. , PIDGEON E. , ROWLANDS G. , SHERIFF C. , KULIŚ-MALKOWSKA K. , SIŃSKI E. , GILBERT F. S. , BARNARD C. J.
Published: July 2008

Helminth infections were studied in bank voles (Myodes glareolus) from 3 woodland sites in N.E. Poland in the late summers of 1999 and 2002, to assess the temporal stability of derived statistics describing the regional helminth fauna and component community structure, and spatial influence on the latter. Regional helminth fauna changed dramatically between the two years, primarily due to a fall in the abundance ofSyphacia petrusewiczibut was partially compensated for by an increase inMesocestoides lineatusandCladotaenia globifera. It was dominated by nematodes overall, but more so in 1999 than in 2002 when larval cestodes were more frequent. Most derived parameters for component community structure varied considerably between sites and the two surveys, the hierarchical order for sites not being maintained between surveys. They were susceptible to the disproportionate influence of three relatively rare, unpredictable species with the greatest overall aggregated distribution among hosts. Jaccard's similarity index was less influenced by the rare species, showing greater stability between sites and across years. In conclusion, temporal variation confounded any site-specific characteristics of the summary measures quantified in this study and their usefulness is therefore restricted to the years in which the surveys were conducted.
Biology and life-cycle of the microsporidium Kneallhazia solenopsae Knell Allan Hazard 1977 gen. n., comb. n., from the fire ant Solenopsis invicta
Authors: Sokolova Y. Y. , Fuxa J. R.
Published: July 2008

Thelohania solenopsae is a unique microsporidium with a life-cycle finely tuned to parasitizing fire ant colonies. Unlike other microsporidia of social hymenopterans, T. solenopsae infects all castes and stages of the host. Four distinctive spore types are produced: diplokaryotic spores, which develop only in brood (Type 1 DK spores); octets of octospores within sporophorous vesicles, the most prominent spore type in adults but never occurring in brood; Nosema-like diplokaryotic spores (Type 2 DK spores) developing in adults; and megaspores, which occur occasionally in larvae 4, pupae, and adults of all castes but predominantly infect gonads of alates and germinate in inseminated ovaries of queens. Type 2 DK spores function in autoinfection of adipocytes. Proliferation of diplokaryotic meronts in some cells is followed by karyogamy of diplokarya counterparts and meiosis, thereby switching the diplokaryotic sequence to octospore or megaspore development. Megaspores transmit the pathogen transovarially. From the egg to larvae 4, infection is inapparent and can be detected only by PCR. Type 1 DK spore and megaspore sequences are abruptly triggered in larvae 4, the key stage in intra-colony food distribution via trophallaxis, and presumably the central player in horizontal transmission of spores. Molecular, morphological, ultrastructural and life-cycle data indicate that T. solenopsae must be assigned to a new genus. We propose a new combination, Kneallhazia solenopsae.
Advances in the sequencing of the genome of the adenophorean nematodeTrichinella spiralis
Authors: Mitreva M. , Jasmer D. P.
Published: July 2008

The adenophorean nematodes are evolutionarily distant from other species in the phylum Nematoda. Interspecific comparisons of predicted proteins have supported such an ancient divergence. Accordingly,Trichinella spiralisrepresents a basal nematode representative for genome sequencing focused on gaining a deeper insight into the evolutionary biology of nematodes. In addition, molecular characteristics that are conserved across the phylum could be of great value for control strategies with broad application. In this review, we describe and summarize progress that has been made on the sequencing and analysis of theT. spiralisgenome. The genome sequence was used in preliminary analyses for the investigation of specific questions relating to the biology ofT. spiralisand, more generally, to parasitic nematodes. For instance, we evaluated an unusually large DNase II-like protein family, predicted proteins of prospective interest in the parasite-host muscle cell interaction, anthelmintic targets and prospective intestinal genes, the encoded proteins (potentially) linked to immunological control against other nematodes. The results are discussed in relation to characteristics that are broadly conserved among evolutionary distant nematodes. The results lead to expectations that this genome sequence will contribute to advances in research onT. spiralisand other parasitic nematodes.
Problems with continuous-time malaria models in describing gametocytogenesis
Authors: CROOKS L.
Published: July 2008

Most mathematical models of malaria infection represent parasites as replicating continuously at a constant rate whereas in reality, malaria parasites replicate at a fixed age. The behaviour of continuous-time models when gametocytogenesis is included, in comparison to a more realistic discrete-time model that incorporates a fixed replication age was evaluated. Both the infection dynamics under gametocytogenesis and implications for predicting the amount parasites should invest into gametocytes (level of investment favoured by natural selection) are considered. It is shown that the many malaria models with constant replication rates can be represented by just 3 basic types. For these 3 types, it is then shown that under gametocytogenesis (i) in 2 cases, parasite multiplication and gametocyte production is mostly much too low, (ii) in the third, parasite multiplication and gametocyte production is mostly much too high, (iii) the effect of gametocyte investment on parasite multiplication is mostly too high, (iv) the effect of gametocyte investment on gametocyte production is nearly always too low and (v) with a simple approximation of fitness, the predicted level of gametocyte investment is mostly much too low. However, a continuous model with 48 age-compartments compares well to the discrete model. These findings are a further argument for modelling malaria infections in discrete time.
Editorial
Authors: Jonsson Egon , Reiser Stanley J.
Published: July 2008

In 1982 we began discussions about the need for a new journal devoted to exploring the impact of technology on health care, and in 1984 we signed on with Cambridge University Press to launch theInternational Journal of Technology Assessment in Health Care. The first issue appeared in 1985 in connection to the inaugural meeting that year of the International Society for Technology Assessment in Health Care (ISTAHC), which has held annual meetings for 18 years starting in Washington DC in 1986. The Society was later reformed as Health Technology Assessment International (HTAi) in 2003. The Journal has served as the official scientific publication of both ISTAHC and HTAi for 24 years, and its mission remains as it was stated in the introduction to the first issue: to serve as an international forum to explore the effects of health care technology, and to provide “a channel of communication among the diverse and world-wide audience of scholars, practitioners, policy makers, and administrators concerned with this issue. . .to nurture the discipline of technology assessment” (1).
Overuse or underuse of MRI scanners in private radiology centers in Tehran
Authors: Saadat Soheil , Ghodsi Seyed Mohammad , Firouznia Kavous , Etminan Mahyar , Goudarzi Khadijeh , Naieni Kourosh Holakouie
Published: July 2008

Objectives:The semiprivate health system in Iran has created an opportunity for unnecessary uses of advanced medical equipments including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This study aimed to evaluate the evidence for MRI overuse in private diagnostic imaging centers in Tehran, Iran. The objectives of this study were to determine the frequency of use of MRI scans for different complaints and to explore frequency of normal MRI findings as a function of unnecessary MRI use.

Methods:We conducted a survey among private MRI centers in Tehran, Iran, to study the proportion of MRI scans that may result in significant clinical finding. All MRI reports at a specific point in time at selected MRI centers were reviewed by a physician and the findings were recorded as normal, abnormal, or substantial changes.

Results:Of all the MRI reports, 17.2 percent had resulted in normal findings; 9.8 percent ordered for examination of headache, and 4.8 percent for lower back pain.

Conclusion:Unnecessary MRIs are most likely to result in normal finding; although not all the MRI with normal results could be identified as unnecessary. Negative findings from MRI scans may be reassuring to both clinicians and patients. The proportion of normal findings in MRI scans did not provide evidence of MRI overuse in Iran. The results of this study warrant formation of guidelines for the use of MRIs for headache and low back pain disorders.
Economic analysis of medical practice variation between 1991 and 2000: The impact of patient outcomes research teams (PORTs)
Authors: Parente Stephen T. , Phelps Charles E. , O'Connor Patrick J.
Published: July 2008

Objectives:The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the multi-hundred million dollar investment by the federal government in the developing Patient Outcomes Research Teams (PORTs) in over a dozen major academic medical centers in the United States throughout the 1990s. The objective of the PORTs was to reduce unnecessary clinical variation in medical treatment.

Methods:Using an economic derivation of welfare loss attributable to medical practice variation and hospital admission claims data for 2 million elderly patients generalizable to the nation, we estimate the change in welfare between 1991 and 2000, the period within which the PORTs were designed and executed and their results disseminated.

Results:Our results show inpatient admission types targeted by the PORTs did have less welfare loss relative to their total expenditure by 2000, but that there was not a net decrease in the welfare loss for all hospital admissions affected by the PORT.

Conclusions:We conclude that PORTs may have had favorable effects on welfare, most likely by reducing variation in clinical care, but that causality cannot be proved, and the effects were not equal across all conditions targeted by PORTs. This research provides a methodological template that may be used to evaluate the impact of patient safety research on welfare loss and on variation in medical treatment in both hospital and ambulatory settings.
Avoiding adverse drug reactions by pharmacogenetic testing: A systematic review of the economic evidence in the case of TPMT and AZA-induced side effects
Authors: Compagni Amelia , Bartoli Simona , Buehrlen Bernhard , Fattore Giovanni , Ibarreta Dolores , de Mesa Emma Gutierrez
Published: July 2008

Objectives:The study aims at evaluating the economic evidence related to testing for genetic variants of the drug-metabolizing enzyme, TPMT. Detecting TPMT genetic variants before the administration of azathioprine (AZA) has the potential to prevent serious and costly adverse drug reactions (ADRs), such as neutropenia. In particular, our analysis concentrated on assessing the reliability of data on costs of neutropenia and performing the tests, the two main cost categories that could inform an economic evaluation of TPMT pharmacogenetic testing.

Methods:A systematic literature review was performed to gather evidence on the costs of testing and neutropenia. Articles were critically appraised for their comprehensiveness and quality. To better estimate costs of TPMT tests, a small-scale survey of European diagnostic laboratories was conducted.

Results:Only seven articles were retrieved specifying the costs associated with the management and treatment of AZA-induced neutropenia. Most of these studies are based on theoretical modeling reconstructed with key-informants or on very few cases of ADRs, and either the methodology for cost calculation is not specified or costs are based on national cost databases and tariffs. After critical appraisal of these studies, we considered €2,116 as the most reliable estimate for the cost of a case of neutropenia. Literature review accompanied by the survey of several diagnostic laboratories also provided an estimate (€68) for TPMT testing. Based on these values, the net cost per prevented case of neutropenia equals to €5,300.

Conclusions:Solid economic considerations related to TPMT pharmacogenetic testing are still limited by underreporting of ADRs and high level of approximation related to cost data. Ad hoc observational studies and the ADR recording process embedded in pharmacovigilance systems, established across Europe, should represent more reliable sources of cost data in the future.
Economics of preventing premature mortality and impaired cognitive development in children through home-fortification: A health policy perspective
Authors: Sharieff Waseem , Zlotkin Stanley H. , Ungar Wendy J. , Feldman Brian , Krahn Murray D. , Tomlinson George
Published: July 2008

Background:Home-fortification is a new strategy of adding micronutrients including zinc and iron to home-made foods. Zinc supplementation may prevent morbidity and mortality related to diarrheal illnesses, and iron supplementation may improve cognitive development, in children.

Objectives:To project clinical and economic effects of home-fortification in children in an urban slum of Karachi, Pakistan.

Methods:This is a cost benefit analysis of 5,000 simulated male and female infants (6–12 months) assigned to micronutrients or placebo for 4 months and followed for 55 years. We linked the effect of zinc on longitudinal prevalence of diarrhea to mortality, and the effect of iron on hemoglobin to IQ scores and lifetime earnings. Cost estimates were based on volumes of resource utilization from the Pakistan Sprinkles Diarrhea study. Main outcome was incremental benefit defined as the gain in lifetime earnings after accounting for the incremental costs of micronutrients over placebo (societal perspective).

Results:Our model projected that the reduction in diarrhea and improvement in hemoglobin concentrations through home-fortification was associated with reduced child mortality, higher IQ scores, and higher earnings. The present value of incremental benefit was $106 (95 percent probability interval = $17 to $193) U.S. dollars, which corresponds to $464.79 ($74.54 to $846.27) international dollars using a purchasing power parity exchange rate.

Conclusions:Home-fortification appears to improve clinical outcomes at a reasonable cost, and may actually be cost beneficial when lifetime earnings are considered.
Why did some Danish counties introduce breast cancer screening and others not? An exploratory study of four selected counties
Authors: Hjulmann Kasper , Vondeling Hindrik , Bech Mickael
Published: July 2008

Objectives:Of the fourteen counties and two municipalities that until recently were responsible for healthcare provision in Denmark, five introduced mammography screening (MS) programs. The objective of this research is to explain this decision-making variation and to gain insight into priority setting processes in health-care provision at the county level in Denmark.

Methods:Literature on priority setting in health care was used to derive seven explanatory factors for comparing decision making on MS between four selected counties, of which two had implemented MS. The relative importance of each explanatory factor in each county was determined by analyzing policy documents, supplemented with interviews of selected stakeholders. The results were combined and compared at the county level.

Results:Evidence of effectiveness of MS was considered satisfactory and ethical issues related to MS were perceived relatively unproblematic only in those counties that introduced MS. Lack of resources, that is, radiologists, was an additional important factor for counties not implementing MS. Local opinion leaders have played a stimulating role, whereas advisory policy documents at the central government level and even legislation have had a minor impact.

Conclusions:The four counties have based their decision making on the introduction of MS on different combinations of a limited number of factors that have been differentially weighted. The pattern of relevant factors in both counties not introducing MS is rather similar. The study elucidates the role of complementary factors to evidence in decision making. Of interest, recent public sector reforms have resulted in the decision to have MS implemented nationwide.
Use of expert knowledge in evaluating costs and benefits of alternative service provisions: A case study
Authors: Garthwaite Paul H. , Chilcott James B. , Jenkinson David J. , Tappenden Paul
Published: July 2008

Objectives:A treatment pathway model was developed to examine the costs and benefits of the current bowel cancer service in England and to evaluate potential alternatives in service provision. To use the pathway model, various parameters and probability distributions had to be specified. They could not all be determined from empirical evidence and, instead, expert opinion was elicited in the form of statistical quantities that gave the required information. The purpose of this study is to describe the procedures used to quantify expert opinion and note examples of good practice contained in the case study.

Methods:The required information was identified and preparatory discussion with four experts refined the questions they would be asked. In individual elicitation sessions they quantified their opinions, mainly in the form of point and interval estimates for specified variables. New methods have been developed for quantifying expert opinion and these were implemented in specialized software that uses interactive graphics. This software was used to elicit opinion about quantities related to measurable covariates.

Results:Assessments for thirty-four quantities were elicited and available checks supported their validity. Eight points of good practice in eliciting and using expert judgment were evident. Parameters and probability distributions needed for the pathway model were determined from the elicited assessments. Simulation results from the pathway model were used to inform policy on bowel cancer service provision.

Conclusions:The study illustrates that quantifying and using expert judgment can be acceptable in real problems of practical importance. For full benefit to be gained from expert knowledge, elicitation must be conducted carefully and should be reported in detail.
Commentary on the article “Key principles for the improved conduct of health technology assessments for resource allocation decisions”
Authors: Hailey David
Published: July 2008

The paper presents a set of principles that cover the broad scope of HTA from formulation of the question to effects on the decision-making process. It also provides goals for HTA programs to aim for in producing assessments. The principles are supported by material that includes illustrations from the experience of several programs. The authors have had long contact with the field and are well able to authoritatively discuss a range of methodological and other topics. The paper includes a range of views and details that are relevant to those involved with HTA.
Commentary on the article “Key principles for the improved conduct of health technology assessments for resource allocation decisions”
Authors: Neuhauser Duncan
Published: July 2008

“Key principles for the improved conduct of health technology assessment for resource allocation decisions.” The title says it all. I am amazed that such a summary is even possible and that it defines this field so well. Perhaps this report will be cited for years to come as the best and central definition of HTA. A field like this can be defined in other ways.
Response from the authors of “Key principles for the improved conduct of health technology assessments for resource allocation decisions”
Authors: Drummond Michael , Schwartz J. Sanford , Jönsson Bengt , Luce Bryan , Neumann Peter , Siebert Uwe , Sullivan Sean
Published: July 2008

Our goal in formulating the proposed principles was to stimulate discussion of HTA program goals and procedures to enhance the rigor, validity, and usefulness of HTA. The thoughtful and constructive comments by David Banta, David Hailey, and Duncan Neuhauser are an excellent beginning to what we hope will be an extended and interactive process. We appreciate the opportunity to respond to some of their comments, suggestions, and critiques.
Hausdorff dimension of hairs and ends for entire maps of finite order
Authors: BARAŃSKI KRZYSZTOF
Published: July 2008

We study transcendental entire mapsfof finite order, such that all the singularities off−1are contained in a compact subset of the immediate basinBof an attracting fixed point off. Then the Julia set offconsists of disjoint curves tending to infinity (hairs), attached to the unique point accessible fromB(endpoint of the hair). We prove that the Hausdorff dimension of the set of endpoints of the hairs is equal to 2, while the union of the hairs without endpoints has Hausdorff dimension 1, which generalizes the result for exponential maps. Moreover, we show that for every transcendental entire map of finite order from class(i.e. with bounded set of singularities) the Hausdorff dimension of the Julia set is equal to 2.
Bases for commutative semigroups and groups
Authors: HINDMAN NEIL , STRAUSS DONA
Published: July 2008

Abasefor a commutative semigroup (S, +) is an indexed set 〈xt〉t∈AinSsuch that each elementx∈Sis uniquely representable as Σt∈FxtwhereFis a finite subset ofAand, ifShas an identity 0, then 0 = Σn∈Øxt. We investigate those commutative semigroups or groups which have a base. We obtain the surprising result thathas a base. More generally, we show that an abelian group has a base if and only if it has no elements of odd finite order.
A Cohen–Macaulay algebra has only finitely many semidualizing modules
Authors: CHRISTENSEN LARS WINTHER , SATHER-WAGSTAFF SEAN
Published: July 2008

We prove the result stated in the title, which answers the equicharacteristic case of a question of Vasconcelos.
Complex asymptotics of Poincaré functions and properties of Julia sets
Authors: DERFEL GREGORY , GRABNER PETER J. , VOGL FRITZ
Published: July 2008

The asymptotic behaviour of the solutions of Poincaré's functional equation f(λz) = p(f(z)) (λ > 1) for p a real polynomial of degree ≥ 2 is studied in angular regions W of the complex plain. It is known [9, 10] that f(z) ~ exp(zρF(logλz)), if f(z) → ∞ for z ∞ and z ∈ W, where F denotes a periodic function of period 1 and ρ = logλ deg(p). In this paper we refine this result and derive a full asymptotic expansion. The constancy of the periodic function F is characterised in terms of geometric properties of the Julia set of p. For real Julia sets we give inequalities for multipliers of Pommerenke-Levin-Yoccoz type. The distribution of zeros of f is related to the harmonic measure on the Julia set of p.
CLASSIFICATION AND MANAGEMENT OF GROWTH RESTRICTED FETUSES
Authors: PICCONI JASON , MARI GIANCARLO
Published: July 2008

Despite a plethora of publications existing in the literature, there is still confusion about the definition and management of intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses. Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is defined by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists as estimated fetal weight (EFW) less than that expected for gestational age. Clinically this is applied when the EFW is less than the 10th percentile because perinatal morbidity and mortality is increased in low-birth weight infants. Other investigators have proposed and used a variety of fetal definitions: a fetus with an estimated weight < 2SD (standard deviation) from the mean, the 3rd 5th or 15th percentile and an abdominal circumference 2 SD below the mean. Because of the different definitions, it is understandable why different information has been obtained in growth restricted fetuses and why different management schemes have been proposed. A second source of confusion in FGR lies in the fundamental misunderstanding that all growth restricted fetuses are the same, and all will progress to cardiovascular failure following a similar time frame. We believe that in FGR, 2 concepts are important: the first is to detect those growth restricted fetuses at risk for adverse perinatal outcome; the second is to optimize the timing of delivery for these fetuses.
Regulation of Peripheral Spindle Movement and Spindle Rotation during Mouse Oocyte Meiosis: New Perspectives
Authors: Ai Jun-Shu , Wang Qiang , Yin Shen , Shi Li-Hong , Xiong Bo , OuYang Ying-Chun , Hou Yi , Chen Da-Yuan , Schatten Heide , Sun Qing-Yuan
Published: July 2008

Spindle movement, including spindle migration during first meiosis and spindle rotation during second meiosis, is essential for asymmetric divisions in mouse oocytes. Previous studies by others and us have shown that microfilaments are required for both spindle migration and rotation. In the present study, we aimed to further investigate the mechanism controlling spindle movement during mouse oocyte meiosis. By employing drug treatment and immunofluorescence microscopy, we showed that dynamic microtubule assembly was involved in both spindle migration and rotation. Furthermore, we found that the calcium/CaM/CaMKII pathway was important for regulating spindle rotation.
Characterization of an Inorganic Cryptomelane Nanomaterial Synthesized by a Novel Process Using Transmission Electron Microscopy and X-Ray Diffraction
Authors: Ma Longzhou , Hartmann Thomas , Cheney Marcos A. , Birkner Nancy R. , Bhowmik Pradip K.
Published: July 2008

Layer- and tunnel-structured manganese oxide nanomaterials are important because of their potential applications in industrial catalysis. A novel soft chemistry method was developed for the synthesis of inorganic cryptomelane nanomaterials with high surface area. Bright field transmission electron microscopy (BF-TEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) techniques were employed to characterize this nanomaterial. A nanosized material with fibrous texture comprised of 140–160 nm striations was identified by BF-TEM imaging. HRTEM images show multiple atomic morphologies such as “helix-type,” “doughnut-like,” and tunnel structures lying on different crystallographic planes. The crystallographic parameters of this material were analyzed and measured by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) showing that the synthesized nanomaterial is single phased and corresponds to cryptomelane with major diffraction peaks (for 10° < 2θ < 60°) at d-spacing values of 6.99, 4.94, 3.13, 2.40, 2.16, 1.84, 1.65, and 1.54 Å. A “doughnut-like” crystal structure was confirmed based on the crystallographic data. Structure and lattice parameters refinement was performed by XRD/Rietveld analysis. Simple simulation of HRTEM images and selected area diffraction patterns were applied to interpret the HRTEM images as observed.
Experimental Method to Determine the Absolute Efficiency Curve of a Wavelength Dispersive Spectrometer
Authors: Trincavelli Jorge , Limandri Silvina , Carreras Alejo , Bonetto Rita
Published: July 2008

A method for the experimental determination of the absolute efficiency of wavelength dispersive spectrometers was developed, based on the comparison of spectra measured with a wavelength dispersive system and with an energy dispersive spectrometer. The aim of studying this parameter arises because its knowledge is necessary to perform standardless analysis. A simple analytical expression was obtained for the efficiency curve for three crystals (TAP, PET, and LiF) of the spectrometer used, within an energy range from 0.77 to 10.83 keV. Although this expression is particular for the system used in this work, the method may be extended to other spectrometers and crystals for electron probe microanalysis and X-ray fluorescence.