bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Representing Urban Development Plans and Regulations as Data: A Planning Data Model
Authors: Hopkins Lewis D , Kaza Nikhil , Pallathucheril Varkki George
Published: June 2005

Using plans and regulations when making decisions about urban development requires access to the many plans and regulations of many different organizations, both private and public. Current information technologies, the Internet and the World Wide Web in particular, make access to data from such disparate sources feasible. Using these technologies to implement a ‘system of plans’ approach to urban development planning will, however, require a widely shared data model for structuring the content and meanings of plans and regulations and a widely shared language, based on this data model. This paper presents an initial version of a planning data model (PDM), several use cases that set the scope of such a data model, and illustrations of how the current version of the PDM supports these use cases. Further work can build on this data model, including an XML (extensible Markup Language) implementation for sharing the information. These tools will enable urban development decisionmakers to conceive of planning as involving many actors whose many plans can provide useful and usable information.
Plasma/Corona Treatment of Silicones
Authors: Owen Michael J.
Published: June 2005

There is considerable current interest in plasma and corona treatment of silicones. It is well established that a thin, silica-like layer is created on the surface by such treatments. Much fresh insight has emerged concerning the role of low-molecular-weight materials in the hydrophobic recovery of treated elastomers. Even if these diffusible species are removed before treatment, hydrophobic recovery still occurs above a threshold energy implying that they are produced in situ by the treatment. A particularly significant new direction in the plasma treatment field is plasma polymerization of organosilicon monomers using atmospheric pressure glow discharge (APGD).
Current Progress on Biodegradable Materials Based on Plasticized Starch
Authors: Bélard Laurent , Dole Patrice , Avérous Luc
Published: June 2005

This paper presents some current progress on biodegradable materials that are based on plasticized starch (PLS). To improve the hydrophobic character of the material for packaging applications, for example, a recent and promising development based on a PLS–biopolyester (e.g. polycaprolactone) blend with plasma-coated SiOx is presented. PLS–biopolyester blends can show, under certain processing conditions, a pseudo-multilayer structure with a polyester skin that allows good adhesion of SiOx deposits. XPS and FTIR-ATR determinations are used to assess the outer surface.
Stabilization of Hydrogen-Bonded Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) Multilayers by a Dual Electrostatic/Hydrogen Bonding Copolymer
Authors: Quinn John F. , Caruso Frank
Published: June 2005

Multilayer thin films were prepared based on hydrogen bonding between poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNiPAAm), and poly(styrene sulfonate-co-maleic acid) (PSSMA). Since PSSMA is capable of associating with other polymers through both hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions, multilayer assemblies incorporating PSSMA, PNiPAAm, and intercalated poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) layers were also prepared. Intercalated PAH layers were included to improve the pH stability of the film by introducing electrostatic linkages into the assembly. Film construction was studied as a function of pH of the deposition solution and the number of inserted PAH layers. Film morphology varied significantly with incorporation of PAH into the film. It was also demonstrated that by intercalating several PAH layers within the PNiPAAm/PSSMA assembly, the pH stability of the films at pH 5.8 could be substantially improved.
Chemical Mapping of Polymer Microstructure Using Soft X-ray Spectromicroscopy
Authors: Hitchcock Adam P. , Stöver Harald D. H. , Croll Lisa M. , Childs Ronald F.
Published: June 2005

Recently, synchrotron-based soft X-ray spectromicroscopy techniques have been applied to studies of polymer microstructure at the ~50 nm spatial scale. Functional group based chemical speciation and quantitative mapping is provided by near edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectral (NEXAFS) contrast. The techniques, sample data, and analysis methods of scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) and X-ray photoemission electron microscopy (X-PEEM) are outlined. The capabilities of STXM are illustrated by results from recent studies of (a) controlled release microcapsules and microspheres, (b) microcapsules being developed for gene therapy applications, (c) conducting polymer films studied in the presence of electrolyte and under potential control, and (d) studies of protein interactions with patterned polymer surfaces. In the latter area, the capabilities of STXM and X-PEEM are compared directly.
Silicone Polymers in Scar Remediation: The Role of Migration of Oligomers Through Stratum Corneum
Authors: Sanchez Washington , Evans John , George Graeme
Published: June 2005

A cross-linked silicone gel for burns scar rehabilitation has been analyzed to determine the oligomeric species that may migrate from the gel into skin. From MALDI–MS (matrix assisted laser desorption ionization–mass spectrometry) these were shown to be hydroxyl-terminated linear oligomers with a mass of up to 2100 Da. The migration of the extracted oligomers through stratum corneum has been determined by breakthrough times using ATR–FTIR (attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared) spectroscopy. The upper value of the estimated diffusion coefficient of 2.5 × 10−9 cm2 s−1, determined from a breakthrough time of 31 h, is similar to that of large hydrophobic solutes, but penetration times from the silicone gel are low (7–10 days) due to the lower concentration of oligomers partitioning into the lipid bilayer of the skin in an aqueous environment.
A Synthetic Approach to a Novel Class of Fluorine-Bearing Reversible Addition - Fragmentation Chain Transfer (RAFT) Agents: F-RAFT
Authors: Theis Alexander , Stenzel Martina H. , Davis Thomas P. , Coote Michelle L. , Barner-Kowollik Christopher
Published: June 2005

A synthetic route is described to a novel class of reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) agents bearing a fluorine Z-group. Such F-RAFT agents are theoretically predicted to allow living free radical polymerization of various monomers without affecting the rate of polymerization, and should also facilitate the construction of block copolymers from monomers with disparate reactivity. The class of F-RAFT agents is exemplified by the example of benzyl fluoro dithioformate (BFDF) in styrene free-radical polymerizations and the process is shown to induce living polymerization.
Living Radical Polymerization by the RAFT Process
Authors: Moad Graeme , Rizzardo Ezio , Thang San H.
Published: June 2005

This paper presents a review of living radical polymerization achieved with thiocarbonylthio compounds [ZC(=S)SR] by a mechanism of reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT). Since we first introduced the technique in 1998, the number of papers and patents on the RAFT process has increased exponentially as the technique has proved to be one of the most versatile for the provision of polymers of well defined architecture. The factors influencing the effectiveness of RAFT agents and outcome of RAFT polymerization are detailed. With this insight, guidelines are presented on how to conduct RAFT and choose RAFT agents to achieve particular structures. A survey is provided of the current scope and applications of the RAFT process in the synthesis of well defined homo-, gradient, diblock, triblock, and star polymers, as well as more complex architectures including microgels and polymer brushes.
Mating Siegel quadratic polynomials
Authors: Yampolsky Michael , Zakeri Saeed
Published: June 2005

Let

F
F

be a quadratic rational map of the sphere which has two fixed Siegel disks with bounded type rotation numbers

θ
\theta

and

ν
\nu

. Using a new degree

3
3

Blaschke product model for the dynamics of

F
F

and an adaptation of complex a priori bounds for renormalization of critical circle maps, we prove that

F
F

can be realized as the mating of two Siegel quadratic polynomials with the corresponding rotation numbers

θ
\theta

and

ν
\nu

.
Vaught’s conjecture on analytic sets
Authors: Hjorth Greg
Published: June 2005

Let

G
G

be a Polish group. We characterize when there is a Polish space

X
X

with a continuous

G
G

-action and an analytic set (that is, the Borel image of some Borel set in some Polish space)

A
⊂
X

A\subset X

having uncountably many orbits but no perfect set of orbit inequivalent points. Such a Polish

G
G

-space

X
X

and analytic

A
A

exist exactly when there is a continuous, surjective homomorphism from a closed subgroup of

G
G

onto the infinite symmetric group,

S
∞

S_\infty

, consisting of all permutations of

N

\mathbb {N}

equipped with the topology of pointwise convergence.
Quiver varieties and finite dimensional representations of quantum affine algebras
Authors: Nakajima Hiraku
Published: June 2005

We study finite dimensional representations of the quantum affine algebraUq(g^){\mathbf {U}}_q(\widehat {\mathfrak {g}})using geometry of quiver varieties introduced by the author. As an application, we obtain character formulas expressed in terms of intersection cohomologies of quiver varieties.
Dimension and randomness in groups acting on rooted trees
Authors: Abért Miklós , Virág Bálint
Published: June 2005

We explore the structure of thepp-adic automorphism groupYYof the infinite rooted regular tree. We determine the asymptotic order of a typical element, answering an old question of Turán. We initiate the study of a general dimension theory of groups acting on rooted trees. We describe the relationship between dimension and other properties of groups such as solvability, existence of dense free subgroups and the normal subgroup structure. We show that subgroups ofWWgenerated by three random elements are full dimensional and that there exist finitely generated subgroups of arbitrary dimension. Specifically, our results solve an open problem of Shalev and answer a question of Sidki.
Analysis of the heterogeneous multiscale method for elliptic homogenization problems
Authors: E Weinan , Ming Pingbing , Zhang Pingwen
Published: June 2005

A comprehensive analysis is presented for the heterogeneous multiscale method (HMM for short) applied to various elliptic homogenization problems. These problems can be either linear or nonlinear, with deterministic or random coefficients. In most cases considered, optimal estimates are proved for the error between the HMM solutions and the homogenized solutions. Strategies for retrieving the microstructural information from the HMM solutions are discussed and analyzed.
ABATEMENT COST HETEROGENEITY IN PHASE I ELECTRIC UTILITIES
Authors: REZEK JON , BLAIR BENJAMIN F.
Published: June 2005

The market‐based instruments embodied in the Acid Rain Program have been instrumental in the reduction of SO2 and NOx emissions from electric utilities. Economic theory suggests that tradable pollution permit systems encourage polluters to reallocate pollution burdens to take advantage of any differences in marginal abatement costs. Such reallocations improve the efficiency of pollution reduction. This article evaluates the effectiveness of the first phase of the Acid Rain Program in achieving increased homogeneity of marginal abatement costs using an output distance function approach. The results indicate that plants have been successful in adapting to this more flexible regulatory framework.
BENEFITS OF HAZARDOUS WASTE CLEANUP: NEW EVIDENCE FROM SURVEY‐ AND MARKET‐BASED PROPERTY VALUE APPROACHES
Authors: CHATTOPADHYAY SUDIP , BRADEN JOHN B. , PATUNRU ARIANTO
Published: June 2005

This article compares the discrete choice random utility model and the hedonic property value model in estimating the benefits of cleaning up Waukegan Harbor, a Superfund site on the Great Lakes. The study uses survey‐based conjoint choice data on housing preferences and market data on housing transactions. The research finds that the benefit estimates for different levels of cleanup are quite comparable between the models. The estimates compare very well with those of some previous studies. The results of the study suggest that tax increment financing by the local government is a feasible option to fund cleanup.
INDUSTRY TRADE BALANCE AND DOMESTIC MERGER POLICY: EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM U.S. MERGER POLICY FOR MANUFACTURING SECTORS
Authors: CLOUGHERTY JOSEPH A.
Published: June 2005

The literature on antitrust in an open‐economy setting is inconclusive with respect to the role played by trade balance on the tenor of domestic merger policy. Using a panel dataset composed of U.S. merger reviews by industrial sector over the 1982–2001 period, I empirically test the impact of sectoral trade balance on the level of antitrust scrutiny. The results suggest that larger trade balances lead to more vigorous antitrust scrutiny; thus “strategic” merger policy does not appear evident, and consumer surplus appears to guide U.S. merger policy even under the lure of international competitive gains.
ACCOUNTING FOR SOCIAL COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH RESALE PRICE MAINTENANCE
Authors: FLESHMAN CINDI , WILLNER JONATHAN
Published: June 2005

Resale price maintenance (RPM) can provide a positive or negative effect on social welfare. The evaluation depends on many factors, such as whether a high‐demand or low‐demand state exists, storage/holding costs, and disposal costs. A number of articles addressing the welfare effects of RPM conclude they enhance social welfare. Disposal costs for manufactured products are real and increasingly accounted for in firm costs, and are an essential issue in environmental economics. This article examines the case for RPM with disposal costs. When not incorporated into firm profits, RPM may be welfare reducing. (JEL D42, D62, D81)
NOVELTY EFFECTS OF NEW FACILITIES ON ATTENDANCE AT PROFESSIONAL SPORTING EVENTS
Authors: COATES DENNIS , HUMPHREYS BRAD R.
Published: June 2005

We investigate the effect of new facilities on attendance in professional baseball, basketball, and football from 1969 to 2001. We find a strong, persistent effect in baseball and basketball, and little effect in football. Size and duration estimates imply that baseball teams sell 2,500,794 additional tickets over the first eight seasons, basketball teams 293,878 over the first nine seasons, and football teams 137,792 over the first five seasons, implying an increase in revenues that could defray public subsidies that state and local governments provide for new sports construction projects. Rough calculations suggest that stadium subsidies are an inefficient method of subsidizing professional sports franchises. (JEL R39, D12, L83)
The effect of gynecologic age, body mass index and psychosocial environment on menstrual regularity among teenaged females
Authors: Järvelaid Mari
Published: June 2005

Background.  The aim was to study the prevalence of menstrual irregularity at an early postmenarcheal age and various biopsychosocial factors associated with menstrual irregularity.

Methods.  The study was conducted in Tartu, Estonia. The 70‐item questionnaire and the 21‐item Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) were completed by 580 female students of grades 9–12 in four high schools. Their height and weight were measured and body mass index (BMI) calculated. The effects associated with regularity of the menstrual cycle were studied.

Results.  Irregularity of the menstrual cycle was reported by 40% of respondents at an early postmenarcheal age. The risks for irregular menstrual cycles (IRM) were BMI <17.5 kg/m2[odds ratio (OR) 2.06; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.06–4.00], low economic status IRM [OR 1.77 (95% CI 1.41–2.20)], insufficient communication with parents [OR 1.46 (95% CI 1.02–2.09)], and never pleased to go to school [OR 1.27 (95% CI 1.03–1.56)]. Comparison of the answers to the BDI with the regularity of periods revealed a difference in the total score [OR 1.54 (95% CI 1.21–1.97)], with a mean score of 8.3 ± 0.4 for the respondents with regular menstrual cycles (RM) vs. 10.6 ± 0.5 for the respondents with IRM.

Conclusion.  Menstrual irregularity at an early postmenarcheal age can be considered as an indicator of difficulties in psychosocial adaptability of teenaged females.
Panniculectomy in gynecologic cancer surgical procedures by using a harmonic scalpel
Authors: Olejek Anita , Manka Grzegorz
Published: June 2005

Objective.  To demonstrate that panniculectomy in obese gynecologic oncology patients undergoing surgical gynecologic procedures reduces operative time, gives better surgical exposure and does not increase the number of operative complications.

Methods.  A retrospective review of 90 patients who had panniculectomy at the time of gynecologic surgery between 1992 and June 2003. Analyzed data included indication for surgery, patient's weight, operative times, blood loss and complications.

Results.  Panniculectomy was performed in 20 patients operated because of uterine cervix cancer and 70 because of uterine body cancer. The mean age was 57.3 years, weight 126.7 kg and body mass index (BMI) 47 kg/m2. The following procedures were performed: radical hysterectomy by the Wertheim–Meigs method (22 cases), total hysterectomy (68 cases) with bilateral salpingoophorectomy, pelvic lymphadenectomy and also periaortal lymphadenectomy (four cases). The mean operative time was 169 min, including from 20 to 25 min opening and closing time, and blood transfusion was undertaken in 15.6% of patients. The average weight of removed panniculus was 4900 g. In 82.2% of patients there were no wound complications, in 17.8% the healing was delayed. Daily drains secretion was 65.3 mL (range 0–300 mL). One patient died because of pulmonary embolism, and another because of myocardial infarction. There were no cases of damage to the urinary tract, intestines or large vessels. During the histopathological examination metastatic carcinoma in lymph nodes was found in 29.3% of the cases.

Conclusions.  Massively obese women can safely undergo gynecologic oncological surgery with simultaneous panniculectomy. Panniculectomy improves surgical access and facilitates radical surgery.
Socioeconomic status and use of postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy among Danish women
Authors: Olesen Anne Vingaard , Johnsen Søren Paaske , Mortensen Jens Tølbøll , BØggild Henrik , Olsen Jørn , Sørensen Henrik Toft
Published: June 2005

Background. Observational studies on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) have shown cardioprotective effects that have not been replicated in randomized controlled trials, perhaps due to unaccounted confounding by socioeconomic factors. To resolve this discrepancy, we examined the association between socioeconomic status (SES) and HRT use in a large population of Danish postmenopausal women.

Methods. We conducted a register‐based cross‐sectional study based on all women aged 40 or more with a permanent address in the North Jutland County, Denmark on 1 January 1999 (n = 122 584). The women were classified according to SES through the Prevention Registry at Statistics Denmark. Through the Pharmaco‐epidemiological Prescription Database, we identified all reimbursed HRT prescriptions in North Jutland County for women aged 40 or more in the study population during 1999. We calculated 1‐year prevalence proportions of HRT use for all socioeconomic groups. Between‐group comparisons were made by log‐risk analysis with adjustment for age.

Results. The estimated overall user‐prevalence of HRT in 1999 among Danish postmenopausal women was 14.9%[95% confidence interval (CI) 14.7–15.1]. No substantial socioeconomic gradient was found in the study. The adjusted relative prevalence proportions (RPPs) varied between 0.90 and 1.14 among the different groups when using salaried employees, basic level, as the reference group.

Conclusions. Our findings suggest that recent observational studies on the use of hormone replacement therapy among women in Denmark may not have suffered from strong confounding by socioeconomic status.
Period of gestational diabetes mellitus diagnosis and maternal and fetal morbidity
Authors: Barahona María José , Sucunza Nuria , García‐Patterson Apolonia , Hernández Marta , Adelantado Juan M. , Ginovart Gemma , De Leiva Alberto , Corcoy Rosa
Published: June 2005

Background.  The aim of the study was to analyze the association between the period of diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and maternal and neonatal outcome.

Methods.  In this retrospective study, 1708 offspring (1571 singleton, 119 twins, and 18 triplets) born to women with GDM who attended the Diabetic and Pregnancy Clinic were included. Pregnancies were divided into three groups according to the gestational age at GDM diagnosis. The association of the period of diagnosis with maternal and fetal outcome was assessed adjusting for potentially confounding variables (logistic regression analysis).

Results.  The period of diagnosis was a predictor in two out of three maternal outcomes (pregnancy‐induced hypertension and insulin treatment) and in four out of 12 fetal outcomes (preterm birth, 5‐min Apgar <7, perinatal mortality, and hyperbilirubinemia). Whereas pregnancy‐induced hypertension was higher in women diagnosed with GDM in the second period, the other outcomes displayed higher occurrences with earlier diagnosis.

Conclusions.  Diagnosis of GDM earlier in pregnancy is a predictor of adverse maternal and neonatal outcome.
Mode of delivery in pregnant women with hypertensive disorders and unfavorable cervix following induction of labor with vaginal application of prostaglandin E2
Authors: Ben‐Haroush Avi , Yogev Yariv , Glickman Hagit , Kaplan Boris , Hod Moshe , Bar Jacob
Published: June 2005

Background.  Our aim was to evaluate the mode of delivery in pregnant women with hypertensive disorders and unfavorable cervix following induction of labor with vaginal application of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) near or at term, and to define the predictors of successful vaginal delivery in such women.

Methods.  In a retrospective case‐controlled study, pregnant women with hypertension, who underwent labor induction with PGE2 tablets (study group, n = 284), were compared with women, who underwent elective induction of labor (group 2, n = 115), and women with normal spontaneous onset of labor (group 3, n = 510).

Results.  The rate of cesarean section (CS) was significantly higher in the study group (25.3%) than in group 2 (14.8%) and in group 3 (9%). Exclusion of the nulliparous women from the study and control groups yielded similar CS rates in the study group (16.9%) and in group 2 (11.1%). Women with pre‐eclampsia and the women with chronic hypertension or pregnancy‐induced hypertension had similar rates of CS. In logistic regression model, nulliparity, induction of labor with PGE2, and maternal age, but not hypertensive disorders, were independently and significantly associated with increased risk of CS.

Conclusions.  PGE2 induction of labor is successful in approximately 75% of patients with hypertensive disorders and unfavorable cervix, with apparently no serious maternal or fetal complications. The induction of labor by itself, and not the hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, is independent risk factor for CS.
Use of Sengstaken–Blakemore tube in massive postpartum hemorrhage: a series of 17 cases
Authors: Seror J. , Allouche C. , Elhaik S.
Published: June 2005

Background.  To evaluate the efficacy and identify the indications of intrauterine tamponade with a Sengstaken–Blakemore tube in acute postpartum hemorrhage.

Methods.  Retrospective study was performed in 17 female patients with massive postpartum hemorrhage despite appropriate medical treatment, and requiring surgery (embolization techniques were not available in our hospital). Patients were treated by inserting a Sengstaken–Blakemore tube in the uterus through the vagina in case of vaginal delivery or through the hysterotomy incision in case of cesarean section. The esophageal balloon was inflated with 250 ml of isotonic saline solution. Patients underwent regional or general anesthesia. A preventive treatment with broad‐spectrum antibiotics was systematically administered.

Results.  Tamponade treatment prevented surgery in 88% of patients, hemorrhage was controlled in 71% of cases (reducing the need for embolization by 80%), and waiting for a transfer for embolization was made possible for 18% of patients.

Conclusion.  Intrauterine tamponade with a Sengstaken–Blakemore tube appears as a simple, low‐cost, readily available and effective means of treating life‐threatening postpartum hemorrhage. The only apparent contraindication is the discovery of an infection during delivery.
Polycystic ovaries and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: a systematic review*
Authors: Tummon Ian , Gavrilova‐Jordan Larisa , Allemand Michael C , Session Donna
Published: June 2005

Objectives.  To assess and quantify the relationship between polycystic ovaries (PCOs) and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).

Data Sources.  Published studies, any language, identified through MEDLINE, EMBASE, BIOSIS, Web of Science, and bibliographies. Studies were selected if exposure (ultrasound findings of PCO before treatment) and outcome (OHSS) could be abstracted to two‐by‐two tables.

Results.  Ten studies, meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria, were analyzed. When PCO were present, the combined odds ratio for OHSS was 6.8 (95% confidence interval 4.9–9.6).

Conclusion.  There is a significant and consistent relationship between PCO and OHSS. When PCO are present before treatment with assisted reproduction, deliberate policies to moderate treatment appear justified.
Lack of proinflammatory effects of free fatty acids on human umbilical cord vein endothelial cells and leukocytes
Authors: Holthe Mette Ree , Andersson Yvonne , Lyberg Torstein
Published: June 2005

Aim.  To determine whether the free fatty acids (FFAs), oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acid, found elevated before 20 weeks of pregnancy in those women who later develop preeclampsia, induced changes in expression of the vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1), intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), or E‐selectin in cultured human umbilical cord vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), and integrin subunit CD11b, L‐selectin or intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in leukocytes.

Methods.  The VCAM‐1, ICAM‐1, and E‐selectin expression were measured using ELISA in HUVEC after incubation with 100 µmol of either oleic, linoleic, or palmitic acid for 6 hr and 24 hr. The co‐reactivity with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the amount of VCAM‐1 mRNA in the cells, and soluble VCAM‐1 in the incubation medium were measured as well. Leukocyte adhesion molecules and ROS were measured after incubation with 750 µm of either of the FFAs in a whole blood model using flow cytometry.

Results.  No effects of the FFAs tested were found on the HUVEC or leukocyte adhesion molecule expression or intracellular ROS. The only exception to this was palmitic acid incubation, which significantly lowered the VCAM‐1 expression in HUVEC after 24‐hr incubation and also slowed the decay of VCAM‐1 expressed after stimulation with LPS.

Conclusions.  The lack of significant proinflammatory changes of the FFAs tested might indicate that the elevated plasma levels of FFAs seen in preeclampsia most probably are products of the preeclamptic process rather than a causative factor
Drinking patterns, drinking contexts and alcohol‐related aggression among late adolescent and young adult drinkers
Authors: Wells Samantha , Graham Kathryn , Speechley Mark , J. Koval John
Published: June 2005

Aims  The main objectives of this study were to determine: (1) the relative roles of heavy episodic drinking (HED), drinking frequency and drinking volume in explaining alcohol‐related aggression and (2) whether drinking context variables (i.e. usual drinking locations, typical drinking companions and extent of peer drinking) confound or modify the relationship between HED and alcohol‐related aggression or whether they predict alcohol‐related aggression independently.

Design  A secondary analysis of the US National Longitudinal Survey of Youth was conducted. Alcohol‐related aggression (denoted fights after drinking) was measured based on self‐reports of arguments or fights that occurred during or after drinking in the previous 12 months.

Participants  A composite sample of drinkers, ages 17–21, from the 1994, 1996 and 1998 Young Adult surveys (n = 738) was used.

Findings  Frequency of drinking and drinking volume largely confounded the association between HED and fights after drinking. Usually drinking in public locations away from home versus private locations was found to be significantly associated with a greater likelihood of fights after drinking among females. Among males, usual drinking location modified the relationship between drinking frequency and alcohol‐related aggression, with the greatest risk of aggression for males who drank frequently and usually drank in public locations away from home.

Conclusions  Programs designed to reduce drinking frequency in this population and to increase the safety of drinking locations in public places away from home may prove to be beneficial in reducing alcohol‐related aggression.
Effects of a sustained heroin shortage in three Australian States
Authors: Degenhardt Louisa , Day Carolyn , Dietze Paul , Pointer Sophie , Conroy Elizabeth , Collins Linette , Hall Wayne
Published: June 2005

Background  In early 2001 in Australia there was a sudden and dramatic decrease in heroin availability that occurred throughout the country that was evidenced by marked increases in heroin price and decreases in its purity.

Aim  This study examines the impact of this change in heroin supply on the following indicators of heroin use: fatal and non‐fatal drug overdoses; treatment seeking for heroin dependence; injecting drug use; drug‐specific offences; and general property offences. The study was conducted using data from three Australian States [New South Wales (NSW), Victoria (VIC) and South Australia (SA)].

Methods  Data were obtained on fatal and non‐fatal overdoses from hospital emergency departments (EDs), ambulance services and coronial systems; treatment entries for heroin dependence compiled by State health departments; numbers of needles and syringes distributed to drug users; and data on arrests for heroin‐related incidents and property‐related crime incidents compiled by State Police Services. Time‐series analyses were conducted where possible to examine changes before and after the onset of the heroin shortage. These were supplemented with information drawn from studies involving interviews with injecting drug users.

Results  After the reduction in heroin supply, fatal and non‐fatal heroin overdoses decreased by between 40% and 85%. Despite some evidence of increased cocaine, methamphetamine and benzodiazepine use and reports of increases in harms related to their use, there were no increases recorded in the number of either non‐fatal overdoses or deaths related to these drugs. There was a sustained decline in injecting drug use in NSW and VIC, as indicated by a substantial drop in the number of needles and syringes distributed (to 1999 levels in Victoria). There was a short‐lived increase in property crime in NSW followed by a sustained reduction in such offences. SA and VIC did not show any marked change in the categories of property crime examined in the study.

Conclusions  Substantial reductions in heroin availability have not occurred often, but in this Australian case a reduction had an aggregate positive impact in that it was associated with: reduced fatal and non‐fatal heroin overdoses; reduced the apparent extent of injecting drug use in VIC and NSW; and may have contributed to reduced crime in NSW. All these changes provide substantial benefits to the community and some to heroin users. Documented shifts to other forms of drug use did not appear sufficient to produce increases in deaths, non‐fatal overdoses or treatment seeking related to those drugs.
Cannabis ‘tinny’ houses in New Zealand: implications for the use and sale of cannabis and other illicit drugs in New Zealand
Authors: Wilkins Chris , Reilly James L. , Casswell Sally
Published: June 2005

Aim  To examine the impact of the emergence of cannabis ‘tinny’ houses on the use and sale of cannabis and other illicit drugs in New Zealand.

Method  A national sample of 5800 people aged 13–45 years were interviewed about their drug use using a computer‐assisted telephone interview (CATI) system as part of the 2001 National Drug Survey. A question on cannabis procurement was used to create two subgroups of cannabis buyers for further analysis: (i) ‘tinny’ house buyers—those who had purchased ‘some’, ‘most’ or ‘all’ of their cannabis from a ‘tinny’ house (n = 145) and (ii) personal market buyers—those who had purchased ‘none’ or ‘hardly any’ of their cannabis from a ‘tinny’ house (n = 342). The two groups of cannabis buyers were compared for a range of variables. [‘Tinny’ houses are residential properties converted for the ‘supermarket’ sale of cannabis and other illicit drugs to anyone who attends the premises with cash.]

Findings  Those purchasing cannabis from ‘tinny’ houses were significantly more likely than those purchasing cannabis from the personal market to smoke one joint or more on a typical occasion, to purchase cannabis weekly or more often, to purchase small weights of cannabis, to be sold lower quality cannabis than they paid for, to know their cannabis dealer sells other illicit drug types and to use high potency strains of cannabis. There was no significant difference between the ‘tinny’ house and personal market cannabis buyers with respect to the frequency of cannabis use, prices paid for the same weights of cannabis, levels of other victimization, levels of other drug use or levels of encouragement by cannabis sellers to purchase other drug types. Those purchasing cannabis from ‘tinny’ houses were more likely to be aged 15–17 years old and to be of Maori ethnicity than those purchasing cannabis from the personal market.

Conclusion  Cannabis ‘tinny’ houses attracted more adolescent and more Maori clientele. However, ‘tinny’ houses did not appear to be contributing to the spread of the use of other drug types either through the active marketing of other drugs or by having these drugs available for sale at these locations.
An examination of the intestinal tract of Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., parr fed different varieties of soy and maize
Authors: Sanden M , Berntssen M H G , Krogdahl Å , Hemre G‐I , Bakke‐McKellep A‐M
Published: June 2005

This study was conducted to investigate the long‐term effects of feeding plant products from both traditional breeding and from biotechnology on intestinal somatic indices, histology and cell proliferation in first‐feeding Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L. (initial weight 0.21 ± 0.02 g). A standard fishmeal diet (standard fishmeal) was formulated to contain fishmeal as the sole protein source and suprex maize as the main starch source. Six experimental diets were then developed: two in which some of the fishmeal was replaced with commercially available, genetically modified Roundup Ready® full‐fat soybean meal (GM‐soy) or commercially available, non‐GM full‐fat soybean meal (nGM‐soy) at a level of 12.5% of the total diet, and four diets in which the suprex maize was replaced with two lines of GM‐maize (Dekalb 1; D1 and Pioneer 1; P1), both products of event MON810, and their half‐sibling non‐GM counterparts (Dekalb 2; D2 and Pioneer 2; P2), at a level of 12.1% of total diet. Each diet was fed to fish in triplicate tanks and the experiment lasted for 8 months, during which the fish reached a final weight of 101–116 g. There was no significant effect of diet on the intestinal indices, nor were histological changes observed in the pyloric caeca or mid intestine. In the distal intestine, one of nine sampled fish fed nGM‐soy showed moderate changes, two of nine sampled fish fed GM‐soy showed changes, one with moderate and one with severe changes, and two of nine fish fed nGM‐maize D2 had moderate changes. Using a monoclonal antibody against proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cell proliferative responses to the experimental diets were assessed. In fish fed both soy diets, a significantly higher (P < 0.05) cell proliferation response was observed in the distal intestine concomitant with an increased localization of PCNA positive cells along the whole distal intestinal folds. The PCNA response among the nGM‐soy group was significantly higher compared with all the other diet groups. In contrast, for fish exposed to dietary maize (type D) compared with fish fed the standard fishmeal, the soy‐diets (GM‐soy and nGM‐soy) and maize (type P), a significantly lower (P < 0.05) cell proliferation response was observed in the distal intestine. Results indicated that the GM plant products investigated in this study, at about 12% inclusion level, were as safe as commercially available non‐GM products, at least in terms of their effect on indices and histological parameters of the Atlantic salmon intestinal tract.
Polymorphisms in the sequences of Marteilia internal transcribed spacer region of the ribosomal RNA genes (ITS‐1) in Spain: genetic types are not related with bivalve hosts
Authors: Novoa B , Posada D , Figueras A
Published: June 2005

Marteilia refringens is a protozoan parasite causing a disease notifiable to the Office International des Epizooties (OIE) and its distribution has implications for the transfer of live animals. The internal transcribed spacer‐1 (ITS‐1) from Marteilia clones contains polymorphism. Digestion with HhaI reveals two different restriction profiles, previously referred as ‘O’ (Marteilia from oyster or Marteilia refringens) and ‘M’ (Marteilia from mussels or Marteilia maurini). The aim of the present work was to determine whether the two previously described Marteilia molecular types (O and M) exist in the Iberian Peninsula and the strictness of the association with their bivalve host species. The sequence variability in the ITS‐1 of Marteilia species was studied in mussels, Mytilus galloprovincialis, and flat oysters, Ostrea edulis, from different geographical locations in Spain, to establish the existence and the distribution of different species or molecular types. Although there were two distinct evolutionary lineages that corresponded more or less strictly with the ‘M’ and ‘O’ types, it was evident from the estimated phylogeny that some ‘O’ types have switched to ‘M’ type, and vice versa. Moreover, ‘O’ types were found in mussels and ‘M’ types were found in oysters, which suggests that there have been several cross‐species transmissions of Marteilia between mussels and oysters.
A new concept of accommodation in ABO‐incompatible kidney transplantation
Authors: Takahashi Kota
Published: June 2005

Abstract: This work focuses on the mechanism of acute antibody‐mediated rejection leading to graft loss and the mechanisms of accommodation permitting graft survival in ABO‐incompatible kidney transplantation. As previously noted, accommodation occurs only with (i) post‐transplant suppression of glycosyltransferase, a product of ABO histo‐blood group genes in the graft and (ii) prevention of antigen‐antibody reactions and delayed hyperacute rejection due to reduced antigenicity of enzyme‐regulated histo‐blood group antigens. This article discusses the mechanism of ABO histo‐blood group glycosyltransferase suppression. Accommodation is always established in successful ABO‐incompatible organ grafts and ABO‐minor mismatch bone marrow transplantation. In the former, accommodation develops even though ABO histo‐blood types of the recipient and the donor are incompatible. In the latter, infusion of donor‐derived bone marrow causes the recipient's blood to be eventually replaced by blood of the donor's type. However, the recipient's organs retain their original tissue type. In successful bone marrow engraftment, accommodation is established regardless of ABO‐incompatibility. In organ transplantation the recipient's ABO histo‐blood type regulates the graft's ABO histo‐blood type, while in bone marrow transplantation the new ABO histo‐blood type from the donor suppresses and regulates the ABO histo‐blood type in recipient organs. In other words, bone marrow‐derived histo‐blood type regulates the histo‐blood type of the organs.
A case of acute humoral rejection with various depositions of C4d, IgG, IgM, and C3c in peritubular capillaries and/or glomerular capillaries
Authors: Shimizu Tomokazu , Tanabe Kazunari , Tokumoto Tadahiko , Kanemitsu Izumi , Tsunoyama Kuniko , Ishida Hideki , Ishikawa Nobuo , Toma Hiroshi , Yamaguchi Yutaka
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  A 41‐year‐old Japanese male patient with end‐stage renal disease received ABO compatible living related kidney transplantation from his sister on April 2003. The kidney functioned immediately after kidney transplantation. Protocol allograft biopsy at 1 yr after kidney transplantation was performed on April 2004. His serological data was not particular and he did not suffer with chronic inflammation. The allograft biopsy specimen revealed moderate accumulations of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in peritubular capillaries (PTCs), dilatation of PTCs and moderate infiltrations of polymorphonuclear and/or mononuclear cell in glomeruli (Transplant glomerulitis, moderate). Immunofluorescent study (IF) of a frozen section of the allograft biopsy specimen showed a strong, diffusely distributed endothelial‐staining pattern in PTCs for C4d. The C4d was also strongly detected in a linear glomerular basement membrane (GBM) pattern. And widespread moderate C3c deposits, weak IgM, and IgG deposits were also seen in PTCs. Immunofluorescent study also showed granularly peripheral and mesangial deposits of strong IgM, C1q, and moderate IgG in glomeruli, IgA and C3c were faintly positive. The panel reactive antibody, which had been negative before transplantation, was positive for both HLA classes I and II at that time. We diagnosed as acute humoral rejection (AHR) and he was treated with course of steroid pulses and 5 d of gusperimus (DSG); and a total of three times Plasma exchange (PE) treatment was added. The level of serum creatinine, once increased to 1.7 mg/dL, decreased gradually to 1.4 mg/dL. He has a stable graft function. This is the only case of various depositions of immunoglobulins and complements in PTC and/or glomerular capillaries during AHR.
How quickly can a renal transplant pathological diagnosis be completed? The demands of clinicians and the objections of pathologists
Authors: Katafuchi Ritsuko , Morozumi Kunio , Sugitani Atsusi , Horita Shigeru , Ito Hisao
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  This analyzer symposium was held in order to clarify whether pathologists were satisfying the demands of clinicians in renal transplant care in Japan. Thirty‐one questions were prepared as to “Background”, “Transplant results”, “Basic issues concerning renal transplant biopsy diagnoses”, “Renal transplant biopsy and diagnosis, and actual treatment”, and “Diagnostic support”. By analyzing the answers of all the questions, the current status of renal transplant treatment in Japan has been clarified as follows. Most institutions can produce a renal transplant optical microscope section 1 or 2 days after the biopsy. Over 90% of those on the clinical side would like to have the diagnosis on the same day as the biopsy or at the latest the day after. Therefore, in fact a 24 hour time lag was observed between the pathological diagnosis and the request from the clinical side. No clinicians required a pathologist to decide whether to perform a transplant or not. Nearly all clinicians provide treatment based on the renal transplant biopsy diagnosis. As renal transplant pathological diagnosis is difficult, all pahtologists need a diagnostic support system. The creation of this system was thought to be a pressing matter.
Recurrent nephrotic syndrome after living‐related renal transplantation resistant to plasma exchange: report of two cases
Authors: Masutani Kohsuke , Katafuchi Ritsuko , Ikeda Hirofumi , Yamamoto Hirofumi , Motoyama Kentaro , Sugitani Atsushi , Kanai Hidetoshi , Kumagai Harumitsu , Hirakata Hideki , Tanaka Masao , Iida Mitsuo
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  We encountered two patients of recurrent nephrotic syndrome (NS) after renal transplantation that was resistant to plasma exchange (PEX). Case 1 was a 34‐year‐old man with a living‐related renal transplant for type‐I membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) related end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). He developed overt proteinuria 7 months post‐transplant and presented with NS 5 months later. Biopsy of the transplant kidney revealed recurrent type I MPGN, but no features of acute rejection (AR) or chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN). He was treated with cyclophosphamide (CP), oral prednisolone (40 mg/d), an anti‐platelet agent, heparin sulfate, and PEX, but the nephrotic state persisted and renal function was deteriorated. He recommenced hemodialysis 3 yr and 9 months after renal transplant. Case 2 was a 47‐year‐old male who underwent living‐related renal transplant for ESRD due to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). He presented with proteinuria shortly after renal transplantation. He also had frequent episodes of AR. Graft biopsy revealed recurrent FSGS. Treatment of pulse methylprednisolone and PEX was transiently effective, but NS relapsed shortly after PEX. Graft biopsy at our hospital showed features of CAN with moderate interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy, presence of intraglomerular foam cells but no segmental sclerosis. Treatment with 12 courses of low‐density lipoprotein apheresis (LDL‐A) reduced proteinuria from 9.6 to 2.0 g/d, and incomplete remission has been maintained for more than 1 yr after LDL‐A with slowly progressive renal dysfunction. Despite recent therapeutic advances, including the use of immunosuppressants and PEX, treatment of recurrent disease remains difficult. The LDL‐A might be useful in cases with recurrent FSGS resistant to PEX.
Peritubular capillaritis in early renal allograft is associated with the development of chronic rejection and chronic allograft nephropathy
Authors: Aita Kumi , Yamaguchi Yutaka , Horita Shigeru , Ohno Mayuko , Tanabe Kazunari , Fuchinoue Shouhei , Teraoka Satoshi , Toma Hiroshi
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  Peritubular capillaritis (PTCitis) has been recognized as one form of acute/active allograft rejection, and its relation to humoral immunity has been suggested. However, its mechanisms remain to be fully clarified, and there are no criteria for evaluating the extent of PTCitis in a biopsied allograft. In this study, we first evaluated the extent of PTCitis in early allografts in patients presenting with acute cellular rejection (ACR) and antibody‐mediated rejection (AbAR). We also included patients who showed no evidence of ACR and/or AbAR. Next, we investigated whether or not PTCitis persisted and if peritubular capillary basement membrane (PTCBM) thickening was present in their follow‐up biopsy specimens. We adopted the scoring system of PTCitis, which was presented at the Seventh Banff Conference on Allograft Pathology in 2003. In total, 53 patients were included in this study. At first biopsy, 17 showed ACR, eight showed AbAR, 16 showed mild PTCitis only, and 14 were without significant pathologic changes. The PTC score was the highest in the AbAR group, and in some patients the score gradually increased during the follow‐up period. Similar changes were also observed in the group with mild PTCitis only. In late allografts, half of the patients with AbAR developed chronic rejection (CR), and the PTCBM score was the highest in that group. Surprisingly, CR was present in more than 30% of patients without ACR and/or AbAR but mild PTCitis only. In the control group, only a few showed CR and/or chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN). In conclusion, it became clear that we should carefully monitor for mild PTCitis in early allografts. In addition, our data also proved the usefulness of the PTC score and PTCBM score.