bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of breast cancer resistance protein (Abcg2) and p‐glycoprotein (Abcb1a) on the transport of imatinib mesylate (Gleevec®) across the mouse blood–brain barrier
Authors: Bihorel Sébastien , Camenisch Gian , Lemaire Michel , Scherrmann Jean‐Michel
Published: August 2007

Imatinib, a protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor, may prevent the growth of glioblastoma cells. Unfortunately, its brain distribution is restricted by p‐glycoprotein (p‐gp or multidrug resistance protein Mdr1a), and probably by breast cancer resistance protein (Bcrp1), two efflux pumps expressed at the blood–brain barrier (BBB). We have usedin situbrain perfusion to investigate the mechanisms of imatinib transport across the mouse BBB. The brain uptake of imatinib in wild‐type mice was limited by saturable efflux processes. The inhibition of p‐gp, by valspodar and zosuquidar, increased imatinib uptake (2.5‐fold), as did the deficiency of p‐gp inMdr1a/1b(−/−) mice (5.5‐fold). Perfusing imatinib with the p‐gp/Bcrp1 inhibitor, elacridar, enhanced the brain uptake of imatinib in wild‐type (4.1‐fold) andMdr1a/1b(−/−) mice (1.2‐fold). However, the brain uptake of imatinib was similar in wild‐type andBcrp1(−/−) mice when it was perfused at a non‐saturating concentration. The brain uptake of CGP74588, an active metabolite of imatinib, was low. It was increased by perfusion with elacridar (twofold), but not with valspodar and zosuquidar. CGP74588 uptake was 1.5 times greater inBcrp1(−/−) mice than in wild‐type mice. These data suggest that imatinib transport at the mouse BBB is limited by p‐gp and probably by Bcrp1, and that CGP74588 transport is restricted by Bcrp1.
PERMANENT GENETIC RESOURCES: Development of microsatellite markers of the Mexican understorey palm Chamaedorea elegans, cross‐species genotyping, and amplification in congeners
Authors: CIBRIÁN‐JARAMILLO ANGÉLICA , HAHN WILLIAM J. , DESALLE ROB
Published: August 2007

With striking morphological diversity and adaptability, Chamaedorea palms constitute an ecologically and economically important understorey component of Neotropical forests. Nine loci developed for Chamaedorea elegans evaluated in three Veracruz populations resulted in a large number of alleles (8–18), and high expected heterozygosity (0.49–0.92), but low observed (0.27–0.65) heterozygosity. Deviations from Hardy–Weinberg and high inbreeding suggest a lack of panmixia. Eight loci optimized for Chamaedorea ernesti‐augustii showed similar patterns of variation. All nine multiplexing loci amplified in other five congeneric species, which will facilitate comparisons within the genus and contribute to the conservation of its genetic resources.
PERMANENT GENETIC RESOURCES: Isolation, characterization and multiplex genotyping of 11 autosomal and four sex‐linked microsatellite loci in the reed bunting, Emberiza schoeniclus (Emberizidae, Aves)
Authors: MAYER C. , SCHIEGG K. , PASINELLI G.
Published: August 2007

Fifteen highly polymorphic microsatellite loci were characterized in the reed bunting, Emberiza schoeniclus. Eleven loci were autosomal and four linked to the Z chromosome. All loci were characterized and tested in 45 unrelated reed buntings from a Swiss population. Autosomal loci displayed seven to 17 and sex‐linked loci displayed four to 13 alleles with heterozygosities ranging from 0.756 to 0.933 and from 0.478 to 0.957, respectively. These loci will be used in population genetic and mating system studies of reed buntings.
Post‐exercise abdominal, subcutaneous adipose tissue lipolysis in fasting subjects is inhibited by infusion of the somatostatin analogue octreotide
Authors: Enevoldsen Lotte H. , Polak Jan , Simonsen Lene , Hammer Troels , Macdonald Ian , Crampes Francois , De Glisezinski Isabelle , Stich Vladimir , Bülow Jens
Published: August 2007

To determine whether blockade of the exercise‐induced increase in growth hormone (GH) secretion may affect the regional lipolytic rate in the post‐exercise recovery period, the aim of the present experiments was to study the effect of infusion of the somatostatin analogue octreotide on the s.c., abdominal adipose tissue metabolism, before, during and after exercise in healthy, fasting, young male subjects. The adipose tissue net releases of fatty acids and glycerol were measured by arterio‐venous catherizations and simultaneous measurements of adipose tissue blood flow with the local Xe‐clearance method. Nine subjects were studied during 1‐h basal rest, and then during continuous octreotide infusion during 1‐h rest, 1‐h exercise at 50% of maximal oxygen consumption and 4‐h post‐exercise rest. A control study on seven subjects was performed under similar conditions but without octreotide infusion. The results show that octreotide infusion during rest increased lipolysis and fatty acid release from the abdominal, s.c. adipose tissue. The exercise‐induced increase in lipolysis and fatty acid release does not seem to be affected by octreotide when compared with the control study without octreotide infusion while the post‐exercise increase in lipolysis is inhibited by octreotide, suggesting that the exercise‐induced increase in GH secretion plays a role for the post‐exercise lipolysis in s.c., abdominal adipose tissue.
Muscle metaboreflex contribution to resting limb haemodynamic control is preserved in older subjects
Authors: Roseguini Bruno T. , Alves Cristiano N. , Chiappa Gaspar R. , Stein Ricardo , Ribeiro Jorge P.
Published: August 2007

Ageing is associated with tonic elevations in basal sympathetic vasoconstrictor outflow to skeletal muscle and a parallel decline in vascular function. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that older individuals exhibit attenuated calf vascular resistance (CVR) responses to muscle metaboreflex activation in comparison with young subjects. Fourteen young (mean ± SD age 23 ± 3 years) and 13 older (62 ± 7 years) sedentary subjects participated in the study. To evaluate muscle metaboreflex, we measured heart rate, mean blood pressure (MBP), calf blood flow (CBF) (venous occlusion plethysmography) and CVR responses to static handgrip exercise at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction, followed by recovery with [postexercise circulatory occlusion, (PECO+)] or without (PECO−) circulatory occlusion. Mean BP and CVR increased significantly (ANOVAP<0·05) throughout exercise and remained elevated during PECO+ when compared with PECO− in both groups. There were no significant differences between the two groups in BP and CVR relative changes from baseline during the entire protocol in both trials. CBF responses were also similar in the young and older subjects, except for the first minute of exercise, where young subjects had higher CBF responses. Our results demonstrate that older subjects have similar BP and calf haemodynamic responses to static handgrip exercise and selective action of the muscle metaboreflex when compared with young subjects, compatible with preserved muscle metaboreflex contribution to resting limb haemodynamic control with ageing in humans.
Expression of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase‐1 in human hepatocelluar carcinoma
Authors: Takii Yasushi , Abiru Seigo , Fujioka Hikaru , Nakamura Minoru , Komori Atsumasa , Ito Masahiro , Taniguchi Ken , Daikoku Manabu , Meda Yumi , Ohata Kazuyuki , Yano Koji , Shimoda Shinji , Yatsuhashi Hiroshi , Ishibashi Hiromi , Migita Kiyoshi
Published: August 2007

Background/Aims: The objective of this study was to evaluate the expression of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase‐1 (mPGES‐1) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues.

Methods: Forty surgically resected HCC tissues with adjacent non‐tumorous liver tissues and 14 surgically resected, histologically normal liver tissues were used. The immunohistochemical expressions of the mPGES‐1 protein in these HCC tissues and normal control livers were analysed. mPGES‐1 mRNA expression was also analysed by the real‐time polymerase chain reaction method using the same tissues.

Results: Microsomal prostaglandin E synthase‐1 was not expressed in hepatocytes but instead in vascular endothelial cells and bile duct epithelial cells in normal liver tissues. The mPGES‐1 expression in HCC tissues was significantly greater than its expression in the non‐tumorous tissues. All types of HCC expressed more mPGES‐1 than normal or hepatitis livers, and the levels of mPGES‐1 expression in poorly differentiated HCC were similar to the levels in well‐differentiated HCC. The mPGES‐1 mRNA expression paralleled its protein expression in these tumorous and non‐tumorous tissues.

Conclusions: The present study is the first to demonstrate a high expression of mPGES‐1 in well‐differentiated HCC as well as in poorly differentiated HCC. These findings suggest that mPGES‐1 may play a role in the advanced as well as early stage of hepatocarcinogenesis.
Aberrant Notch3 and Notch4 expression in human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Gramantieri Laura , Giovannini Catia , Lanzi Arianna , Chieco Pasquale , Ravaioli Matteo , Venturi Annamaria , Grazi Gian Luca , Bolondi Luigi
Published: August 2007

Background: Notch signalling is altered in several solid tumours and it plays a role in growth inhibition and apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)‐derived cell lines, bile duct development and hepatocyte regeneration.

Aims: This study aims to analyse the expression of Notch3, Notch4 and HES1 and HES6 as Notch‐target genes in HCC, matched non‐neoplastic tissue and HEPG2 cells.

Results: Notch3 and Notch4 are not expressed in normal liver and in chronic hepatitis surrounding HCC. Cirrhotic tissue stains negative for Notch3, while Notch4 is expressed by hepatocytes at the edge of regenerative nodules and in cell planes adjacent to fibrous septa. HCC tissue displays Notch3 and Notch4 abnormal accumulation, respectively, in 78% and 68% of the cases. The endothelium of hepatic veins with neoplastic permeation is frequently Notch4 positive. An upregulation of Notch3 mRNA was found in 95% of HCCs vs cirrhosis (P=0.0001), while Notch4 mRNA was downregulated in 80% of HCCs. HES6 mRNA expression was higher in HCC tissue when compared with cirrhosis (P=0.007), paralleling Notch3 mRNA expression. The HEPG2 cell line displays high Notch3 and low Notch4 protein and mRNA levels.

Conclusions: These descriptive findings suggest an aberrant expression of Notch3 and Notch4 in HCC and allow the hypothesis of an activation of Notch signalling by Notch3.
Effects of Self‐Compatibility on the Distribution Range of Invasive European Plants in North America
Authors: VAN KLEUNEN MARK , JOHNSON STEVEN D.
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  Many plant species have been introduced to new continents, but only a small subset of these have become invasive. It has been predicted that self‐compatible species, particularly those that do not need the services of pollinators, are more likely to establish and spread after long‐distance dispersal. We tested whether this hypothesis, commonly called Baker's law, applies to 361 species that have invaded the United States from Europe. Species capable of autonomous seed production occurred in significantly more states than species requiring a pollen vector. Moreover, of the species that are not capable of autonomous seed production, self‐compatible species occurred in significantly more states than those that are not self‐compatible. The positive effect of autonomous seed production on the range of invasion was larger for abiotically pollinated species than for biotically pollinated species and for monocarpic species than for polycarpic species. These results support Baker's law, and we recommend that screening protocols for predicting invasiveness of species considered for introduction should include assessment of their breeding system.
Edge Effects in the Great Tit: Analyses of Long‐term Data with GIS Techniques
Authors: WILKIN TEDDY A. , GARANT DANY , GOSLER ANDREW G. , SHELDON BEN C.
Published: August 2007

Abstract: In contemporary fragmented landscapes, edges are commonplace, and understanding the effects of edge environments is thus essential for the conservation of forest communities. The reproductive output of forest passerines is often reduced close to forest edges. Possible explanations include overcrowding by conspecifics, elevated rates of predation, and the occurrence of lower‐quality habitat and/or individuals at forest edges. We attempted to separate these processes by examining edge effects in the absence of nest predation and by effectively controlling for differences in breeding density and the quality of habitats and individuals. We used an edge distance index (EDI), which accounts for the number and distribution of edges in close proximity to a breeding location, to help explain variation in breeding density, nesting success, and reproductive traits of 8308 pairs of Great Tits (Parus major) breeding between 1965 and 2005, in Wytham, near Oxford, United Kingdom. Results from linear mixed modeling confirmed higher breeding density and a higher proportion of immigrant individuals at forest edges. Nevertheless, independently of these effects, we also found that birds laying later, with smaller clutches but larger eggs, were typical of edge environments. The number of offspring recruited to the breeding offspring per breeding attempt was also reduced at edges, both directly and mediated through changes in clutch size and laying date. Edge effects on life histories were detectable within individual females and up to 500 m from the woodland edge. Woodland edges are increasingly common in contemporary fragmented landscapes. Therefore these results, which suggest a pervasive effect of edges on reproduction, are of considerable importance to the management and conservation of forest communities.
Using estimated thermodynamic properties to model accessory phases: the case of tourmaline
Authors: VAN HINSBERG V. J. , SCHUMACHER J. C.
Published: August 2007

Accessory phases and minor components in minerals are commonly ignored in thermodynamic modelling. Such an approach seems unwarranted, as accessory phases can represent a significant element reservoir and minor components can substantially change their host mineral's stability field. However, a lack of thermodynamic data prohibits assessment of these effects. In this contribution, the polyhedron method is used to estimate the thermodynamic properties of tourmaline, a common and widespread accessory phase, stable over a range of P–T–X conditions. The polyhedron method allows ΔH, S, V, CP and Vm(T,P) properties to be estimated from a linear stoichiometric summation over the fractional properties of its polyhedron constituents. To allow for estimates of tourmaline, fractional thermodynamic properties for BIII and BIV polyhedra were derived. Mixing contributions to molar volume were evaluated and symmetrical mixing parameters derived for Al‐Mg, Al‐Fe and Al‐Li interaction on tourmaline's Y‐site and T‐site Al‐Si interaction. Evaluation of the estimated properties using experimental and natural equilibria between tourmaline and melts, minerals and hydrothermal fluids, shows that reliable semi‐quantitative results are obtained. The boron contents in fluids coexisting with tourmaline are calculated to within an order of magnitude of measured content, and where anchor‐points are available, agreement improves to within a factor of 2. Including tourmaline in petrogenetic modelling of metamorphic rocks indicates that its presence leads to disappearance of staurolite and garnet, among others, and modifies the XMg of coexisting phases, in line with observations on natural rocks.
Permian to Cretaceous polymetamorphic evolution of the Stewart River region, Yukon‐Tanana terrane, Yukon, Canada:P–Tevolution linked within situSHRIMP monazite geochronology
Authors: BERMAN R. G. , RYAN J. J. , GORDEY S. P. , VILLENEUVE M.
Published: August 2007

Textural relationships and the trace element chemistry of accessory minerals and garnet can provide the linkage betweenin situSHRIMP ages and quantitative pressure–temperature data that is required to decipher complex polymetamorphic and polydeformational histories. Application of these methods to lower amphibolite facies rocks of the Stewart River area, Yukon (Canada) yields robust new constraints on the tectonic evolution of central Yukon Tanana Terrane (YTT).

A TIMS U/Pb titanite age of 365–350 Ma is interpreted to date low‐Pmetamorphism (M1) and D1 deformation associated with arc plutonism above an east‐dipping subduction zone. Monazite inclusions in garnet porphyroblasts record a transition from low to high pressure (∼9 kbar and 600 °C) atc. 239 Ma. These data help to establish ac. 260–240 Ma tectonometamorphic event (M2–D2) reflecting intra‐arc thickening during west‐dipping subduction of Slide Mountain Ocean. Another transition from low‐ to high‐P(M3–D3; 7.8 kbar and 595 °C), dated byc. 195–187 Ma monazite, is interpreted to reflect the change from regional contact metamorphism during arc plutonism to internal duplication of YTT during initial collision of YTT with the North American craton.

The Mt Burnham (north‐eastern) region records a different history because of its proximity to later plutons and its late exhumation via extensional faulting. Monazite growth at 146 Ma dates ∼9 kbar metamorphism (M4), interpreted to reflect a previously unrecognized period of plutonism associated with auriferous quartz veins in the Klondike region. Monazite growth at 114–107 Ma reflects low‐P(<4.6 kbar) contact metamorphism (M5) accompanying regional plutonism and extension.
Credentialing for Public Health Nurses: Personally Valued … But Not Well Recognized
Authors: Bekemeier Betty
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT
Objective: This study examined the extent to which public health nurses (PHNs) see value in credentialing and perceive specific barriers related to a community/public health nursing (C/PHN) credential.

Design: A cross‐sectional exploratory survey was used to examine the perceived value of credentialing for PHNs and the perceived barriers to obtaining or maintaining the C/PHN credential as the primary variables of interest.

Sample: Data were collected from 655 PHN members of national public health nursing organizations who participated in an online survey.

Measurement: Responses related to the perceived value of credentialing were analyzed using factor analysis and descriptive statistics. Data regarding perceived barriers to the C/PHN credential were analyzed through descriptive statistics and through the Borda Count Method for analysis of ranked data (Tannenbaum, 1995).

Results: Similar to nurses in other specialties, study participants perceived that credentialing has a high personal value for PHNs, but that certification provides less value in terms of extrinsic recognition. Respondents identified issues related to the lack of external recognition as particular barriers to the C/PHN credential.

Conclusions: These findings provide guidance to public health nursing leaders and inform discussions regarding the development of credentialing systems within the field of public health.
Factors Associated With the Professional Competencies of Public Health Nurses Employed by Local Government Agencies in Japan
Authors: Saeki Kazuko , Izumi Hisako , Uza Miyoko , Murashima Sachiyo
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT
Objective: This paper aims to clarify some of the factors associated with the professional competencies of public health nurses (PHNs) employed by local government agencies in Japan.

Design: A cross‐sectional study.

Sample: PHNs (N=1,614) working in local government agencies in Japan.

Measurements: Based on self‐reported questionnaires, the nurses were grouped according to experience. Statistical differences between the groups were analyzed using analysis of variance. Multiple regression analyses were used to determine associated factors.

Results: Variables contributing to high self‐evaluation of interpersonal health support competencies were length of experience as a PHN, an awareness of the role expectations of community health support and administration, marital status, and participation in off‐the‐job training programs. The same variables contributed to high self‐evaluation of community health support and administration competencies. In addition, experience of job transfer or rotation was found to be a variable.

Conclusions: These results show the importance of off‐the‐job training programs designed to foster exposure to a wide variety of personal and professional experiences. They also illustrate the importance of planned on‐the‐job training programs that promote an understanding of the nature of the field, as well as developing planning and administrative competency in career development.
Clinical Specialist in Community Health Nursing: Advanced Practice Fit or Misfit?
Authors: Ervin Naomi E.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT
The purpose of this paper is to address several questions and issues about the clinical specialist role in community health nursing. A brief history of the development of the clinical specialist role sets the background for a discussion of how the community health nurse specialist fits within advanced practice nursing. The rationale for including the community health nurse clinical specialist role with other specialist roles is presented. The purpose and importance of certification at the advanced practice level in community health nursing are presented. Continued discussion about these and other issues of importance for the specialty is encouraged.
Logic Model Use in Developing a Survey Instrument for Program Evaluation: Emergency Preparedness Summits for Schools of Nursing in Georgia
Authors: Torghele Karen , Buyum Arielle , Dubruiel Nicole , Augustine Jill , Houlihan Catherine , Alperin Melissa , Miner Kathleen R.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT
The objective of this paper is to describe a method for using a logic model to guide program evaluation by detailing the steps used, providing diagrams that visually depict the process, and giving an example based on the evaluation of emergency preparedness nursing summits in Georgia. Developing a logic model is an ideal way to visually depict the inputs, activities, outputs, and outcomes of a program, thus providing a clear framework of the workings and functions of the program. In planning a comprehensive evaluation, being able to view all the elements in a program and how they interrelate makes it easier to determine the areas that should be addressed. When a survey is part of a program evaluation, determining that the goals, objectives, research questions, logic model, and survey questions maintain consistency in the way they relate and lead to each other can help document the completeness and symmetry of the assessment. By showing these linkages, the utility of the logic model is maximized and the stakeholders in the assessment of the program have clear evidence that their expectations and needs have been met for a valuable, useful evaluation product.
Chronic Anemia and Fatigue in Elderly Patients: Results of a Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled, Crossover Exploratory Study with Epoetin Alfa
Authors: Agnihotri Parag , Telfer Margaret , Butt Zeeshan , Jella Abhay , Cella David , Kozma Chris M. , Ahuja Mukesh , Riaz Shahbaz , Akamah Joseph
Published: August 2007

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of epoetin alfa treatment on hemoglobin (Hb), fatigue, quality of life (QOL), and mobility in elderly patients with chronic anemia.

DESIGN: An exploratory, 32 week, randomized, double‐blind, crossover treatment trial.

PARTICIPANTS: Sixty‐two community‐dwelling individuals aged 65 and older with chronic anemia (Hb ≤11.5 g/dL).

INTERVENTION: Subcutaneous epoetin alfa or placebo weekly for 16 weeks (Phase I) with crossover to the opposite treatment (Phase II).

MEASUREMENTS: Hb and QOL scores from the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT) measurement system. Mobility was assessed as a secondary outcome using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test.

RESULTS: Of the 62 subjects enrolled, complete data were analyzed for 58 in Phase I and 54 participants in Phase II. Of those enrolled, most were African American (95%) and female (85%) and had multiple comorbidities and a mean age±standard deviation of 76.1±7.2. Mean baseline Hb was 10.5±0.9 g/dL (7.3–11.5). In Phase I, 67% of those taking epoetin alfa, and in Phase II, 69% of those taking epoetin alfa had an increase in Hb of more than 2 g/dL, significantly more than those taking placebo (P<.001). Similarly, elderly participants significantly improved on the fatigue and anemia subscales of the FACIT across phases (all P<.05). No significant differences were found between treatment and placebo on TUG scores. Epoetin alfa was well tolerated.

CONCLUSION: In this trial involving predominantly older African‐American women with anemia, a direct relationship existed between increases in Hb during epoetin alfa therapy and improvements in fatigue and QOL.
A Population‐Based Study of Cholinesterase Inhibitor Use for Dementia
Authors: Herrmann Nathan , Gill Sudeep S. , Bell Chaim M. , Anderson Geoffrey M. , Bronskill Susan E. , Shulman Kenneth I. , Fischer Hadas D. , Sykora Kathy , Shi Haijiang Steven , Rochon Paula A.
Published: August 2007

OBJECTIVES: To examine current utilization patterns of cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI) therapy for dementia to determine treatment duration, use in long‐term care, how often patients receive these drugs until death, and frequency of switching between the available ChEIs.

DESIGN: A population‐based healthcare administrative database study.

SETTING: Patients aged 66 and older from the Canadian province of Ontario who received a new prescription for a ChEI between June 1, 2000, and December 31, 2002. Patients were followed until discontinuation of ChEI therapy, death, or end of the observation period (March 31, 2005).

PARTICIPANTS: Twenty‐eight thousand nine hundred and sixty‐one patients, including 4,601 residing in long‐term care, mean age 80, 63% female.

MEASUREMENTS: Information on diagnosis, medical comorbidity, physician visits, and concomitant medication use was obtained. Estimates of duration of continuous use were determined. The percentage of patients who remained on the initial dose prescribed, the proportion who switched to a second ChEI, and the percentage who remained on ChEIs until death were calculated.

RESULTS: Patients had on average more than 26 physician visits in the year before ChEI therapy, but only 28% had seen a dementia specialist. Concomitant use of potentially inappropriate medications (strongly anticholinergic medications and benzodiazepines) was noted in 37% of patients. The average length of treatment for all patients was 866 days. Many patients (43%) remained on the initial dose prescribed, 6% switched to another ChEI, and 19% died while on ChEI therapy.

CONCLUSION: Elderly patients with dementia are treated for lengthy periods of time with ChEIs in the community and in long‐term care facilities. Further research is required to determine whether these utilization patterns are appropriate. It is also unclear whether these results are generalizable to other populations without universal health coverage or drug formulary benefits.
A Comparison of Computerized and Pencil‐and‐Paper Tasks in Assessing Cognitive Function in Community‐Dwelling Older People in the Newcastle 85+ Pilot Study
Authors: Collerton Joanna , Collerton Daniel , Arai Yasumichi , Barrass Karen , Eccles Martin , Jagger Carol , McKeith Ian , Saxby Brian K , Kirkwood Tom ,   the Newcastle 85+ Study Core Team
Published: August 2007

OBJECTIVES: To compare the acceptability and feasibility of computerized and pencil‐and‐paper tests of cognitive function in 85‐year‐old people.

DESIGN: Group comparison of participants randomly allocated to pencil‐and‐paper (Wechsler Adult Intelligence and Memory Scales) or computerized (Cognitive Drug Research) tests of verbal memory and attention.

SETTING: The Newcastle 85+ Pilot Study was the precursor to the Newcastle 85+ Study a United Kingdom Medical Research Council/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council cohort study of health and aging in the oldest‐old age group.

PARTICIPANTS: Eighty‐one community‐dwelling individuals aged 85.

MEASUREMENTS: Participant and researcher acceptability, completion rates, time taken, validity as cognitive measures, and psychometric utility.

RESULTS: Participants randomized to computerized tests were less likely to rate the cognitive function tests as difficult (odds ratio (OR)=0.16, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.07–0.39), stressful (OR=0.18, 95% CI=0.07–0.45), or unacceptable (OR=0.18, 95% CI=0.08–0.48) than those randomized to pencil‐and‐paper tests. Researchers were also less likely to rate participants as being distressed in the computer test group (OR=0.19, 95% CI=0.07–0.46). Pencil‐and‐paper tasks took participants less time to complete (mean±standard deviation 18±4 minutes vs 26±4 minutes) but had fewer participants who could complete all tasks (91% vs 100%). Both types of task were equally good measures of cognitive function.

CONCLUSION: Computerized and pencil‐and‐paper tests are both feasible and useful means of assessing cognitive function in the oldest‐old age group. Computerized tests are more acceptable to participants and administrators.
Toward an International Understanding of Homelessness
Authors: Toro Paul A.
Published: August 2007

After a discussion of definitional issues when studying homelessness and a brief review of the existing research literature in the United States, this article provides an overview of the similarities and differences between the research literatures in the United States and other developed nations. Similarities include many shared characteristics of homeless populations (e.g., over‐representation of men and those traditionally discriminated against) and differences include the timing of interest in the topic (earlier in the United States and the United Kingdom) and the extent of social welfare systems (generally less developed in the United States than in Europe). The articles in this issue include literature reviews, studies comparing homelessness across nations, articles that examine specific issues in relation to homelessness in particular nations, and policy‐oriented discussions.
Approaches to Homelessness Policy in Europe, the United States, and Australia
Authors: Minnery John , Greenhalgh Emma
Published: August 2007

Workable and effective policies addressing homelessness need to be based on a clear definition of homelessness. This overview of recent policies in the European Union, the U.S., and Australia shows that, even at the very basic level of being able to define and enumerate the homeless, policy approaches are extremely variable. Research indicates the growing significance of the “new homeless,” consisting of families, women, and children. Homelessness also needs to be seen as something dynamic that may involve movement into and out of housing and other supports over time. Older policies that address only limited kinds of homelessness and which do not recognize the dynamics involved are likely to be less effective. “Good practice” policy incorporates these changing understandings of homelessness by addressing the housing, psychological and social needs of the homeless, as well as integrating across programs and increasing independence through capacity building.
Presidential Address: Issuers, Underwriter Syndicates, and Aftermarket Transparency
Authors: GREEN RICHARD C.
Published: August 2007

I model strategic interaction among issuers, underwriters, retail investors, and institutional investors when the secondary market has limited price transparency. Search costs for retail investors lead to price dispersion in the secondary market, while the price for institutional investors is infinitely elastic. Because retail distribution capacity is assumed to be limited for each underwriter‐dealer, Bertrand competition breaks down in the primary market and new issues are underpriced in equilibrium. Syndicates emerge in which underwriters bid symmetrically, with quantities allocated internally to efficiently utilize retail distribution capacity.
Pay Me Later: Inside Debt and Its Role in Managerial Compensation
Authors: SUNDARAM RANGARAJAN K. , YERMACK DAVID L.
Published: August 2007

Though widely used in executive compensation, inside debt has been almost entirely overlooked by prior work. We initiate this research by studying CEO pension arrangements in 237 large capitalization firms. Among our findings are that CEO compensation exhibits a balance between debt and equity incentives; the balance shifts systematically away from equity and toward debt as CEOs grow older; annual increases in pension entitlements represent about 10% of overall CEO compensation, and about 13% for CEOs aged 61–65; CEOs with high debt incentives manage their firms conservatively; and pension compensation influences patterns of CEO turnover and cash compensation.
Corporate Governance and Firm Value: The Impact of the 2002 Governance Rules
Authors: CHHAOCHHARIA VIDHI , GRINSTEIN YANIV
Published: August 2007

The 2001 to 2002 corporate scandals led to the Sarbanes–Oxley Act and to various amendments to the U.S. stock exchanges' regulations. We find that the announcement of these rules has a significant effect on firm value. Firms that are less compliant with the provisions of the rules earn positive abnormal returns compared to firms that are more compliant. We also find variation in the response across firm size. Large firms that are less compliant earn positive abnormal returns but small firms that are less compliant earn negative abnormal returns, suggesting that some provisions are detrimental to small firms.
Incentive Effects of Stock and Option Holdings of Target and Acquirer CEOs
Authors: CAI JIE , VIJH ANAND M.
Published: August 2007

Acquisitions enable target chief executive officers (CEOs) to remove liquidity restrictions on stock and option holdings and diminish the illiquidity discount. Acquisitions also enable acquirer CEOs to improve the long‐term value of overvalued holdings. Examining all firms during 1993 to 2001, we show that CEOs with higher holdings (illiquidity discount) are more likely to make acquisitions (get acquired). Further, in 250 completed acquisitions, target CEOs with a higher illiquidity discount accept a lower premium, offer less resistance, and more often leave after acquisition. Similarly, acquirer CEOs with higher holdings pay a higher premium, expedite the process, and make diversifying acquisitions using stock payment.
Sports Sentiment and Stock Returns
Authors: EDMANS ALEX , GARCÍA DIEGO , NORLI ØYVIND
Published: August 2007

This paper investigates the stock market reaction to sudden changes in investor mood. Motivated by psychological evidence of a strong link between soccer outcomes and mood, we use international soccer results as our primary mood variable. We find a significant market decline after soccer losses. For example, a loss in the World Cup elimination stage leads to a next‐day abnormal stock return of −49 basis points. This loss effect is stronger in small stocks and in more important games, and is robust to methodological changes. We also document a loss effect after international cricket, rugby, and basketball games.
Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of Hydroxyapatite–Zirconia Composites
Authors: Erkmen Z. E. , Genç Y. , Oktar F. N.
Published: August 2007

This work focuses on the improvement of the mechanical properties of hydroxyapatite (HA) through the addition of 3 mol% yttria partially stabilized zirconia (PSZ). Enamel‐derived HA (EHA) from freshly extracted human teeth and commercial HA (CHA) were chosen as the matrix. The effects of addition up to 10 wt% of PSZ and of sintering temperature (1000°–1300°C) on the density, microhardness, and compression strength were evaluated. For EHA–PSZ composites, the density and mechanical properties were generally enhanced by adding 5 wt% PSZ, especially after sintering at 1200°C, whereas CHA–PSZ composites showed lower strength values at sintering temperatures of 1200° and 1300°C with respect to EHA–PSZ composites. This may be due to the lower stability of CHA–PSZ composites with higher amounts of calcium zirconate formed over 1100°C when compared with EHA–PSZ composites.
Enhanced Shrinkage of Lanthanum Strontium Manganite (La0.90Sr0.10MnO3+δ) Resulting from Thermal and Oxygen Partial Pressure Cycling
Authors: McCarthy Benjamin P. , Pederson Larry R. , Anderson Harlan U. , Zhou Xiao‐Dong , Singh Prabhakar , Coffey Gregory W. , Thomsen Edwin C.
Published: August 2007

Exposure of (La0.90Sr0.10)0.98MnO3+δ (LSM‐10) to repeated oxygen partial pressure cycles (air/10 ppm O2) resulted in enhanced densification rates, similar to behavior shown previously due to thermal cycling. Shrinkage rates in the temperature range 700°–1000°C were orders of magnitude higher than Makipirtti–Meng model estimations based on stepwise isothermal dilatometry results at a high temperature. A maximum in enhanced shrinkage due to oxygen partial pressure cycling occurred at 900°C. Shrinkage was the greatest when LSM‐10 bars that were first equilibrated in air were exposed to gas flows of lower oxygen fugacity than in the reverse direction. The former creates transient cation and oxygen vacancies well above the equilibrium concentration, resulting in enhanced mobility. These vacancies annihilate as Schottky equilibria are reestablished, whereas the latter condition does not lead to excess vacancy concentrations.
Preparation and Characterization of Zirconium Carbide Coating on Coated Fuel Particles
Authors: Liu Chao , Liu Bing , Shao Youlin , Li Ziqiang , Tang Chunhe
Published: August 2007

Compact and uniform zirconium carbide (ZrC) coatings have been successfully deposited on coated fuel particles using a ZrCl4+H2+Ar+C3H6 gas mixture. Zirconium tetrachloride (ZrCl4) powder feeder was especially designed and manufactured to control accurately the flow rate of ZrCl4 and produce ZrC on an industrial scale. The coating has a large density (6.57 g/cm3), a thickness of 35 μm, a stoichiometry close to Zr/C=1, and a clear interface between the coating and substrate. The coating exhibits an fcc‐ZrC phase with a grain size of 11.18 nm and a (111) texture coefficient of 0.57, which corresponds to a polycrystalline microstructure of randomly oriented ZrC grains. The preparation apparatus, processing conditions, properties, microstructures, and morphologies of the ZrC coating are investigated systematically.
Derivation and Application of an Empirical Formula to Describe Interfacial Relaxation Effects in Inhomogeneous Materials
Authors: Li Wei , Schwartz Robert W.
Published: August 2007

We report an empirically derived formula to describe thermally and electrically excited relaxation processes arising in materials with electrical inhomogeneities. This formula was deduced from the temperature and electric field‐dependent conductivity of calcium copper titanate ceramics and can be used to explain the Schottky barrier behavior of the grain boundary regions that control conductivities. It relates conductivity, activation energy for conduction, breakdown strength, and grain size effects, and is believed to have the potential to explain the high permittivity and breakdown mechanism, as well as the highly nonlinear current–voltage characteristics of these materials of this type.
Ductile to Brittle Transition Depth During Single‐Grit Scratching on Alumina Ceramics
Authors: Subhash Ghatu , Klecka Michael
Published: August 2007

Variable‐depth single‐grit scratch experiments have been conducted on three different grain size alumina ceramics. The extent of induced damage as a function of depth of groove was measured. At low depth, the scratch groove appeared smooth with minimal brittle damage, indicating a ductile mode of deformation. With increased depth, brittle cracking extended beyond the scratch groove. The transition depth from the predominantly ductile mode of deformation to the predominantly brittle mode was measured and compared with an analytical model that estimates the plastic zone size surrounding a scratch in brittle materials. It was found that the ductile to brittle transition depth increases with decreasing grain size.
Reactive Hot Pressing of SiC/MoSi2 Nanocomposites
Authors: Peng Ke , Yi Maozhong , Ran Liping , Ge Yicheng
Published: August 2007

Dense SiC/MoSi2 nanocomposites were fabricated by reactive hot pressing the mixed powders of Mo, Si, and nano‐SiC particles coated homogeneously on the surface of Si powder by polymer processing. Phase composition and microstructure were determined by methods of X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and energy‐dispersive spectrometry. The nanocomposites obtained consisted of MoSi2, β‐SiC, less Mo5Si3, and SiO2. A uniform dispersion of nano‐SiC particles was obtained in the MoSi2 matrix. The relative densities of the monolithic material and nanocomposite were above 98%. The room‐temperature flexural strength of 15 vol% SiC/MoSi2 nanocomposite was 610 MPa, which increased 141% compared with that of the monolithic MoSi2. The fracture toughness of the nanocomposite exceeded that of pure MoSi2, and the 1200°C yield strength measured for the nanocomposite reached 720 MPa.
A 10‐year prospective study of ITI dental implants placed in the posterior region. II: Influence of the crown‐to‐implant ratio and different prosthetic treatment modalities on crestal bone loss
Authors: Blanes Rafael Juan , Bernard Jean Pierre , Blanes Zulema Maria , Belser Urs Christoph
Published: August 2007

Objective: To evaluate the influence of the crown‐to‐implant ratio (C/I) ratio and different implant prosthetic treatment modalities on crestal bone loss around dental implants placed in the posterior region.

Material and methods: A total of 192 ITI dental implants were consecutively placed in premolars and molars of 83 partially edentulous patients. All implants were restored by means of ceramic‐to‐metal fused fixed partial dentures or a single crown. Patients were followed as part of a prospective longitudinal study focusing on implant success. Surgical, radiographic and clinical variables were collected at the 1‐year recall after implant placement and at the most recent clinical evaluation. Radiographic parameters were evaluated on periapical radiographs taken with a standardized long‐cone paralleling technique. Implant restorations were divided into three groups according to their respective clinical C/I ratios: (a) 0–0.99, (b) 1–1.99 and (c) ≥2.

Results: The mean clinical C/I ratio was 1.77±0.56 mm. A total of 51 implants (26.5%) showed a clinical C/I ratio equal to or greater than 2. In this group, three implants failed, giving a cumulative survival rate of 94.1%. Crestal bone loss was −0.34±0.27 mm in group a, −0.03±0.15 mm in group b and −0.02±0.26 mm in group c. Differences among groups were statistically significant (P=0.009). Mode of retention, splinting or presence of cantilever extensions did not have an effect on crestal bone loss around ITI dental implants.

Conclusions: Implant restorations with C/I ratios between 2 and 3 may be successfully used in the posterior areas of the jaw.
Evidence for association between a Toll‐like receptor 4 gene polymorphism and moderate/severe periodontitis in the Japanese population
Authors: Fukusaki T. , Ohara N. , Hara Y. , Yoshimura A. , Yoshiura K.
Published: August 2007

Background and Objective:  Chronic periodontitis is an inflammatory disease caused by bacteria in subgingival pockets. Because Toll‐like receptor 2 and Toll‐like receptor 4 have been shown to play an important role in the recognition of periodontal pathogens, we investigated the relevance of genetic variations in TLR2 and TLR4 to susceptibility to periodontitis.

Material and Methods:  A total of 97 patients with chronic periodontitis and 100 control subjects were examined for mutations in TLR2 and TLR4. Case‐control analysis was performed using individual single nucleotide polymorphisms detected during the mutation search.

Results:  The missense mutations reported previously in TLR2 (677 Arg>Trp and 753 Arg>Gln) and in TLR4 (299 Asp>Gly and 399 Thr>Ile) were not detected in 97 of the Japanese patients with chronic periodontitis or in 100 of the Japanese control subjects. Nine single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified in exons of TLR2 and TLR4. The case‐control analysis revealed that the frequency of the C/C genotype at base‐pair position +3725 in TLR4 was significantly higher in both the moderate and the severe periodontitis patient group than in the control group.

Conclusion:  A genetic variation of TLR4 might be associated with moderate and severe periodontitis in the Japanese population.
PalC, One of Two Bro1 Domain Proteins in the Fungal pH Signalling Pathway, Localizes to Cortical Structures and Binds Vps32
Authors: Galindo Antonio , Hervás‐Aguilar América , Rodríguez‐Galán Olga , Vincent Olivier , Arst Herbert N. , Tilburn Joan , Peñalva Miguel A.
Published: August 2007

PalC, distantly related to Saccharomyces cerevisiae peripheral endosomal sorting complexes required for transport III (ESCRT‐III) component Bro1p and one of six Aspergillus nidulans pH signalling proteins, contains a Bro1 domain. Green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐tagged PalC is recruited to plasma membrane‐associated punctate structures upon alkalinization, when pH signalling is active. PalC recruitment to these structures is dependent on the seven transmembrane domain (7‐TMD) receptor and likely pH sensor PalH. PalC is a two‐hybrid interactor of the ESCRT‐III Vps20/Vps32 subcomplex and binds Vps32 directly. This binding is largely impaired by Pro439Phe, Arg442Ala and Arg442His substitutions in a conserved region mediating interaction of Bro1p with Vps32p, but these substitutions do not prevent cortical punctate localization, indicating Vps32 independence. In contrast, Arg442Δ impairs Vps32 binding and prevents PalC‐GFP recruitment to cortical structures. pH signalling involves a plasma membrane complex including the 7‐TMD receptor PalH and the arrestin‐like PalF and an endosomal membrane complex involving the PalB protease, the transcription factor PacC and the Vps32 binding, Bro1‐domain‐containing protein PalA. PalC, which localizes to cortical structures and can additionally bind a component of ESCRT‐III, has the features required to bridge these two entities. A likely S. cerevisiae orthologue of PalC has been identified, providing the basis for a unifying hypothesis of gene regulation by ambient pH in ascomycetes.
Characterization of the quantitative trait locus for haloperidol‐induced catalepsy on distal mouse chromosome 1
Authors: Hofstetter J. R. , Hitzemann R. J. , Belknap J. K. , Walter N. A. R. , McWeeney S. K. , Mayeda A. R.
Published: August 2007

We report here the confirmation of the quantitative trait locus for haloperidol‐induced catalepsy on distal chromosome (Chr) 1. We determined that this quantitative trait locus was captured in the B6.D2‐Mtv7a/Ty congenic mouse strain, whose introgressed genomic interval extends from approximately 169.1 to 191.3 Mb. We then constructed a group of overlapping interval‐specific congenic strains to further break up the interval and remapped the locus between 177.5 and 183.4 Mb. We next queried single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data sets and identified three genes with nonsynonymous coding SNPs in the quantitative trait locus. We also queried two brain gene expression data sets and found five known genes in this 5.9‐Mb interval that are differentially expressed in both whole brain and striatum. Three of the candidate quantitative trait genes were differentially expressed using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction analyses. Overall, the current study illustrates how multiple approaches, including congenic fine mapping, SNP analysis and microarray gene expression screens, can be integrated both to reduce the quantitative trait locus interval significantly and to detect promising candidate quantitative trait genes.