bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary specialization and fruit availability among frugivorous birds on Sulawesi
Authors: WALKER JONATHAN S.
Published: January 2007

Over 20 months I collected data on the diet composition and fruit availability for 23 frugivorous bird species (pigeons, parrots, hornbills and passerines) in two lowland rain forests on Sulawesi, Indonesia. Using these data I determined species dependency on fruit, diet composition, diet breadth and the availability of their fruit resources. Fruit dependency ranged from 44 to 100% of diets across the assemblage, with significant inter‐order differences reflecting shared evolutionary history within orders. By contrast, diet breadths did not differ between bird orders owing to high within‐order variability, possibly as a result of species‐specific foraging strategies. Overall, no significant relationship existed between fruit dependency and diet breadth, which indicated that they are not interchangeable measures of dietary specialization, but that each provided important information on dietary specialization, and enabled assessment of resource requirements and availability. The assemblage consumed the fruits of 120 species representing 40 plant families. Figs (Ficus spp.) were of great importance across the assemblage and comprised 57% of all fruit‐eating records. For hornbills, passerines and pigeons, figs accounted for substantial proportions of monthly feeding records (= 58%) and were consumed whatever the availability of other fruits. Figs were therefore a fundamental part of species’ diets, possibly every month, and not merely important during times of relative scarcity of other fruit. Conservation of fig trees both inside and outside protected areas is likely to be important in maintaining healthy populations of figs and the frugivorous birds that depend on them.
Weather‐dependent survival: implications of climate change for passerine population processes
Authors: ROBINSON ROBERT A. , BAILLIE STEPHEN R. , CRICK HUMPHREY Q. P.
Published: January 2007

Understanding demographic processes will be essential to construct robust models of population responses to climate change. We show that survival is related to the strength of the North Atlantic Oscillation in five out of ten British resident passerine species, and explore the importance of biologically more specific variables (duration of winter frosts and snow periods; occurrence of cold, wet days; spring temperature; and summer drought). The most important variables differed between species in relation to differences in foraging strategy. In almost all cases, first‐year survival was influenced by weather more than was the survival of adult birds. Particularly vulnerable species, such as the Wren Troglodytes troglodytes, may exhibit a 25% reduction in juvenile survival rates due to adverse weather within the range experienced in the last 30 years; variation in survival by 10% or more is commonplace in most species. Thus, climate influences on food availability may provide the mechanism by which populations will alter under changed climatic conditions, though the presence of density dependence may reduce the impact of this on long‐term population trajectories.
The response of the hepatocyte to ischemia
Authors: Massip‐Salcedo M. , Roselló‐Catafau J. , Prieto J. , Avíla M. A. , Peralta C.
Published: January 2007

Background: Ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury associated with hepatic resections and liver transplantation remains a serious complication in clinical practice, in spite of several attempts to solve the problem.

Aims: To evaluate the response of the hepatocyte to ischemia

Methods: Published data are thus revised.

Results: The response of the hepatocyte to ischemia is based on the sensitivity of hepatocytes to different types of ischemia, the kind of cell death of the hepatocyte when it is subjected to ischemia, and on the response of the hepatocyte to the different times and extents of ischemia. Clinical factors including starvation, graft, age, and hepatic steatosis, all of which contribute to enhancing liver susceptibility to ischemia/reperfusion injury.

Conclusion: Ischemic preconditioning, based on the induction of a brief ischemia to the liver prior to a prolonged ischemia, has been applied in tumor hepatic resections for reducing hepatic I/R injury and recent clinical studies suggest that this surgical strategy could be appropriate for liver transplantation.
Helicobacter pylori Infection and Gastroesophageal Reflux in a Population‐Based Study (The HUNT Study)
Authors: Nordenstedt Helena , Nilsson Magnus , Johnsen Roar , Lagergren Jesper , Hveem Kristian
Published: January 2007

Background and Aim:  It has been suggested that Helicobacter pylori infection may prevent gastroesophageal reflux, possibly through gastric atrophy. Since, however, previous results are contradictory and no population‐based studies are available, the relationship between H. pylori and reflux remains uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigate this relationship in a population‐based, nested, case‐control study.

Methods:  From a cohort of 65,363 individuals, representing 71.2% of the adult population in the Norwegian county of Nord‐Trondelag, we randomly selected 472 persons with recurrent reflux symptoms (cases) and 472 without such symptoms (controls). Occurrence of H. pylori and its virulence factor cagA was determined serologically, using an immunoblot assay. Gastric atrophy was assessed through serum levels of pepsinogen I. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), adjusted for potential confounding factors, represented relative risks.

Results:  H. pylori infection was not associated with a decreased risk of reflux symptoms (OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.8–1.6), irrespective of positive cagA status (OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.8–1.5). Gastric atrophy reduced the risk of reflux symptoms (OR 0.2, 95% CI 0.0–0.6). Infection with H. pylori entailed a ninefold increase in the risk of gastric atrophy compared to non‐infection (OR 8.9, 95% CI 2.0–39.9).

Conclusions:  H. pylori infection, irrespective of cagA status, did not affect the occurrence of reflux symptoms in this population‐based setting. Infected individuals are at increased risk of gastric atrophy, which in turn reduces reflux symptoms, but due to the low frequency of gastric atrophy among infected individuals overall, there was no association with reflux symptoms on a population level.
Oral Health Status and Oral Hygiene Practices of Patients with Peptic Ulcer and How These Affect Helicobacter pylori Eradication from the Stomach
Authors: Namiot Dorota B. , Namiot Zbigniew , Kemona Andrzej , Bucki Robert , Gotębiewska Maria
Published: January 2007

Background:  Helicobacter pylori eradication from the oral cavity is more difficult than from the stomach. Thus, if the bacterium survives the antibacterial therapy in the oral cavity, it would be able to re‐infect the stomach within a few weeks. Since oral health status could correspond to oral infection with H. pylori, the aim of the study was to determine whether oral health and oral hygiene practices affect the efficacy of H. pylori eradication from the stomach.

Material and Methods:  The study was performed in 137 patients with peptic ulcer who had undergone a 7‐day course of eradication treatment with one of two sets of drugs: 1, omeprazole, amoxicillin, and tinidazole or 2, omeprazole, clarithromycin, and tinidazole. The efficacy of H. pylori eradication from the stomach was evaluated at the second gastroscopy 4 weeks after cessation of eradication therapy by means of two methods: rapid urease test and histology. The examination of natural dentition and prosthetic restorations as well as the assessment of hygienic procedures referring to natural dentition and dentures accompanied the second gastroscopy.

Results:  No association was found between the efficacy of H. pylori eradication from the stomach and the number of natural teeth, decayed teeth, use of dentures, debris index, or periodontal index. However, an association between eradication success and some oral hygiene procedures were noted. Unexpectedly, in patients treated with omeprazole, amoxicillin and tinidazole, the removal of dental prosthesis for the night and brushing the natural teeth twice a day or more reduced the efficacy of H. pylori eradication from the stomach.

Conclusions:  Oral health and oral hygiene practices seem unlikely to increase the efficacy of H. pylori eradication from the stomach.
Factors Related to Helicobacter pylori Prevalence in an Adult Population in Brazil
Authors: Zaterka Schlioma , Eisig Jaime N. , Chinzon Decio , Rothstein Wolfgang
Published: January 2007

Background:  The prevalence of Helicobacter pylori is higher in developing countries. Sanitary facilities, crowding and ethnic group are some of the factors related to H. pylori infection. The aim of this study was to investigate in blood donors, free of dyspeptic symptoms, the prevalence and factors influencing H. pylori infection.

Materials and Methods:  This study was conducted in São Paulo, a city known to have a mixed population coming from all over the country. A total of 1008 blood donors were initially included in the study. After a final revision of all the questionnaires, 993 were included in the final analysis (746 males). H. pylori status was checked by an ELISA test. The following associations to infection were analyzed: sex, age, ethnic group, previous upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, smoking, alcoholism, drug addiction, type of drinking water, crowding, sanitary facilities, and family income.

Results:  Infection was observed in 496 of 746 male (66.5%) and in 156 of 247 female (63.2%) blood donors. Infection prevalence increased according to age group, regardless of sex. Prevalence was lower in White population than in non‐White. No relationship was observed between infection and smoking, drug addiction, and alcohol. A positive relation was observed between infection and previous upper GI endoscopy, and type of drinking water, regardless if currently or during childhood. Crowding and lack of toilet in the house during childhood resulted in a higher infection rate. Lower familial income and educational level showed a positive association to infection.

Conclusions:  Prevalence of H. pylori is higher in non‐White population, independent of gender. A positive association was observed in aging, previous upper GI endoscopy, crowding, type of drinking water, lack of toilet during childhood, lower family income, and lower educational level.
The Detection, Surveillance and Treatment of Premalignant Gastric Lesions Related to Helicobacter pylori Infection
Authors: De Vries A. C. , Haringsma J. , Kuipers E. J.
Published: January 2007

Gastric cancer is an important worldwide health problem and causes considerable morbidity and mortality. It represents the second leading cause of cancer‐related death worldwide. A cascade of recognizable precursor lesions precedes most distal gastric carcinomas. In this multistep model of gastric carcinogenesis, Helicobacter pylori causes chronic active inflammation of the gastric mucosa, which slowly progresses through the premalignant stages of atrophic gastritis, intestinal metaplasia and dysplasia to gastric carcinoma. Detection and treatment of premalignant lesions may thus provide a basis for gastric cancer prevention. However, at present, premalignant changes of the gastric mucosa are frequently disregarded in clinical practice or result in widely varying follow‐up frequency or treatment. This review provides an overview of current knowledge on detection, surveillance and treatment of patients with premalignant gastric lesions, and identifies the uncertainties that require further research.
Immune Response to CagA Protein is Associated with Improved Platelet Count After Helicobacter pylori Eradication in Patients with Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Authors: Kodama Michiyo , Kitadai Yasuhiko , Ito Masanori , Kai Hirohisa , Masuda Hiroshi , Tanaka Shinji , Yoshihara Masaharu , Fujimura Kingo , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: January 2007

Background:  Improvement in platelet counts has been reported after eradication of Helicobacter pylori in patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). We examined the levels of serum markers of gastritis and anti‐CagA (cytotoxin‐associated gene A) IgG antibody in patients with ITP to investigate whether these factors are associated with the platelet response after H. pylori eradication therapy.

Materials and methods:  One hundred and sixteen consecutive patients with ITP were assessed for H. pylori infection by 13C‐urea breath test and serum H. pylori antibody test. Patients with H. pylori infection received eradication therapy. Before and after eradication therapy, we evaluated serum levels of gastrin, pepsinogen (PG)‐I, and PG‐II and the anti‐CagA IgG antibody titer.

Results:  H. pylori infection was found in 67 (58%) of the 116 patients with ITP. Fifty‐two infected patients received eradication therapy, which was successful in 44 patients (85%). Twenty‐seven patients (62%) showed an increased platelet count and were identified as responders. The duration of ITP was shorter in responders than in nonresponders (p = .017). There was no difference of the levels of gastrin and PGs between responders and nonresponders. Before eradication therapy, the serum anti‐CagA antibody titer did not differ significantly between responders and nonresponders. However, reduction in the anti‐CagA antibody titer after eradication therapy was significantly greater in responders than in nonresponders (p = .013).

Conclusions:  H. pylori eradication therapy improves the platelet count in H. pylori‐positive patients with ITP of short duration. Immune response of hosts to CagA protein of H. pylori may play a role in the pathogenesis of ITP.
Patulous Eustachian Tube in Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension Syndrome
Authors: Horikoshi Toru , Imamura Shunichi , Matsuzaki Zensei , Umeda Takako , Uchida Mikito , Mitsuka Kentaro , Kinouchi Hiroyuki
Published: January 2007

A 48‐year‐old slender woman presented with a rare case of spontaneous intracranial hypotension syndrome manifesting as patulous Eustachian tube. The patient complained of sudden onset of ear fullness and nasal voice as well as typical orthostatic headache. Patulous Eustachian tube was identified by observation of synchronous movement of the tympanic membrane with respiration and swallowing. The diagnosis of spontaneous intracranial hypotension was confirmed by negative cerebrospinal fluid pressure, and typical magnetic resonance imaging and radioisotope cisternography findings. All symptoms completely resolved within a few days after epidural blood patch treatment. Changes in the venous blood distribution led by collapse of the dural sac of the cervical spine in the standing position presumably caused decreased size of the pterygoid venous plexus around the Eustachian tube.
Topiramate in Patients With Episodic Migraine: Reducing the Risk for Chronic Forms of Headache
Authors: Limmroth Volker , Biondi David , Pfeil Joop , Schwalen Susanne
Published: January 2007

Objective.—The aim was to evaluate whether preventive treatment with topiramate in patients with episodic migraine reduces the risk of developing chronic forms of headache.

Background.—Chronic forms of headache, including chronic migraine or medication overuse headache (MOH), are characterized by 15 or more headache days per month. Acute medication overuse has been shown to be a risk factor for developing chronic headache, but it is not known whether preventive treatment can reduce the risk of developing chronic forms of headache or the development of MOH.

Methods.—Pooled data from 3 trials in patients with episodic migraine randomized either to treatment with 100 mg topiramate per day (n = 384) or with placebo (n = 372) were analyzed with regard to the number of headache days during a prospective 4‐week baseline period and the individual final 4 weeks of each patient's treatment during the planned 26‐week double‐blind treatment period.

Results.—The number of headache days per month in the topiramate versus the placebo‐treated groups was 7.3 ± 3.0 versus 7.3 ± 3.1 during baseline and 4.1 ± 4.2 versus 5.6 ± 4.9 during the final 4 weeks, respectively (P < .001). At the end of the study, 8 versus 16 patients fulfilled International Headache Society criteria of chronic headache (odds ratio: 2.11, P= .082). Moreover, a significantly lower number of patients receiving topiramate treatment reported an increase in headache days per month by the end of the study when compared to placebo (66 vs 88 patients, respectively; odds ratio: 1.49, P < .05). Finally, the number of days with usage of acute medication was significantly lower in the topiramate arm compared with placebo (3.3 ± 3.7 vs 4.3 ± 3.6, respectively; P < .001).

Conclusion.—Preventive treatment with topiramate in patients with episodic migraine may reduce the risk of developing chronic forms of headache.
Borderline Personality Disorder and Migraine
Authors: Rothrock John , Lopez Ivan , Zweilfer Richard , Andress‐Rothrock Diane , Drinkard Renay , Walters Naomi
Published: January 2007

Background.—Borderline personality disorder (BPD) may be disproportionately common in the migraine patient population, but specific migraine features in the BPD subgroup remain incompletely characterized.

Purpose.—To define more clearly the clinical characteristics of migraine patients with BPD, to evaluate their clinical response to aggressive headache management, and to assess the sensitivity of an instrument intended to screen for the presence of BPD.

Methods.—We evaluated 50 consecutive patients with migraine and previously documented BPD, 50 consecutive patients with migraine of all types and no history of BPD, and 50 patients with migraine and no history of BPD matched to the first group for age, gender, and headache frequency. We assessed a variety of demographic and clinical variables at baseline, and to all patients we administered the McLean Screening Instrument for Borderline Personality Disorder (MSI‐BPD). Patients in Groups 1 and 3 were treated for their headaches via a uniform pharmacologic management program. Treatment outcome was assessed after 6 months.

Results.—In this series of migraine patients, coexisting BPD was associated with female gender, more pervasive headache, more migraine‐related disability, a higher prevalence of medication overuse headache, more unscheduled visits for acute migraine treatment, a higher prevalence of active, self‐reported depression, and a lower likelihood of responding to pharmacologic therapy intended for headache management. The MSI‐BPD was insensitive in detecting BPD.

Conclusions.—Migraine patients with coexisting BPD are clinically distinct from the migraine patient population as a whole; in particular, they are more severely affected by their headache disorder and more treatment refractory. Simple screening instruments used to detect BPD may be ineffective in the headache clinic setting.
Application of the ICHD‐II Criteria to the Diagnosis of Primary Chronic Headaches Via a Computerized Structured Record
Authors: Sarchielli Paola , Pedini Mauro , Coppola Francesca , Rossi Cristiana , Baldi Antonio , Corbelli Ilenia , Mancini Maria Luisa , Calabresi Paolo
Published: January 2007

Background.—The authors recently developed a software program designed to analyze clinical data from patients affected by primary headache. The program is based exclusively on the International Classification of Headache Disorders 2nd edition (ICHD‐II) criteria. This software examines all the diagnoses of primary headaches on the basis of the variables needed to fulfill these mandatory criteria.

Methods.—We tested the software, Primary Headaches Analyser 1.0 INT (PHA), by entering and analyzing clinical data from 200 consecutive patients affected by primary chronic headaches and evaluating the corresponding output diagnoses.

Results.—The diagnosis of chronic migraine (1.5.1) was obtained in 68 cases (34 %) and that of probable chronic migraine (1.6.5) plus probable medication‐overuse headache (8.2.8) in 46 (23%). Chronic tension‐type headache (2.3) and probable chronic tension‐type headache (2.4.3) plus probable medication‐overuse headache (8.2.8) were diagnosed in 24 (12%) and 2 (1%) patients, respectively. Moreover, 4 and 12 patients, respectively, received both the diagnosis of chronic migraine (1.5.1) plus chronic tension‐type headache (2.3) and of probable migraine (1.6.1) without aura plus chronic tension‐type headache (2.3). In the remaining 44 cases (22%), none of the chronic primary headaches disorders defined by ICHD‐II received an output diagnosis from the program. This was due mainly to the fact that the criteria fulfilled were insufficient for the diagnoses of migraine without (1.1) aura plus chronic migraine or, more infrequently, chronic tension‐type headache.

Conclusions.—Our software program permitted diagnoses of chronic migraine, chronic tension‐type or their probable forms (with or without MOH) in 78% of 200 patients with headache 15 or more days per month. In the remaining cases the inability to provide a specific diagnosis may be explained in part by the fact that the criteria for both diagnoses are too stringent and do not accurately reflect variations of the headache pattern in these chronic forms.
Menstrual Tension‐Type Headache: Evidence for Its Existence
Authors: Arjona Antonio , Rubi‐Callejon Jose , Guardado‐Santervas Pedro , Serrano‐Castro Pedro , Olivares Jesus
Published: January 2007

Objective.—To determine whether menstrual tension‐type headache is a real disorder.

Background.—An appendix was included in the second edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders by the International Headache Society. Diagnostic criteria are proposed in this appendix for 2 types of menstrual migraine: pure menstrual migraine without aura and menstrually related migraine without aura. References to menstrual tension‐type headache do not appear in this classification.

Methods.—In a neurological outpatient clinic 165 patients were identified in whom headache was related to menstruation and the criteria of the International Classification of Headache Disorders for menstrual migraine adapted to menstrual tension‐type headache were applied.

Results.—Twenty‐one patients met the criteria of menstrual tension‐type headache, 6 for pure menstrual tension‐type headache, and 15 for menstrually related tension‐type headache.

Conclusion.—Menstrual tension‐type headache is a real condition that should be recognized in the International Classification of Headache Disorders.
Aging and the Prevalence of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Older American Indians: The Strong Heart Study
Authors: Rhoades Dorothy A. , Welty Thomas K. , Wang Wenyu , Yeh Fawn , Devereux Richard B. , Fabsitz Richard R. , Lee Elisa T. , Howard Barbara V.
Published: January 2007

OBJECTIVES: To describe longitudinal changes in the prevalence of major cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in aging American Indians.

DESIGN: Population‐based ongoing epidemiological study.

SETTING: The Strong Heart Study is a study of CVD and its risk factors. Standardized examinations were repeated in 1993 to 1995 and again in 1997 to 1999.

PARTICIPANTS: A diverse cohort of 4,549 American Indians aged 45 to 74 at the initial examinations in 1989 to 1991.

MEASUREMENTS: Changes in the prevalence of hypertension, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), current smoking, and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

RESULTS: The prevalence of hypertension rose rapidly and steadily with aging. A nonsignificant decrease in LDL‐C was seen in men, and men and women initially had rapid increases in the prevalence of low HDL‐C. The prevalence of smoking decreased, but the prevalence of diabetes mellitus continued to rise for men and women.

CONCLUSION: Overall, unfavorable changes in CVD risk factors were seen in the aging participants and will likely be reflected in worsening morbidity and mortality.
Community‐Acquired Legionella Pneumonia in Elderly Patients: Characteristics and Outcome
Authors: Sopena Nieves , Pedro‐Botet Luisa , Mateu Lourdes , Tolschinsky Gustavo , Rey‐Joly Celestino , Sabrià Miquel
Published: January 2007

OBJECTIVES: To compare the risk factors, clinical and laboratory features, and outcome of community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) caused by Legionella pneumophila in elderly (aged ≥65) and younger patients.

DESIGN: Prospective enrollment of subjects with retrospective data analysis.

SETTING: A 630‐bed tertiary center in Badalona (Barcelona), Spain.

PARTICIPANTS: A total of 158 patients diagnosed with CAP caused by L. pneumophila from 1994 to 2004: 104 younger than 65 and 54 aged 65 and older.

MEASUREMENTS: Epidemiological, clinical, laboratory, and radiological data and the outcome of the two groups were compared using univariate and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS: Underlying diseases, such as chronic pulmonary diseases, diabetes mellitus, neuromuscular diseases, and heart failure; risk of aspiration; and therapy with corticosteroids were significantly more frequent in patients aged 65 and older. Patients younger than 65 were more likely to be male and have toxic habits (cigarette smoking, alcoholism) and human immunodeficiency virus infection than older patients. Fever, nonrespiratory symptoms (diarrhea and headache), and some laboratory abnormalities (hyponatremia (serum sodium concentration <130 mmol/L) and high aspartate aminotransferase and creatinine kinase levels) were significantly less frequent in patients aged 65 and older than in younger patients. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in the frequency of higher‐severity risk classes and intensive care unit admission or in outcome (complications and mortality).

CONCLUSION: Elderly patients with CAP caused by L. pneumophila had a higher frequency of underlying comorbidities and presented less frequently with fever and classical nonrespiratory symptoms and laboratory abnormalities of Legionnaires' disease than younger patients, although greater severity of illness at onset and higher mortality were not significantly different between the two age groups.
Developing a Subject‐Derived Terminology to Describe Perceptions of Chemicals in Foods
Authors: Raats Monique M. , Shepherd Richard
Published: January 2007

Risk perception may be influenced by a number of factors, such as unfamiliarity, lack of control, perceived consequences, and hazards being seen as catastrophic and having risk for future generations. Risk perception researchers have typically used such investigator‐selected characteristics to assess hazards. In the first study reported here, the repertory grid method was used to elicit the terminology that subjects (n= 30) use to distinguish between 30 different chemicals. The data were submitted to generalized Procrustes analysis. The first principal axis of the resulting consensus plot separated the chemicals ranging from “poisonous or toxic,”“harmful or dangerous,” and “sounds negative” at one end, to “positive effect on health,”“often present in food nowadays,” and “sounds positive” at the other end. The second principal axis ranged from “familiar with or knowledge of” and “chemical” to “natural.” A second study (n= 226) was carried out to look at the general validity of the results of the repertory grid interviews using a fixed questionnaire. The data were submitted to principal components analysis and internal preference mapping. The first principal component ranged from “safe” and “healthy” at one end, to “poisonous” and “harmful” at the other end. The chemicals also separated in terms of “familiar,”“chemical,” and “natural.” All three methods of data collection and analysis yield essentially similar results.
Historical Application of a Social Amplification of Risk Model: Economic Impacts of Risk Events at Nuclear Weapons Facilities
Authors: Metz William C.
Published: January 2007

Public perception of risk is being cited as a documented reason to rethink a very contentious congressionally mandated process for siting interim storage and permanent disposal facilities for high‐level radioactive waste. Rigorous survey research has shown that the public holds intense, negative images of “nuclear” and “radioactive” technologies, activities, and facilities. Potential host states and opponents claim that these negative images, coupled with an amplification of negative risk events, will potentially stigmatize the area surrounding such facilities and result in significant economic losses. At issue is whether a supporting social amplification of risk model is applicable to communities hosting facilities that are part of the U.S. Department of Energy Nuclear Weapons Complex. An initial assessment of high‐profile discrete and cumulative key negative risk events at such nuclear facilities does not validate that there has been stigmatization or substantial social and economic consequences in the host areas. Before any changes to major national policy are implemented, additional research is required to determine if the nearby public's “pragmatic logic,” based on practical knowledge and experience, attenuates the link between public opinion and demographic and economic behaviors.
Uncertainty and Variation in Indirect Exposure Assessments: An Analysis of Exposure to Tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐Dioxin from a Beef Consumption Pathway
Authors: Price Paul S. , Su Steave H. , Harrington Jeff R. , Keenan Russell E.
Published: January 2007

Indirect exposures to 2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin (TCDD) and other toxic materials released in incinerator emissions have been identified as a significant concern for human health. As a result, regulatory agencies and researchers have developed specific approaches for evaluating exposures from indirect pathways. This paper presents a quantitative assessment of the effect of uncertainty and variation in exposure parameters on the resulting estimates of TCDD dose rates received by individuals indirectly exposed to incinerator emissions through the consumption of home‐grown beef. The assessment uses a nested Monte Carlo model that separately characterizes uncertainty and variation in dose rate estimates. Uncertainty resulting from limited data on the fate and transport of TCDD are evaluated, and variations in estimated dose rates in the exposed population that result from location‐specific parameters and individuals’behaviors are characterized. The analysis indicates that lifetime average daily dose rates for individuals living within 10 km of a hypothetical incinerator range over three orders of magnitude. In contrast, the uncertainty in the dose rate distribution appears to vary by less than one order of magnitude, based on the sources of uncertainty included in this analysis. Current guidance for predicting exposures from indirect exposure pathways was found to overestimate the intakes for typical and high‐end individuals.
An Evaluation of Three Representative Multimedia Models Used to Support Cleanup Decision‐Making at Hazardous, Mixed, and Radioactive Waste Sites
Authors: Moskowitz P. D. , Pardi R. , Fthenakis V. M. , Holtzman S. , Sun L. C. , Irla B.
Published: January 2007

The decision process involved in cleaning sites contaminated with hazardous, mixed, and radioactive materials is supported often by results obtained from computer models. These results provide limits within which a decision‐maker can judge the importance of individual transport and fate processes, and the likely outcome of alternative cleanup strategies. The transport of hazardous materials may occur predominately through one particular pathway but, more often, actual or potential transport must be evaluated across several pathways and media. Multimedia models are designed to simulate the transport of contaminants from a source to a receptor through more than one environmental pathway. Three such multimedia models are reviewed here: MEPAS, MMSOILS, and PRESTO‐EPA‐CPG. The reviews are based on documentation provided with the software, on published reviews, on personal interviews with the model developers, and on model summaries extracted from computer databases and expert systems. The three models are reviewed within the context of specific media components: air, surface water, ground water, and food chain. Additional sections evaluate the way that these three models calculate human exposure and dose and how they report uncertainty. Special emphasis is placed on how each model handles radio‐nuclide transport within specific media. For the purpose of simulating the transport, fate and effects of radioactive contaminants through more than one pathway, both MEPAS and PRESTO‐EPA‐CPG are adequate for screening studies; MMSOILS only handles nonradioactive substances and must be modified before it can be used in these same applications. Of the three models, MEPAS is the most versatile, especially if the user needs to model the transport, fate, and effects of hazardous and radioactive contaminants.
The Effect of Beta‐Blocker (Carvedilol) Therapy on N‐Terminal Pro‐Brain Natriuretic Peptide Levels and Echocardiographic Findings in Patients with Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Gundogdu Fuat , Bozkurt Engin , Kiziltunc Ahmet , Sevimli Serdar , Arslan Sakir , Gurlertop Yekta , Senocak Huseyin , Karakelleoglu Sule
Published: January 2007

Background: The favorable effects of beta‐blockers on decreasing mortality in contemporary heart failure management have been demonstrated in recent years. N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic (NT‐proBNP) peptide levels increase in patients with heart failure. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between the NT‐proBNP levels and echocardiographic findings for the patients who received carvedilol therapy in addition to standard therapy for congestive heart failure. Methods and Results: A total of 25 patients with symptomatic congestive heart failure and 25 healthy individuals were enrolled in the study. Before introducing beta‐blocker into their therapy regimens, baseline transthoracic echocardiography recordings were made and venous blood samples were drawn for establishing NT‐proBNP levels. The patients were administered with a minimum dose of carvedilol. Three months after reaching the maximum tolerable dose, blood samples were drawn from the patients once again for NT‐proBNP measurements, and transthoracic echocardiography was performed. There was a significant drop in plasma NT‐proBNP levels at the end of the study in comparison to the baseline values (baseline: 381.20±35.06 pg/mL, at the end of the third month: 254.44±28.64 pg/mL; P < 0.001). While left ventricular end‐diastolic and end‐systolic diameters were observed to have significantly decreased as a result of the therapy (P < 0.001), left ventricular ejection fraction (P<0.001) was established to have increased significantly. Conclusions: Carvedilol therapy resulted in a marked decrease in plasma NT‐proBNP levels and increase left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with congestive heart failure.
Evaluation of the Relationship between Functional Capacity and Right Ventricular Diastolic Function in Patients with Isolated Mitral Stenosis and Sinus Rhythm: A Tissue Doppler Study
Authors: Saricam Ersin , Ozbakir Cemal , Yildirim Nesligül , Tufekcioglu Omac , Ocal Arslan , Bascil Selcuk , Bozboga Seher , Sabah, Prof. Irfan
Published: January 2007

Aim: The right ventricular (RV) systolic function is an important determinant of clinical symptoms and exercise capacity in patients with mitral stenosis. No sufficient data are available concerning the effect of RV diastolic function on symptoms of patients with mitral stenosis. In the presence of normal RV systolic function, RV diastolic functions of asymptomatic patients with mitral stenosis of moderate or severe degree were compared to symptomatic ones by pulsed‐wave tissue Doppler echocardiography in this study. Materials and Methods: The study included 40 patients with mitral stenosis. Patients were classified into two groups according to New York Heart Association (NYHA) class (asymptomatic group NYHA class I, symptomatic group NYHA class II–III). RV diastolic functions were evaluated via pulsed‐wave tissue Doppler in terms of isovolumic contraction time (IVCT), systolic wave velocity (S), isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT), early diastolic wave velocity (E′), and late diastolic wave velocity (A′). Results: Statistical difference was not determined in systolic parameters (S, IVCT) between the two groups. However, IVRT (54.21 ± 11.93 msec vs 86.19 ± 16.23 msec, P < 0.0001) and A′ wave amplitude (10.16 ± 2.14 cm/sec vs 13.55 ± 3.35 cm/sec, P < 0.0001) were higher whereas E′ wave amplitude (11.68 ± 1.60 cm/sec and 10.25 ± 2.73 cm/sec, P = 0.009) and E′/A′ ratio (1.18 ± 0.23 vs 0.76 ± 0.17, P < 0.0001) were lower in group 2. Conclusion: In isolated mitral stenosis, pulsed‐wave tissue Doppler may be used for the detection of RV diastolic pathology. Diastolic functions of RV may deteriorate in the presence of normal systolic functions in symptomatic patients with isolated mitral stenosis.
Triggered Replenishment Imaging Reduces Variability of Quantitative Myocardial Contrast Echocardiography and Allows Assessment of Myocardial Blood Flow Reserve
Authors: Ghanem Alexander , DeMaria Anthony N. , Lohmaier Stefan , El‐Sayed Mona A. , Strachan Monet , Sommer Torsten , Stypmann Jörg , Tiemann Klaus
Published: January 2007

Assessment of replenishment kinetics (RK) following ultrasound‐induced destruction of contrast microbubbles allows quantification of myocardial blood flow reserve (MBFR) applying the model
f (t) = A (1 − e‐ßt)
, with parameter β describing mean flow velocity and parameter A representing blood volume. However, few data on the variability and reproducibility of RK in a clinical setting are available. Therefore, we examined 30 patients in a rest—adenosine protocol in one center. Off‐line quantification of real‐time perfusion imaging (RTPI) and triggered replenishment imaging (TRI) was performed at two sites and compared with coronary angiography and flow reserve measurements. Parameter A was found to be robust in all investigated segments (coefficient of variation (CV) < 7.2%± 5.1). Variability was lowest for parameter β using TRI in apical segments (CV 6.5%± 5.2, P < 0.01). Highest CV was found with RTPI in lateral segments (CVβ: 39.8%± 40.6). Concerning day‐to‐day reproducibility both methods revealed similar results within range of heterogeneity of myocardial blood flow. Both sites obtained significantly lower MBFR in patients with flow‐limiting CAD, compared to subjects without (P < 0.01). Correlation of both sites showed close relationship (y = 0.88x + 0.45, r = 0.83, P < 0.0001), without systematic bias. TRI significantly reduces variability of RK in quantitative MCE. Assessment of MBFR allows investigator‐independent evaluation of CAD.
Implantation of Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Devices and Complex Appendage Anatomy: The Importance of Transesophageal Echocardiography
Authors: Jorgensen Jesse , Palmer Spencer , Kalogeropoulos Andreas , Arita Takeshi , Block Peter , Martin Randy , Lerakis Stamatios
Published: January 2007

Percutaneous delivery of left atrial appendage (LAA) occluding devices represents a novel approach for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) has a pivotal role throughout these procedures, facilitating device size selection and ensuring optimal deployment of the device. We report a case of an LAA occluding device implantation in which apparent proper positioning on fluoroscopy was determined by TEE to be malpositioning with a nonocclusive, perpendicular orientation to the plane of the LAA ostium. This problem appeared to be related to a complex, multilobed LAA anatomy and was readily resolved by repositioning of the device under TEE guidance.
Three‐Dimensional Echocardiographic Appearances of Pericardial Effusion with Tamponade
Authors: D'Cruz Ivan A. , Khouzam Rami N. , Minderman Daniel
Published: January 2007

A patient with pericardial effusion and tamponade was studied by routine two‐dimensional as well as three‐dimensional echocardiogram. Chamber “collapses” of the right atrium, left atrium, right ventricle, and inferior vena cava were visualized by both modalities, but were better appreciated on three‐dimensional echo imaging, perhaps because three‐dimensional echo imaging is more suited to depicting three‐dimensional changes in chamber shape.
Ventricular Septal Rupture and Mitral Regurgitation Caused by Trauma
Authors: Gündoğdu Fuat , Gurlertop Yekta , Arslan Sakir , Kocak Hikmet , Karakelleoglu Sule , Atesal Sebahattin
Published: January 2007

We present a young patient with traumatic septal rupture following traffic accident in whom transthoracic echocardiography allowed comprehensive noninvasive assessment of location and size of the septal defect and structure atrioventricular valve apparatus.
MRI to Assess Arrhythmia and Cardiomyopathies: Relationship to Echocardiography
Authors: Macedo Robson , Schmidt Andre , Rochitte Carlos E. , Lima João A.C. , Bluemke David A.
Published: January 2007

Cardiomyopathies are a group of diseases that are associated with myocardial dysfunction and/or arrhythmia due to abnormalities of the myocardium. Echocardiography is the most commonly used method for functional evaluation and classification of cardiomyopathy since it is widely available. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has recently emerged as a well‐validated diagnostic tool for the understanding and treatment of these conditions. Morphological and functional information can be achieved with a high level of accuracy and reproducibility. This article reviews the applications of MRI in relationship to echocardiography for the diagnosis of cardiomyopathy and arrhythmogenic conditions of the heart.
Assessment of Blood Flow and Valvular Heart Disease Using Phase‐Contrast Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Dall'Armellina Erica , Hamilton Craig A. , Hundley W. Gregory
Published: January 2007

Measurement of blood flow is important for assessing the severity of disease processes involving the cardiovascular system. Phase‐contrast cardiovascular magnetic resonance (PC‐CMR) can be used to measure blood flow noninvasively without ionizing radiation or limitations imposed by body habitus. This review describes the performance of PC‐CMR and its clinical utility in assessing patients with cardiovascular or valvular heart disease.
Woolfian Resonances1
Authors: Fernald Anne
Published: January 2007

This paper forms part of a Literature Compass cluster of articles which examines the current state of Virgina Woolf Studies and aims to provide a snapshot of the field. Urmila Seshagiri (University of Tennessee) and Rishona Zimring (Lewis and Clark College) first provide an introduction for this paper along with Emily Setina's article, “A Camera of Her Own: Woolf and the Legacy of the Indomitable Mrs. Cameron.” The full text of Anne Fernald's piece then follows.

These papers grew out of the 15th Annual International Virginia Woolf Conference (College of Lewis and Clark, Portland, OR, June 9–12, 2005).

The full cluster is made up of the following articles:

“Introduction: Virginia Woolf and The Art of Exploration,” Urmila Seshagiri and Rishona Zimring, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00393.x

“Virginia Woolf's Sense of Adventure,” Maria DiBattista, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00394.x

“The Twentieth Part: Virginia Woolf in the British Museum Reading Room,” Benjamin Harvey, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00395.x

“‘Street Haunting’: Phantasmagorias of the Modern Imperial Metropolis,” Sara Gerend, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00396.x

“Hyde Park Gate News,” Gill Lowe, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00397.x

“The Art of ‘Scene‐Making’ in the Charleston Bulletin Supplements,” Claudia Olk, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00398.x

“A Camera of Her Own: Woolf and the Legacy of the Indomitable Mrs. Cameron,” Emily Setina, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00399.x

“Woolfian Resonances,” Anne Fernald, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00400.x

“Early Twentieth‐Century British Women Travellers to Greece: Contextualizing the Example of Virginia Woolf,” Martha Klironomos, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00401.x

“‘Others Wanted to Travel’: Woolf and ‘America Herself’,” Thaine Stearns, Literature Compass 3 (2006), 10.1111/j.1741‐4113.2006.00402.x
Ecocriticism in British Romantic Studies
Authors: Hutchings Kevin
Published: January 2007

This article considers the theory and practice of ecological literary criticism, or “ecocriticism,” in British Romantic studies. Also known as “Romantic ecology” or “green Romanticism,” Romantic ecocriticism examines the ways in which Romantic writers and thinkers participated in and responded to the history of ecological science, environmental ethics, and environmentalist activism. The article begins by offering a general introduction to ecocriticism and its Romantic contexts. Subsequently, in a series of subtitled sections, it investigates the following topics: contemporary scientific discourses on nature; Romantic aesthetics and preservationist practices; Romantic naturalism and “deep ecology”; ecofeminist philosophy and Romantic gender politics; Romanticism and animal welfare; and the vexed relationship between Romantic “ecopoetics” and the politics of nature. The article concludes by examining some of the latest innovations in Romantic ecocriticism, including questions and problems associated with urban ecology, the politics of colonialism, and the concept of nature itself.
Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Feedback Modelling of the Functional Corticosterone Response in Rats after Acute Treatment with Escitalopram
Authors: Bundgaard Christoffer , Larsen Frank , Jørgensen Martin , Mørk Arne
Published: January 2007

Abstract: The objective of this study was to characterize the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) relationship of the drug‐induced corticosterone response after administration of escitalopram in rats. To achieve this, a mechanistic feedback turnover model mimicking the acute mechanism of action of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors was assessed. Conscious and freely moving rats received constant rate infusions of 2.5, 5 or 10 mg/kg escitalopram or vehicle over 60 min. Automated serial blood sampling was conducted to determine escitalopram and corticosterone concentrations. The PK/PD model consisted of a turnover model of escitalopram‐evoked changes in response, which included an inhibitory feedback moderator function. Accordingly, response acted linearly on the production (ktol) of the moderator, which acted inversely on the production (kin) of response. The escitalopram plasma kinetics served as input to an inhibitory function acting on the loss (kout) of response. The corticosterone responses were successfully described using the model by fitting responses from all doses simultaneously resulting in estimation of drug parameters (Imax,IC50andn) in addition to system parameters (kin,koutandktol) for the whole exposure range. Thus, the applicability of the model for analysis of the acute selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor‐induced corticosterone response including acute auto‐inhibitory feedback was demonstrated.