bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Emotional Foundation of Political Cognition: The Impact of Extrinsic Anxiety on the Formation of Political Tolerance Judgments
Authors: Marcus George E. , Sullivan John L. , Theiss‐Morse Elizabeth , Stevens Daniel
Published: November 2005

Common sense recognizes emotion's ability to influence judgments. We argue that affective processes, in addition to generating feeling states, also influence how political cognition is manifested. Drawing on the theory of affective intelligence, we examine the role that anxiety plays in how and when people rely on predispositions and when they rely on contemporaneous information in making political tolerance judgments. We report on two experimental studies to test our arguments. In the first study we find that extrinsic anxiety generates a resistance response among subjects who hold a strong predisposition and a receptive response among those who do not. In the second study we present subjects with explicit “frames” exposing them to a pro‐ or anti‐free speech message. We find that extrinsic anxiety enhances responsiveness to frames while an absence of anxiety diminishes the impact of these frames. Taken together these results show that affective processes shape how people make political judgments.
Personal Political Salience as a Self‐Schema: Consequences for Political Information Processing
Authors: Duncan Lauren E.
Published: November 2005

Personal political salience (PPS), or the propensity to attach personal meaning to social and historical events, is an individual difference variable that is related to civic participation and participation in political activism. PPS is conceptualized as a self‐schema and hypothesized to be related to efficient processing of political data. In two samples, PPS was positively related to number of political interest descriptors endorsed, unrelated to number of personality descriptors endorsed, and positively related to quick processing of information about political positions, party identification, and political ideology. Conceptualizing PPS as a self‐schema is useful because it provides a cognitive mechanism whereby people connect personal experiences to their wider social, historical, and political contexts.
WHO GAINS FROM WHOM? SPILLOVERS, COMPETITION AND TECHNOLOGY SOURCING IN THE FOREIGN‐OWNED SECTOR OF UK MANUFACTURING
Authors: Driffield Nigel , Love James H.
Published: November 2005

There is a growing literature explaining foreign direct investment flows in terms of ‘technology sourcing’, whereby multinational firms invest in certain locations not to exploit their firm‐specific assets in the host environment, but to access technology that is generated by host country firms. However, it is far from clear whether the literature has found significant evidence of such activity beyond a few isolated examples. This paper extends this work by allowing for the possibility of multinational enterprises (MNEs) sourcing technology not only from host country firms but also from each other within a host economy. The paper demonstrates that MNEs in the UK do indeed appropriate spillovers both from indigenous firms and from other foreign investors, but that there are also significant competition effects that act to reduce productivity in certain industries. The paper also explores which countries' affiliates gain most from technology sourcing in the UK, and which generate the greatest spillovers within the foreign‐owned sector.
THE IMPACT OF FOREIGN OWNERSHIP AND EFFICIENCY ON POLLUTION ABATEMENT EXPENDITURE BY CHEMICAL PLANTS: SOME UK EVIDENCE
Authors: Collins Alan , Harris Richard I. D.
Published: November 2005

This paper examines the impact of foreign ownership and efficiency on chemical plants' pollution abatement expenditure. The model estimates presented reveal not only which factors are the key determinants of whether any abatement expenditure occurs but also explain how much was spent on the principal categories of pollution control. These chemical plant results present a conspicuous contrast with earlier results based on other industrial sectors. This would suggest that the efficiency–pollution spending relationship is also characterised by industry specific effects.
The promotion of private health insurance and its implications for the social organisation of healthcare: a case study of private sector obstetric practice in Chile
Authors: Murray Susan F. , Elston Mary Ann
Published: November 2005

This paper examines some of the implications of the process of privatisation of a national healthcare system for the delivery, organisation and, ultimately, the outcome of services. Through a case study of obstetric care in Chile, we illuminate the relationships between the macro‐level of political decisions, the meso‐level of the organisations through which government reforms were enacted, and the micro‐level of clinical practice. We show that, for a significant proportion of Chilean women seeking maternity care, privatisation has led to expanded access and to ostensibly highly‐personalised relationships with specialists. However, because of the fragmentation of maternity services, the altered work patterns for obstetricians occasioned by changes in healthcare financing and the relatively weak market position of most obstetricians, this personalised care is dependent on highly technologised obstetric practices. By examining the specific organisational arrangements under which private maternity care is conducted in Chile we shed light on the connection between privately‐funded maternity care and high caesarean section rates in this setting.
Managerialism in the Australian public health sector: towards the hyper‐rationalisation of professional bureaucracies
Authors: Germov John
Published: November 2005

This paper draws on qualitative case‐study research to discuss the impact of managerialism on the work organisation of public sector health professionals in Australia. The case studies included 71 semi‐structured interviews with a broad range of public sector health professionals (predominantly nursing and allied health professionals, with some doctors and managers). The data are used to examine the implications of managerialism for the organisation of professional (public) bureaucracies. The findings show that while health professionals were able to exert their agency to influence managerial processes, the incorporation of managerial strategies into professional practice placed constraints upon professional autonomy. The impact of managerialism on professional bureaucracies is examined using the neo‐Weberian framework of hyper‐rationality, an ideal type derived from a combination of four forms of rationality identified in Weber's work: practical, formal, substantive and theoretical rationality. Applied to the social organisation of health‐care work, this paper critically examines the utility of the hyper‐rationality ideal type, noting its limitations and the insights it provides in conceptualising the impact of managerialism on professional (public) bureaucracies.
Arguing about the evidence: readers, writers and inscription devices in coronary heart disease risk assessment
Authors: Will Catherine M.
Published: November 2005

This paper examines the history of tools developed to assess an individual's risk of coronary heart disease. A close reading of the tools themselves is combined with an analysis of debates published in medical journals such as the British Medical Journal (BMJ) and The Lancet. These literary conversations between scientists and doctors reveal complex negotiations about the form and meaning of medical technologies that have yet to become fully ‘stable’. Early tools were promoted as a response to the high cost of cholesterol‐lowering drugs (statins), but came to embody broader attempts to shape medical practice. These include the promotion of what has been understood as evidence‐based medicine and regulation by political and professional actors, as well as the spread of ‘risk thinking’ more generally. Despite having a central place in recent British guidelines and policy, there is a surprising variety of tools in circulation, and ongoing uncertainty about their use and value.
Finding dignity in dirty work: the constraints and rewards of low‐wage home care labour
Authors: Stacey Clare L.
Published: November 2005

The ageing of the population in the US and elsewhere raises important questions about who will provide long‐term care for elderly and disabled people. Current projections indicate that home care workers – most of whom are unskilled, untrained and underpaid – will increasingly absorb responsibility for care. While research to date confirms the demanding aspects of the work and the need for improved working conditions, little is known about how home care workers themselves experience and negotiate their labour on a daily basis. This paper attempts to address this gap by examining how home care workers assign meaning to their ‘dirty work’. Qualitative interviews suggest that home care workers have a conflicted, often contradictory, relationship to their labour. Workers identify constraints that compromise their ability to do a good job or to experience their work as meaningful, but they also report several rewards that come from caring for dependent adults. I suggest workers draw dignity from these rewards, especially workers who enter home care after fleeing an alienating service job, within or outside the healthcare industry.
Access, boundaries and their effects: legitimate participation in anaesthesia
Authors: Goodwin Dawn , Pope Catherine , Mort Maggie , Smith Andrew
Published: November 2005

The distribution of work, knowledge and responsibilities in the delivery of anaesthesia has attained particular significance recently as attempts to meet the demands of the European Working Times Directive intensify existing pressures to reorganise anaesthetic services. Using Lave and Wenger's (1991) notions of ‘legitimate peripheral participation’ in ‘communities of practice’ (and Wenger 1998) to analyse ethnographic data of anaesthetic practice we illustrate how work and knowledge are currently configured, and when knowledge may legitimately be taken as the basis for action. The ability to initiate action, to prescribe healthcare interventions, we suggest, is a critical element in the organisation of anaesthetic practices and therefore central to any attempts to reshape the delivery of anaesthetic services.
The roles of specialist provision for children with specific speech and language difficulties in England and Wales: a model for inclusion?
Authors: Lindsay Geoff , Dockrell Julie E. , Mackie Clare , Letchford Becky
Published: November 2005

Children with specific speech and language difficulties pose a challenge to the education and health systems. In addition to their language difficulties they are also at risk of literacy and social, emotional and behavioural difficulties. The main support for children with more severe difficulties has been enhanced provision in mainstream schools (language units or integrated resources) and special schools. The move to an inclusive education system challenges this tradition. This paper reports the results of interviews with heads of language units/integrated resources and head teachers of special schools (n = 57) as part of a larger study within England and Wales. Their views are considered with reference to criteria for entry to specialist provision, the development of collaborative practice between teachers, teaching assistants and speech and language therapists, and the implications for inclusive education.
Voices and choices: how education influences the career choices of young disabled people
Authors: Shah Sonali
Published: November 2005

The changing British society with new commitments to educational inclusion for disabled people should mean increased individual freedom of choice and greater chance of participation. However, juggling this with the continuing emphasis on education for the economy brings the danger of new forms of social exclusion of those who do have different needs and require additional support to take advantage of opportunities and make informed decisions about their professional futures. This contradiction encourages the deteriorating academic and career‐oriented foresight of special schools and the inclusion of all disabled students in mainstream education, without providing enough support to cater for the diversity and differentiation it generates. This paper adds to this debate by reporting on the work in progress of a project funded by the European Social Fund, concerning the educational experiences of a group of young disabled people still in full‐time mainstream or special education. It presents some personal accounts of the young people's perceptions of how their educational environment influences their personal aspirations for future careers and post‐school choices. This research strives to give a voice to young disabled people, informing policy concerned with young people, education and transitions to work.
Starting school: the importance of parents’ expectations
Authors: Russell Fran
Published: November 2005

Following the diagnosis of a child's disability parents can find that their expectations are shattered. As they adjust to their new situation they will begin to develop new ideas of what the future will hold. Supporting families is a key theme in current government policy, hence the development of the Early Support Programme. In this paper Fran Russell, who has a son with a learning disability, sets out the rationale for supporting parents through focusing on their expectations. She presents the findings of a research study, conducted as part of her Education Doctorate at Leeds University, which investigated parents’ expectations as their disabled child started school. The findings indicate what can help and/or hinder parents developing expectations that are likely to have positive outcomes and so enhance the relationships families develop with support professionals and practitioners. Finally she proposes the development of an Early Years Transition Plan to facilitate this process based on the Family Service Plan, currently being introduced.
Liver allograft radiotherapy to treat rejection in children: efficacy in orthotopic liver transplantation and long‐term safety
Authors: Stephenne Xavier , Najimi Mustapha , Janssen Magda , Reding Raymond , De Ville de Goyet Jean , Sokal Etienne M.
Published: November 2005

Abstract: Background: We studied, retrospectively, the efficacy to control rejection and long‐term safety of liver allograft radiotherapy (RT) performed in 14 children. Long‐term safety data were collected with the prospect of possible use of RT in liver cell transplantation (LCT).

Methods: Immune suppression included cyclosporine, azathioprine and prednisone. In case of intractable rejection, low‐dose allograft RT was administered daily for 3 days, and short‐term efficacy was evaluated by liver enzyme assays and histology. The long‐term outcome was compared with that of 122 patients undergone transplantation and who had similar treatment, but no RT.

Results: Survival at 15 years was 71.4% vs 69.7% in the comparison group. In the RT group, rejection control was complete in six of 14 children and partial in two, all being alive and well 14–18 years later. Ten of 14 children had follow‐up biopsy. Six children had normal histology and four had mild unspecific fibrosis. The long‐term follow‐up biopsy in the comparison group showed fibrosis in 42 of 85 children. The incidence of complications was similar in both groups.

Conclusions: This series shows that, such a RT regimen appeared to be efficient and safe as a rescue treatment for acute rejection. Provided that further investigations in animal models show a certain benefit of low‐dose irradiation around LCT, such a regimen could be proposed in human liver cell transplant programmes.
Advances in digital quantification technique enhance discrimination between mild and advanced liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Lazzarini Amy L. , Levine Robert A. , Ploutz‐Snyder Robert J. , Sanderson Schuyler O.
Published: November 2005

Abstract:
Background and Aims: The necessity of liver biopsy for staging fibrosis and its quantification in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) remains controversial. Semiquantitative scoring of fibrosis is considered more subjective and less objective than digital quantification by image analysis. However, measurement of fibrosis using digital image analysis is thought to be less reliable in determining early stage fibrosis as compared with advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis. Our aims were to correlate all Ishak stages of fibrosis (0–6) with fibrosis percentage (%) using computerized digital image analysis, and thereby seek to improve discrimination between varying levels of liver fibrosis.

Methods: Fibrosis % data were obtained by image analysis on 164 trichrome‐stained liver biopsies from untreated patients with CHC, representing all Ishak stages of fibrosis.

Results: Digital analysis of fibrosis % was highly correlated with Ishak scores of fibrosis (Kendall's τ–β=0.86, P<0.001). Receiver–operator characteristic curves showed reliable discriminative capability of our digital image measurement of fibrosis when compared with semiquantitative assessments of fibrosis. Excellent interobserver reliability was found.

Conclusions: Recent advances in digital quantification of fibrosis have resulted in improved discrimination between the varying stages of liver fibrosis, including mild fibrosis. This method is reproducible, can detect early as well as advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis, may prove to be the best assessment of mild fibrosis, and may be more precise than semiquantitative estimation of changes for monitoring fibrosis progression or regression during clinical therapeutic trials.
Oligonucleotide microarray analysis of differential transporter regulation in the regenerating rat liver
Authors: Dransfeld Olaf , Gehrmann Thor , Köhrer Karl , Kircheis Gerald , Holneicher Claudia , Häussinger Dieter , Wettstein Matthias
Published: November 2005

Abstract: Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the regulation of hepatic transport systems during liver regeneration.

Methods: A DNA oligonucleotide microarray was developed with probes for 400 transcripts. Data were confirmed using real‐time PCR and on a functional level in the perfused rat liver. Liver homogenates were taken 3–48 h following 2/3‐hepatectomy in rats and compared with sham‐operated and non‐operated controls.

Results: A more than two‐fold increase or decrease of expression was obtained in 183 genes following partial hepatectomy and in 16 genes in sham‐operated rats. A strong induction during liver regeneration was detected for the amino acid transporters LAT4, SN2 and sodium‐dependent neutral amino acid transporter (ASCT)2, whereas amino acid transport system (ATA)2 and ATA3 expressions remained unchanged. The upregulation of ASCT2 may be responsible for the increase in sodium‐dependent neutral amino acid influx important for liver cell proliferation. Expression of the osmolyte transporters Smit, TauT and Bgt1 was almost unchanged indicating that osmolytes are not involved in the cell volume increase during liver regeneration. The basolateral bile salt transporter Ntcp messenger RNA (mRNA) was significantly downregulated, whereas bile salt export pump (Bsep) and multidrug resistance protein (Mrp)2 expressions remained almost unchanged. An increased mRNA expression following partial hepatectomy was detected for organic anion transporting polypeptide (Oatp)5, Octn1, Octn2 and SGLT2. In contrast, Mrp6, Oatp 2, Oatp 3, Oatp 4 and Oatp 7 were downregulated. A five‐fold upregulation at the protein level was shown for the Na+–K+–2Cl− cotransporter sodium‐potassium‐2‐chloride cotransporter (NKCC1).

Conclusions: The data show a differential regulation of hepatic transport systems during liver regeneration.
Hepatitis C‐associated autoimmunity in patients coinfected with HIV
Authors: Woitas Rainer P. , Stoschus Bodo , Terjung Birgit , Vogel Martin , Kupfer Bernd , Brackmann Hans H. , Rockstroh Jürgen K. , Sauerbruch Tilman , Spengler Ulrich
Published: November 2005

Abstract: Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with multiple extrahepatic manifestations. It is unclear to what extent extrahepatic manifestations occur in HIV/HCV coinfection.

Methods: We prospectively assessed cross‐sectional frequencies of autoimmune manifestations in HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients (n=98), HIV‐mono‐infected (n=45) and HCV‐mono‐infected patients (n=78). Diagnostic vasculitis scores, HCV and HIV loads, CD4 cell counts, thyroid‐, cardiolipin‐, non‐organ‐specific tissue antibodies (nuclear, smooth muscle, anti‐liver–kidney–microsome, neutrophil–cytoplasmic) and cryoglobulins were determined.

Results: Synergistic effects of HCV and HIV infection were observed with respect to the prevalence of antibodies against thyroglobulin (HCV infection 15.4%, HIV infection 8.8%, HIV/HCV coinfection 30.6%; P<0.001) and cardiolipin antibodies (HCV infection 9.0%, HIV infection 31%, HIV/HCV coinfection 46%; P<0.001). Cryoglobulinemia type III, was significantly associated with HCV infection (HCV, 25.6%; HIV/HCV, 20.4%) but not with HIV infection (4.4%, P<0.05). Rheumatoid factor was commonly detected in patients with HCV infection (48%), but occurred considerably less frequently in patients with HIV infection (4.4%) or HIV/HCV coinfection (9.5%, P<0.01).

Conclusion: HIV coinfection appears to differentially modulate the frequency of HCV‐related autoimmunity. However, autoimmunity is rarely accompanied by clinical manifestations.
Influence of HLA compatibility and lymphocyte cross‐matching on acute cellular rejection following living donor adult liver transplantation
Authors: Suehiro Taketoshi , Shimada Mitsuo , Kishikawa Keiji , Shimura Tatsuo , Soejima Yuji , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Hashimoto Kohji , Mochida Yasushi , Maehara Yoshihiko , Kuwano Hiroyuki
Published: November 2005

Abstract: Background: Reports on the relevance of immunogenetic factors in living donor adult liver transplantation (LDALT) are often conflicting or inconclusive. We therefore investigated the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) mismatches, lymphocyte crossmatch positivity, and the reactivity in mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC) in a series of LDALT.

Methods: A total of 104 LDALT patients were studied. The minimum follow‐up was 12 months, and the graft survival rates were assessed. The incidence of the most common complications was analyzed. And the influence of HLA, the flow cytometric analysis findings, enhanced cytotoxic cross‐matching and MLC on graft survival, and acute rejection was also investigated.

Results: As a result, 96 negative cross‐matching and eight positive cross‐matching cases were identified. Positive cytotoxic cross‐matching had a significant effect on graft survival (P<0.05), while flow cytometric cross‐matching also had an additional effect on acute rejection (P<0.05). The MLC of the patients with three HLA mismatches was significantly higher than the MLC of patients with zero HLA mismatches. The incidence of acute cellular rejection (ACR) was higher in the patients with three mismatches than in the other patients, and moderate rejection only occurred in the patients with three mismatches.

Conclusion: HLA mismatching was not statistically associated with the overall graft survival after LDALT. The graft failure rates were higher in the positive cross‐matching cases and therefore a strong immuosuppressant might be needed for positive cross‐matching cases.
Methylation status of p14ARF, p15INK4b, and p16INK4a genes in human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Fukai Kenichi , Yokosuka Osamu , Imazeki Fumio , Tada Motohisa , Mikata Rintaro , Miyazaki Masaru , Ochiai Takenori , Saisho Hiromitsu
Published: November 2005

Abstract: Background: The INK4 locus consisting of three genes involved in the regulation of cell cycle, p16INK4a, p15INK4b, and p14ARF is often disrupted in human neoplasms.

Methods: We analyzed the promoter methylation of each gene by methylation‐specific PCR in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Results: The methylation of p16INK4a, p15INK4b, and p14ARF was found to occur in 27 (69.2%), seven (17.9%), and none out of 39 HCC tumors, respectively. Regarding corresponding nontumorous liver tissues, the promoter regions of p16INK4a, p15INK4b, and p14ARF were methylated in three (17.6%), three (17.6%), and none out of 17 samples, respectively. Analysis of mRNA expression revealed that loss of p16INK4a expression was frequently observed in HCC. In contrast, transcripts of p14ARF and p15INK4b were detected in 16 (88.9%) and 16 (88.9%) of 18 tumors, respectively.

Conclusions: The frequent loss of transcription of p16INK4a with promoter methylation not only in the advanced but also in the early stages of HCC suggests that the epigenetic alteration of p16INK4a promoter is likely to be involved in hepatocarcinogenesis. Together with the result of RT‐PCR analysis, the role of aberrant methylation of p14ARF or p15INK4a promoter in hepatocarcinogenesis is thought to be limited.
Evaluation of liver parenchymal pressure and portal endothelium damage during radio frequency ablation in an in vivo porcine model
Authors: Kotoh Kazuhiro , Morizono Shusuke , Kohjima Motoyuki , Enjoji Munechika , Sakai Hironori , Nakamuta Makoto
Published: November 2005

Abstract: Background/Aims: We previously developed a multi‐step, incremental expansion method (multi‐step method) for radio frequency ablation (RFA) in vitro, which prevented increases in pressure and reduced the ablation time as compared with other methods. In this study, we evaluated liver parenchymal pressure and portal endothelium damage during RFA with different devices and protocols in an in vivo porcine model.

Method: Nine healthy female pigs were anaesthetized. RFA was performed with two different devices and protocols; one involved the use of a LeVeen needle with a single‐step full expansion method or a multi‐step method, and the other used a cool‐tip needle with 40 or 60 W power. We measured the pressure in the liver parenchyma and the gallbladder during RFA. We also evaluated portal endothelium damage by NADH staining.

Results: The multi‐step method with the LeVeen electrode resulted in the lowest parenchymal and intra‐gallbladder pressures (multi‐step method<single‐step method <cool‐tip 40 W <cool‐tip 60 W). In contrast, the ablation time was shortest with the cool‐tip needle at 60 W (cool‐tip 60 W <cool‐tip 40 W=multi‐step method <single‐step method). NADH staining revealed severe endothelium damage after ablation with the cool‐tip needle, but only slight damage with the LeVeen needle.

Conclusion: Ablation with the LeVeen needle, especially when used with a multi‐step protocol, produced less of an increase in liver parenchymal and intra‐gallbladder pressures and less damage to portal endothelial cells than did the cool‐tip electrode.
Ginkgo biloba extract alleviates liver fibrosis induced by CCl4 in rats
Authors: Ding Jian , Yu Jieping , Wang Chengdang , Hu Wei , Li Dan , Luo Yanjun , Luo Hesheng , Yu Honggang
Published: November 2005

Abstract: Aims: To investigate the protective effect of Ginkgo biloba extract (GbE) on liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in rats and expressions of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) and collagen I during this period.

Methods: The effect of GbE on liver fibrogenesis was detected by hematoxylin and eosin staining (H&E staining), Masson's trichrome staining, and electron microscope study. Blood samples were collected for measurement of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and albumin. Malondialdehyde (MDA) in liver tissue was detected by the thiobarbituric acid (TBA) method. Immunohistochemistry assay and RT‐PCR were used to examine the protein expressions and mRNA levels of TGF‐β1 and collagen I, respectively.

Results: H&E, Masson's trichrome stainings and electron microscope study showed liver fibrosis in rats was greatly alleviated when treated with GbE. Additionally, there was a remarkable improvement of serum ALT, AST, albumin and MDA in the GbE‐treated group. Immunohistochemistry and RT‐PCR results showed GbE intervention significantly inhibited TGF‐β1 and collagen I expressions in rat liver. No side effects of GbE were found during these experiments. But GbE could not reverse the pathological changes of liver fibrosis completely when compared with normal control.

Conclusion: GbE can partially protect rat liver from the fibrogenesis induced by CCl4. The mechanism may lie in its effect of inhibiting oxidative stress caused by liver injury and expressions of signal molecules such as TGF‐β1. GbE may thus be of potential help as a medicament or food additive for alleviation of liver fibrogenesis.
Recent developments in informed consent: the basis of modern medical ethics
Authors: TAY Catherine Swee Kian
Published: November 2005

Informed consent is today of paramount importance to the dental and medical professions because of modern ethical issues and medico‐legal consequences. This paper looks at the risk communication by medical and dental practitioners as the patient's right to know constitutes the basis of modern medical ethics. The paper discusses informed consent for both clinical practices as well as for clinical research study.
Inflammatory myositis in systemic sclerosis: a South Australian perspective
Authors: LU T. Y.‐T. , ROBERTS‐THOMSON P. J.
Published: November 2005

Background:  Muscle atrophy and weakness occurs commonly in patients with systemic sclerosis, especially late in the course of the disease. However, profound proximal muscle weakness secondary to myositis is an infrequent finding.

Aim:  To determine the frequency and disease characteristics of patients with myositis in our cohort of systemic sclerosis patients.

Methods:  A retrospective case note review of the clinical course of all patients enrolled on the South Australian scleroderma register, a population‐based register of 374 living and 234 deceased patients with systemic sclerosis, last updated to the end of December 2002.

Results:  Twenty patients with myositis were identified, the majority with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis and overlap syndromes. The calculated frequency of this complication was 3.3% in our population‐based cohort. All patients suffered profound proximal muscle weakness complicated by functional impairment. Other clinical features included weakness of cervical musculature (15%), dyspnoea (10%) and dysphagia (10%). Creatine kinase level was elevated in 80% of the patients, with the mean peak creatine kinase level of 1129 U/L. When further investigations were undertaken, 80% of patients demonstrated myopathic changes on electromyography and 92% of patients were found to have histological findings characteristic of an inflammatory process. Positive antinuclear antibodies were identified in all patients, including two with anti‐PM‐Scl autoantibodies.

Conclusion:  Myositis is an infrequent clinical feature in patients with systemic sclerosis. Profound proximal weakness in association with elevated creatine kinase levels and myopathic changes on electromyography should alert the clinician to this complication. The presence of anti‐PM‐Scl autoantibodies in association with overlap syndromes may have a more favourable prognostic significance.
B‐mode and power Doppler sonographic findings in the long bicipital tendon in ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: OZGOCMEN Salih , KIRIS Adem , KAYA Arzu
Published: November 2005

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to assess B‐mode and power Doppler ultrasound findings of long head of biceps tendon in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Methods:  Anthropometric measurements were carried out and disease activity and functional status were evaluated with BASDAI, BASFI, Dougados Functional Index (DFI) and Articular Index (DAI) in 30 patients with AS. The Shoulder Disability Questionnaire (SDQ) was performed. Pressure pain threshold (PPT) was measured on bilateral long head of biceps tendon and B‐mode and power Doppler ultrasound were carried out. Focal changes (hypoechogenic areas within the tendon), calcification of the tendon, and fluid collection inside or outside the tendon sheath at bicipital groove (peritendinous hypoechoic rim) and vascularity of the peritendinous region were assessed. A cumulative ultrasound score (CUSS) was obtained.

Results:  Focal changes were present in five tendons of four patients. Calcification of the tendon was present in three tendons of three patients. Biceps tendon sheath effusion (peritendinous hypoechoic rim) was observed in 10 tendons of eight patients. Thirteen tendons of eight patients had discernible flow signals, six were inside the tendon sheath (within the hypoechoic rim) and seven were outside the tendon sheath. Cumulative US score correlated significantly with DFI and ESR. There was not a significant correlation between CUSS and total PPT.

Conclusion:  Ultrasound examination of the long head of biceps tendon gives detailed information of the tendon and PDUS has the potential to be able to show inflammatory activity of the tendon.
Serum matrix metalloproteinase activity relating to cartilage destruction in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: TAKEMURA Tatsuya , KANBE Katsuaki , TAKEUCHI Kimihiko , INOUE Kazuhiko , TAKAGISHI Kenji
Published: November 2005

Aims:  The aim of this study was to determine which matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are involved with C‐reactive protein (CRP) and which stage of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) correlated with MMP‐9 or MMP‐13 level.

Methods:  In the present clinical trial, we analysed MMP‐9 activity and MMP‐13 activity in 53 RA patients. We examined the presence of MMP‐9 and MMP‐13 in the synovium tissue and articular cartilage in RA patients by immunohistochemistry. In addition, we compared these factors and clinical Steinbrocker staging.

Results:  We found that MMP‐9 in blood serum correlates significantly with CRP. MMP‐13 also correlates with CRP but the coefficiency with CRP is much higher in MMP‐9 (r = 0.6694) than in MMP‐13 (r = 0.4037). MMP‐9 and MMP‐13 did not correlated with rheumatoid factor (RF). MMP‐9 level is increased in stages II and III in RA. On the other hand, MMP‐13 is increased in stages III and IV. Our results indicated that early stage RA shows high MMP‐9 release in serum while late stage RA shows high MMP‐13 release.

Conclusion:  MMP‐9 activity may correlate with synovium proliferation with vascularization, and serum MMP‐13 activity may correlate with the grade of joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis.
Bone mass density in the normal population of Iran
Authors: AKBARIAN M. , DAVATCHI F. , SALIMZADEH A. , SHAHRAM F. , GHARIBDOUST F. , NADJI A. , PAJOUHI M. , JAMSHIDI A.
Published: November 2005

Background:  Bone mineral density (BMD) of the spine and the femoral neck are accurate indicators of the bone mass and thus useful predictors of fracture risk. Dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is the easiest, yet the most precise and non‐invasive technique. The need for a population‐specific normative BMD data is vital in preventing mislabelling or misdiagnosis of osteopenia or even osteoporosis.

Aim:  This study was performed to determine the lumbar vertebral and the proximal femur BMD measured by DEXA in 280 normal Iranian men and women.

Method:  Subjects were selected randomly from different social economic classes in Tehran. Normal subjects were selected for each decade and both sexes. BMD was measured with a Hologic QDR 1000+ densitometer, for the lumbar spine (L1, L2, L3, L4, L1–L4) and the femoral neck (neck, trochanter, intertrochanter, ward triangle, total). Data were treated by polynomial approximation (3rd degree).

Results:  In women, the highest BMD recorded was 1.020 g/cm2 for the lumbar spine (mean L1–L4) at the age of 31 years, and 0.832 for the femoral neck at the age of 34. In men, the highest BMD recorded was 0.987 g/cm2 for the lumbar spine (mean L1–L4) at the age of 36, and 0.907 for the femoral neck at the age of 30. The highest BMD in spine was lower in men than women.

Conclusion:  The BMD of both lumbar spine and femoral neck (in both sexes) was lower in this study than the Hologic standards.
The evaluation of the international classification criteria (2002) for primary Sjögren's syndrome in Chinese patients
Authors: ZHAO Yan , ZHENG Wen‐Jie , ZHOU Wei , ZENG Xiao‐Feng , ZHANG Feng‐Chun , TANG Fu‐Lin , DONG Yi
Published: November 2005

Objective:  To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the newly issued international classification criteria (2002) for primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) and the role of lower lip biopsy in the diagnosis of pSS in Chinese patients.

Methods:  Patients who were diagnosed by experienced rheumatologists as pSS during the past 10 years from the Department of Rheumatology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, were collected retrospectively as the experimental group. Patients diagnosed as non‐pSS connective tissue diseases or non‐connective tissue diseases served as the control group. Both groups of patients were required to complete the questionnaires about symptoms of dry eyes and dry mouth, and complete the objective tests of keratoconjunctivitis and xerostomia, including Schirmer's test, corneal staining, unstimulated salivary flow, sialography, lower lip biopsy and antinuclear antibodies (ANA) (including anti‐SSA/SSB antibodies). All patients with a history of head‐neck radiation, hepatitis C infection, AIDS, lymphoma, sarcoidosis, graft vs. host disease (GVHD), and antiacetylcholine drug users were exempted.

Results:  A total of 330 pSS patients were included in the experimental group and 185 non‐pSS patients were included in the control group. The mean age of both groups were matched (47.8 ± 10.9 vs. 46.2 ± 13.6, P > 0.05). The sensitivitiy of the criteria in pSS patients with lower lip biopsy and in pSS patients without lower lip biopsy were 89.2% and 87.2%, respectively; altogether the sensitivity was 88.5%. The specificity was 97.3%. 11.3% pSS patients with negative anti‐SSA/SSB antibodies were diagnosed as pSS by lower lip biopsy.

Conclusion:  The international classification criteria (2002) for pSS is feasible in Chinese patients. It has high sensitivity and specificity; it may also serve as diagnostic criteria in routine clinical practice.
Matrix Models as a Tool for Understanding Invasive Plant and Native Plant Interactions
Authors: THOMSON DIANE M.
Published: November 2005

Abstract:  Demographic matrix models are an increasingly standard way to evaluate the effects of different impacts and management approaches on species of concern. Although invasive species are now considered among the greatest threats to biodiversity, matrix methods have been little used to explore and integrate the potentially complicated effects of invasions on native species. I developed stage‐structured models to assess the impacts of invasive grasses on population growth and persistence of a federally listed (U.S.A.) endemic plant, the Antioch Dunes evening primrose (Oenothera deltoides subsp. howellii [Munz] W. Klein). I used these models to evaluate two frequently made assumptions: (1) when rare plant populations decline in invaded habitats, invasive species are the cause and (2) invasive plants suppress rare plants primarily through direct resource competition. I compared two control and two removal matrices based on previous experimental work that showed variable effects of invasive grasses on different life‐history stages of O. deltoides. Matrix analysis showed that these effects translated into substantial changes in population growth rates and persistence, with control matrices predicting a mean stochastic population growth rate (λ) of 0.86 and removal matrices predicting growth rates from 0.92 to 0.93. Yet even the most optimistic invasive removal scenarios predicted rapid decline and a probability of extinction near one in the next 100 years. Competitive suppression of seedlings had much smaller effects on growth rates than did lowered germination, which probably resulted from thatch accumulation and reduced soil disturbance. These results indicate that although invasive grasses have important effects on the population growth of this rare plant, invasion impacts are not solely responsible for observed declines and are likely to be interacting with other factors such as habitat degradation. Further, changes in the disturbance regime may be as important a mechanism creating these impacts as direct resource competition. My results highlight the value of demographic modeling approaches in creating an integrated assessment of the threats posed by invasive species and the need for more mechanistic studies of invasive plant interactions with native plants.
Recreational Portage Trails as Corridors Facilitating Non‐Native Plant Invasions of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (U.S.A.)
Authors: DICKENS SARA JO M. , GERHARDT FRITZ , COLLINGE SHARON K.
Published: November 2005

Abstract:  Wilderness areas are protected and valued in part for recreation; recreational use, however, can negatively impact these areas. In particular, recreational use can facilitate transport of non‐native propagules and create open sites for establishment of non‐native species. We examined the role of recreational portage trails in the introduction and establishment of non‐native plants into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness of northern Minnesota (U.S.A.). On 20 portages, we sampled non‐native plant richness and cover at four distances (0, 10, 25, and 50 m) from trails. Non‐native richness and cover were not related to distance from wilderness entry point. Non‐native richness and cover were, however, negatively related to distance from trails. All six non‐native species we observed were either directly on or within 1 m of trails. These results suggest that recreational trails act as corridors facilitating invasions of non‐native plants into wilderness areas. It remains unclear, however, whether these effects are caused by dispersal of propagules, creation of bare ground, or changes in the native plant community.
Preliminary Evidence of a Barrier Effect of a Railroad on the Migration of Mongolian Gazelles
Authors: ITO TAKEHIKO Y. , MIURA NAOKO , LHAGVASUREN BADAMJAV , ENKHBILEG DULAMTSEREN , TAKATSUKI SEIKI , TSUNEKAWA ATSUSHI , JIANG ZHAOWEN
Published: November 2005

Abstract:  Much remains to be learned about how anthropogenic structures affect migration in large mammals. We examined the potential influence of the international railroad in Mongolia on migration in Mongolian gazelles (Procapra gutturosa). We examined gazelle movements and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) on both sides of the railroad. The tracked gazelles never crossed the railroad, despite movements that mainly followed the railroad in winter and higher NDVI values on the opposite side. It is likely that the railroad had a barrier effect on gazelle migration because it split the gazelles' habitat. Our results, although based on an extremely small sample, have utility in indicating approaches that might be useful for examining migration in ungulates.
Establishment Success across Convergent Mediterranean Ecosystems: an Analysis of Bird Introductions
Authors: KARK SALIT , SOL DANIEL
Published: November 2005

Abstract:  Concern over the impact of invaders on biodiversity and on the functioning of ecosystems has generated a rising tide of comparative analyses aiming to unveil the factors that shape the success of introduced species across different regions. One limitation of these studies is that they often compare geographically rather than ecologically defined regions. We propose an approach that can help address this limitation: comparison of invasions across convergent ecosystems that share similar climates. We compared avian invasions in five convergent mediterranean climate systems around the globe. Based on a database of 180 introductions representing 121 avian species, we found that the proportion of bird species successfully established was high in all mediterranean systems (more than 40% for all five regions). Species differed in their likelihood to become established, although success was not higher for those originating from mediterranean systems than for those from nonmediterranean regions. Controlling for this taxonomic effect with generalized linear mixed models, species introduced into mediterranean islands did not show higher establishment success than those introduced to the mainland. Susceptibility to avian invaders, however, differed substantially among the different mediterranean regions. The probability that a species will become established was highest in the Mediterranean Basin and lowest in mediterranean Australia and the South African Cape. Our results suggest that many of the birds recently introduced into mediterranean systems, and especially into the Mediterranean Basin, have a high potential to establish self‐sustaining populations. This finding has important implications for conservation in these biologically diverse hotspots.
Prevalence and Correlates of Functional Disability in Multiethnic Elderly Singaporeans
Authors: Ng Tze‐Pin , Niti Mathew , Chiam Peak‐Chiang , Kua Ee‐Heok
Published: November 2005

Objectives: To make comparative estimates of prevalence of late‐life functional disability, examine sociodemographic and health correlates, investigate sex and ethnic differences, and estimate population attributable risk of modifiable risk factors.

Design: Population‐based survey.

Setting: Multiethnic population of Singapore (3 million residents).

Participants: Noninstitutionalized Chinese, Malay, and Indian people aged 60 and older (N=1,079)

Measurements: Functional disability was defined as needing help in at least one basic activity of daily living (ADL) task in the 10 items of the Barthel Index. Five basic ADLs (eating, bathing, dressing, transferring, toileting) were used to compare prevalence with those reported from other national surveys and with reported past prevalence within the country.

Results: The prevalence of disability in at least one of five ADL items (6.6% in those aged≥65) appeared lower than elsewhere, including China, but higher than reported past prevalence within the country. Functional disability on at least one of the 10 ADL items was independently associated with female sex, Indian ethnicity, older age, poor self‐rated health, specific chronic diseases, cognitive impairment, sensory impairment, and living with others. The population attributable risks for leading modifiable factors were arthritis (12%) and cognitive impairment (14%).

Conclusion: Lower prevalence of functional disability accompanies rapid aging and health transition in Singapore than in other countries but higher prevalence than reported past prevalence within the country. Associations with sociodemographic and health‐related factors were consistent with Western studies, including unexplained sex and ethnic differences.