bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of black tea gel and its protection potential against UV
Authors: Turkoglu M. , Cigirgil N.
Published: November 2007

Synopsis

In this study, aqueous and alcoholic extracts of black tea were obtained. The black tea extracts were tested in vitro for their ultraviolet (UV) absorption profile. It was found that both extracts showed UV absorption and followed the same path based on the wavelength. Aqueous extract showed a stronger absorptivity per weight basis than the alcoholic extract of black tea. A peak was obtained between 250 and 300 nm. After 300 nm, UV absorption decreased fast towards 400 nm with a low absorptivity. The black tea aqueous extract was formulated as a gel with the help of a carbomer resin and tested in vivo in six subjects for evaluating its protection potential against the UV (200–400 nm) using an artificial UV source consisting of a high pressure metal halide discharge lamp. Based on erythema evaluation, it was found that erythema appeared after 4 h and reached a peak at 24 h on control site. On the contrary, no erythema was observed in any of the six subjects on black tea gel applied sites. Therefore, it was concluded that black tea gel protected the skin from a broad range UV (200–400 nm) radiation. The black tea gel can be safely applied in large amounts on large skin surfaces without any toxicological concerns.
Influence of different parameters on droplet size and size distribution of sprayable sunscreen emulsions with high concentration of UV‐filters
Authors: Durand L. , Habran N. , Denis C. , Meulders L. , Henschel V. , Amighi K.
Published: November 2007

Synopsis

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the possible influence of different formulation and technological parameters such as sunscreen type and concentration, viscosity, propellant gas, actuator and valve type on size and size distribution of droplets in emulsions of waterproof sunscreens conditioned in aerosol cans. Different kinds of emulsion, W/Si and W/O, were prepared with high concentrations of organic and inorganic UV‐filters. These formulations were incorporated in aerosol cans with gas (a blend of butane, propane and isobutane). The size and size distribution of the droplets were analysed by laser diffraction using a Malvern® Spraytec. The results showed that the sprayability of the formulation and the particle size characteristics of the emitted sprays are dependent on the physicochemical properties of the formulations. Sprayable waterproof sunscreen emulsions, with a high sun protection factor and negligible percentage of emitted droplets below 30 μm, were successfully developed by optimizing formulation parameters and using appropriate actuators and valves.
In vivo persistent pigment darkening method: proposal of a new standard product for UVA protection factor determination
Authors: Moyal D. , Pissavini M. , Boyer F. , Perier V. , Frêlon J. H.
Published: November 2007

Synopsis

The European Commission (EC) has recommended assessing the level of ultraviolet A (UVA) protection afforded by sunscreen products using the in vivo persistent pigment darkening (PPD) method or other methods giving equivalent results. In this context, the reproducibility of the in vivo PPD method is of importance. To check the validity of the UVA protection factor (UVAPF) tests, the Japanese Cosmetic Industry Association (JCIA) recommends using a standard product (JCIA standard) with an expected UVAPF 3.75 (SD 1.01). However, considering the increase in UVA efficacy of the new sunscreen products available in the market, with UVAPF up to 30, it seemed useful to develop a new standard product to be used when testing products with expected UVAPF ≥10. The PPD method was used in six centres to determine the UVAPF of the two products. Reproducibility of results was also studied by testing two batches of the new product at two different times. There was no statistical difference between the six centres with regard to the JCIA standard. The ring study showed that the mean value of UVAPF (4.3) was higher than that given by JCIA (3.75). These data enable the proposal of a new acceptance range for the JCIA standard product (3.4–5.2) derived from actual results from European laboratories. Whereas this range is different from that proposed by JCIA (2.74–4.76), there is an overlapping of the values. Data on the new standard product show that reproducibility is not influenced by the batches of this product. The mean UVAPF value obtained is 12.1. An acceptance range (9.6–14.6) is proposed for the new standard. Data presented here demonstrate that if an identical protocol is used, reproducible results can be expected and that the PPD method is reproducible and reliable.
Nanostructured lipid carriers as novel carrier for sunscreen formulations
Authors: Xia Q. , Saupe A. , Müller R. H. , Souto E. B.
Published: November 2007

Synopsis

Incorporation of sunscreens into lipid carriers with an increased sun protection factor (SPF) has not yet been fully accomplished. In the present paper, the effectiveness of a sunscreen mixture, incorporated into the novel topical delivery systems, i.e. solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), used as ultraviolet (UV) protector enhancers with a distinctly higher loading capacity has been developed and evaluated. SLN and NLC were produced by hot high pressure homogenization technique in lab scale production. Size distribution and storage stability of formulations were investigated by laser diffractometry and photon correlation spectroscopy. Nanoparticles were characterized by their melting and recrystallization behaviour recorded by differential scanning calorimetry. Lipid nanoparticles produced with a solid matrix (SLN and NLC) were established as a UV protection system. The loading capacities for molecular sunscreens reported before now were in the range of 10–15%. It was possible to load NLC with up to 70% with molecular sunscreen, which is appropriate to obtain high SPFs with this novel UV protection system. The developed formulations provide a beneficial alternative to conventional sunscreen formulations. The UV protective efficacy of the lipid particles varied with the nature of lipid and UV wavelength.
Anticonvulsant and acute adverse effect profiles of picolinic acid 2‐fluoro‐benzylamide in various experimental seizure models and chimney test in mice
Authors: Luszczki Jarogniew J. , Swiader Mariusz J. , Swiader Katarzyna , Paruszewski Ryszard , Turski Waldemar A. , Czuczwar Stanislaw J.
Published: November 2007

The objective of this study was to evaluate the anticonvulsant properties of picolinic acid 2‐fluoro‐benzylamide (Pic‐2F‐BZA) in numerous experimental seizure models [maximal electroshock (MES), bicuculline (BIC), pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), pilocarpine (PILO), α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA), kainic acid (KA) and N‐methyl‐d‐aspartic acid (NMDA)‐induced seizures]. Moreover, the acute adverse‐effect profile of the agent with respect to impairment of motor performance was assessed in animals subjected to the chimney test. Results indicate that Pic‐2F‐BZA in time‐ and dose‐dependent manners produced both the anti‐electroshock action and acute adverse effects in the MES and chimney tests in mice respectively. The experimentally derived median effective dose (ED50 value) in the MES test was 24.2 mg/kg (at 5 min after i.p. administration), whereas the median toxic dose (TD50 value) in the chimney test was 71.7 mg/kg. Furthermore, Pic‐2F‐BZA produced clear‐cut antiseizure effects in all chemically induced seizure models and its ED50 values amounted to 19.9 mg/kg for KA‐, 39.5 mg/kg for AMPA‐, 56.2 mg/kg for PTZ‐, 76.4 mg/kg for BIC‐, 160.1 mg/kg for PILO‐ and 165.2 mg/kg for NMDA‐induced seizures. Based on this study, one can conclude that Pic‐2F‐BZA, because of its broad spectrum of anticonvulsant action and the short time to peak of its maximum anticonvulsant effects (5 min after its i.p. administration), deserves more attention as a potential antiepileptic drug for status epilepticus patients.
Relationship between plasma endothelin‐1 concentration and cardiovascular responses during high‐intensity eccentric and concentric exercise
Authors: Okamoto Takanobu , Masuhara Mitsuhiko , Ikuta Komei
Published: November 2007

The present study investigates the relationship between plasma endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) concentrations and cardiovascular responses during eccentric (ECC) and concentric (CON) resistance exercises. Eight healthy males (aged 24·3 ± 1·2 years) performed dynamic forearm exercises for 60 s at an angular velocity of 60º s−1. Each test comprised 60‐s high‐intensity (80% of peak torque) bouts of randomly selected ECC and CON contractions, and the plasma ET‐1 concentrations were measured before and after each type of contraction. Systolic pressure (SBP), diastolic pressure (DBP), pulse pressure and heart rate (HR) during ECC and CON contraction were also measured. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was calculated from SBP and DBP. The rate‐pressure product (RPP) was calculated from SBP and HR. The plasma ET‐1 concentration was significantly increased after CON, compared with ECC contraction (P<0·01). Moreover, SBP, DBP, MAP and RPP were significantly increased (P<0·05, P<0·01, P<0·001, respectively) during CON, compared with ECC contraction. Correlations between plasma ET‐1 concentration and MAP were not significant during ECC contraction, but significantly positive during CON contraction (P<0·05). These results showed that CON contraction is associated with ET‐1 production and a greater increase in blood pressure compared with ECC contraction.
Resistance exercise training improves heart rate variability in women with fibromyalgia
Authors: Figueroa Arturo , Kingsley J. Derek , McMillan Victor , Panton Lynn B.
Published: November 2007

Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by generalized muscle pain, low muscle strength and autonomic dysfunction. Heart rate (HR) variability (HRV) is reduced in individuals with FM increasing their risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. We tested the hypothesis that resistance exercise training (RET) improves HRV, baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) and muscle strength in women with FM. Women with FM (n = 10) and healthy controls (n = 9), aged 27–60 years, were compared at baseline. Only women with FM underwent supervised RET 2 days per week for 16 weeks. Baseline and post‐training measurements included HRV and spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity (BRS, alpha index) from continuous electrocardiogram and blood pressure (BP) recorded with finger plethysmography during 5 min in the supine position. RR interval, total power, log transformed (Ln) squared root of the standard deviation of RR interval (RMSSD), low‐frequency power and BRS were lower (P<0·05), and HR and pulse pressure were higher (P<0·05) in women with FM than in healthy controls. After RET, mean (SEM) total power increased (387 ± 170 ms2, P<0·05), RMSSD increased (0·18 ± 0·08 Ln ms, P<0·05) and Ln of high‐frequency power increased (0·54 ± 0·27 Ln ms2, P = 0·08) in women with FM. Upper and lower body muscle strength increased by 63% and 49% (P<0·001), and pain perception decreased by 39% in women with FM. There were no changes in BRS, HR and BP after RET. Our study demonstrates that RET improves total power, cardiac parasympathetic tone, pain perception and muscle strength in women with FM who had autonomic dysfunction before the exercise programme.
FIRST RECORD OF AN AQUATIC BEETLE LARVA (INSECTA: COLEOPTERA) FROM THE PARSORA FORMATION (PERMO‐TRIASSIC), INDIA
Authors: GHOSH S. C. , PAL T. K. , NANDI A.
Published: November 2007

Abstract: The fossilized larva of an aquatic beetle,Protodytiscus johillaensisgen. et sp. nov., is described from a ferruginous micaceous siltstone bed of the Permo‐Triassic Parsora Formation of the South Rewa Gondwana Basin, Madhya Pradesh, India, and its systematic position and ordinal relationships within the coleopterous suborder Adephaga are discussed. Hitherto, the oldest known fossils of the hydradephagan superfamily Dytiscoidea have been Jurassic. The discovery ofP. johillaensisextends the range of the Dytiscoidea back to the Permo‐Triassic period.
A NEW EARLY ORDOVICIAN CONODONT GENUS FROM THE SOUTHERN MONTAGNE NOIRE, FRANCE
Authors: SERPAGLI ENRICO , FERRETTI ANNALISA , VIZCAÏNO DANIEL , ÁLVARO JOSÉ JAVIER
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  Two species of a new Tremadocian (Early Ordovician) conodont genus from the Saint Chinian Formation of the southern Montagne Noire, France, are erected: Hammannodus sarae gen. et sp. nov. and Hammannodus juliae gen. et sp. nov. They were found within a single storm‐induced limestone nodule interbedded with offshore shales belonging to the regional Shumardia (C.) pusilla (trilobite) Biozone, and to the Paltodus deltifer deltifer (conodont) Subzone. This conodont record is associated with the episodic development of carbonate productivity in temperate waters of the Montagne Noire platform, a process absent in neighbouring platforms of north‐west Gondwana. The apparatus is composed of five coniform pyramidal elements occupying P and S positions and one bicostate element in the M position, having three or two sharp costae, respectively, with a subtriangular basal outline.
SCHIZOPTERID BUGS (INSECTA: HETEROPTERA) IN MID‐CRETACEOUS AMBERS FROM FRANCE and MYANMAR (BURMA)
Authors: PERRICHOT VINCENT , NEL ANDRÉ , NÉRAUDEAU DIDIER
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  Bugs of two new genera and species are described as Buzinia couillardi and Tanaia burmitica. They are preserved in mid‐Cretaceous amber from south‐west France and northern Myanmar (Burma), respectively (c. 100 Ma). These are the first formally described fossils of the heteropteran family Schizopteridae. Both belong to the subfamily Hypselosomatinae and are very similar to the extant genus Hypselosoma Reuter, providing evidence for the antiquity and morphological stability of this small bug family and the infraorder Dipsocoromorpha. Given the putative ecology of the fossils, a discussion is provided on the French and Burmese amber forest ecosystems. The geological setting of La Buzinie, a new amber deposit in south‐west France that yielded the two specimens of Buzinia couillardi, is outlined.
A NEW DIPNOAN FISH FROM THE MIDDLE DEVONIAN (EIFELIAN) OF SCOTLAND
Authors: NEWMAN M. J. , DEN BLAAUWEN J. L.
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  A new dipnoan fish, Pinnalongus saxoni gen. et sp. nov., is described from a suite of recently discovered specimens from Caithness and East Sutherland, northern Scotland. The stratum where Pinnalongus occurs is within the middle Eifelian of the Middle Devonian. Pinnalongus has a skull roof consisting of a mosaic of small bones at the anterior end, a feature more typically found in Early Devonian dipnoans. The posterior part of the skull roof is more typical of later advanced Middle Devonian dipnoans with the B‐bone separating the I‐bones. The postcranial body is now considered not to be so important with respect to the classification of dipnoans as originally proposed by Dollo in 1895, who thought there was an evolutionary transformation series. Nevertheless, the postcranial body of Pinnalongus has more in common with later Middle and Late Devonian dipnoans such as Scaumenacia, with a very long second dorsal fin. Based on the skull morphology, Pinnalongus is most closely related to Tarachomylax from the Lower Devonian of Severnaya Zemlya, Russia. Pinnalongus represents the earliest known complete articulated dipnoan with tooth plates.
RHYNCHONELLIFORMEAN BRACHIOPODS WITH SOFT‐TISSUE PRESERVATION FROM THE EARLY CAMBRIAN CHENGJIANG LAGERSTÄTTE OF SOUTH CHINA
Authors: ZHANG ZHIFEI , SHU DEGAN , EMIG CHRISTIAN , ZHANG XINGLIANG , HAN JIAN , LIU JIANNI , LI YONG , GUO JUNFENG
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  Cosmopolitan kutorginates, the most abundant Early Cambrian rhynchonelliformean brachiopods, became extinct at the end of the Middle Cambrian. Consequently, any information concerning the anatomy of this peculiar lineage of brachiopods has great phylogenetic significance with regard to their extant relatives for analogies with the stem‐group clade. Such data have been supplied from fossils of which the soft parts have been preserved in exceptional detail. A new brachiopod, Kutorgina chengjiangensis sp. nov., from the Early Cambrian Chengjiang Lagerstätte of southern China, is described here. It is the first articulated brachiopod species collected from this deposit. The specimens preserve a set of soft‐body parts, i.e. lophophore, digestive tract and pedicle, all previously poorly known in almost all Palaeozoic calcareous brachiopod taxa. The lophophore attains an early spirolophe stage, clearly homologous to that in the coeval lingulids. The digestive tract consists of a mouth, oesophagus, swollen stomach, intestine and a terminal anus. The pedicle protruding between the valves is stout and elongate, with annulated lamellae on the surface, and contains a putative cœlomic cavity. K. chengjiangensis displays the characteristics of the stem group of calcareous brachiopods, and illustrates anatomical similarities between Cambrian phosphatic‐ and calcareous‐shelled brachiopods, thus corroborating that the Brachiopoda are a monophyletic group.
UPPER ORDOVICIAN BRYOZOANS OF THE PIN FORMATION (SPITI VALLEY, NORTHERN INDIA)
Authors: SUTTNER THOMAS J. , ERNST ANDREJ
Published: November 2007

Abstract: Twenty‐nine species of bryozoans from the Upper Ordovician–Lower Silurian Pin Formation (Spiti, India) have been identified. Eight of these are new:Trematopora minima,Ulrichostylus bhargavai,Ptilodictya exiliformis,Phaenopora ordinarius,Oanduellina himalayaica,Pesnastylus?vesiculosum,Ralfina?originalisandPinocladia triangulata. The fossil record and facies analyses of the area investigated indicate shallow‐water conditions within the subtropical–tropical realm. The distribution pattern of fossils among the Ordovician/Silurian succession on the Northern Gondwana shelf and the influence of the Late Ordovician cooling phases on marine organisms are distinctive owing to a dramatic reduction in diversity globally. As far as the bryozoan taxa of Spiti are concerned, only one (Helopora fragilis) of the 29 species was recorded above the Ordovician/Silurian boundary. Observed bryozoan communities are very similar to faunas of Laurentia, the Baltic, Siberia and southern China of early–late Ordovician age.
A Critique of the Literature on Women’s Request for Cesarean Section
Authors: Gamble Jenny , Creedy Debra K. , McCourt Chris , Weaver Jane , Beake Sarah
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACT:  Background:
The influence of women’s birth preferences on the rising cesarean section rates is uncertain and possibly changing. This review of publications relating to women’s request for cesarean delivery explores assumptions related to the social, cultural, and political‐economic contexts of maternity care and decision making.
Method:
A search of major databases was undertaken using the following terms: “c(a)esarean section” with “maternal request,”“decision‐making,”“patient participation,”“decision‐making‐patient,”“patient satisfaction,”“patient preference,”“maternal choice,”“on demand,” and “consumer demand.” Seventeen papers examining women’s preferred type of birth were retrieved.
Results:
No studies systematically examined information provided to women by health professionals to inform their decision. Some studies did not adequately acknowledge the influence of obstetric and psychological factors in relation to women’s request for a cesarean section. Other potential influences were poorly addressed, including whether or not the doctor advised a vaginal birth, women’s access to midwifery care in pregnancy, information provision, quality of care, and cultural issues.
Discussion:
The psychosocial context of obstetric care reveals a power imbalance in favor of physicians. Research into decision making about cesarean section that does not account for the way care is offered, observe interactions between women and practitioners, and analyze the context of care should be interpreted with caution. (BIRTH 34:4 December 2007)
Differential gene expression in response to transforming growth factor‐β1 by fetal and postnatal dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Rolfe Kerstin J. , Irvine Laurie M. , Grobbelaar Addie O. , Linge Claire
Published: November 2007

The multipotent growth factor transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 is consistently linked with fibrosis and scarring. The perfect (scarless) healing of cutaneous wounds in early gestational age fetuses is proposed to be due to this tissue's predominance of the TGF‐β3 isoform over the profibrotic TGF‐β1 and 2. Nevertheless, TGF‐β1 is present during wound healing in the early fetus and recently we demonstrated that relevant intracellular signaling pathways are activated (albeit transiently) on TGF‐β1stimulation. This study aimed to determine whether TGF‐β1 has different effects on gene transcription in human fetal (<14 weeks) vs. human postnatal dermal fibroblasts, using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The regulation pattern of a number of TGF‐β response genes differed dramatically between the two cell sources. The typical autocrine loop of TGF‐β1 autoinduction did not occur in fetal fibroblasts and genes that are normally up‐regulated, connective tissue growth factor and collagen type I were actually down‐regulated. Furthermore, other response genes responded in a delayed fashion (TGF‐β3) compared with that seen in the more developmentally mature postnatal fibroblasts. Finally, genes unaltered by TGF‐β stimulation in postnatal cells, TGF‐β2 and collagen III, were up‐regulated in fetal cells. These developmentally related differences in fibroblast response to TGF‐β1 may influence wound‐healing outcome, i.e., perfect regeneration or fibrosis.
Interaction of epidermal growth factor, Ca2+, and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 in primary keratinocyte migration
Authors: Morris Vincent L. , Chan Bosco M. C.
Published: November 2007

Elevations of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and Ca2+ concentrations in the wound site are associated with reepithelialization during wound healing. In addition, Ca2+ and EGF can both induce increases in matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) synthesis. However, little is known about the interplay of these events in regulating the migration properties of primary keratinocytes on collagen I, the most abundant extracellular matrix component in the skin. We found that EGF stimulated both chemokinetic and chemotactic migration of primary keratinocytes on collagen I; however, MMP‐9 was required for EGF‐stimulated chemotaxis but not EGF‐stimulated chemokinesis. Calcium at 0.5 mM stimulated chemokinetic migration of keratinocytes. Together, Ca2+ and EGF stimulated higher levels of chemokinesis than either stimulus alone. Furthermore, Ca2+ could restore the ability of keratinocytes from MMP‐9 null mice to undergo EGF‐stimulated chemotaxis. The phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase inhibitor LY294002 inhibited both EGF‐ and Ca2+‐stimulated chemokinetic migration. In contrast, the MEK inhibitor PD98059 blocked Ca2+‐ but not EGF‐stimulated chemokinetic migration of keratinocytes. A combination of PD98059 and LY294002 was required to inhibit Ca2+ enhancement of EGF‐stimulated migration completely. Calcium‐stimulated chemokinesis was completely blocked by either the protein kinase C‐α inhibitor Gö6976 or the src/fyn inhibitor PP2. Using primary keratinocytes, our results showed how the combined action of Ca2+, EGF, and MMP‐9 regulated the contributions of extracellular‐regulated kinase and phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase toward chemokinetic and chemotactic migration of keratinocytes.
Hemolytic Evaluation Using Polyurethane Microcapsule Suspensions in Circulatory Support Devices: Normalized Index of Hemolysis Comparisons of Commercial Centrifugal Blood Pumps
Authors: Maruyama Osamu , Yamaguchi Katsuhiro , Nishida Masahiro , Onoguchi Tomio , Tsutsui Tatsuo , Jikuya Tomoaki , Yamane Takashi
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  We have been developing some types of microcapsule suspensions with polyurethane membranes to evaluate the absolute hemolytic characteristics of the centrifugal blood pumps used in circulatory support devices such as artificial hearts. In order to facilitate/realize hemolysis testing on centrifugal blood pumps that have hemolysis levels as low as those of commercial centrifugal blood pumps, we eliminated capsules with diameters less than 72.2 µm, amounting to 15.4% of all capsules in the conventional suspension (crude suspension [CS]), and adjusted the capsule volume ratio to correspond to a hematocrit of 40%. In this way we succeeded in enhancing the sensitivity of the suspension to microcapsule destruction 61 fold. We used this new suspension (fine suspension [FS]) to perform hemolysis tests on four types of commercial pump with mock circulation systems. Under conditions of 500 mm Hg and 11.2 L/min, we successfully determined the hemolytic characteristics (normalized index of hemolysis [NIH]) of some of the centrifugal blood pumps; the results showed some correlation with those of hemolysis tests on bovine blood and suggest that microcapsule suspensions with polyurethane membranes are useful as standard test solutions for the absolute evaluation of centrifugal blood pumps.
A Review of Clinical Trials with Eptifibatide in Cardiology
Authors: Zeymer Uwe , Wienbergen Harm
Published: November 2007

Glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa receptor antagonists inhibit the binding of ligands to activated platelet GP IIb/IIIa receptors and, therefore, prevent the formation of platelet thrombi. Additional antithrombin therapy should be given in connection with GP IIb/IIIa administration. Eptifibatide is a small heptapeptide, which is highly selective and rapidly dissociates from its receptor after cessation of therapy. In clinical trials (IMPACT‐II and ESPRIT) concomitant administration of eptifibatide to patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) reduced thrombotic complications. In the PURSUIT trial, in patients with non‐ST‐elevation acute coronary syndromes, eptifibatide, compared to placebo, significantly reduced the primary endpoint of death and nonfatal myocardial infarction at 30 days. In patients with STEMI eptifibatide has been studied as an adjunct to fibrinolysis and primary PCI; it improved epicardial flow and tissue reperfusion. Current studies are evaluating eptifibatide as upstream therapy in high‐risk patients with NSTE‐ACS, in the EARLY‐ACS and in comparison with abciximab in patients with primary PCI in the EVA‐AMI trial.
Evaluating candidate genes in common epilepsies and the nature of evidence
Authors: Pal Deb K. , Strug Lisa J. , Greenberg David A.
Published: November 2007

Summary

Very few genetic associations for idiopathic epilepsy have been replicated and this has tempered enthusiasm for the results of genetic studies in epilepsy. What are the reasons for lack of replication? While type 1 error, population stratification, and multiple testing have been discussed extensively, the importance of genetic heterogeneity has been relatively neglected. In the first part of this review, we explore the sources of genetic heterogeneity and their importance for epilepsy genetic studies. In the second part, we review alternatives to the simple law of replication, revisiting Bradford Hill's guidelines for evidence of causality. A coherence perspective is applied to three examples. We conclude that adopting the perspective of integrating coherent and consistent evidence from different experimental approaches is a more appropriate requirement for proceeding to functional studies.
The Effect of Oral Health on Quality of Life in an Underprivileged Homebound and Non‐Homebound Elderly Population in Jerusalem
Authors: Zini Avraham , Sgan‐Cohen Harold D.
Published: November 2007

OBJECTIVES: To measure the effect of oral health on quality of life in elderly people in Jerusalem and to compare homebound and nonhomebound people.

DESIGN: A cross‐sectional, purposive cluster sample.

SETTING: Community‐based, one dental clinic, three geriatric day centers, and home visits.

PARTICIPANTS: Three hundred forty‐four underprivileged people aged 60 and older, 64 of whom were homebound.

MEASUREMENTS: Score on the shortened version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐14) (validated for Hebrew) was the dependent variable. One dental assistant conducted a structured interview, including universal variables, and one dentist examined dental status.

RESULTS: Average OHIP‐14 level was 10.43. For total OHIP‐14, the odds ratio comparing the homebound with the nonhomebound population was 2.06 (P=.03). After multiple logistic regression, functional ability and education level reached independent significance for OHIP‐14 level were.

CONCLUSION: Homebound elderly people reported greater difficulties than nonhomebound people in communication, eating, relaxation, and life satisfaction as related to oral health.
Is Bancassurance a Viable Model for Financial Firms?
Authors: Paige Fields L. , Fraser Donald R. , Kolari James W.
Published: November 2007

Abstract

The bancassurance (i.e., bank and insurance company combinations) model for financial firm architecture has been widely used in Europe and recently has been adopted by U.S. financial firms. We provide evidence regarding the viability of bancassurance combinations for U.S. and non‐U.S. mergers between 1997 and 2002. We find positive gains and no significant risk shifts for shareholders of bidding firms, and that higher CEO stock ownership results in less positive gains for shareholders. These and other results suggest that bancassurance firms are viable entities that may play an important role in the future evolution of the U.S. financial system.
Optimal Tax Deductions for Net Losses Under Private Insurance With an Upper Limit
Authors: Huang Rachel J. , Tzeng Larry Y.
Published: November 2007

Abstract

Kaplow (1992b) shows that governments should not provide a tax deduction for net losses when a private insurance contract is available. However, his findings rest on the assumption that the private insurance is proportional coverage. We find that Kaplow's conclusions may not hold when the private insurance contract contains an upper limit. The findings of our article show that Kaplow's conclusions are sensitive to the assumption that the insurance contract is available in the private market.
The Impacts of Remittances, Residency Status and Financial Attachment on Housing Tenure for Mexican‐Heritage Americans: Inferences from a New Survey
Authors: Bradley Donald , Green Richard K. , Surette Brian J.
Published: November 2007

Immigration has and will continue to alter the composition of housing demand in the United Sates. In this article, we analyze results from a new survey of Mexican‐heritage households to draw some inferences about tenure choice within that group. Some measures of attachment to the United States—residency status and the amount of money sent to relatives and friends in Mexico—suggest that, among Mexican immigrants, permanence is a key determinant of homeownership in the United States. More specifically, being a citizen increased the probability of ownership, whereas being undocumented reduces the probability. Surprisingly, after controlling for residency status, length of tenure in the United States does not predict tenure status, except that those who refused to report length of tenure were more likely to have higher tenure status. Those who sent remittances home to Mexico were less likely to become homeowners.
The Underlying Return‐Generating Factors for REIT Returns: An Application of Independent Component Analysis
Authors: Lizieri Colin , Satchell Stephen , Zhang Qi
Published: November 2007

Multifactor approaches to real estate returns have emphasized a macro‐variables approach in preference to the latent factor approach originally used in arbitrage pricing theory. Use of high‐frequency data, trading strategies and growing emphasis on the risks of extreme events makes the macrovariable procedure problematic. This article explores an alternative to the principal components analysis approach: independent components analysis (ICA). ICA seeks independence and maximizes a chosen risk parameter. We apply an ICA procedure based on a kurtosis maximization algorithm to real estate investment trust (REIT) data. The results show that ICA successfully captures kurtosis characteristics of REIT returns, offering possibilities for developing of risk management strategies that are sensitive to extreme events and tail distributions, augmenting traditional mean–variance approaches.
Stock‐Split Post‐Announcement Returns: Underreaction or Market Friction?
Authors: Boehme Rodney D. , Danielsen Bartley R.
Published: November 2007

We explore the relationship between stock splits and subsequent long‐term returns during the period from 1950 to 2000. We find that, contrary to much previous research, firms do not exhibit positive long‐term post‐split returns. Instead, we find that significant positive returns after the announcement date do not persist after the actual date of the stock split. We also observe that abnormal returns are correlated with the price‐delay or market friction. We conclude that the stock‐split post‐announcement “drift” is only of short duration, and it is attributable to trading frictions rather than behavioral biases.
Can Asset Pricing Models Price Idiosyncratic Risk in U.K. Stock Returns?
Authors: Fletcher Jonathan
Published: November 2007

I examine how well different linear factor models and consumption‐based asset pricing models price idiosyncratic risk in U.K. stock returns. Correctly pricing idiosyncratic risk is a significant challenge for many of the models I consider. For some consumption‐based models, there is a clear tradeoff in the performance of the models between correctly pricing systematic risk and idiosyncratic risk. Linear factor models do a better job in most cases in pricing systematic risk than consumption‐based models but the reverse is true for idiosyncratic risk.
Diversification in Portfolios of Individual Stocks: 100 Stocks Are Not Enough
Authors: Domian Dale L. , Louton David A. , Racine Marie D.
Published: November 2007

We examine returns and ending wealth in portfolios selected from 1,000 large U.S. stocks over a 20‐year holding period. Shortfall risk, the possibility of ending wealth being below a target, is a useful metric for long horizon investors and is consistent with the Safety First criterion. Density functions obtained from simulations illustrate that shortfall risk reduction continues as portfolio size is increased, even above 100 stocks. A slightly lower risk can be achieved in small portfolios by diversifying across industries, but a greater reduction is obtained by simply increasing the number of stocks.
Safety of Single Transseptal Puncture for Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation: Retrospective Study from a Large Cohort of Patients
Authors: FAGUNDES RAFAEL L. , MANTICA MASSIMO , DE LUCA LUCIA , FORLEO GIOVANNI , PAPPALARDO AUGUSTO , AVELLA ANDREA , FRATICELLI AURELIANO , DELLO RUSSO ANTONIO , CASELLA MICHELA , PELARGONIO GEMMA , TONDO CLAUDIO
Published: November 2007

Introduction: Transseptal puncture (TSP) is the conventional approach to assess the left atrial chamber. This technique has been widely used in interventional cardiology and, in the last years, this approach is mostly applied to electrophysiologic procedures. For atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, two or more transseptal sheaths are often positioned in the left atrium in the majority of centers, therefore requiring two or more transseptal punctures. Theoretically, double puncture could bear additional risks or could increase the risk of persistence of septal defects. We reported the results of a retrospective analysis of a single transseptal puncture as a simplified approach for positioning multiple catheters in the left atrium during AF ablation.

Methods: Between November 2003 and November 2005, 1,150 consecutive patients (mean age 54 ± 8 years, 75% men) were considered for AF ablation and underwent single transseptal puncture for positioning multiple catheters in the left atrium.

Results: In only 6 of 1,150 (0.5%) cases a second transseptal puncture was required to position the ablation catheter in the left atrium. Neither acute complications related to transseptal catheterization such as atrial or aortic perforations, pericardial tamponade, thrombotic formation, or air embolism, nor complications due to the attempts of crossing the septum with the ablation catheter were reported. In all cases, each mapping catheter was properly maneuvered at different sites in the left atrium and at the pulmonary veins. In no patient was a residual septal atrial defect after the transseptal maneuvers detected during a mean follow up of 14 ± 2 months.

Conclusions: This retrospective study on a large cohort of patients shows that single transseptal puncture for positioning two or more catheters in the left atrium for AF ablation is a highly successful and safe maneuver with a very low morbidity in the majority of patients. This may avoid potential complications related to a second transseptal puncture.
Transcatheter Closure of Intracardiac Defects in Adults
Authors: KIM MICHAEL S. , KLEIN ANDREW J. , CARROLL JOHN D.
Published: November 2007

There has been a dramatic increase in the adult congenital heart disease population and appreciation of intracardiac shunt lesions discovered or acquired in adults over the past several years. Fortunately, this increase has been met with advances in imaging modalities, which permit a more accurate noninvasive assessment of cardiac defects. Additionally, the evolutions in both device technology as well as fluoroscopic and echocardiographic image guidance have permitted the safe and effective catheter‐based closure of numerous intracardiac defects. With catheter‐based closure procedures now considered the treatment of choice in most cases of intracardiac defect repair in adults, it is imperative that clinicians possess a sound understanding of intracardiac shunt lesions and indications for repair or closure so that they may better care for this unique subset of adult patients. This review will focus on the anatomy, pathophysiology, and current transcatheter therapeutic options for adult patients with patent foramen ovale (PFO), atrial septal defects (ASD), and ventricular septal defects (VSD).
Cutaneous Manifestations of Staphylococcus aureus Disease
Authors: Howell Eric R. , Phillips Charles M.
Published: November 2007

Staphylococcus aureus is a common pathogen in clinical infectious disease. The cutaneous manifestations can vary dramatically from a simple infected hair follicle to a life‐threatening illness such as toxic shock syndrome or staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome. The authors review the variety of manifestations of various S aureus infections on the skin.
International Experts' Perspectives on the State of the Nurse Staffing and Patient Outcomes Literature
Authors: Van den Heede Koen , Clarke Sean P. , Sermeus Walter , Vleugels Arthur , Aiken Linda H.
Published: November 2007

Purpose:
To assess the key variables used in research on nurse staffing and patient outcomes from the perspective of an international panel.

Design:
A Delphi survey (November 2005‐February 2006) of a purposively‐selected expert panel from 10 countries consisting of 24 researchers specializing in nurse staffing and quality of health care and 8 nurse administrators.

Methods:
Each participant was sent by e‐mail an up‐to‐date review of all evidence related to 39 patient‐outcome, 14 nurse‐staffing and 31 background variables and asked to rate the importance/usefulness of each variable for research on nurse staffing and patient outcomes. In two subsequent rounds the group median, mode, frequencies, and earlier responses were sent to each respondent.

Findings: Twenty‐nine participants responded to the first round (90.6%), of whom 28 (87.5%) responded to the second round. The Delphi panel generated 7 patient‐outcome, 2 nurse‐staffing and 12 background variables in the first round, not well‐investigated in previous research, to be added to the list. At the end of the second round the predefined level of consensus (85%) was reached for 32 patient outcomes, 10 nurse staffing measures and 29 background variables. The highest consensus levels regarding measure sensitivity to nurse staffing were found for nurse perceived quality of care, patient satisfaction and pain, and the lowest for renal failure, cardiac failure, and central nervous system complications. Nursing Hours per Patient Day received the highest consensus score as a valid measure of the number of nursing staff. As a skill mix variable the proportion of RNs to total nursing staff achieved the highest consensus level. Both age and comorbidities were rated as important background variables by all the respondents.

Conclusions:
These results provide a snapshot of the state of the science on nurse‐staffing and patient‐outcomes research as of 2005. The results portray an area of nursing science in evolution and an understanding of the connections between human resource issues and healthcare quality based on both empirical findings and opinion.
Comparison of Sampling Methods for Urine Cultures
Authors: Ünlü Hayriye , Şardan Yeşim Çetinkaya , Ülker Saadet
Published: November 2007

Purpose:
To compare efficacy and cost of conventional and alternative sampling methods concerning urine cultures.

Design and Methods:
An experimental study with two replications was carried out in a 900‐bed university hospital in Ankara, Turkey. The sample was 160 hospitalized female patients, who were asked to give urine specimens, September 10, 2000 and September 1, 2001. They were patients on urology and obstetrics and gynaecology wards. The authors informed the patients about the study first and then obtained two samples from each patient under their observation. The number of specimens was 320. Statistical methods were descriptive.

Findings:
The rates of contamination and significant growth, respectively, were 4.4% and 7.5% for the conventional method and 5.6% and 10% for the alternative method. The cost per culture was 2.588.257 TL (2.10 USD) for the conventional method and 57.021TL (0.05 USD) for the alternative method. The cost difference was statistically significant.

Conclusions:
The two methods yielded similar results but the alternative method was less expensive.
Resource Clusters and Variation in Physical Restraint Use
Authors: Minnick Ann F. , Fogg Lou , Mion Lorraine C. , Catrambone Cathy , Johnson Mary E.
Published: November 2007

Purpose: To describe (a) the extent of inter‐ and intrainstitutional variation in labor, capital, and process‐of‐care variables related to nursing service on U.S. adult acute and intensive care units; (b) the extent to which resource clustering exists; and (c) an analysis of resource cluster role that explains variation in physical restraint rates.

Design: Descriptive.

Methods: Staff at 82 adult acute care and 55 intensive care units from 40 randomly selected U.S. hospitals provided data about more than 100 capital, labor, and process variables via (a) a staff nurse survey, and (b) interviews with unit leaders and measurement of unit design. These data described resources during the period in which physical restraint rate was established via direct observation.

Findings: Depending on the resource variable, 7% to 57% of hospitals in which more than one ICU was studied showed resource variation between their ICUs; the comparable statistics for adult acute units were 5% to 45%. Cluster analysis indicated a two‐cluster solution for ICUs and a three‐cluster solution for non‐ICUs. ICU cluster assignment varied within 16% of hospitals in which more than one ICU was studied. Non‐ICU cluster assignment varied within 20% of hospitals. Physical restraint use was best explained by patient characteristics, not resource clusters or individual resources.

Conclusions: Studies of outcomes that are the product of a single unit must include measurement of resources at the unit level, assuming equal resources among units of similar types within a hospital is unwarranted. Further research regarding the effect of resource clusters on nurse sensitive outcomes is suggested.
Amoeba at Attention: Phylogenetic Affinity of Sappinia pedata
Authors: BROWN MATTHEW W. , SPIEGEL FREDERICK W. , SILBERMAN JEFFREY D.
Published: November 2007

ABSTRACT. The genus Sappinia, a taxon of free‐living amoebae with trophozoites that typically have two closely appressed nuclei, contains two named species, Sappinia pedata, the type species, and S. diploidea. The amoebae of both species are essentially identical according to the literature. The two species are distinguished by S. pedata having a standing amoeba stage, incorrectly interpreted as a cyst, and S. diploidea having sessile, bicellular cysts. Using four isolates of S. pedata collected from around the world, we present detailed light micrographic illustrations of all stages of its life cycle. We confirm that the standing amoeba lacks a cell wall. In two isolates of S. pedata, there are bicellular cysts indistinguishable from those of S. diploidea. Using sequence data from the nuclear small subunit ribosomal RNA gene, we conclude that S. pedata and the published neotype of S. diploidea are congeneric but not conspecific. The genus branches within Thecamoebidae. Sequencing of the actin gene confirms the inclusion of Sappinia in Thecamoebidae. Resolving the taxonomy of Sappinia is gaining importance because it has recently been attributed as an opportunistic human pathogen.
The Suicide Mortality Rates between 1997–1998 and 2000–2001 in Nantou County of Taiwan Following the Earthquake of September 21 in 1999
Authors: Liaw Yung‐Po , Wang Po‐Wen , Huang Chiu‐Chin , Chang Chia‐Ming , Lee Wen‐Chung
Published: November 2007

Abstract:  The paper aims to show the different suicide mortality rate between 1997–1998 and 2000–2001 in Nantou County of Taiwan with earthquake on September 21 (often referred to as the “9‐21 earthquake”) in 1999. In additional, it also identifies the preventive strategies for the high‐risk suicide population. The age‐standardized mortality rates for suicide in Nantou County were calculated for the years 1997–1998 and 2000–2001. The suicide standardized mortality ratio (SMR for townships in Nantou were calculated by “type of township” as the standard rate). There is a statistically significant difference in male suicide rates for the years prior to the earthquake (1997–1998) when pooled and compared to the suicide rates for the years after the earthquake (2000–2001). The rate for four age groups (under 25, 25–44, 45–64, 65 and above) all increased, yet all but one (the group of age 45–64) was not statistically significant. The male SMR has slightly increased after the 9‐21 earthquake. Yet there are no statistical significances in most townships, except in Kaohsiung and Puli after the 9‐21 earthquake. The Kaohsiung SMRs were 1.36 (95% CI: 0.54–2.80) before the earthquake (1997–1998) and 2.01 (95% CI: 1.04–3.52) after the earthquake (2000–2001). The SMRs before and after the earthquake in the Puli Township were 1.51 (95% CI: 0.95–2.29) to 1.56 (95% CI: 1.03–2.27). This study suggests that monitoring high‐risk population, especially males or 45–64 years of age who experienced the highest statistically significant suicide rate in this study. The study provides support for providing both the psychological restoration program and, to the extent feasible, financial support for the unemployed as useful public health strategies for suicide prevention in Taiwan.