bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of a nifH oligonucleotide microarray for profiling diversity of N2‐fixing microorganisms in marine microbial mats
Authors: Moisander Pia H. , Shiue Lily , Steward Grieg F. , Jenkins Bethany D. , Bebout Brad M. , Zehr Jonathan P.
Published: August 2006

Diazotrophic community structure in microbial mats from Guerrero Negro (GN), Baja California, Mexico, was studied using polymerase chain reaction amplification of the nifH gene and a newly developed nifH oligonucleotide microarray. Ninety‐six oligonucleotide probes designed for nifH sequences from cultivated isolates and the environment were printed on glass microarrays. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the probes represented all of the main nifH clusters. Specificity was tested by (i) evaluation of cross hybridization using individual targets, and (ii) comparison of the observed hybridization signals and those predicted from the sequences cloned from microbial mats. Signal intensity had a positive relationship with target concentration and the percentage identity between probe and target. Under moderate stringency and high target concentration, specificity of the probes varied from 77% to 100% with the individual targets tested. At the end of a 7‐month long nutrient manipulation experiment in GN microbial mats, no expression of nitrogen fixation under nitrogen loading was detected, although a diverse community of diazotrophs was detected. The diversity in diazotrophic population present was higher than in the population expressing the nifH gene, and there were taxa specific differences in response to nutrients. The nifH microarray is a powerful tool for diazotroph community analysis in the marine environment.
Exclusive versus everyday forms of professional knowledge: legitimacy claims in conventional and alternative medicine
Authors: Hirschkorn Kristine A.
Published: August 2006

In this paper I present a model of professional knowledge forms that accounts for the different, and sometimes contradictory, ways in which medical doctors (MDs) and various complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practitioners define their competencies and make legitimacy claims. The first section provides a schema for problematising knowledge and its relationship to legitimacy by distinguishing between the context, form and content of professional knowledge. I draw particularly upon Jamous and Peloille's (1970) distinction between the technical or indeterminate forms of professional knowledge. I argue that their characterisation might be enriched by attending to dimensions of ‘exclusive’ versus ‘everyday’ knowledge forms. In particular, I point out that both technical and indeterminate forms are amenable to exclusion, or conversely can be made accessible as everyday knowledge. Both forms can thus be employed in attempts to legitimate professional practice. In the final section, I map the current context of CAM and biomedicine onto this expanded professional knowledge map.
Prospective effect of community distress and subcultural orientation on mortality following life‐threatening diseases in later life
Authors: Wen Ming , Christakis Nicholas A.
Published: August 2006

We conducted a prospective and contextual study to examine the effects of community social‐economic‐physical distress and subcultural orientation on mortality following onset of 13 life‐threatening diseases in later life. We also examined the inter‐relationship between the effects of community social, economic and physical distress (i.e. poverty, physical disorder and low collective efficacy) and subcultural orientation (i.e. anomie and tolerance of risk behaviour) on the survival chances of seriously ill older patients. Three data sources were combined to construct the working sample: 1990 Census data, the 1994–95 PHDCN‐CS, and the COSI data. Fifty‐one ZIP code areas in Chicago and 12,672 elderly patients were studied. Community distress (HR = 1.04; 95% CI = (1.01, 1.07)) and anomie (HR = 1.26; 95% CI = (1.02, 1.54)) are found to be significantly and positively associated with a higher hazard of death. Moreover, community anomie contributes to the effect of community distress on post‐hospitalisation mortality. The social, economic, physical and cultural environment in which people live appears to exert a significant impact on whether older people facing life‐threatening illness live or die.
The Royal Statistical Society Schools Lecture 2004: ‘Lies and Statistics’, Part 2
Authors: Duckworth Frank
Published: August 2006

This article concludes the serialization of the Royal Statistical Society's Schools Lecture for 2004, on ‘Lies and statistics’.
Wimbledon 2010: A Fifth Set Cliff‐hanger in the Murray vs. Federer Final?
Authors: Glaister Elizabeth M. , Glaister Paul
Published: August 2006

Imagine the scene. The year is 2010 and Andy Murray and Roger Federer are playing each other for the first time in the Wimbledon Championships final. Will it be a straight sets victory or a nail‐biting five‐set match?
Consensus is Unfair
Authors: Falk Ruma , Lann Avital
Published: August 2006

A coefficient of unfairness in the allocation of goods to people can be extended to measuring consensus among judges. The notion of relative variability underlies the formation of these measures.
A profile of invasive cutaneous malignant melanoma in Malta: 1993–2002
Authors: Aquilina S , Dalmas M , Calleja N , Gatt P , Scerri L
Published: August 2006

Background  The incidence of malignant melanoma of the skin has risen in every part of the world where reliable cancer registration data are found.

Objective  Our study aims to describe the changing incidence of and survival from invasive cutaneous malignant melanoma in Malta, by analysing the data from the 211 cases that were registered at the Malta National Cancer Registry between 1993 and 2002.

Results  The age standardized incidence rates for invasive cutaneous malignant melanoma rose from 3.7 per 100 000 population per year for males and 5.1 for females in the first 5‐year period, to 8.0 per 100 000 population per year for males and 5.9 for females in the second 5‐year period. In both sexes, numbers of thin (≤ 1.0 mm) invasive melanomas increased significantly between 1993 and 2002; males also registered a significant increase in intermediate‐thickness (1.01–4.0 mm) melanomas. The increase in numbers of thin and intermediate‐thickness melanomas between the two 5‐year periods was greatest in patients aged 60 years and over. The overall absolute 5‐year survival rate for the first period was 74% and for the second period 92%.

Conclusion  Numbers of reported cases of invasive cutaneous malignant melanoma in Malta have more than doubled during the 10‐year study period. This is mostly due to a marked rise in the diagnosis of thin melanomas in both sexes, occurring mainly in patients aged 60 years and over. As thin melanomas are of low metastasizing potential, this has resulted in an increase in survival between the two 5‐year study periods.
Cutaneous mastocytosis: demographic aspects and clinical features of 55 patients
Authors: Akoglu G , Erkin G , Cakir B , Boztepe G , Sahin S , Karaduman A , Atakan N , Akan T , Kolemen F
Published: August 2006

Background  Mastocytosis is a rare, heterogeneous group of disorder with abnormal increase of mast cells in one or more organ systems.

Objective  To evaluate the demographic and clinical features of cutaneous mastocytosis (CM).

Methods  Records of 55 patients with cutaneous mastocytosis were retrospectively analysed.

Results  Of the 22 females and 33 males, 80% had urticaria pigmentosa/maculopapular CM and 20% had mastocytoma. Of all cases, 81.8% had first lesions in childhood. The most common presentation was involvement of trunk together with extremities. Thirteen (23.6%) patients had history of bulla; Darier's sign was positive in 34 of 38 patients. Itching was the most common complaint, provocated by hot weather/bath.

Conclusion  Clinical presentations of urticaria pigmentosa/maculopapular CM and mastocytoma are similar regarding gender, age of onset, age of diagnosis, and presence of Darier's sign and history of bulla. In contrast to mastocytoma, urticaria pigmentosa/maculopapular CM lesions were frequently located on trunk together with extremities.
Comparison of weekly and daily incremental protocols of narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy for psoriasis
Authors: Altiner DD , Ilknur T , Fetil E , Günes AT , Özkan S
Published: August 2006

Background  Different protocols have been used for narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) therapy, commonly used in the treatment of psoriasis; however, more effective and reliable protocols are still required.

Objective  The aim of this study was to compare the weekly and daily dose increment protocols of narrowband UVB phototherapy in psoriasis patients.

Methods  Thirty patients with plaque psoriasis underwent narrowband UVB treatment three times a week and 15 patients selected consecutively among these patients underwent a weekly (once in three treatments) dose increment whereas the remaining 15 patients underwent a daily dose increment. Patients were monitored for 10 weeks and evaluated by the Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI).

Results  When the two groups were evaluated according to median PASI scores prior to the treatment and during 10 weeks of treatment, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups (P > 0.05). During the treatment lasting for 10 weeks, four patients in the group with a weekly dose increment and three patients in the group with a daily dose increment recovered and no statistically significant difference was detected between the groups (P > 0.05). The groups were also evaluated according to the median cumulative dose. The median cumulative dose was higher in the group with a daily dose increment and the difference between the groups was statistically significant (P = 0.002).

Conclusion  The application of daily dose increments was no better than that of weekly dose increments in narrowband UVB treatment for psoriasis. Therefore, although our results may need to be supported by large‐series studies, we conclude that application of weekly dose increments with a lower cumulative dose having the same efficacy is preferred in narrowband UVB treatment of psoriasis.
Intensity of livestock grazing in relation to habitat use by brown hares (Lepus europaeus)
Authors: Karmiris I. E. , Nastis A. S.
Published: August 2006

There is very limited information concerning livestock (sheep and goats) and brown hare Lepus europaeus interaction when both coexist. The effect of the intensity of livestock grazing on seasonal habitat use by hares, in a typical Mediterranean rangeland, was evaluated using the pellet‐count method. Lightly grazed pastures were less preferred by hares compared with moderately grazed ones, whereas ungrazed pastures were used less intensively than grazed ones. Because livestock grazing reduces the quantity of standing biomass proportionally to its grazing intensity, forage resource was not the driving force for pasture selection. The increased use of moderately grazed pastures by hares in relation to lightly and ungrazed ones, where vegetation was more abundant, could be attributed to their reduced herbage height and density. This behaviour is probably a tactic that hares follow for predator avoidance, because they are more likely to detect visually approaching predators when feeding in a biotope with a limited herbaceous layer. The conclusion of this research is that livestock and brown hare coexistence may be compatible and beneficial rather than competitive when stocking rates do not exceed grazing capacity, leading to the conclusion that proper livestock grazing and hare population management can be feasible in practice.
Responses of juvenile terrestrial salamanders to introduced (Lithobius forficatus) and native centipedes (Scolopocryptops sexspinosus)
Authors: Anthony C. D. , Hickerson C. A. M. , Venesky M. D.
Published: August 2006

When introduced species invade ecosystems, alterations in community structure can emerge from the competitive and predatory interactions that occur between introduced and native guild members. Because a number of recent studies have shown that large predatory invertebrates can both compete with and prey on small vertebrates and because introductions of non‐native species may play a role in amphibian declines, the effects of introduced centipedes Lithobius forficatus and native centipedes Scolopocryptops sexspinosus on juveniles of the red‐backed salamander Plethodon cinereus were examined. In laboratory arenas, juvenile salamanders exhibited submissive behaviour in response to the odours of both species of centipede. There were no significant differences in salamander response to the two centipede odour treatments, but compared to controls, juveniles of P. cinereus spent significantly more time in escape and in a flattened submissive posture when presented with native centipede odours. Despite significant size differences between centipedes and juvenile salamanders, no predation of salamanders by either species of centipede occurred in any pairings. Juveniles exhibited more chemosensory behaviour towards native centipedes and towards their odours and exhibited marked reductions in aggressive posturing when centipedes were present. Field and laboratory data suggest that juveniles of P. cinereus and centipedes were negatively associated. In laboratory trials, the native centipede excluded juvenile salamanders from cover objects and we found fewer instances of co‐occurrence in the field than expected. These studies are the first to examine the behavioural interactions between juveniles of P. cinereus and invertebrate predators, one introduced and one native, of eastern deciduous forest‐floor food webs.
Factors affecting the abundance of introduced hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) to the Hebridean island of South Uist in the absence of natural predators and implications for nesting birds
Authors: Jackson D. B.
Published: August 2006

Introduced hedgehogs Erinaceus europaeus are a known threat to ground‐nesting birds on many islands. Spring hedgehog density and sex ratio were measured over a 5‐year period at four plots on the 315 km2 Hebridean island of South Uist. The mean instantaneous density on the sandy‐soiled machair plots (31.8 hedgehogs km−2, se 2.95) was over twice that on the peaty‐soiled blackland plots (15.4 hedgehogs km−2, se 3.46), a difference reflecting the amount of preferred foraging habitat (mainly pasture). Plot population densities fluctuated approximately in unison. Year‐to‐year density changes were strongly correlated with temperature in the preceding winter and previous year's spring/summer, indicating that warmer conditions promote both survival and breeding success. The mean spring sex ratio of sub‐adults (animals born in the previous calendar year) was not significantly different from 1M:1F. However, the 1.8M:1F ratio observed for adults was significantly male biased, probably a result of female mortality associated with rearing young. The study estimates that in an average year the South Uist hedgehog population numbers c. 2750 (95% confidence limit±800) adults and sub‐adults and these produce around 3000 young. Compared with the native range, hedgehog densities on South Uist are shown to be unusually high, probably because their natural predators are absent. High hedgehog densities have led directly to high rates of egg predation of ground‐nesting shorebirds and subsequent declines in bird populations. The results suggest that over the past 20 years egg losses have become more severe and control of hedgehogs more difficult because climate warming has resulted in generally more favourable conditions for hedgehogs on the islands.
Bootstrap Methods in Econometrics*
Authors: MacKINNON JAMES G.
Published: August 2006

There are many bootstrap methods that can be used for econometric analysis. In certain circumstances, such as regression models with independent and identically distributed error terms, appropriately chosen bootstrap methods generally work very well. However, there are many other cases, such as regression models with dependent errors, in which bootstrap methods do not always work well. This paper discusses a large number of bootstrap methods that can be useful in econometrics. Applications to hypothesis testing are emphasized, and simulation results are presented for a few illustrative cases.
Whose Values Count? Demand Management for Melbourne's Water*
Authors: EDWARDS GEOFF
Published: August 2006

An assessment is provided of Melbourne's rising block tariff for water and its prescriptive regulation of water use through non‐price restrictions. The three‐step rising block tariff fares poorly on economic efficiency and on widely used notions of equity. A two‐block tariff could remove much of the inefficiency in a three‐block tariff, but one‐price‐for‐all water would be the most efficient way to ration water on conventional definitions. The non‐price restrictions on water use are prescriptive, denying households the opportunity to decide how to make any cuts in water use required of them. State values usurp private values.
Using a Real‐Options Approach to Model Technology Adoption Under Carbon Price Uncertainty: An Application to the Australian Electricity Generation Sector*
Authors: REEDMAN LUKE , GRAHAM PAUL , COOMBES PETER
Published: August 2006

The present climate for investment in electricity generation assets in Australia is uncertain. We develop a real‐options model to contrast the timing of the uptake of various electricity generation technologies under two carbon tax simulations: when a carbon tax of known size commences at a certain date in the future; and a carbon tax of known size commences at an uncertain date in the future. We find that uptake in the future varies significantly depending upon an investor's view of uncertainty and whether the technology is primarily designed to be viable in a market with or without carbon taxes.
Ranking Australian Economics Departments by Research Productivity
Authors: NERI FRANK , RODGERS JOAN R.
Published: August 2006

This study ranks Australian economics departments according to their average research productivity during 1998–2002. The highest ranked departments are those at ANU, JCU, Melbourne, Tasmania and UWA. We also rank departments according to the variability of research productivity among their members, the assumption being that, other things being equal, the less variable is productivity within a department, the better. Research productivity is found to be highly skewed within all departments. However, in general, research productivity is more (less) evenly distributed within those departments that have relatively high (low) average research productivity.
Asymmetric Monetary Policy in Australia*
Authors: LEU SHAWN CHEN‐YU , SHEEN JEFFREY
Published: August 2006

We find evidence for asymmetric behaviour in Australian monetary policy. During 1984–1990, the Reserve Bank of Australia acted with considerable discretion yielding poor performance of an interest rate rule. However, it behaved asymmetrically to inflation and the output gap in downturns and upturns. On embracing inflation targeting from 1991, it enhanced its credibility by anchoring inflation expectations. Not only did its actions become more predictable in 1991–2002, it responded asymmetrically only to output, switching to act more acutely in downturns. Although its asymmetric behaviour could result from asymmetric preferences or non‐linear aggregate supply, our results support the former explanation.
Commodity Prices and the Dynamics of Inflation in Commodity‐Exporting Nations: Evidence from Australia and Canada*
Authors: BLOCH HARRY , DOCKERY A. MICHAEL , SAPSFORD DAVID
Published: August 2006

A commodity‐price boom is under way. What does this boom mean for inflation in countries with substantial net commodity exports? The answer depends on movements in commodity prices, changes in foreign exchange rates and the determinants of domestic price inflation. We estimate equations to provide indications of the strength of each of these forces for both Australia and Canada. The results show that world commodity prices move pro‐cyclically with world industrial production and that rates of change in commodity prices are directly related to domestic inflation in both countries. However, there is an offsetting impact of exchange‐rate changes, which is strong enough in the case of Australia, but not Canada, to substantially eliminate the inflationary impact of a commodity‐price boom.
Intrahepatic activation of caspases in human fulminant hepatic failure
Authors: Leifeld Ludger , Nattermann Jacob , Fielenbach Magdalene , Schmitz Volker , Sauerbruch Tilman , Spengler Ulrich
Published: August 2006

Abstract: Background/Aims: Apoptosis has been implicated in the pathogenesis of fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) potentially involving caspases. Thus far, apoptosis in FHF has mainly been studied in animal models while human data are sparse.

Methods: Caspases‐3, ‐8 and ‐9 activities and Fas expression were analyzed in correlation to TdT‐mediated dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) positive apoptotic cells in livers of patients with FHF (n=26), chronic liver disease (CLD) (n=60) and normal controls (NC) (n=10).

Results: Numbers of TUNEL‐positive cells were higher in FHF than in CLD and NC (P<0.001) correlating to the intrahepatic activities of caspase‐3. The highest caspase‐3 activities were found in fulminant hepatitis B, significantly surpassing those in FHF of any other etiology. In fulminant hepatitis B, caspase‐9 activity was also higher than in controls, while caspase‐8 activation was not higher than in NC. Unlike caspase‐3, caspases ‐8 and ‐9 activities were not correlated to the numbers of TUNEL positive cells. Fas expression was also the highest in FHF but did not differ between hepatitis B virus‐FHF and other FHF.

Conclusions: Our data indicate differential activation of intrahepatic caspases in FHF depending on the underlying etiology. Massive activation of caspases in fulminant hepatitis B confirms a pivotal role of apoptotic pathways in the pathogenesis of human fulminant hepatitis B.
The AST/ALT ratio as an indicator of cirrhosis in patients with PBC
Authors: Nyblom Helena , Björnsson Einar , Simrén Magnus , Aldenborg Frank , Almer Sven , Olsson Rolf
Published: August 2006

Abstract: Objectives: A non‐invasive, simple and non‐expensive test to predict cirrhosis would be highly desirable. The aspartate aminotransferase/alanine aminotransferase (AST/ALT) ratio has been proven to be such an indicator of cirrhosis in alcoholic liver disease, hepatitis C.

Aim: To test whether the AST/ALT ratio is a marker of cirrhosis also in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC).

Methods: The study consisted of 160 patients. In 126 patients, we had clinical and laboratory data at the time of diagnosis and follow‐up with outcome: liver‐related death, liver transplantation and survival. In 121 patients, we had laboratory data and liver histology.

Results: We found that the AST/ALT ratio was significantly higher in cirrhotic patients than in non‐cirrhotic patients. A high AST/ALT ratio was significantly associated with esophageal varices and ascites. In a multivariate analysis, bilirubin and ALP were predictors of poor prognosis.

Conclusion: The AST/ALT ratio seems to be of clinical value as a hint to the diagnosis of cirrhosis in patients with PBC but not as a prognostic factor.
Influence of Helicobacter pylori infection on iron accumulation in hepatitis C
Authors: Sumida Yoshio , Kanemasa Kazuyuki , Yamaoka Yoshio , Imamura Shigeyoshi , Katoh Naho , Nakashima Toshiaki , Tachibana Shunji , Mitsuyoshi Hironori , Itoh Yoshito , Okanoue Takeshi
Published: August 2006

Abstract: Goal: Iron may play a role in the pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis C. Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection was recently associated with iron‐deficiency anemia. We examined the influence of Hp infection on hepatic iron accumulation in hepatitis C.

Methods: Ninety‐five hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐RNA‐positive patients, including 60 chronic hepatitis, 17 cirrhosis and 18 hepatocellular carcinoma as well as 95 age‐ and sex‐matched normal subjects without HCV infection as control, were studied. Liver biopsies were also obtained from 44 HCV‐infected patients. Serum Hp antibodies were measured by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and clinical data, including iron parameters and histological findings, were compared between Hp‐positive and ‐negative HCV‐infected patients.

Results: The percentage of serum Hp antibodies was lower in HCV‐infected patients than in controls (52/95 (54.7%) vs. 68/95 (71.6%); P<0.05). HCV‐infected patients had higher serum ferritin levels than controls (120 [2.8–1700] vs. 58 [2.2–420] ng/ml; P<0.0001). In HCV‐infected patients, the serum ferritin levels (medians and [ranges]) in Hp‐positive patients were significantly lower than those of Hp‐negative patients (99 [8.5–770] vs. 150 [2.8–1700] ng/ml; P<0.05). The grades of hepatic iron deposit in Hp‐positive patients were significantly lower than those in Hp‐negative patients (P<0.01).

Conclusions: Hp infection may at least partly affect hepatic iron accumulation in HCV‐related liver diseases.
Do young hepatocellular carcinoma patients have worse prognosis? The paradox of age as a prognostic factor in the survival of hepatocellular carcinoma patients
Authors: Chen Chien‐Hung , Chang Ting‐Tsung , Cheng Ken‐Sheng , Su Wei‐Wen , Yang Sheng‐Shun , Lin Hans Hsienhong , Wu Shun‐Sheng , Lee Chuan‐Mo , Changchien Chi‐Sin , Chen Chien‐Jen , Sheu Jin‐Chuan , Chen Ding‐Shinn , Lu Sheng‐Nan
Published: August 2006

Abstract: Background/Aims: Our previous study showed that male hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients below 40 years of age had the worst survival in the initial several years, but had the best prognosis thereafter. Thus, it seems that age has a paradoxical influence on the prognosis. To further clarify the issue of age on HCC prognosis, we initiated this study.

Methods: A total of 11 312 HCC cases from seven medical centers from 1986 to 2002 were included. We analyzed the 1‐year survival and survival after 1 year.

Results: Male gender, age younger than 40 years old and hepatitis B virus (HBV) were associated with worse 1‐year survival. In contrast, male gender, age younger than 40 years old and HBV were associated with better survival after 1 year. Higher percentage of the young HCC patients had a tumor size larger than 3 cm. 83.7% of HCC patients below 40 years of age were male and 89.8% of them were HBV carriers.

Conclusions: If we encountered a young HCC patient, the patient will probably be a male HBV carrier. He would probably have larger tumor and is more likely to expire within 1 year than the older HCC patients. However, if the young HCC patient can survive for more than 1 year, he would probably have better survival in the following years than the older patients.
Prevalence of primary non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in a population‐based study and its association with biochemical and anthropometric measures
Authors: Zelber‐Sagi Shira , Nitzan‐Kaluski Dorit , Halpern Zamir , Oren Ran
Published: August 2006

Abstract: Background/Aims: Only a few studies have assessed the epidemiology of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aim was to evaluate the prevalence of primary NAFLD in a population‐based study in Israel and to determine independent risk factors.

Methods: A cross‐sectional study of a subsample of the Israeli national health survey (n=352). Individuals with a known etiology for secondary NAFLD were excluded. Each participant underwent an abdominal ultrasound, biochemical tests and an anthropometric evaluation.

Results: Three hundred and twenty‐six subjects (53.4% male, mean age 50.5±10.3 standard deviaton [SD]) met the inclusion criteria. The prevalence of primary NAFLD was 30% (25–35% 95% confidence intervals [CI]). NAFLD was more prevalent in men than women (38% vs. 21%; P=0.001). Compared with ultrasonography, the sensitivity of serum alanine transaminase (ALT) for the diagnosis of primary NAFLD was 8.2%. Risk factors independently associated with NAFLD included male gender (odds ratios (OR)=2.8, 95% CI 1.5–5.3), abdominal obesity (OR=2.9, 95% CI 1.3–6.4), homeostasis model assessment (OR=5.8, 95% CI 2.0–17.2), hyperinsulinemia (OR=2.3, 95% CI 1.2–4.3, P=0.01) and hypertriglyceridemia (OR=2.4, 95% CI 1.3–4.5).

Conclusions: NAFLD is prevalent in the general Israeli population and closely related to the metabolic syndrome. The use of ALT as a marker for NAFLD seriously underestimates its prevalence.
Metabolic Syndrome and Cardiovascular Disease in Older People: The Cardiovascular Health Study
Authors: McNeill Ann Marie , Katz Ronit , Girman Cynthia J. , Rosamond Wayne D. , Wagenknecht Lynne E. , Barzilay Joshua I. , Tracy Russell P. , Savage Peter J. , Jackson Sharon A.
Published: August 2006

OBJECTIVES: To assess the prospective association between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in older people and to evaluate the effect of lowering the threshold for impaired fasting glucose (IFG) on the prevalence of IFG and MetS and the risk of CVD.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study.

SETTING: Four field centers in U.S. communities.

PARTICIPANTS: Three thousand five hundred eighty‐five subjects in the Cardiovascular Health Study free of diabetes mellitus and CVD at baseline (mean age 72, 62% female, 14% black).

MEASUREMENTS: Baseline measures of MetS components and adjudicated incident CVD events. MetS (2001) was defined first using the original criteria from the Third Adult Treatment Panel Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (≥3 of the following: large waist circumference (women >88 cm, men >102 cm), elevated triglycerides (≥1.70 mmol/L), low high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (men <1.04 mmol/L, women <1.30 mmol/L), elevated fasting glucose (6.1–6.9 mmol/L), and high blood pressure (≥130/85 mmHg or self‐reported use of medications for hypertension). Subjects were also classified according to the revised definition of the MetS (2005) that applies the lower threshold for fasting glucose (5.6–6.9 mmol/L).

RESULTS: During follow‐up (median 11 years), 818 coronary heart disease (CHD), 401 stroke, and 554 congestive heart failure (CHF) events occurred. Age‐ and race‐adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for CHD, stroke, and CHF were 1.30 (95% confidence interval (CI)=1.07–1.57), 0.94 (95% CI=0.73–1.21), and 1.40 (95% CI=1.12–1.76) for women and 1.35 (95% CI=1.10–1.66), 1.51 (95% CI=1.08–2.12), and 1.47 (95% CI=1.14–1.90) for men, respectively. Overall, women and men with MetS (2005) were 20% to 30% more likely to experience any CVD event than subjects without MetS (2005). Using the lower cut‐point for IFG resulted in a near tripling in IFG prevalence (16% to 46%) and an additional 9% classified with MetS (2005) but HRs similar to those estimated from the original MetS (2001) criteria. High blood pressure was the component most strongly associated with incident CHD.

CONCLUSION: Results from this study of an elderly, population‐based cohort provide support for earlier investigations in primarily middle‐aged populations that link the presence of MetS with the development of CVD and further underscore the importance of recognizing and treating its individual components, particularly high blood pressure.
Over‐the‐Counter Drug Use by Medicare Beneficiaries in Nursing Homes: Implications for Practice and Policy
Authors: Simoni‐Wastila Linda , Stuart Bruce C. , Shaffer Thomas
Published: August 2006

OBJECTIVES: To examine over‐the‐counter (OTC) medication use by Medicare beneficiaries in nursing homes and to assess evidence of substitution of OTC medications for prescription (Rx) medications by residents with no Rx coverage and Medicaid.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional multivariable analysis.

SETTING: Medicare beneficiaries included in the nationally representative Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey in 2001.

PARTICIPANTS: Seven hundred eighty‐nine Medicare beneficiaries with 1 or more months in a nursing home.

MEASUREMENTS: Proportions of residents using Rx and OTC medications per resident‐month and counts of drugs used within selected therapeutic classes.

RESULTS: Study subjects were high users of Rx (98%) and OTC (94%) drugs. The average resident was administered 8.8 unique medications per month (5.9 Rx and 2.9 OTC medications). Twelve therapeutic classes accounted for 93.9% of OTC medication use by residents, but Rx use was also high in some of these same classes. For example, 70.3% of all subjects used nonopioid OTC analgesics, and 19.0% used nonopioid Rx analgesics, and 13.8% used OTC antacids/antiulcer agents, whereas 35.8% used Rx products in this class. The highest overlap was in the category of cough and cold medications, of which 19.3% used OTCs and 20.1% used Rx drugs. Multivariate regression analyses applied to users of drugs in each these three therapeutic classes found no evidence that Rx coverage influenced the choice of OTC versus Rx‐only medications.

CONCLUSION: OTCs represent an important component of the therapeutic regimens of nursing home residents, but utilization rates are insensitive to drug coverage. That may change with the implementation of the Medicare Part D drug benefit.
Clinical Characteristics and Longitudinal Changes of Informal Cost of Alzheimer's Disease in the Community
Authors: Zhu Carolyn W. , Scarmeas Nikolaos , Torgan Rebecca , Albert Marilyn , Brandt Jason , Blacker Deborah , Sano Mary , Stern Yaakov
Published: August 2006

Most estimates of the cost of informal caregiving in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) remain cross‐sectional. Longitudinal estimates of informal caregiving hours and costs are less frequent and are from assessments covering only short periods of time. The objectives of this study were to estimate long‐term trajectories of the use and cost of informal caregiving for patients with AD and the effects of patient characteristics on the use and cost of informal caregiving. The sample is drawn from the Predictors Study, a large, multicenter cohort of patients with probable AD, prospectively followed annually for up to 7 years in three university‐based AD centers in the United States (n=170). Generalized linear mixed models were used to estimate the effects of patient characteristics on use and cost of informal caregiving. Patients' clinical characteristics included cognitive status (Mini‐Mental State Examination), functional capacity (Blessed Dementia Rating Scale (BDRS)), comorbidities, psychotic symptoms, behavioral problems, depressive symptoms, and extrapyramidal signs. Results show that rates of informal care use and caregiving hours (and costs) increased substantially over time but were related differently to patients' characteristics. Use of informal care was significantly associated with worse cognition, worse function, and higher comorbidities. Conditional on receiving informal care, informal caregiving hours (and costs) were mainly associated with worse function. Each additional point on the BDRS increased informal caregiving costs 5.4%. Average annual informal cost was estimated at $25,381 per patient, increasing from $20,589 at baseline to $43,030 in Year 4.
Cricothyroid Muscle Function and Vocal Fold Stability in Exercising Horses
Authors: HOLCOMBE SUSAN J. , RODRIGUEZ KATIE , LANE JENNIFER , CARON JOHN P.
Published: August 2006

Objectives—To determine (1) if the cricothyroid muscle had respiratory‐related electromyographic (EMG) activity that increased with respiratory effort and (2) if bilateral cricothyroid myotomy resulted in vocal fold instability and collapse in exercising horses.

Study Design—Experimental.

Animals—Seven (3 EMG; 4 cricothyroid myotomy) Standardbred horses.

Methods—Three horses exercised on a treadmill at speeds corresponding to the speed that produced maximum heart rate (HRmax), 75% of maximum heart rate (HR75%max), and 50% of maximum heart rate (HR50%max) for 60 seconds at each speed while EMG activity of the cricothyroid muscle and nasopharyngeal pressures were measured. Another 4 normal horses were exercised on the treadmill at HRmaxand HR75%maxfor 60 seconds at each speed before and after bilateral cricothyroid myotomy. Upper airway pressures were measured and videoendoscopic examinations were performed and videotaped at each speed.

Results—Peak phasic EMG activity of the cricothyroid muscle was coincident with inspiration and increased with treadmill speed. Bilateral cricothyroid myotomy resulted in vocal fold collapse in all horses. Mean peak inspiratory pressures were significantly more negative compared with control values at both HRmaxand HR75%max.

Conclusions—Cricothyroid muscle dysfunction may be implicated in vocal fold collapse and likely causes inspiratory airway obstruction in exercising horses.

Clinical Relevance—Conditions compromising cricothyroid muscle function or motor innervation could result in vocal fold collapse.
In Vitro Study of the Ilial Anatomic Landmarks for Safe Implant Insertion in the First Sacral Vertebra of the Intact Canine Sacroiliac Joint
Authors: JOSEPH ROTEM , MILGRAM JOSHUA , ZHAN KLAUS , SHAHAR RON
Published: August 2006

Objective— To define landmarks on the canine ilial wing for accurate, consistent insertion of implants into the 1st sacral (S1) vertebral body when the sacroiliac joint is intact.

Study Design— Anatomic study.

Animals— Intact, cadaveric canine pelves and sacra (n=25).

Methods— Median sections (5 specimens) were drilled from the center of S1 in a lateral direction, exiting on the ilial wing. Landmarks on the ilial wing and shaft used to define this exit point were then used to locate this point on both wings of 20 articulated specimens, positioned and rigidly held so that the dorsal plane of the pelvis was aligned with a plumb line and the median plane of the pelvis was horizontal. A 2 mm hole was drilled from the marked point, parallel to the plumb line, until it exited the contralateral ilial wing. Distance of drill hole position from the geometric center (GC) of S1 was located on median and paramedian plane images derived from plane, computed tomographic (CT) scans.

Results— The entire drill hole was located within S1 in 18 specimens. Mean deviation of the hole from GC (ratio of the distance of GC from the closest S1 body border) in median section was 0.40±0.29 (craniocaudal direction) and 0.29±0.23 (dorsoventral).

Conclusions— Use of ilial wing landmarks and drilling perpendicular to the median plane will improve accuracy for insertion of implants into S1 when the sacroiliac joint is intact.

Clinical Relevance— Ilial wing landmarks should be used to improve accuracy of implant insertion into S1.
Effect of Positive End‐Expiratory Pressure on Oxygen Delivery During 1‐Lung Ventilation for Thoracoscopy in Normal Dogs
Authors: KUDNIG SIMON T. , MONNET ERIC , RIQUELME MIRIAM , GAYNOR JAMES S. , CORLISS DENISE , SALMAN MOWAFAK D.
Published: August 2006

Objective— To evaluate the effect of positive end‐expiratory pressure (PEEP) on oxygen delivery (DO2) with 1‐lung ventilation during thoracoscopy in normal anesthetized dogs.

Study Design— Prospective, controlled experimental study.

Animals— Eight, adult, intact Walker Hound dogs weighing 25.6–29.2 kg.

Methods— Anesthetized dogs had 1‐lung ventilation during an open‐chest condition. A Swan–Ganz catheter was used to measure pulmonary hemodynamic variables and to obtain mixed venous blood samples for blood gas analysis. A dorsal pedal catheter was used for measurement of systemic arterial pressure and to obtain arterial blood samples for blood gas analysis. Oxygen delivery was calculated and used to assess the effect of 0, 2.5, and 5 cm H2O PEEP during 1‐lung ventilation on cardiopulmonary function. Each dog was its own control at 0 cm H2O PEEP. A randomized block ANOVA for repeated measures was used to evaluate the effect of the treatment on hemodynamic and pulmonary variables.

Results— Use of 5 cm H2O PEEP induced a significant augmentation in the arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2). Shunt fraction (Qs/Qt), physiologic dead space (VD/VT), and the alveolar–arterial oxygen difference (PA−aO2) decreased significantly after 5 cm H2O PEEP, compared with 1‐lung ventilation without PEEP. Use of 2.5 cm H2O PEEP had no significant effect on cardiopulmonary variables. Use of PEEP had no significant effect on arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2), DO2, and hemodynamic variables in normal dogs.

Conclusions— PEEP had no effect on DO2 in normal dogs undergoing open‐chest 1‐lung ventilation because it had no adverse effect on hemodynamic variables.

Clinical Relevance— PEEP in normal dogs during open‐chest 1‐lung ventilation for thoracoscopy is not detrimental to cardiac output and can be recommended in clinical patients.
Evaluation of the Effect of Two Dose Rates of Cyclosporine on the Severity of Perianal Fistulae Lesions and Associated Clinical Signs in Dogs
Authors: HOUSE ARTHUR K. , GUITIAN JAVIER , GREGORY SUSAN P. , HARDIE ROBERT J.
Published: August 2006

Objective—To investigate the effect of cyclosporine (2 or 5 mg/kg every 24 hours) on perianal fistulae (PAF) lesions.

Study Design—Blinded randomized, prospective trial.

Animals—Dogs (n=20) with perianal fistulae.

Methods—Dogs were randomly assigned to administration of either 2 mg/kg (n=10) or 5 mg/kg (n=10) of cyclosporine orally every 24 hours for 8 weeks. Lesion surface area was measured, lesion severity was graded using a visual analog scale, and the presence and severity of clinical signs recorded every 2 weeks.

Results—Lesion variables were significantly reduced in both groups after 8 weeks and owners also reported a reduction in clinical sign severity. The 5 mg/kg dose rate significantly accelerated lesion resolution compared with 2 mg/kg. In the 2 mg/kg group, 20% of dogs had complete resolution of clinical signs and 10% had resolution of lesions. In the 5 mg/kg group, 40% of dogs had complete resolution of clinical signs and 60% had resolution of lesions.

Conclusions—A dose rate of 5 mg/kg every 24 hours was more effective at reducing the surface area and severity of PAF lesions than 2 mg/kg every 24 hours but less effective at resolving PAF lesions than previous studies using dose rates ≥5 mg/kg every 12 hours.

Clinical Relevance—Cyclosporine at 5 mg/kg every 24 hours may be useful for the palliation of PAF lesions.
Mechanical Comparison of Two Knots and Two Crimp Systems for Securing Nylon Line Used for Extra‐Articular Stabilization of the Canine Stifle
Authors: VIANNA MARIA L. , ROE SIMON C.
Published: August 2006

Objective—To compare mechanical properties of knotted and crimped nylon loops.

Study Design—In vitro mechanical evaluation.

Sample Population—Loops of 27 kg‐test nylon leader. Single strand—clamped square knot compared with 2 crimp systems. Two strand—self‐locking knot compared with 2 crimped loops.

Methods—(a) Single pull to failure (n=10) at 500 mm/min. Initial loop tension (N), peak load (N), peak elongation (mm), stiffness of the linear portion of the curve (N/mm), and failure mode were recorded. (b) Incremental cyclic loading to failure (n=5)—each loop was cycled 5 times to 100 N at a loading rate of 200 mm/min. Cycling was repeated, with the load increased by 50 N after each set. Elongation (mm), tension remaining (N), and after permanent deformation was present, elongation at 10 N (mm) were measured.

Results—Initial tension and stiffness were greater for crimped loops when compared with knotted loops. There were no differences between crimped loops. The self‐locking knot elongated more, and was less stiff, when compared with 2 crimped loops. With incremental loading, knotted loops elongated more than crimped loops. The tension remaining in the loop fell below 10 N more quickly for knotted loops compared with crimped loops.

Conclusion—Crimped loops are stiffer, and resist both static and cyclic load more effectively before becoming permanently elongated, when compared with knotted loops.

Clinical Relevance—Stifle stability will be maintained more effectively by crimped nylon loops when compared with knotted loops.
The Prevalence of Laryngeal Disease in a Large Population of Competition Draft Horses
Authors: BRAKENHOFF JEFFREY E. , HOLCOMBE SUSAN J. , HAUPTMAN JOE G. , SMITH HOLLY K. , NICKELS FRANK A. , CARON JOHN P.
Published: August 2006

Objectives—(1) To determine the effect of age, height, weight, breed, sex, and specific use on the prevalence of idiopathic left laryngeal hemiplegia (ILH) in a population of draft performance horses; (2) to determine the association between tracheal mucus and laryngeal dysfunction, and the prevalence of exercise‐induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) in a population of draft performance horses.

Study Design—Cross‐sectional.

Animals—Draft horses competing at the 2005 Michigan Great Lakes Draft Horse Show.

Methods—Endoscopic examinations were performed on horses competing at the 2005 Michigan Great Lakes Draft Horse Show. Signalment, height, and weight were obtained from the owners and trainers.

Results—Belgian, Percheron, and Clydesdale horses (n=183) were studied. Prevalence of ILH was 35%. Horse height was significantly associated with the risk of ILH in Belgian and Percheron horses but not Clydesdales. There was a significantly different prevalence of ILH among the breeds such that 42% Belgians, 31% Percherons, and 17% Clydesdales were affected. Laryngeal disease was a risk factor for increased tracheal mucus. None of the horses had acute evidence of EIPH.

Conclusions—The prevalence of ILH in draft horses has increased or is higher in competition horses compared with previously studied groups. Tracheal and/or pulmonary inflammation may be more common in draft horses with ILH based on our findings that horses with ILH have more tracheal mucus than horses with normal laryngeal function.

Clinical Relevance—Selection pressure for large, taller, longer‐necked horses may be responsible for a seemingly increased incidence of ILH in competitive draft horses.
Shirking in a monetary business cycle model
Authors: Alexopoulos Michelle
Published: August 2006

Abstract This paper investigates whether a limited participation model with imperfectly observed effort can reproduce the economy's responses to a monetary policy shock without appealing to high labour supply elasticities or high markups. The results demonstrate that the presence of imperfectly observed effort, in combination with the limited participation assumption, allows the model to account for the presence of involuntary unemployment, nominal wage rigidity, and the observed responses to monetary policy shocks.
Currency substitution, portfolio diversification, and money demand
Authors: De Freitas Miguel Lebre , Veiga Francisco José
Published: August 2006

Abstract We extend the Thomas (1985) dynamic optimizing model of money demand and currency substitution to the case in which the individual has restricted or no access to foreign currency denominated bonds. In this case currency substitution decisions and asset substitution decisions are not separable. The results obtained suggest that the significance of an expected exchange rate depreciation term in the demand for domestic money provides a valid test for the presence of currency substitution. Applying this approach to six Latin‐American countries, we find evidence of currency substitution in Colombia, Dominican Republic, and Venezuela, but not in Brazil and Chile.
Trade policy mix: IPR protection and R&D subsidies
Authors: Kang Moonsung
Published: August 2006

Abstract This paper analyses strategic R&D policy under circumstances where intellectual property rights protection resulting from firms' R&D investment is not perfect. By examining policy choices wherein a government chooses both R&D subsidies and IPR protection levels simultaneously, we show that it is optimal for a government to adopt sufficiently weak IPR protection and to subsidize R&D investments of domestic firms. Inducing R&D investment of foreign rival firms will increase the profits of domestic firms.