bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climatic effects on arrival and laying dates in a long‐distance migrant, the Collared Flycatcher Ficedula albicollis
Authors: WEIDINGER KAREL , KRÁL MIROSLAV
Published: June 2007

Long‐distance migrants may respond to climate change in breeding, wintering or staging area by changing their phenology. The geographical variation in such responses (e.g. coastal vs. continental Europe) and the relative importance of climate at different spatial scales remain unclear. Here we analysed variation in first arrival dates (FADs) and laying dates of the Collared Flycatcher Ficedula albicollis in a central European population, from 1973 to 2002. The North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) index correlated weakly with local temperature during the laying period. Decreasing spring temperatures until 1980 were associated with a trend towards later laying. The rate of warming (0.2 °C per year) and laying advancement (0.4 days per year) since 1980 are amongst the highest values reported elsewhere. This long‐term trend in laying date was largely explained by the change in climatic factors. The negative effect of local spring temperature on laying was relatively stronger than that of NAO. The number of clutches initiated on a particular day was marginally affected by the temperature 3 days prior to laying and the response of females to daily variation in temperature did not change over years. Correspondence between the average population‐level and the individual‐level responses of laying date to climate variation suggests that the advancement of laying was due to phenotypic plasticity. Despite warmer springs and advanced laying, FADs did not change over years and were not correlated with local spring temperature. Marginal evidence suggests later departure from wintering grounds and faster migration across staging areas in warmer conditions. Advancement of arrival was probably constrained by low local temperatures in early spring just before arrival that have not changed over years. The interval between first arrival and laying has declined since 1980 (0.5 days per year), but the increasing temperature during that period may have kept the food supply approximately unchanged.
Primeval conditions – what can we learn from them?
Authors: WESOŁOWSKI TOMASZ
Published: June 2007

In this paper I argue that prehistoric British forests and their avifauna were similar to those persisting in a near‐primeval condition in the Białowieża Forest (Polish/Belarussian border). Therefore, observations in the Białowieża Forest may serve as a baseline against which effects of changes in the British woods can be assessed. The results of long‐term (30 years) studies of the breeding birds in the Białowieża National Park are summarized. They reveal that the local avifauna shows some features (high species richness, low population densities, high nest predation and low production of young) regarded as typical for undisturbed tropical forests. It is proposed that high productivity, high population densities and sedentary habits found in many British populations are to a large extent a recent phenomenon, due to forest fragmentation, reduction of predator diversity and changes in forest structure. The necessity to preserve the whole Białowieża Forest – currently seriously threatened by ongoing logging – as a benchmark for future biological studies is underlined.
Using Performance Data to Identify Preferred Hospitals
Authors: Rosenthal Meredith B. , Landrum Mary Beth , Meara Ellen , Huskamp Haiden A. , Conti Rena M. , Keating Nancy L.
Published: June 2007

Objective. To explore the implications of current approaches used by health plans and purchasers to identify preferred hospitals for tiered networks using cost and quality information.

Data Sources/Study Setting. 2002 secondary data from WebMD Quality Services on hospital quality and costs in five markets (Boston, Miami, Phoenix, Seattle, and Syracuse).

Study Design. We compared four alternative tiering strategies that combine information on quality and cost to designate “preferred” (defined as ranking in the top quartile) hospitals. Within each market we identified the sets of hospitals designated preferred according to each strategy and examined the overlap in these sets across strategies.

Principal Findings. Compared with identifying preferred hospitals based on quality scores only, we found little overlap with the sets of hospitals that would be preferred based on cost scores only, cost scores after applying minimal quality standards, and an equally weighted quality and cost measure. The last two approaches, commonly used and intuitively appealing strategies to identify high‐value hospitals, led to substantially different results.

Conclusions. The lack of agreement among alternative strategies to combine cost and quality data for ranking hospitals suggests the need for clear prioritization by payers and the application of more rigorous methods to identify high‐value hospitals.
Reviews: Recognition, Treatment, and Prevention of Propylene Glycol Toxicity
Authors: Zar Tausif , Graeber Charles , Perazella Mark A.
Published: June 2007

Propylene glycol is a commonly used solvent for oral, intravenous, and topical pharmaceutical preparations. Although it is considered safe, large intravenous doses given over a short period of time can be toxic. Underlying renal insufficiency and hepatic dysfunction raise risk for toxicity. Toxic effects include hyperosmolality, increased anion gap metabolic acidosis (due to lactic acidosis), acute kidney injury, and sepsis‐like syndrome. Treatment of toxicity includes hemodialysis to effectively remove propylene glycol. Prevention is best achieved by limiting the dose of propylene glycol infused.
Familial Clustering of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Satko Scott G. , Sedor John R. , Iyengar Sudha K. , Freedman Barry I.
Published: June 2007

The incidence and prevalence rates of most forms of chronic kidney disease (CKD) had steadily been increasing for the past 30 years, although these rates now appear to have reached a plateau. It is clear that an individual’s likelihood of developing progressive CKD results from complex interactions between multiple genetic and environmental factors. Familial clustering of CKD and end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) is observed among all the common etiologies of nephropathy. This article reviews the epidemiology of the familial clustering of kidney disease, as well as potential environmental and genetic contributors. The related impact of familial clustering of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and the impact of CVD on the current epidemic of ESRD is also discussed. It is imperative that nephrologists and primary care physicians recognize that individuals who have relatives with advanced nephropathy are themselves at high risk for subsequent kidney disease, proteinuria, and atherosclerotic cardiovascular complications. Until kidney failure genes are identified, it is reasonable to use “family history” (FH) as a surrogate marker for risk of future nephropathy. The detection of kidney disease genes holds great promise for detecting novel pathways that initiate renal fibrosis and lead to progressive loss of renal function. These pathways are likely to offer new therapies that may slow or halt development of chronic kidney failure.
Fluid Mechanics and Clinical Success of Central Venous Catheters for Dialysis—Answers to Simple but Persisting Problems
Authors: Ash Stephen R.
Published: June 2007

Over 60% of patients initiating chronic hemodialysis in the United States have a chronic central venous catheter (CVC) as their first blood access device. Although it would be better if these patients started dialysis with fistulas, the CVC is used because it is a reliable and relatively safe method for obtaining blood access over a period of months. Drawing blood from a vein at 300–400 ml/minute is a relatively delicate and somewhat unpredictable process, and there is always a tendency for the vein wall to draw over the arterial tip and obstruct flow. Several methods have been employed to minimize this problem and maximize blood flow, and differing catheter designs have resulted. With all of the different catheter designs now on the market, it is natural to ask what is the logic of different designs. Moreover, in the absence of many direct comparative studies it is natural to ask whether one design is really better than another. There is some misinformation regarding catheter design and function. The following is a list of 10 frequently asked questions In this review, the hydraulic features of CVC are discussed and explained, and logical answers are provided for the following questions:

1. Why do ‘‘D’’ catheters flow better than concentric or side by side catheters?

2. Why are all catheters about the same diameter? Does making them bigger really decrease the resistance to flow?

3. Why might a split tip catheter flow better than a solid body catheter?

4. What happens to injections of lock solution at catheter volume?

5. What’s better—numerous side holes or none?

6. Why does blood rise into some internal jugular catheters over time, displacing the lock solution?

7. How can a little kink (or stenosis) decrease flow so much?

8. Where should the tips be placed—superior vena cava or right atrium?

9. Which is really better, splitsheath or over‐the‐wire placement?

10. Which dialysis access has a lower complication rate—CVC or arteriovenous (AV) graft?

There remain important problems with CVC for dialysis. With a few more improvements, chronic CVC for dialysis could become a painless, effective and safe long‐term access for the majority of dialysis patients and acceptable as an alternative to AV grafts.
Effect of Carbon Dioxide on Calcitonin Gene‐Related Peptide Secretion From Trigeminal Neurons
Authors: Vause Carrie , Bowen Elizabeth , Spierings Egilius , Durham Paul
Published: June 2007

Objective.— The goal of this study was to determine whether the physiological effects of carbon dioxide (CO2) involve regulation of CGRP secretion from trigeminal sensory neurons.

Background.— The neuropeptide calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) is implicated in the pathophysiology of allergic rhinosinusitis and migraine. Recent clinical evidence supports the use of noninhaled intranasal delivery of 100% CO2 for treatment of these diseases. Patients report 2 distinct physiological events: first, a short duration stinging or burning sensation within the nasal mucosa, and second, alleviation of primary symptoms.

Methods.— Primary cultures of rat trigeminal ganglia were utilized to investigate the effects of CO2 on CGRP release stimulated by a depolarizing stimulus (KCl), capsaicin, nitric oxide, and/or protons. The amount of CGRP secreted into the culture media was determined using a CGRP‐specific radioimmunoassay. Intracellular pH and calcium levels were measured in cultured trigeminal neurons in response to CO2 and stimulatory agents using fluorescent imaging techniques.

Results.— Incubation of primary trigeminal ganglia cultures at pH 6.0 or 5.5 was shown to significantly stimulate CGRP release. Similarly, CO2 treatment of cultures caused a time‐dependent acidification of the media, achieving pH values of 5.5‐6 that stimulated CGRP secretion. In addition, KCl, capsaicin, and a nitric oxide donor also caused a significant increase in CGRP release. Interestingly, CO2 treatment of cultures under isohydric conditions, which prevents extracellular acidification while allowing changes in PCO2 values, significantly repressed the stimulatory effects of KCl, capsaicin, and nitric oxide on CGRP secretion. We found that CO2 treatment under isohydric conditions resulted in a decrease in intracellular pH and inhibition of the KCl‐ and capsaicin‐mediated increases in intracellular calcium.

Conclusions.— Results from this study provide the first evidence of a unique regulatory mechanism by which CO2 inhibits sensory nerve activation, and subsequent neuropeptide release. Furthermore, the observed inhibitory effect of CO2 on CGRP secretion likely involves modulation of calcium channel activity and changes in intracellular pH.
Brainstem Dysfunction in Chronic Migraine as Evidenced by Neurophysiological and Positron Emission Tomography Studies*
Authors: Aurora Sheena K. , Barrodale Patricia M. , Tipton Reda L. , Khodavirdi Ani
Published: June 2007

Background.—The pathophysiology of chronic migraine (CM) is not fully understood. We aimed to examine transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) indices of cortical excitability in patients with CM and also performed PET studies to ascertain if there were any areas of activation and inhibition for possible correlation.

Methods.—Excitability of the cortex was assessed by a reliable parameter of magnetic suppression of perceptual accuracy (MSPA) profiles using transcranial magnetic stimulation in 25 patients with CM. Of these 10 patients were also studied with (18F‐FDG PET) scans.

Results.—MSPA demonstrated decreased inhibition in CM compared to normal controls and episodic migraine. The percentage of letters reported correct at 100 ms was 84.37 for CM compared to 19.14 for normal controls and 57.41 for episodic migraine. The PET evaluation in 10 subjects demonstrated increased cerebral metabolism in areas of in the brainstem compared to the global flow. There were also decreased areas of cerebral metabolism in the medial frontal and parietal as well as the somatosensory cortex.

Conclusions.—Patients with CM appear to be characterized by reduced visual suppression correlating with high cortical excitability. In a cohort of these subjects there was brainstem activation and inhibition in certain areas of the cortex suggesting a potential dysfunction in the inhibitory pathways.
Impedance Cardiography: A Bridge Between Research and Clinical Practice in the Treatment of Heart Failure
Authors: Ventura Hector O. , Pranulis Maryann F. , Young Candace , Smart Frank W.
Published: June 2007

This paper proposes that impedance cardiography could narrow the gap between heart failure clinical research and the appropriate and timely application of new knowledge and technology in the care of patients with heart failure. Research variables and measurement strategies, identified in the heart failure scientific literature between 1994–1999, are compared to measures that can be obtained through a cost effective, noninvasive technology—impedance cardiography. Emphasis is placed on case reports that illustrate how “real time” evaluation and trending of key hemodynamic variables through impedance cardiography monitoring has been used to apply state of the science knowledge and technology to improve the inpatient and outpatient management of care for patients with severe heart failure.
Vasopeptidase Inhibition and its Role in Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Sica Domenic A.
Published: June 2007

Vasopeptidase inhibition—that is, the dual inhibition of ACE and neutral endopeptidase—reduces blood pressure in a potent manner. Preliminary studies suggest that vasopeptidase inhibition can also effectively treat congestive heart failure. Additional corroborating studies to support the use of vasopeptidase inhibition in heart failure are now underway.
Rationale for the Short Term Use of Intravenous Milrinone Under Hemodynamic Guidance in Patients With Severe Systolic Heart Failure
Authors: Quigg Rebecca J.
Published: June 2007

Patients with severe systolic heart failure have a decrease in both number and function of cardiac β receptors, which may result in a poor inotropic response to I.V. β‐adrenergic agonists such as dobutamine. The I.V. use of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor milrinone, which is a combined positive inotrope/vasodilator in this patient population, is a more rational choice, especially if heart failure is chronic. Many of these patients may also be referred for consideration for cardiac transplantation, for which the use of invasive hemodynamic monitoring is typically necessary to determine whether severe hemodynamic compromise and pulmonary hypertension are reversible with therapy. The use of hemodynamically guided I.V. vasodilator therapy has also been extensively described as a tool to optimize oral vasodilator therapy and predict prognosis in patients evaluated for cardiac transplantation. This review summarizes the important studies supporting the rationale for and benefits of using I.V. milrinone under hemodynamic guidance in this patient population.
A Hunt for Reversibility: Necessary and Fruitful Endeavor
Authors: Chander Keshav , Mehra Mandeep R.
Published: June 2007

When confronted with ventricular dysfunction of uncertain etiology, an arduous search for potential reversibility should be undertaken. We present a case of such nature and explore the optimum work‐up and thought process underlying effective management.
Possible Interaction Between Aspirin and ACE Inhibitors: Update on Unresolved Controversy
Authors: Barbash Israel M. , Goldbourt Uri , Gottlieb Shmuel , Behar Solomon , Leor Jonathan
Published: June 2007

The widespread use of aspirin and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors in patients with coronary artery disease contributes significantly to the reduction in morbidity and mortality from this common health problem. These agents are widely and concomitantly used, and they share mechanisms that may interact in negative or positive pathways. Data derived from in vitro preparations, animal studies, human studies, and case‐control studies are inconsistent. No study has established firm evidence regarding the safety or adverse effect of aspirin on patients who are on ACE inhibitors. The efficacy and safety of aspirin in combination with ACE inhibitors has been questioned and debated. If a negative interaction does exist, it will affect daily practice in treating patients with coronary artery disease and heart failure. This article reviews the available data regarding the safety of combined aspirin and ACE‐inhibitor treatment among patients with ischemic heart disease, to assess the possible interaction between the two drugs and to discuss thesignificance and implications of the data.
Role of ß Blockers in Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Khan Nazim Uddin Azam , Movahed Assad
Published: June 2007

Prolonged activation of the adrenergic nervous system has adverse consequences on the cardiovascular system in patients with congestive heart failure. β adrenergic receptor—blocker therapy modifies these deleterious effects. β blockers have been shown to improve myocardial function and survival when used in conjunction with conventional treatment with diuretics, angiotensinconverting enzyme inhibitors, and digoxin. β blocker therapy in mild‐to‐moderate heart failure should not be delayed because it causes some reversal of both neurohormonal compensatory mechanisms and the deletorious myocardial remodeling process. This paper reviews the beneficial effects of β adrenergic receptor‐blocker therapy on the pathophysiology, symptoms, left ventricular function, morbidity, and mortality in patients with congestive heart failure.
Clinical and Economic Benefits of Using AUDICOR S3 Detection for Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute Decompensated Heart Failure
Authors: Peacock W. Frank , Harrison Alex , Moffa Donald
Published: June 2007

Because many of the signs and symptoms of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) are nonspecific (e.g., dyspnea), accurate diagnosis can be challenging. Highly specific indicators of ADHF can assist in early and accurate diagnosis, therefore providing a potential for better outcomes and cost efficiency. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, and electronically detected S3 data (Inovise Medical, Inc., Portland, OR) were collected in 340 emergency department patients with suspected ADHF. After hospital discharge, two blinded cardiologists determined whether ADHF was present. Total hospital charges were also recorded. The overall ED misdiagnosis rate was 14.0%, of which over 90% were a failure to recognize ADHF when it was present. The S3 was highly specific (94%) for ADHF and was valuable in combination with BNP values to improve the diagnostic accuracy in undifferentiated emergency department dyspenic patients. Misdiagnosed ADHF patients accrued over $2500 more in hospital charges than patients correctly diagnosed with ADHF, a 32% increase.
Changes in Everyday Function in Individuals with Psychometrically Defined Mild Cognitive Impairment in the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly Study
Authors: Wadley Virginia G. , Crowe Michael , Marsiske Michael , Cook Sarah E. , Unverzagt Frederick W. , Rosenberg Adrienne L. , Rexroth Daniel
Published: June 2007

OBJECTIVES: To examine trajectories of change in everyday function for individuals with cognitive deficits suggestive of mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

DESIGN: Using data from the longitudinal, multisite Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly Study allowed for post hoc classification of MCI status at baseline using psychometric definitions for amnestic MCI, nonamnestic MCI, multidomain MCI, and no MCI.

SETTING: Six U.S. cities.

PARTICIPANTS: Two thousand eight hundred thirty‐two volunteers (mean age 74; 26% African American) living independently, recruited from senior housing, community centers, hospitals, and clinics.

MEASUREMENTS: Mixed‐effect models examined changes in self‐reported activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) from the Minimum Data Set Home Care Interview in 2,358 participants over a 3‐year period.

RESULTS: In models for IADL performance, IADL difficulty, and a daily functioning composite, there was a significant time by MCI classification interaction for each MCI subtype, indicating that all MCI groups showed faster rates of decline in everyday function than cognitively normal participants with no MCI.

CONCLUSION: Results demonstrate the importance of MCI as a clinical entity that not only predicts progression to dementia, but also predicts functional declines in activities that are key to autonomy and quality of life. MCI classification guidelines should allow for functional changes in MCI, and clinicians should monitor for such changes. Preservation of function may serve as a meaningful outcome for intervention efforts.
Patient Perceptions Regarding Electronic Prescriptions: Is the Geriatric Patient Ready?
Authors: Lapane Kate L. , Dubé Catherine , Schneider Karen L. , Quilliam Brian J.
Published: June 2007

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the extent to which electronic prescribing (e‐prescribing) alters communication about medication use between geriatric patients and their clinicians, as well as geriatric patients' perceptions regarding e‐prescribing.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional.

SETTING: Thirty‐five physician practices in six states using e‐prescribing.

PARTICIPANTS: Convenience sample of patients (n=244) aged 65 and older.

MEASUREMENTS: Patient perceptions regarding discussions with their doctors regarding medication costs, adherence, and potential side effects, as well as expectations about and satisfaction with e‐prescribing collected on a voluntary survey.

RESULTS: Of patients at e‐prescribing practices, 53% reported ever receiving e‐prescriptions. Patients who reported having e‐prescriptions were more likely to feel favorably toward the electronic method, whereas most of those who reported never receiving e‐prescriptions preferred paper prescriptions. Patients reporting use of e‐prescriptions were somewhat more likely to have adherence discussions often or most of the time than patients who had not used e‐prescriptions. Regardless of e‐prescribing experience, few patients reported that they would tell their physicians if they did not want a drug or did not plan to pick up the drug from the pharmacy.

CONCLUSION: E‐prescribing technology solutions may provide opportunities for earlier and enhanced communication between geriatric patients and their clinicians; geriatric patients may require more education to appreciate the value of e‐prescribing.
Caring for Patients with Dementia: How Good Is the Quality of Care? Results from Three Health Systems
Authors: Chodosh Joshua , Mittman Brian S. , Connor Karen I. , Vassar Stefanie D. , Lee Martin L. , DeMonte Robert W. , Ganiats Theodore G. , Heikoff Lisa E. , Rubenstein Laurence Z. , Della Penna Richard D. , Vickrey Barbara G.
Published: June 2007

OBJECTIVES: To describe the quality of dementia care within one U.S. metropolitan area and to investigate associations between variations in quality and patient, caregiver, and health system characteristics.

DESIGN: Observational, cross‐sectional.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: Three hundred eighty‐seven patient–caregiver pairs from three healthcare organizations

MEASUREMENTS: Using caregiver surveys and medical record abstraction to assess 18 dementia care processes drawn from existing guidelines, the proportion adherent to each care process was calculated, as well as mean percentages of adherence aggregated within four care dimensions: assessment (6 processes), treatment (6 processes), education and support (3 processes), and safety (3 processes). For each dimension, associations between adherence and patient, caregiver, and health system characteristics were investigated using multivariable models.

RESULTS: Adherence ranged from 9% to 79% for the 18 individual care processes; 11 processes had less than 40% adherence. Mean percentage adherence across the four care dimensions was 37% for assessment, 33% for treatment, 52% for education and support, and 21% for safety. Higher comorbidity was associated with greater adherence across all four dimensions, whereas greater caregiver knowledge (in particular, one item) was associated with higher care quality in three of four care dimensions. For selected dimensions, greater adherence was also associated with greater dementia severity and with more geriatrics or neurologist visits.

CONCLUSION: In general, dementia care quality has considerable room for improvement. Although greater comorbidity and dementia severity were associated with better quality, caregiver knowledge was the most consistent caregiver characteristic associated with better adherence. These findings offer opportunities for targeting low quality and suggest potential focused interventions.
Systematic sequence analysis of the human fucosyltransferase 2 (FUT2) gene identifies novel sequence variations and alleles
Authors: Yip Shea Ping , Lai Siu Kin , Wong Maria L.
Published: June 2007

BACKGROUND: The FUT2 gene regulates the expression of ABH antigens in body secretions and hence controls the secretor status. It is highly polymorphic.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Healthy Chinese (n = 79) and Caucasian (n = 20) subjects were recruited for this study. Lewis blood group and secretor status were determined. The entire FUT2 coding region was amplified and screened for sequence variations by single‐strand conformation polymorphism analysis under four different conditions to ensure comprehensive detection, and representative samples with distinct banding patterns were characterized by DNA sequencing. The haplotypes of novel alleles were determined by sequencing of cloned inserts.

RESULTS: Seventeen single‐nucleotide polymorphisms and one 3‐base duplicating insertion were identified. Six novel FUT2 alleles each found in a heterozygous individual were defined by six novel sequence variations: 210A>G (T70T), 380G>A (R127H), 572G>A (R191Q), 748_750dupGTG (V250dup), 853G>A (A285T), and 855A>C (A285A). The three most common alleles were Se, Se357, and Se357,385 in Chinese persons (total frequency, 94%) and se428, Se357, and Se in Caucasian persons (total frequency, 85%). The FUT2 genotypes correlated with Lewis phenotypes and secretor status.

CONCLUSION: This study identified 18 sequence variations in the FUT2 gene, and 6 were novel. The frequencies of alleles and genotypes were also determined in Chinese and Caucasian persons.
Blood use in elective surgery: the Austrian benchmark study
Authors: Gombotz Hans , Rehak Peter H. , Shander Aryeh , Hofmann Axel
Published: June 2007

BACKGROUND: Benchmarking transfusion activity may help to eliminate inappropriate use of blood products. The goal of this study was to measure and to compare the current transfusion practice and to identify predictors of transfusion in public hospitals to develop strategies to optimize transfusion practices.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: This was a prospective observational study in 18 randomly selected public hospitals from April 2004 to February 2005. Primary outcome measures were the amount of intra‐ and postoperative blood components transfused and intercenter variability of transfusion rate. Secondary outcome measures were prevalence of preoperative anemia, calculated perioperative blood loss, and lowest measured perioperative hemoglobin (Hb) level.

RESULTS: Adult patients undergoing primary unilateral total hip replacement (THR, n = 1401), primary unilateral knee replacement (TKR, n = 1296), hemicolectomy (HECOC, n = 148), and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery (n = 777) were enrolled. Due to the small number, data of HECOC patients were not fully analyzed. In the remaining procedures, there was a large intercenter variability in the percentage of patients who received transfusions: THR 16 to 85 percent, TKR 12 to 87 percent, and CABG 37 to 63 percent. In the patients who received transfusions, the number of red blood cells (RBC) units transfused varied significantly. There was also a considerable intercenter variability in RBC loss. The prevalence of preoperative anemia was 19 percent and identical in both sexes. The incidence of preoperative anemia was three times higher in patients who received transfusions compared to those who did not.

CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates a high intercenter variability in RBC transfusions and RBC loss in standard surgical procedures. Whereas the variability in blood loss remains largely unexplained, the main predictors for allogeneic RBC transfusions are preoperative and nadir Hb and surgical RBC loss.
Evaluation of nonleukoreduced red blood cell transfusion units collected at delivery from the placenta
Authors: Widing Line , Bechensteen Anne Grete , Mirlashari Mohammad Reza , Vetlesen Annette , Kjeldsen‐Kragh Jens
Published: June 2007

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to evaluate the suitability of cord blood (CB) as a source of red blood cells (RBCs) for autologous transfusion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: CB was collected in 150‐mL storage containers with citrate phosphate dextrose (CPD) as anticoagulant and stored in either saline, adenine, glucose, and mannitol (SAG‐M; n = 18) or phosphate, adenine, glucose, guanosine, saline, and mannitol (PAGGS‐M; n = 18) for 35 days at 4°C. Hematologic status and hemolysis were studied. The lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 from CB monocytes was analyzed after incubation with addition of weekly sampled supernatants from the CB RBC units. Five additional units (PAGGS‐M) were leukoreduced and thereafter analyzed as indicated above.

RESULTS: Hemolysis increased significantly over time, in SAG‐M more than in PAGGS‐M. During storage in both media, the number of white blood cells (WBCs) decreased, and the LPS‐induced production of TNF‐α and TGF‐β1 decreased and increased, respectively. There were no significant changes in the LPS‐induced production of TNF‐α and TGF‐β1 in the leukoreduced CB RBC units.

CONCLUSION: Hemolysis in CB RBC units increased significantly over time, and PAGGS‐M appears to be superior to SAG‐M as a preservation solution for CB RBC. The changes in LPS‐induced TNF‐α and TGF‐β1 production over time were probably caused by substances released from apoptotic and/or necrotic WBCs. Further studies are needed to identify both which substances are responsible for the changes in LPS‐induced cytokine release and the clinical significance hereof.
THE ECONOMIC ADVANTAGE OF THE OPTIMUM DEPRECIATION PROCEDURE*
Authors: ZIMMER ROBERT K. , GRAY JACK
Published: June 2007

The purpose of the research was to determine the economic advantage of the accelerated depreciation procedures allowed by Revenue Procedure 67–40. This income tax procedure allows relatively free choice of depreciation method at any point in the asset's life. This choice affects two decisions. First, the decision to acquire a particular asset and second, if acquired, the depreciation method to be used for income tax purposes.

A deterministic computer simulation was used to calculate the economic advantage of the new optimum procedure compared to the sum‐of‐the‐years‐digits method. The economic advantage is measured by the present worth of the depreciation tax shield. The independent variables are cost of capital, economic life, estimated salvage value, and income tax rate.

The results of the simulation show that the added economic advantage of the new optimum depreciation procedure is small and is unlikely, in practical situations, to change the acquisition decision. The desirability of the new procedure for income tax purposes if the asset is acquired is less clear because the costs of using the new procedure are difficult to measure.
AN AXIOMATIC DEVELOPMENT OF CARDINAL UTILITY USING DECISION THEORY
Authors: DYCKMAN T. R. , SMIDT S.
Published: June 2007

The present paper provides a proof of the existence of a utility function and the converse of that theorem using decision theory. In particular the development uses probability mass functions. The authors believe that this approach provides a useful alternative to existing proofs and, in addition, ties the analysis to well‐understood concepts in probability theory.
MANAGING INCENTIVES IN A POVERTY REDUCTION PROGRAM*
Authors: SOUTHWICK LAWRENCE , ZIONTS STANLEY
Published: June 2007

The problem of reducing poverty is posed as a problem of determining and managing incentives. Four incentives are proposed that appear to be relevant to the reduction of poverty. They are introduced and explored from an economic point of view. A proposal encompassing these incentives is developed in which specific dollar amounts are proposed. Then some estimates of the costs, effects, benefits, and sensitivities to changes in parameters are made.
THE TRANSPORTATION PROBLEM AND THE VOGEL APPROXIMATION METHOD
Authors: SHORE HARVEY H.
Published: June 2007

This paper shows that the so‐called “transportation problem” possesses the four characteristics which define linear programming (LP) type problems. Thus, the transportation problem can always be solved by using the Simplex Method, a well‐known but tedious technique for dealing with any linear programming problem. A special procedure for solving the transportation problem is the so‐called “Transportation Method,” which involves three steps. However, due to intricacies in steps 2 and 3, this Method can, like Simplex, become quite tedious and time‐consuming.

A short‐cut approach to solving the transportation problem is the Vogel Approximation Method (VAM), which is a very simple means of performing step 1 of the Transportation Method. Application of VAM to a given problem does not guarantee that an optimal solution will result. However, a very good solution is invariably obtained, and is obtained with comparatively little effort. For many purposes, using VAM to carry out step 1 of the Transportation Method eliminates (or all but eliminates) the need for performing steps 2 and 3. The mechanics of the Vogel Approximation Method are illustrated with reference to a particular transportation problem.
PROFESSIONAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES OF THE MIGRATING AND NON‐MIGRATING LARGE PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM CPA
Authors: SORENSEN JAMES E.
Published: June 2007

Because the larger public accounting firm represents a merged professional‐organizational structure, CPAs who function in this environment can encounter several professional‐organizational conflicts which appear to be related to career satisfaction and job migration plans. The specific types of professional and organizational conflicts and deprivations experienced by the large‐firm CPA are explored using data on 264 public accountants representing four national public accounting firms.

CPAs who planned to migrate are compared with those who planned to remain with the firm on nine professional and organizational issues (e.g., administration, rules and procedures, colleague relationship, decision‐making); the implications of this behavioral analysis are related to several dimensions of the large‐firm hiring practices and training programs. The “educational sub‐culture” from which the newer staff member emerges is examined also for its possible role in creating several of the issues identified in the study.
DETECTION OF TURNING POINTS IN A TIME SERIES
Authors: BROWN ROBERT G.
Published: June 2007

Consider a time series for which, over a finite interval, there is a model that provides an adequate forecast of the series. Without loss of genality one can take the series over this period of time to have meanOand variance s̀2. At some time the underlying process changes to some other model. The previous model no longer produces errors with mean zero. It is assumed, however, that the variance remains s̀2. The problem considered here is to detect the change in the process as quickly as possible after it happens. The technique is a computationally feasible extension of Wald's [14] sequential analysis, to develop a parabolic mask centered over the most recent cumulative sum (“cusum”) of the forecast errors. Detection occurs when any previous point in the series of cusums lies outside the parabola. The technique is illustrated by an APL program applied to the logarithms of weekly changes in closing prices for IBM common stock on the New York Stock Exchange over the period 1968–1970.
INVENTORY MODELS: OPTIMIZATION BY GEOMETRIC PROGRAMMING
Authors: KOCHENBERGER GARY A.
Published: June 2007

Geometric programming is a mathematical programming technique that is designed to determine the constrained minimum value of a generalized polynomial objective function. To date, most applications of the technique have been restricted to certain classes of engineering problems.

This paper presents a brief summary of geometric programming and then illustrates its application to managerial problems by applying it to three well‐known inventory models.
OPTIMAL SCHEDULING FOR INVESTMENT OF EXCESS CASH
Authors: COZZOLINO JOHN M.
Published: June 2007

A method is presented for the scheduling of a company's investments of its predictable, short‐term, excess cash. The problem is structured in a way that leads to a fairly simple dynamic programming algorithm. The method is very flexible with regard to the type of investments considered; no structural properties of rates of return or availability are made except that they are predictable. The method allows the choice of holding to maturity or not and the choice can differ for different types of investments. A bank constraint, which fixes the average bank balance over the planning period, is added and the method of solution obtained.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF INDIVIDUALS, ITEMS, PROJECTS, PRODUCTS AND STRATEGIES
Authors: MARIOTTI JOHN J.
Published: June 2007

The problem of selection of the best item from one of a list of items to meet an objective is treated. The items are usually compared against factors or states of nature. The following techniques used to arrive at the “best” selection are treated:

1. Ranking and rating

2. Paired comparison and successive comparison

3. Average score

4. Dominance

5. Game theory

Laplace criterion

Method of majority rule

Bayes solution

Criterion of pessimism

Criterion of optimism

Criterion of regret

Minimax and maximin in gaming situations

Mixed strategies
INCREMENTAL (MARGINAL) ANALYSIS OF BASIC INVENTORY MODELS
Authors: TRUEMAN RICHARD E.
Published: June 2007

For simple inventory models with linear costs and stochastic demands, the technique of incremental analysis is applied to the problem of determining both the optimum number of units to stock and the associated expected profit. The cases where there are shortage costs and where reordering is possible are covered. Sensitivity analysis of optimum solutions is shown to be useful and straightforward. Problems involving cost minimization, rather than profit maximization, are discussed. The emphasis is on discrete probability distributions of demand, but the extensions to continuous probability distributions are clearly indicated.
GRADUATE EDUCATION IN QUANTITATIVE METHODS IN THE AACSB SCHOOLS
Authors: BURFORD ROGER L. , WILLIAMS DONALD R.
Published: June 2007

The status of Quantitative Methods in business education is perhaps less “standard” and less understood than any other field. This is probably even more true at the graduate than at the undergraduate level. Courses which are normally considered to be Quantitative Methods courses are often housed in a wide range of departments. Some courses which would normally be classified as Quantitative Methods courses are also housed in colleges other than Business Administration.

In order to determine the current status of graduate quantitative methods curricula in schools of business, a survey was made of the member institutions of the American Association of Collegiate Schools of Business. This paper presents the survey findings.
NONECONOMIC CRITERIA AND THE DECISION PROCESS*
Authors: FREDRIKSON E. BRUCE
Published: June 2007

This paper describes a method for systematically including consideration of noneconomic criteria in the decision‐making process. It focuses on the Space Applications Program of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, but is intended as a general outline applicable to decision problems in both government and business.

The methodology involves four stages. First, a Criteria Set is developed by a panel of members with diverse backgrounds. Second, the criteria are made operational by posing a series of carefully worded questions to appropriate experts. Then the responses are scaled according to the degree of refinement considered necessary and appropriate.

To allow flexibility and to accommodate differences in the degree of precision considered feasible, a number of scaling methods are identified. These range from a simple positive‐negative response checkoff to summation of individually‐weighted criteria with interaction among criteria. Finally, projects are selected on the basis of predetermined standards of choice.
THE COST OF IGNORING LEAD TIME UNRELIABILITY IN INVENTORY THEORY*
Authors: VINSON CHARLES E.
Published: June 2007

A computerized cost‐minimization model was used to study the importance of lead time unreliability (variability of lead time from mean lead time) in inventory management. Using different combinations of stockout cost, demand variability, mean lead time, and variability of lead time around the means, changes in optimum safety stock and in inventory costs were observed. Lead time unreliability was found to be of greater importance than either the mean lead time or the variability of demand in explaining inventory cost behavior. Managers and researchers involved in the development of inventory theory are urged to note the great financial damage that may result from ignoring lead time unreliability; a dollar measure of this penalty is included in the presentation.
PROGRAMMED DECISION STRUCTURES ‐ FUNCTIONAL APPROACH TO QUANTITATIVE UNDERGRADUATE CORE
Authors: HUBBARD CHARLES L. , KRAFT ARTHUR
Published: June 2007

Administrators and professionals must make social decisions within the environment of the computer revolution. This means that precise skills of logical problem solving and quantitative methods may assume an increasingly prominent place in college preparation for business and social sciences. At the same time, colleges are under pressure not to “select out” persons who are disadvantaged in quantitative areas. With a widening “quantitative gap,” major surgery of existing math and stat courses is unlikely to meet the challenge of this new social environment.

Programmed Decisions Structures (PDS) is experimental coursework in a quantitative undergraduate core for business and social sciences. Particular features of PDS were developed to emphasize (1) motivation of the student, (2) credible simulation of realistic business and social environment, (3) awareness of logically developed structures, and (4) principles of applied scientific method. Constructed around the above four points, it is hoped that PDS will close the “quantitative gap” more effectively than the 20 quarter hours of conventional math, stat and computer courses which it replaces.
A RECONSIDERATION OF THE ‘GREAT RATIOS’ OF ECONOMICS
Authors: KOOT RONALD S. , WALKER DAVID A.
Published: June 2007

Autocorrelations are found in the disturbance terms of regressions employed by L. R. Klein and R. F. Kosobud in a global model of growth employing five celebrated ratios of economics. This paper summarizes the Klein‐Kosobud conclusions, modifies them by removing the autocorrelations, and extends the model to include more recent years. The modified conclusions hold even with the added observations.
SCHEDULING JOBS ON PARALLEL PROCESSORS WITH DYNAMIC PROGRAMMING
Authors: Gupta Jatinder N. D. , Maykut Albert R.
Published: June 2007

The problem of scheduling jobs on M‐parallel processors is one of selecting a set of jobs to be processed from a set of available jobs in order to maximize profit. This problem is examined and a dynamic programming solution is presented which decomposes it into a sequencing problem within an allocation problem. The computation required for solution is found to depend on the sequencing problem as it is affected by the waiting cost function. Various forms of the waiting cost function are considered. The solution procedure is illustrated by an example, and possible extensions of the formulation are discussed.
EIGENVALUES FOR THE DECISION SCIENCES
Authors: Strum Jay
Published: June 2007

This paper gives an example of how to structure a set of lectures on eigenvalues and eigenvectors for students of economics, finance, or any of the other decision sciences. It is presented in a fairly self‐contained style, suitable for the relative beginner, but its main purpose is to present the instructor with a way to motivate definitions and tie key concepts together.
A LOOK AT THE SEMANTIC DIFFERENTIAL AS A TOOL TO ASSIST FACULTY TEACHING EVALUATIONS
Authors: Oliver Bruce L.
Published: June 2007

The evaluation of the effectiveness of faculty teaching is a difficult process. This paper presents the results of an experimental empirical investigation into the possibility of using a psycho‐linguistic measurement technique, the Semantic Differential, to measure faculty communication of terminology to students. This measurement could be used to supplement other teaching evaluation devices. The paper determines a set of “key concepts,” derives a set of S.D. meanings from a Faculty to act as a standard, and measures student meanings at the beginning and end of an introductory course. These sets of meanings are then compared.
A SIMULATION MODEL OF THE HIGHER EDUCATION SYSTEM OF A STATE1
Authors: Perkins William C. , Paschke Paul E.
Published: June 2007

This paper describes a simulation model to estimate the enrollments and expenditures associated with various policy alternatives for the post‐secondary education system of a state, with Indiana as an example. Enrollments, operating expenditures, and construction costs are predicted for every public and private school for each year until 1985. The basic model‐building technique employed is regression analysis on historical data, but it is supplemented by other quantitative techniques and by experts' predictions. The model may be used to predict “most likely” future enrollments and costs, to perform sensitivity analyses to better understand the impact of various exogenous variables upon the system, and to evaluate possible policy alternatives. Including all of the schools in a state makes possible the evaluation of policy alternatives such as possible configurations of new two‐year public schools, the effect of tuition changes, and the effect of enrollment ceilings for larger state universities.