bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of physiological variables and genetic background on myocardial frequency-resistivity relations in the intact beating murine heart
Authors: Reyes Maricela , Steinhelper Mark E. , Alvarez Jorge A. , Escobedo Daniel , Pearce John , Valvano Jonathan W. , Pollock Brad H. , Wei Chia-Ling , Kottam Anil , Altman David , Bailey Steven , Thomsen Sharon , Lee Shuko , Colston James T. , Oh Jung Hwan , Freeman Gregory L. , Feldman Marc D.
Published: May 2006

Conductance measurements for generation of an instantaneous left ventricular (LV) volume signal in the mouse are limited, because the volume signal is a combination of blood and LV muscle, and only the blood signal is desired. We have developed a conductance system that operates at two simultaneous frequencies to identify and remove the myocardial contribution to the instantaneous volume signal. This system is based on the observation that myocardial resistivity varies with frequency, whereas blood resistivity does not. For calculation of LV blood volume with the dual-frequency conductance system in mice, in vivo murine myocardial resistivity was measured and combined with an analytic approach. The goals of the present study were to identify and minimize the sources of error in the measurement of myocardial resistivity to enhance the accuracy of the dual-frequency conductance system. We extended these findings to a gene-altered mouse model to determine the impact of measured myocardial resistivity on the calculation of LV pressure-volume relations. We examined the impact of temperature, timing of the measurement during the cardiac cycle, breeding strain, anisotropy, and intrameasurement and interanimal variability on the measurement of intact murine myocardial resistivity. Applying this knowledge to diabetic and nondiabetic 11- and 20- to 24-wk-old mice, we demonstrated differences in myocardial resistivity at low frequencies, enhancement of LV systolic function at 11 wk and LV dilation at 20–24 wk, and histological and electron-microscopic studies demonstrating greater glycogen deposition in the diabetic mice. This study demonstrated the accurate technique of measuring myocardial resistivity and its impact on the determination of LV pressure-volume relations in gene-altered mice.
Regional differences in myosin heavy chain isoform expression and maximal shortening velocity of the rat vaginal wall smooth muscle
Authors: Basha Maureen , Chang Shaohua , Smolock Elaine M. , Moreland Robert S. , Wein Alan J. , Chacko Samuel
Published: May 2006

Contractility of the proximal and distal vaginal wall smooth muscle may play distinct roles in the female sexual response and pelvic support. The goal of this study was to determine whether differences in contractile characteristics of smooth muscle from these regions reside in differences in the expression of isoforms of myosin, the molecular motor for muscle contraction. Adult female Sprague-Dawley rats were killed on the day of estrus, and the vagina was dissected into proximal and distal segments. The Vmaxat peak force was greater for tissue strips of the proximal vagina compared with that of distal ( P < 0.01), although, at steady state, the Vmaxfor the muscle strips from the two regions was not different. Furthermore, at steady state, muscle stress was higher ( P < 0.001) for distal vaginal strips ( n = 5). Consistent with the high Vmaxfor the proximal vaginal strips, RT-PCR results revealed a higher %SM-B ( P < 0.001) in the proximal vagina. A greater expression of SM-B protein ( P < 0.001) was also detected by Western blotting ( n = 4). Interestingly, there was no regional difference noted in SM-1/SM-2 isoforms ( n = 6). The proximal vagina had a higher expression of myosin heavy chain protein ( P < 0.01) and a greater percentage of smooth muscle bundles ( P < 0.001). The results of this study are the first demonstration of a regional heterogeneity in Vmaxand myosin isoform distribution in the vagina wall smooth muscle and confirm that the proximal vaginal smooth muscle exhibits phasic contractile characteristics compared with the distal vaginal smooth muscle, which is tonic.
Regulation of sodium-glucose cotransporter SGLT1 in the intestine of hypertensive rats
Authors: Mate Alfonso , Barfull Anna , Hermosa Ángeles M. , Gómez-Amores Lucía , Vázquez Carmen M. , Planas Joana M.
Published: May 2006

Experimental models of hypertension, such as spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), show alterations in cellular sodium transport that affects Na+-coupled cotransport processes and has been involved in the pathogenesis of this disease. The objective of the present study was to analyze the kinetic properties of the sodium-dependent glucose transport in the jejunum and ileum of SHR and its genetic control, Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats, as well as the regulation of the transporter, SGLT1. In hypertensive rats, the increased systolic blood pressure was accompanied by an enhancement of serum aldosterone levels compared with WKY rats, but no alterations were found in their body weight or serum glucose/insulin levels. The values for d-glucose maximal rate of transport (Vmax) were 42 and 60% lower, respectively, in the jejunum and ileum of SHR than those from WKY rats. On the other hand, the values for the Michaelis constant (Km) were similar in both animal groups, as was the diffusive component of transport (Kd). Immunoblotting and Northern blot analysis revealed the existence of a lower abundance of SGLT1 protein and mRNA in SHR. Moreover, hypertensive rats showed a decrease in the molecular mass of SGLT1 that could not be explained in terms of different glycosylation and/or phosphorylation levels or an alternative splicing in the expression of the protein. These findings demonstrate that SGLT1 is regulated at a transcriptional level in the intestine of hypertensive rats, and suggest that this transporter might participate in the dysregulation of sodium transport observed in hypertension.
Menstrual cycle phase and sex influence muscle glycogen utilization and glucose turnover during moderate-intensity endurance exercise
Authors: Devries Michaela C. , Hamadeh Mazen J. , Phillips Stuart M. , Tarnopolsky Mark A.
Published: May 2006

Numerous studies from our and other laboratories have shown that women have a lower respiratory exchange ratio (RER) during exercise than equally trained men, indicating a greater reliance on fat oxidation. Differences in estrogen concentration between men and women likely play a role in this sex difference. Differing estrogen and progesterone concentrations during the follicular (FP) and luteal (LP) phases of the female menstrual cycle suggest that fuel use may also vary between phases. The purpose of the current study was to determine the effect of menstrual cycle phase and sex upon glucose turnover and muscle glycogen utilization during endurance exercise. Healthy, recreationally active young women ( n = 13) and men ( n = 11) underwent a primed constant infusion of [6,6-2H]glucose with muscle biopsies taken before and after a 90-min cycling bout at 65% peak O2 consumption. LP women had lower glucose rate of appearance (Ra, P = 0.03), rate of disappearance (Rd, P = 0.03), and metabolic clearance rate (MCR, P = 0.04) at 90 min of exercise and lower proglycogen ( P = 0.04), macroglycogen ( P = 0.04), and total glycogen ( P = 0.02) utilization during exercise compared with FP women. Men had a higher RER ( P = 0.02), glucose Ra ( P = 0.03), Rd ( P = 0.03), and MCR ( P = 0.01) during exercise compared with FP women, and men had a higher RER at 75 and 90 min of exercise ( P = 0.04), glucose Ra ( P = 0.01), Rd ( P = 0.01), and MCR ( P = 0.001) and a greater PG utilization ( P = 0.05) compared with LP women. We conclude that sex, and to a lesser extent menstrual cycle, influence glucose turnover and glycogen utilization during moderate-intensity endurance exercise.
Effects of acute hyperosmolality on blood-brain barrier function in ovine fetuses and lambs
Authors: Stonestreet Barbara S. , Sadowska Grazyna B. , Leeman Joanne , Hanumara R. Choudary , Petersson Katherine H. , Patlak Clifford S.
Published: May 2006

We examined the effects of hyperosmolality on blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability during development to test the vulnerability of the immature barrier to stress. The BBB response to hyperosmolality was quantified using the blood-to-brain transfer constant ( Ki) with α-aminoisobutyric acid in fetuses at 60% and 90% gestation, premature, newborn, and older lambs. Kiplotted against osmolality increased as a function of increases in osmolality in all groups and brain regions. The relationship was described ( P < 0.05) by a segmented regression model. At lower osmolalities, changes in Kiwere minimal, but after a break point (threshold) was reached, the increase ( P < 0.05) was linear. We examined the responses of Kito hyperosmolality within each brain region by comparing the thresholds and slopes of the second regression segment. Lower thresholds and higher slopes imply greater vulnerability to hyperosmolality in the younger groups. Thresholds increased ( P < 0.05) with development in the thalamus, superior colliculus, pons, and spinal cord, and slopes of the second regression segment decreased ( P < 0.05) in the cerebellum, hippocampus, inferior colliculus, medulla, and spinal cord. BBB resistance to hyperosmolality increased ( P < 0.05) with development in most brain regions. The pattern of the Kiplotted against osmolality was ( P < 0.05) heterogenous among brain regions in fetuses and premature and newborn lambs, but not in older lambs. We conclude that 1) BBB permeability increased as a function of changes in osmolality, 2) the barrier becomes more resistant to hyperosmolality during development, and 3) the permeability response to hyperosmolality is heterogenous among brain regions in fetuses and premature and newborn lambs.
Sexual dimorphism of the intracellular heat shock protein 72 response
Authors: Nickerson M. , Kennedy S. L. , Johnson J. D. , Fleshner M.
Published: May 2006

The majority of previous work examining stress responses has been done in males. Recently, it has become clear that the impact of stressor exposure is modulated by sex. One stress response that may be affected by sex is the induction of intracellular heat shock protein (HSP) 72, which is a stress- responsive molecular chaperone that refolds denatured proteins and promotes cellular survival. The following study compared HSP72 in males and females and also examined whether the estrous cycle altered HSP72 induction in females. We hypothesized that females compared with males would have a constrained HSP72 response after an acute stressor and that the stress-induced HSP72 response in females would fluctuate with the estrous cycle. Male and female F344 rats were either left in their home cage or exposed to acute tail-shock stress (8–10/group). Immediately following stressor, trunk blood was collected and tissues were flash frozen. Vaginal smear and estrogen enzyme immunoassay were used to categorize the phase of estrous. Results show that female rats had a greater corticosterone response than males, that both males and females exhibit a stress-induced release of progesterone, and that males and females had equal levels of stress-induced circulating norepinephrine. Sexual dimorphism of the HSP72 (ELISA) response existed in pituitary gland, mesenteric lymph nodes, and liver such that female rats had an attenuated HSP72 response compared with males after stress. The adrenal glands, spleen, and heart did not exhibit sexual dimorphism of the HSP72 response. The estrous cycle did not have a significant effect on basal or stress-induced HSP72 in females.
Activation of signaling pathways and regulatory mechanisms of mRNA translation following myocardial ischemia-reperfusion
Authors: Crozier Stephen J. , Zhang Xueqian , Wang Jufang , Cheung Joseph , Kimball Scot R. , Jefferson Leonard S.
Published: May 2006

Protein expression in the heart is altered following periods of myocardial ischemia. The changes in protein expression are associated with increased cell size that can be maladaptive. There is little information regarding the regulation of protein expression through the process of mRNA translation during ischemia and reperfusion in the heart. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify changes in signaling pathways and downstream regulatory mechanisms of mRNA translation in an in vivo model of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion. Hearts were collected from rats whose left main coronary arteries had either been occluded for 25 min or reversibly occluded for 25 min and subsequently reperfused for 15 min. Following reperfusion, both the phosphoinositide 3-kinase and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways were activated, as evidenced by increased phosphorylation of Akt (PKB), extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. Activation of Akt stimulated signaling through the protein kinase mammalian target of rapamycin, as evidenced by increased phosphorylation of two of its effectors, the ribosomal protein S6 kinase and the eukaryotic initiation factor eIF4E binding protein 1. Ischemia and reperfusion also resulted in increased phosphorylation of eIF2 and eIF2B. These changes in protein phosphorylation suggest that control of mRNA translation following ischemia and reperfusion is modulated through a number of signaling pathways and regulatory mechanisms.
Elevated Plasma Active Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Level Is Associated With Coronary Artery In-Stent Restenosis
Authors: Jones Gregory T. , Kay I. Patrick , Chu J.W. S. , Wilkins G.T. , Phillips L.V. , McCormick M. , van Rij A.M. , Williams M.J.A.
Published: May 2006

Objective—

This study aimed to determine whether the plasma levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) or tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) were altered in patients with a history of symptomatic in-stent restenosis (ISR).

Methods and Results—

A group of 158 patients with a history of ISR were compared with 128 symptom-free patients. Plasma samples and a detailed risk factor history were collected. Plasma samples were analyzed for pro–MMP-9 and latent MMP-9 and active MMP-9, latent MMP-3, and TIMP-1. Several variables were associated with ISR, including index coronary disease extent and severity (number of diseased vessels and American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association lesion classification), number, diameter, and total length of stent(s) inserted, and plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Plasma active MMP-9 (odds ratio, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.43 to 2.69) showed independent risk association with ISR. Patients with multiple sites of ISR had significantly higher levels of active MMP-9 compared with patients with only a single ISR lesion or no ISR.

Conclusion—

Plasma active MMP-9 levels may be a useful independent predictor of bare metal stent ISR.
Bone Marrow Stem Cells Prevent Left Ventricular Remodeling of Ischemic Heart Through Paracrine Signaling
Authors: Uemura Ryota , Xu Meifeng , Ahmad Nauman , Ashraf Muhammad
Published: May 2006

In this study, we hypothesized that bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) protect ischemic myocardium through paracrine effects that can be further augmented with preconditioning. In in vitro experiments, cell survival factors such as Akt and eNOS were significantly increased in BMSCs following anoxia. In the second series of experiments following coronary ligation in mice, left ventricles were randomly injected with the following: DMEM (G-1), BMSCs (G-2), and preconditioned BMSCs (G-3). Four days after myocardial infarction, BMSCs were observed within injured myocardium in G-2 and G-3. Apoptotic cardiomyocytes within periinfarct area were significantly reduced in G-3. Four weeks after myocardial infarction, smaller left ventricular (LV) dimension and increased LV ejection fraction were observed in G-3. Infarct area was significantly reduced in G-3. However, GFP
+
cardiomyocytes were observed in low numbers within periinfarct area in G-2 and G-3. In conclusion, BMSCs secreted cell survival factors under ischemia, and they prevented apoptosis in cardiomyocytes adjacent to the infarcted area. Preconditioning of BMSCs enhanced their survival and ability to attenuate LV remodeling, which was attributable, in part, to paracrine effects.
Heteromultimeric TRPC6-TRPC7 Channels Contribute to Arginine Vasopressin-Induced Cation Current of A7r5 Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Maruyama Yoshiaki , Nakanishi Yuko , Walsh Emma J. , Wilson David P. , Welsh Donald G. , Cole William C.
Published: May 2006

The molecular identity of receptor-operated, nonselective cation channels (ROCs) of vascular smooth muscle (VSM) cells is not known for certain. Mammalian homologues of the
Drosophila
canonical transient receptor potential channels (TRPCs) are possible candidates. This study tested the hypothesis that heteromultimeric TRPC channels contribute to ROC current of A7r5 VSM cells activated by [Arg
8
]-vasopressin. A7r5 cells expressed transcripts encoding TRPC1, TRPC4β, TRPC6, and TRPC7. TRPC4, TRPC6, and TRPC7 protein expression was confirmed by immunoblotting and association of TRPC6 with TRPC7, but not TRPC4β, was detected by coimmunoprecipitation. The amplitude of arginine vasopressin (AVP)-induced ROC current was suppressed by dominant-negative mutant TRPC6 (TRPC6
DN
) but not TRPC5 (TRPC5
DN
) mutant subunit expression. These data indicate a role for TRPC6- and/or TRPC7-containing channels and rule a more complex subunit composition including TRPC1 and TRPC4. Increasing extracellular Ca
2+
concentration ([Ca
2+
]
o
) from 0.05 to 1 mmol/L suppressed currents owing to native, TRPC7, and heteromultimeric TRPC6-TRPC7 channels, but not TRPC6 current, which was slightly enhanced. The relative changes in native and heteromultimeric TRPC6-TRPC7 current amplitudes for [Ca
2+
]
o
between ≈0.01 and 1 mmol/L were identical, but the changes in homomultimeric TRPC6 and TRPC7 currents were significantly less and greater, respectively, compared with the native channels. Taken together, the data provide biochemical and functional evidence supporting the view that heteromultimeric TRPC6-TRPC7 channels contribute to receptor-activated, nonselective cation channels of A7r5 VSM cells.
Community Socioeconomic Status and Prehospital Times in Acute Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Kleindorfer Dawn O. , Lindsell Christopher J. , Broderick Joseph P. , Flaherty Matthew L. , Woo Daniel , Ewing Irene , Schmit Pam , Moomaw Charles , Alwell Kathleen , Pancioli Arthur , Jauch Edward , Khoury Jane , Miller Rosie , Schneider Alexander , Kissela Brett M.
Published: May 2006

Background and Purpose—

Timely access to medical treatment is critical for patients with acute stroke because acute therapies must be given very quickly after symptom onset. We examined the effect of socioeconomic status on prehospital delays in stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) patients within a large, biracial population.

Methods—

By screening all local hospital ICD-9 codes 430 to 436, all stroke and TIA patients were identified during the calendar year of 1999. Cases must have used emergency medical services (EMS), lived at home, had their stroke at home, and had documented times of the 911 call and arrival to the emergency department. Socioeconomic status was estimated using economic data regarding the geocoded home residence census tract.

Results—

Only 38% of stroke and TIA patients used EMS. There were 978 cases of stroke and TIA included in this analysis. The mean times were call to arrival on scene 6.5 minutes, on-scene time 14.1 minutes, and transport time 13.1 minutes. Lower community socioeconomic status was associated with all 3 EMS time intervals; however, all time differences were small: the largest difference was 5 minutes.

Conclusions—

Within our population, living in a poorer area does not appear to delay access to acute care for stroke in a clinically significant way. We did find small, statistically significant delays in prehospital times that were associated with poorer communities, black race, and increasing age. However, delays related to public recognition of stroke symptoms, and limited use of 911, are likely much more important than these small delays that occur with EMS systems.
Planning and Public Health
Authors: Malizia Emil E.
Published: May 2006

Planning researchers should consider public health and safety as an emerging opportunity area for interdisciplinary research. Relevant public health sources are cited. Research ideas are presented in the context of Association of Collegiate Schools of Planning tracks that pertain to functional areas of planning, planning process, and history.
The Paradox of the Rational Comprehensive Model of Planning
Authors: Hostovsky Charles
Published: May 2006

This study explores the reasons why the failure to site and implement waste disposal facilities in the United States and Canada has become commonplace, using the example of waste environmental impact assessment (EIA) programs in Ontario, Canada. The inability of governments to site new waste disposal facilities can be traced to a slavish adherence to planning’s most common paradigm, the rational comprehensive model. The article also addresses whether the extensive public consultation programs associated with waste EIAs are effective. The study concludes with a discussion of how the communicative action of planning should be researched in waste management to develop more efficient and less socially divisive planning programs.
Mechanical Complications of Central Venous Catheters
Authors: Eisen Lewis A. , Narasimhan Mangala , Berger Jeffrey S. , Mayo Paul H. , Rosen Mark J. , Schneider Roslyn F.
Published: May 2006

We analyzed 385 consecutive central venous catheter (CVC) attempts over a 6-month period. All critically ill patients 18 years of age or older requiring a CVC were included. The rate of mechanical complications not including failure to place was 14%. Complications included failure to place the CVC (n = 86), arterial puncture (n = 18), improper position (n = 14), pneumothorax (n = 5 in 258 subclavian and internal jugular attempts), hematoma (n = 3), hemothorax (n = 1), and asystolic cardiac arrest of unknown etiology (n = 1). Male patients had a significantly higher complication rate than female patients (37% vs 27%, P = .04). The subclavian approach had a higher complication rate than the internal jugular or the femoral approach (39% vs 33% vs. 24%, P = .02). The complication rate increased with the number of percutaneous punctures, with a rate of 54% when more than 2 punctures were required.
Perioperative Effects and Safety of Nesiritide Following Cardiac Surgery in Children
Authors: Simsic Janet M. , Scheurer Mark , Tobias Joseph D. , Berkenbosch John , Schechter William , Madera Freddie , Weinstein Samuel , Michler Robert E.
Published: May 2006

Nesiritide (Natrecor, Scios Inc), human B-type natriuretic peptide, has hemodynamic effects that may be beneficial in pediatric patients after cardiac surgery. Experience with nesiritide and pediatrics is limited. The purpose of this study was to evaluate perioperative effects and safety of nesiritide in pediatric cardiothoracic surgery. Seventeen patients with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery were given a loading dose (1 µg/kg) while on cardiopulmonary bypass (constant flow) followed by continuous infusion for 24 hours (0.01 µg/kg/min × 6 hours, then 0.02 µg/kg/min × 18 hours). A 7% decrease in mean blood pressure was seen following nesiritide loading dose on cardiopulmonary bypass. No patient required intervention for hypotension while receiving nesiritide load or infusion. Nesiritide load during surgery and continuous infusion after cardiac surgery in pediatric patients resulted in no significant hemodynamic compromise.
Diagnosis of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia: Focus on Nonbronchoscopic Techniques (Nonbronchoscopic Bronchoalveolar Lavage, Including Mini-BAL, Blinded Protected Specimen Brush, and Blinded Bronchial Sampling) and Endotracheal Aspirates
Authors: Fujitani Shigeki , Yu Victor L.
Published: May 2006

The ideal diagnostic approach for ventilator-associated pneumonia currently is based on invasive procedures to obtain respiratory tract cultures. Given the lack of consensus and relatively poor acceptance of full bronchoscopic bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and protected specimen brush (PSB), less invasive procedures have been developed. We review the nonbronchoscopic procedures (nonbronchoscopic bronchoalveolar lavage, including mini-BAL, blinded protected specimen, and blinded bronchial sampling) and endotracheal aspiration. We provide a critique of the methods used, the types of catheters inserted, and the sample collection methods. Most studies were flawed in that antibiotic use before initiation of the procedure was not controlled. The variability of both the methods and the criteria for the gold standard in the numerous investigations show that these procedures are neither standardized nor proven to be accurate and often did not improve management. Pending future studies, use of endotracheal aspirates without the use of quantitation seems to be a reasonable approach for clinicians who are not committed to an invasive procedure.
Acute Pulmonary Edema Due to Rosiglitazone Use in a Patient With Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Çekmen Nedim , Cesur Mustafa , Çetinbaş Riza , Bedel Paşa , Erdemli Özcan
Published: May 2006

Rosiglitazone is a peroxisome proliferator active receptor. γ agonist, which increases insulin sensitivity in adipose tissue, muscle, and liver. Rosiglitazone is a member of the thiazolidinedione group, and because of its significantly positive effect on glycemic control, it is especially preferred in type 2 diabetic patients with a high cardiovascular disease risk. This drug, because of its decreasing effect on insulin resistance, is used alone or combined with type 2 diabetic drugs. A 73-year-old female patient was admitted to the emergency department with dyspnea, pink frothing phlegm, cyanosis, and tiredness. She was lethargic, uncooperative, and had no orientation. In arterial blood gases, hypoxemia and hypercapnia were found. She was taken to the general intensive care unit, and oxygen was applied via mask. The patient had a history of 10 years of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and atherosclerotic cardiac disease, and she was using rosiglitazone for the past 6 weeks. Her chest x-ray was taken, and acute pulmonary edema was diagnosed. In her last echocardiography, which was performed 1 year before, no signs indicating cardiac failure and pleural effusion could be found. Therefore, it was concluded that pulmonary edema occurred as a complication of rosiglitazone use. After stabilizing the patient's vital signs, blood glucose levels, and lactate levels, medical treatment of diabetes mellitus was rearranged, and she was discharged on the seventh day after her admittance. In a patient with diabetes mellitus who has been admitted to the intensive care unit because of acute pulmonary edema, for differential diagnosis, use of rosiglitazone should be kept in mind during the determination of treatment. Therefore, the authors aim to discuss the effect of rosiglitazone on creating acute pulmonary edema with a case report presentation.
The Influence of Organizational Incentives on Absenteeism
Authors: Camp Scott D. , Lambert Eric G.
Published: May 2006

Absenteeism creates problems for organizations. The policies of the Civil Service Retirement System, available to federal workers hired before 1987, allow unused sick leave to be added to length of service when workers retire. The policies of the Federal Employees Retirement System, on the other hand, create a use or lose situation. Yearly data on sick leave, a measure of absenteeism, for employees at the Federal Bureau of Prisons were examined for 1994 through 2003. The results of multilevel analysis confirmed that different incentive structures of the two federal retirement systems produced differences in the use of sick leave. The analysis also demonstrated that the use of leave was affected by differences in the environment at the respective prisons. Finally, some preliminary and rough cost figures are presented to give some idea of the financial costs associated with the greater leave associated with the newer federal retirement system.
Physical Deterioration, Disorder, and Crime
Authors: O’Shea Timothy C.
Published: May 2006

This study examines the role that disorder and neighborhood physical condition play in explaining the variance in crime, controlling for theoretically relevant neighborhood socioeconomic conditions. Three hundred forty-nine blocks were randomly selected from two police precincts in Mobile, Alabama. Violent crime, property crime, and disorder were measured by block from police department data. An environmental survey was conducted by block to determine various physical characteristics that are believed to attract or repel predatory criminals. Violent crime and property crime were regressed on disorder, physical condition, and several socioeconomic variables. Models were constructed to explore the interaction between disorder and physical condition. The findings reveal an interaction between disorder and physical condition that are significantly related to crime, controlling for socioeconomic variables. Implications of the findings are discussed with respect to the “broken windows” controversy and practical police tactical operations.
The Implications for Inmate Rights of the Voluntary Provision of Religious Services
Authors: Kinney Nancy T.
Published: May 2006

Throughout U.S. history, volunteers have had a persistent role in supporting the religious rights of prison inmates. In some states today, the only religious services available to inmates are provided by volunteers. The presence of volunteers inside prisons may potentially provide personal support to individuals in arguable need of ethical rehabilitation. However, because the provision of services is heavily reliant on the motivation of volunteers, the religious needs of inmates may not be met. The situation is compounded by America’s increasing cultural diversity. To understand the magnitude of the trend toward voluntarism and its implications for the religious rights of inmates, this article presents a framework for understanding the constitutional issues involved in using religious services volunteers and a description of the process whereby states have adapted to volunteer-driven programs. It concludes by offering secondary analysis of national data about some implications of volunteer use in religious services to inmates.
Predicting Case Outcomes and Women’s Perceptions of the Legal System’s Response to Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: Does Interaction Between Community Agencies Matter?
Authors: Zweig Janine M. , Burt Martha R.
Published: May 2006

The goals of the current study were to assess if domestic violence and sexual assault case outcomes and women’s perceptions of legal system response can be predicted by the level of interaction between community agencies and the level of legal system response after communities receive STOP funding. A total 1,509 interviews were conducted with women living in 26 communities. Two samples were included: (a) a Help Seeker sample recruited from nonprofit victim service agencies and their legal system agency partners, and (b) a Community sample of women ages 18 to 35 recruited through random digit dialing of households. Results show that women’s perceptions of whether community agencies were working together to assist her and her case significantly and positively related to arrests in domestic violence and sexual assault cases and to convictions in domestic violence cases. It also increases women’s beliefs that law enforcement and prosecution are effective agencies.
Restorative Justice or Restorative Health
Authors: Jackson Margaret A. , Henderson Angela D.
Published: May 2006

Restorative health refers to a construct applicable for those who have been denied access to resources and support necessary for healthy functioning. In two different studies, marginalized girls were interviewed about their experiences of health and justice. Based on their responses and their lived realities, recommendations for a restorative health approach to address their needs are made. The authors argue that a preventative restorative health model would be more effective than a Restorative Justice model in promoting well-being for these girls.
Factors Associated With Psychiatric Hospitalization of Individuals Diagnosed With Dementia and Comorbid Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Brooks John O. , Hoblyn Jennifer C. , Kraemer Helena Chmura , Yesavage Jerome A.
Published: May 2006

The objective was to determine risk factors of psychiatric hospitalization among a Veterans Administration database of patients with dementia and comorbid bipolar disorder (D+BD). Patients with D+BD had a greater prevalence of psychiatric hospitalization (28% vs 4%). The strongest predictor of psychiatric hospitalization was the presence of an alcohol use disorder (51% risk); patients without alcohol use disorders but under the age of 70 had the next highest risk (33% risk). However, patients with an alcohol use disorder had shorter psychiatric hospitalizations than those without. Compared with patients without BD, D+BD patients were more likely to have alcohol use disorders (15% vs 3%) and any other substance use problem (10% vs 1%). In patients diagnosed with dementia and bipolar disorder, the strongest risk factor for psychiatric hospitalization was an alcohol abuse disorder. These findings suggest that disorders with increased frequency in BD affect the course of dementia.
IL-15 Is Elevated in Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease and Frontotemporal Dementia
Authors: Rentzos M. , Zoga M. , Paraskevas G. P. , Kapaki E. , Rombos A. , Nikolaou C. , Tsoutsou A. , Vassilopoulos D.
Published: May 2006

Interleukin-15 is a novel proinflammatory cytokine. It is produced by activated blood monocytes, macrophages, and glial cells. The objective of our study was to assess the role of interleukin-15 as a marker of increased proinflammatory activity in patients with Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. We measured cerebrospinal fluid interleukin-15 levels in 17 patients with Alzheimer’s disease and 7 patients with frontotemporal dementia in comparison with 17 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and 15 patients with Parkinson’s disease. Patients with Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia had significantly higher cerebrospinal fluid interleukin-15 levels compared with patients with noninflammatory neurological diseases ( P < .05 and P < .01, respectively). In Alzheimer’s disease, a significant positive correlation was noted between interleukin-15 levels and age of onset ( R = .48, P = .05). Our findings suggest that interleukin-15 may be implicated in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia.
Frequency and Clinical Determinants of Poststroke Cognitive Impairment in Nondemented Stroke Patients
Authors: Tang Wai Kwong , Chan Sandra S. M. , Chiu Helen F. K. , Ungvari Gabor S. , Wong Ka Sing , Kwok Timothy C. Y. , Mok Vincent , Wong K. T. , Richards Polly S. , Ahuja Anil T.
Published: May 2006

The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence and clinical correlates of poststroke cognitive impairment in Chinese stroke patients in Hong Kong. One hundred seventy-nine stroke patients were interviewed by a psychiatrist 3 months after their stroke. Cognitive impairment was determined according to the Mini-Mental State Examination score. Thirty-nine participants (21.8%) had cognitive impairment. Univariate analysis found that cognitive impairment was associated with age, female sex, level of education, previous stroke, prestroke Rankin score, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale dysarthria and total scores, urinary incontinence, and cerebral atrophy index. Multivariate logistic regression suggested that female sex, education, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale dysarthria score, urinary incontinence, and atrial fibrillation were independent risk factors of poststroke cognitive impairment. After removal of 54 patients with previous stroke from the sample, the frequency of cognitive impairment decreased to 18.4%. It was concluded that cognitive impairment is common among nondemented Chinese stroke patients in Hong Kong.
Severity of Gambling Problems and Psychosocial Functioning in Older Adults
Authors: Pietrzak Robert H. , Petry Nancy M.
Published: May 2006

This study examined the relationship between severity of gambling problems and psychosocial functioning in older adults. Twenty-one current pathological gamblers and 10 current problem gamblers over 60 years of age completed the Addiction Severity Index (ASI), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), UCLA Loneliness Scale (UCLA-LS), and Social Provisions Scale (SPS). Compared with problem gamblers, pathological gamblers reported increased severity of gambling and family/social problems on the ASI; scored higher on the GDS, BSI, and UCLA-LS; and scored lower on the SPS. Although they were not seeking treatment at the time of the interview, three fourths of pathological gamblers and 30% of problem gamblers were interested in gambling treatment. These results suggest that severity of gambling problems is associated with increased psychosocial distress in older adults and that a significant proportion of older adults with a gambling disorder may be cognizant of their gambling problem and interested in treatment.
Delirium in Older Patients Admitted to General Internal Medicine
Authors: Edlund Agneta , Lundström Maria , Karlsson Stig , Brännström Benny , Bucht Gösta , Gustafson Yngve
Published: May 2006

Delirium on the day of admission to general internal medicine wards was studied in 400 consecutive patients aged 70 years and above regarding occurrence, associated factors, clinical profile, length of hospital stay, and mortality. The patients were assessed using the Organic Brain Syndrome Scale and the Mini-Mental State Examination, and delirium was diagnosed according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed) criteria. Delirium on the day of admission occurred in 31.3% of the patients and was independently associated with old age, fever on the day of admission (≥ 38°C), treatment with neuroleptics, impaired vision, male sex, and previous stroke. Delirious patients had longer hospital stay (15.4 vs 9.5 days, P < .001), a higher mortality rate during hospitalization (11/125 vs 5/275, P < .001), and a higher 1-year mortality rate (45/125 vs 55/275, P = .001). Delirium is a common complication with often easily identified causes, and it has a serious impact on outcome for older medical patients.
Light to Moderate Alcohol Consumption Is Associated With Better Cognitive Function Among Older Male Veterans Receiving Primary Care
Authors: Reid M. C. , Van Ness Peter H. , Hawkins Keith A. , Towle Virginia , Concato John , Guo Zhenchao
Published: May 2006

Among older persons, the effects of light to moderate alcohol consumption on cognitive function remain inadequately defined. The authors sought to determine whether light to moderate drinking is associated with better cognitive function among older men. Participants included men aged 65 years or older enrolled in a Veteran’s Administration (VA) primary care clinic. Current (past 1 year) and lifetime use, cognitive functioning (as determined by the Trail Making Part B, Symbol Digit, FAS, and Hopkins Verbal Learning tests), and demographic, psychosocial, and medical status were obtained using standardized methods. Participants (N = 760) had a mean age of 74 (range, 65-89) years. Current drinkers (n = 509) as compared with never (n = 31) and former (n = 220) drinkers demonstrated significantly better cognitive performance on 3 (Trails B, Symbol Digit, and Hopkins Verbal Learning) of the 4 tests ( P < .01 for all comparisons). In multiple linear regression models, current light to moderate drinking (ie, 7 or fewer drinks per week), as compared to a reference group of never and former drinkers, was associated with better performance on the Trails B, Symbol Digit, and Hopkins Verbal Learning tests ( P < .01 for all comparisons). The number of years drinking 7 or fewer drinks per week also was independently associated with better cognitive performance. Current consumption of 7 or fewer drinks per week and the number of years drinking at this level are both associated with better cognitive performance in older male veterans receiving primary care. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that light to moderate drinking confers cognitive benefits to older persons.
Awakening Giants, Feet of Clay
Authors: Bardhan Pranab
Published: May 2006

Both China and India have made remarkable economic progress in the last quarter century—China more than India—but both have severe structural and institutional problems that will hobble them for many years to come. In this article, after a comparative study of the two economies in terms of broad development indicators, we explore some deeper social and historical issues that underlie their differential ability to resolve collective action problems in long-term investment and to manage political conflicts, which go beyond the usual simple aggregative comparisons of an authoritarian and a democratic political regime.
Household's Tobacco Consumption Decisions
Authors: John Rijo M.
Published: May 2006

This article analyses consumption patterns, socio-economic distribution and household choice of a variety of tobacco products across rural and urban India. Using a multinomial logit model, we examine the choice behaviour of a household in deciding whether and which tobacco products to consume. Household-level data covering 120,309 households have been used for this. We find that most forms of tobacco consumption are higher among socially disadvantaged and low-income groups in the country. Variables such as education, sex ratio, alcohol and pan consumption were found to be significant factors determining tobacco consumption habits of Indian households. The effect of some of the factors on the probability of consumption differs for certain types of tobacco products, increasing some and decreasing others. Addictive goods such as alcohol and pan were found to be complementary to tobacco consumption.
Striving for becoming at-home in the midst of dying
Authors: Rasmussen Birgit H. , Jansson Lilian , Norberg Astrid
Published: May 2006

Research interviews with 12 patients at an inpatient, free-standing hospice in Sweden were analyzed, using a phenomenological hermeneutic approach, to show the effects of individual nursing care as experienced by the guests. The findings revealed that the effects of, and reactions to, nursing care were inseparable from the hospice milieu and the patients’ situation, which was interpreted as including the prospect of becoming homeless. Thus, the effects of hospice spirit (nursing care and milieu) as experienced by these hospice patients represented the contrasting possibilities of hindering—or contributing to—the prospect of becoming homeless. What the patients spoke about was either a consoling or a desolating hospice spirit. A consoling hospice spirit supports experiences of wholeness and communion, i.e., becoming at-home in the midst of dying, while a desolating hospice spirit results in feelings of alienation and fragmentation, i.e., feeling homeless. Considering the dying person to be a guest rather than a patient is an important component of Swedish hospice philosophy and supports the view of the dying person as an autonomous and dignified human being.
Tizanidine in the management of spasticity and musculoskeletal complaints in the palliative care population
Authors: Smith Howard S. , Barton Amy E.
Published: May 2006

Spasticity and other muscle symptoms in the palliative care patient can contribute to suffering, significantly detracting from overall quality of life. Current therapy primarily includes use of centrally acting muscle relaxants, which are beneficial in treating some symptoms, but frequently have extensive side effects, such as sedation and muscle weakness. Tizanidine, a central α2adrenergic agonist, has been shown in clinical studies to be as effective as other commonly used anti-spastic agents, but without debilitating muscle weakness. Tizanidine can cause sedation, which is minimized by dose titration. When taken at night, patients report improvement in getting to sleep and little drowsiness or “hang-over sensation” upon waking. Tizanidine is potentially helpful to many palliative care patients with chronic muscle pain and sleep disturbances.
Elderly hospice cancer patients’ descriptions of their pain experiences
Authors: Duggleby Wendy
Published: May 2006

A qualitative research design was used to identify and describe the pain experience of elderly hospice patients with cancer. Eleven participants over the age of 65 receiving hospice services from a for-profit hospice in east Texas were interviewed in their homes. On the basis of a constant-comparative method of analysis, participants identified: (a) multiple sites of pain; (b) hierarchy of pain; and (c) strategies used to decrease pain. Participants differentiated “physical” and “psychological” pain, based on the source of pain. Pain was described as a hierarchy of chronic, acute, and psychological pain, with psychological being the worst. Pharmacological and nonpharmacological strategies were used to decrease their “physical” pain, but participants perceived that there was little they could do about their “psychological” pain.
The Jewish patient and terminal dehydration: A hospice ethical dilemma
Authors: Bodell Janet , Weng Marie-Ange
Published: May 2006

Culturally competent nursing care regarding the ethical dilemma of terminal dehydration (withholding or withdrawing food and fluid) for the Jewish hospice patient involves applying the ethical principles of justice, autonomy, beneficence, and nonmaleficence to nursing interventions by identifying outcomes that focus on the high value Jews place on life; avoiding stereotyping as to what it means to be Jewish; knowledge of various Jewish traditions surrounding death and dying; and good communication with the patient and his or her family.
Terminal sedation for existential distress
Authors: Morita Tatsuya , Tsunoda Junichi , Inoue Satoshi , Chihara Satoshi
Published: May 2006

Although sedation for existential distress has been actively discussed in the palliative care literature, empirical reports are limited. A retrospective cohort study was performed to clarify the physical conditions of terminally ill cancer patients who expressed existential distress and received sedation.

Of 248 consecutive hospice inpatients, 20 patients expressed a belief that their lives were meaningless and received sedation.

The target symptoms for sedation were dyspnea (n = 10), agitated delirium (n = 8), and pain (n = 1). Only one patient received sedation for psychological distress alone, although physical symptoms were acceptably relieved.

The Palliative Performance Scale just before sedation was 10 (n = 7), 20 (n = 11), 30 (n = 1), and 40 (n = 1). All but one patient could take nourishment orally of only mouthfuls or less. Edema, dyspnea at rest, and delirium were observed in 10, 13, and 14 cases, respectively. The Palliative Prognostic Index was greater than 6.0 in all but one case with a mean of 12 ± 3.3.

In conclusion, in our practice, sedation was principally performed for physical symptoms of cancer patients in very late stages. Further research is encouraged to establish standard therapy for existential distress of the terminally ill.