bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral zinc sulfate in the treatment of rosacea: A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Sharquie Khalifa E. , Najim Rafid A. , Al‐Salman Hala N.
Published: July 2006

Background  Rosacea is a skin problem not uncommonly encountered world‐wide. There is a need for an effective and well‐tolerated treatment for this disease.

Objective  To evaluate the efficacy and side‐effects of zinc sulfate in rosacea in a randomized, controlled, double‐blind trial.

Patients and methods  Patients with rosacea who attended the outpatient Clinic of Dermatology and Venereology in Baghdad Teaching Hospital were recruited into this study between October 2002 and August 2004. A disease severity score was calculated for each patient. The patients were randomly allocated to receive either zinc sulfate 100 mg or identical placebo capsules three times per day. Zinc sulfate and placebo capsules were given in a double‐blind manner. Following 3 months of starting the treatment, the patients crossed over, i.e. patients on placebo crossed over to zinc sulfate and those on zinc sulfate crossed over to placebo.

Results  Twenty‐five patients with rosacea were included in this study: 16 (64%) females and nine (36%) males. Nineteen patients completed the study: 11 (58%) females and eight (42%) males. Patient age ranged from 21 to 64 years with a mean ± SD of 48.2 ± 9.3 years. Duration of the disease ranged from 1 to 14 years with a mean ± SD of 4.4 ± 3.2 years. In the group started on zinc sulfate, the score before therapy ranged from 5 to 11 with a mean ± SD of 8 ± 2.0. The mean started to decrease directly after the first month of therapy with zinc sulfate to a significantly lower level. After shifting to placebo treatment, the mean started to rise gradually in the fifth month but remained significantly lower than the levels before therapy. In the group started on placebo, the score before therapy ranged from 5 to 9 with a mean ± SD of 7 ± 1.3. The mean remained high in the first 3 months of therapy while the patients were on placebo. After shifting to zinc sulfate, the mean started to decrease after the fourth month to significantly low levels. No important side‐effects were reported apart from mild gastric upset in three (12%) patients on zinc sulfate.

Conclusion  Zinc sulfate was found to be a good option in the treatment of rosacea, as it was safe, effective and lacking important side‐effects.
Suppression of IFN‐gamma production in atopic group at the acute phase of RSV infection
Authors: Kaneko Hideo , Matsui Eiko , Asano Tsutomu , Kato Zenichiro , Teramoto Takahide , Aoki Minako , Kawamoto Norio , Lian Li Ai , Kasahara Kimiko , Kondo Naomi
Published: July 2006

Several studies have suggested that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis induced the change of cytokine production profile in childhood. We sought to determine whether the RSV‐induced cytokine production was affected by the patient's atopic background. We quantified interferon‐gamma (IFN‐gamma) and interleukin (IL)‐4 in the supernatant of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) cultured for 24 h and in the presence of phytohemaglutinin (PHA), IL‐12, or IL‐18, from 14 infants who were divided into two groups, those who are non‐atopic and an atopic group. In RSV‐infected infants with atopic diseases, IFN‐gamma production from IL‐12‐ or especially IL‐18‐stimulated PBMCs was subtotally suppressed in the acute phase, whereas in RSV‐infected infants without atopic diseases IFN‐gamma production was not suppressed on acute phase. The IFN‐gamma suppression observed in the atopic group is not caused by the immaturity of an infant's immune system since reduced IFN‐gamma production to RSV is not observed in the infants of non‐atopic group. IFN‐gamma suppression in regard to RSV infection might be caused by some genetic factor involved in the development of atopic disease such as IL‐18 signal cascade.
Mechanism by which a novel non‐thiazolidinedione peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ agonist, FK614, ameliorates insulin resistance in Zucker fatty rats
Authors: Minoura H. , Takeshita S. , Kimura C. , Hirosumi J. , Takakura S. , Kawamura I. , Seki J. , Manda T. , Mutoh S.
Published: July 2006

Aim:  The aim of this study was to examine the mechanism by which a novel non‐thiazolidinedione (TZD) peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) γ agonist, FK614, ameliorates insulin resistance in Zucker fatty rats.

Methods:  FK614 (1, 3.2 or 10 mg/kg) and a TZD PPARγ agonist, pioglitazone (1, 3.2 or 10 mg/kg), were orally administered to Zucker fatty rats (genetically obese and insulin resistant) once a day for 14 days, and an oral glucose tolerance test was performed. The expression levels of various genes in the white adipose tissue (WAT) of Zucker fatty rats treated with FK614 (3.2 mg/kg), pioglitazone (10 mg/kg) and another TZD PPARγ agonist, rosiglitazone (3.2 mg/kg), were determined using a real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction method. Morphometric analysis of the WAT of Zucker fatty rats treated with FK614 (3.2 mg/kg) and pioglitazone (10 mg/kg) was performed. Glucose transport activity in the isolated soleus muscle of FK614‐treated Zucker fatty rats was also investigated.

Results:  FK614 and pioglitazone both improved glucose tolerance in Zucker fatty rats. FK614 significantly increased the expression levels of acyl CoA oxidase, a PPAR‐responsive gene, and adipocyte fatty acid–binding protein (aP2), an adipocyte differentiation marker gene, in epididymal WAT. It also significantly decreased the level of gene expression of tumour necrosis factor‐α, an insulin resistance–inducing factor in retroperitoneal WAT, as did pioglitazone and rosiglitazone. FK614 and pioglitazone both significantly increased the total number of adipocytes and decreased their average size in WAT, mainly by increasing the number of small adipocytes. Additionally, administration of FK614 to Zucker fatty rats enhanced insulin sensitivity for glucose uptake in the soleus muscle.

Conclusion:  This study suggests the possibility that FK614 induces adipocyte differentiation in Zucker fatty rats by stimulating PPARγin vivo, thereby changing the character of WAT and improving insulin sensitivity throughout the body.
Are Business Services Immune to the Business Cycle?
Authors: KIRK ROBERT
Published: July 2006

Should an economic development strategy target the business services industry to insulate the local economy from the business cycle? The relationship between business services employment (SIC 73) and measures of the business cycle is analyzed at national and metropolitan‐area levels. At the national level, certain components of business services are not immune to the business cycle while others are. At the metropolitan level, certain characteristics of the metropolitan area and its industrial structure are identified which would result in business services employment being procyclical or not immune to the business cycle.
Regional Population Growth Rate Differences: Note
Authors: NISSAN EDWARD , CAVENY REGINA
Published: July 2006

This note investigates regional population growth in the U.S. for 1959‐84, taking into account four city sizes and three time periods. It is found that the growth is largest in city size (0.5 ‐ 1.0) million and (1.0 ‐ 2.0) million. Over time, the growth is largest in the less urbanized regions.
Valuation Analysis of Commercial Real Estate Using the Nearest Neighbors Appraisal Technique
Authors: ISAKSON HANS R.
Published: July 2006

The Nearest Neighbors Appraisal Technique (NNAT) is pitted against the traditional real estate appraisal process and ordinary least squares (OLS) estimates of value for various types of commercial real estate in Dallas, Texas. Additionally, time is explicitly entered into NNAT. NNAT estimates of value are significantly more accurate than the traditional appraisal process for all types of commercial real estate, it is significantly more accurate than OLS estimates for retail and miscellaneous properties, and it is more accurate, but not significantly so, than OLS estimates for other types of commercial real estate.
Impacts of Air Pollution Control Strategies in Kentucky
Authors: SCOTT FRANK A. , BERGER MARK C. , BLOMQUIST GLENN C.
Published: July 2006

The purpose of this paper is to estimate the impacts of air pollution control strategies for one state, Kentucky, on its own economy. Effects of the Clean Air Act are estimated, but the emphasis is on scenarios for compliance with pending acid rain legislation. The most restrictive scenario involves a 478,000 ton per year reduction in SO2. Based on elasticity and engineering estimates, we project shifts from high‐sulfur Western Kentucky coal to low‐sulfur Eastern Kentucky coal, higher electric utility rates and manufacturing costs, and lower manufacturing employment. Impacts are always less than 6 percent of 1985 levels.
An Application of the Stock Adjustment Model in Estimating Employment Multipliers for the South Central Louisiana Petroleum Economy 1964–84
Authors: ANDREWS DONALD R. , TATE UDAY S.
Published: July 2006

The South Central Louisiana Petroleum Economy received an economic rent from its petroleum resources during the energy crisis of the 1970s and early 80s. A differential export‐base model incorporating a geometric lag was developed for estimating dynamic employment multipliers. This technique is especially applicable to regional economies in which exports are a major economic factor. Employment multipliers were estimated using ordinary least squares (OLS) regression. Results from the analysis indicate that agriculture, oil and gas mining, and manufacturing are highly significant employment generators. Both long‐run and short‐run employment multipliers were derived from the model. It is estimated that a five‐dollar change in the real price of crude oil will result in a long‐run employment change of 8,027 for the oil and gas mining industry. Based on estimates of the long‐run multiplier, this will result in a total employment change of 28,014 for this economy.
Regional Marginal Costs and Cost Savings from Economies of Scale in Municipal Waste Treatment: An Application to the Chesapeake Bay Region
Authors: McCONNELL VIRGINIA D. , CUMBERLAND JOHN H. , GORDON PATRICE L.
Published: July 2006

Marginal costs of removing effluent from waste treatment facilities are defined under different assumptions about regulatory policies. Marginal costs are different under a policy of uniform treatment for all plants compared to a least‐cost policy, where different plants treat at different levels. The cost savings under these alternative policies are compared for river basins of the Chesapeake Bay when there are economies of scale in treatment costs. Current regulations for treatment plants in the Bay, which are not entirely uniform, are also compared to both the uniform and least‐cost solutions. The potential savings from a least‐cost policy are substantial for some basins.
The Spatial Impact of Reaganomics: A Test of Six Models
Authors: LOWERY DAVID , BRUNN STANLEY D. , WEBSTER GERALD R.
Published: July 2006

Recent analyses of the Reagan budget reallocations suggest that the spatial distribution of public expenditures among the American states have undergone a major change. What remains unclear, however, is why the Reagan budget reallocations generated these clearly defined spatial effects. In trying to answer this question, we identify five explanations of the spatial impacts, explanations focusing on electoral, partisan, wealth, urban‐rural, and expenditure base effects. Along with controls for regional effects, these explanations are tested by OLS regression analysis of data on the state allocations of federal expenditures from the last Carter to the first Reagan budgets.
Performance of High‐Technology Firms in a Peripheral Resource‐Based Economy: Alberta, Canada
Authors: CHRISTY CRAIG V. , IRONSIDE R. G.
Published: July 2006

In the 1980s high technology moved into the forefront in regional development throughout North America and Europe as a leading strategy. The attraction of high technology more recently spilled over into the province of Alberta, a peripheral region in western Canada whose government is seeking to diversify its resource‐based economy. This paper focused upon the performance of high technology firms measured by financial growth, R&D activity, employment created, and marketing. Data were drawn from a 100 percent survey of all identifiable high‐tech firms which constituted the first academic inquiry into Alberta's high‐technology development. Research hypotheses relating gross revenues and net profit to independent firms and subsidiaries, gross revenues to age of firm, and R&D activity to independent firms and subsidiaries were tested.

The results indicate that Alberta's high technology sector is composed mainly of small independent firms in the early stages of growth. Widely divergent revenue and profit trends were found among all firms while 41 percent of the respondents received government assistance to fund R&D programs. A young high‐technology base is reflected further in the small size of the labor force although three out of four firms created jobs between 1980 and 1984. Marketing was a key area of performance identified by respondent firms as companies attempted to diversify away from local markets. Overall, the systematic policies of support by the Alberta government were found to assist the growth of the high‐tech industry. Whether or not this growth will be sufficient to substantially diversify this resource‐based economy in a peripheral Canadian region remains to be seen. Further research, particularly in the area of job creation, is necessary to assess the impact of high‐technology firms over a longer period.
Water Analysis: A Systems Approach Incorporating Linear Programming
Authors: ANDERSON CURT L. , GARCIA L. MIGUEL , LICHTY RICHARD W.
Published: July 2006

This paper reviews an interactive, policy‐oriented simulation model and introduces the addition of a water module. This module enables policymakers to estimate and analyze those direct and indirect socioeconomic effects on a regional economy, occurring over time, which are attributable to regional water supply constraints and water allocation decisions. In addition, this paper presents a hear‐programming‐based approach which can guide the user in making water parameter adjustments for a chosen objective. An empirical demonstration of the procedure based on the Minnesota state economy illustrates its usefulness.
Structural Change in Southern Manufacturing: Expansion in the Tennessee Valley
Authors: GILMER ROBERT W. , PULSIPHER ALLAN G.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT
Since the dollar began to decline on international markets in 1985, economic conditions have improved rapidly throughout the Tennessee Valley. The improvement was particularly strong in rural counties and in rural manufacturing. This paper finds the reasons for slow regional growth in the early 1980's were partly cyclical (and hard on the durable goods sector) and partly the strength of the dollar on international markets (which was hard on nondurables). The turnaround in the dollar since 1985 has provided welcome relief. There is little evidence of structural damage to the regional manufacturing base caused by the strong dollar, and manufacturing provides a secure foundation for further growth and development in the Tennessee Valley.
Life Cycle Neighborhood Changes in Chicago Suburbs 1960–80
Authors: WINSBERG MORTON D.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
The number of households in Chicago's suburbs grew rapidly between 1960 and 1980, and the spatial distribution of households of various income groups changed greatly. Nonetheless, at the conclusion of the 20‐year period, the differences among the distributions of the income groups had changed little. Only in a few areas did invasion and succession play a role in neighborhood economic change, since few poor blacks or Hispanics have migrated to suburban Chicago, and there was little European ethnic concentration there. In several areas there is evidence of filtering of older expensive housing to lower income households. In other places it appears that real income of many households has decreased over time sufficiently to cause them to enter a lower income category.
Manufacturing Output Indexes for a Metropolitan Area: A Look at New Economic Indicators
Authors: WOZNIAK GREGORY D.
Published: July 2006

The purpose of this paper is to construct monthly manufacturing output indexes for a metropolitan area, employing a method used by the Federal Reserve Banks to construct regional manufacturing indexes. The Tulsa metropolitan area is the region considered. The index of total manufacturing output is included in a vector autoregression model of the Tulsa economy. The results indicate that the linkages between manufacturing activity and non‐manufacturing employment differ from the linkages between employment in those sectors, and that since the early 1980s both sectors have become less sensitive to changes in the price of oil.
Technology Search and Firm Bounds in Biotechnology: New Firms as Agents of Change
Authors: de LANEY EDWARD J.
Published: July 2006

Schumpeterian perspectives on industrial change suggest a relationship between new firms and the regionally specific technological bases for innovation. However, the links between such firms and the knowledge bases for innovation are more implicit than explicit. The innovation process in new firms reflects both the capabilities found within the firm as well as information sourcing from without.

This paper seeks to articulate the nature of change in relationships between firms in science‐based industries and the technological infrastructure accessed to support innovation, as such industries mature out of the birth phase. Innovation is treated as decision making, identifying the firm as innovator and agent of change.

Survey research suggests that a shift in the sourcing of information, and an associated shift in the character of information accessed, occurred with maturation in the study industry, comprised of biotechnology firms in the U.S. “Early” and “later” forming firms show somewhat different technology sourcing patterns. Interviews were conducted to help interpret these findings. Implications for industry development are suggested.
The Spatial Dynamics of U.S. Fertility, 1970‐1990
Authors: PANDIT KAVITA , BAGCHI‐SEN SHARMISTHA
Published: July 2006

The fertility downturn in the U.S. since the baby boom has been accompanied by a growing divergence in regional fertility rates. This paper examines the spatial implications of recent fertility trends. Two interrelated questions are posed. First, how and why have the time trends in fertility varied spatially? Second, how have the regional patterns of fertility changed over time? These questions are investigated using a continuous spatio‐temporal model of U.S. fertility built using the Dual Expansion Method. Results indicate that the pace of fertility decline has been the most rapid in the Northeast and the slowest in the West. Further, the traditional North‐South distinctions in fertility rates are being replaced by East‐West patterns. These changes tentatively suggest that regional ethnic composition is becoming an increasingly important factor in accounting for the spatial variation of U.S. fertility.
Nonemployment Income and the Economic Base of Michigan Counties: 1959–1986
Authors: KENDALL JOAN , PIGOZZI BRUCE WM.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT Despite the fact that nonemployment income makes up approximately one‐third of all personal income, its impact on local area economies has not been closely examined. This study uses Michigan county data to examine the impact of nonemployment income on nonbasic income over a twenty‐seven‐year period. This impact is compared to the impact of basic income by employing regression analysis to estimate comparative multiplier effects for both types of income. Nonemployment income is found to have a significant impact on nonbasic income, particularly in metropolitan and nonmetropolitan urban counties, where its impact appears to be stronger than that of basic income.
Regional Economic Convergence in Mexico: An Analysis by Industry
Authors: MALLICK RAJIV , CARAYANNIS ELIAS G.
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT Existing studies of convergence across jurisdictions of a nation have focused on developed economies. A key assumption underlying regional convergence is geographical factor mobility, and in a developed economy, mobility is facilitated by low transportation costs. By the same token, convergence in a less‐developed economy may be impeded by the absence of a well‐developed transportation infrastructure. We examine the rate and industrial composition of economic convergence in a neighboring less‐developed country (LDC), Mexico, to examine how it might have differed from the U.S. experience.

We find evidence of stronger convergence in Gross State Product per capita in Mexico relative to existing estimates of U.S. convergence. Further, while manufacturing activity has been found to be a primary source of convergence in the U.S., we find weaker evidence of convergence of manufacturing activity in Mexico. On the other hand, industries such as hotels and transportation were found to be significantly influential in regional convergence in the Mexican economy.
Does Public Infrastructure Affect Regional Performance?
Authors: ANDREWS KIM , SWANSON JAMES
Published: July 2006

Does public infrastructure affect state output? This paper uses both a Cobb‐Douglas and a translog production function to examine the impact of public infrastructure spending on state output. Like labor and private capital, the stock of public capital is considered to be an input into the production process. The data are based on Alicia Munnell's work and were provided by the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. Unlike many of the earlier studies employing Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) techniques, this analysis employs estimating methods that take advantage of the longitudinal nature of the data set. While these methods lend support to the public capitol hypothesis, there is evidence that studies relying on OLS have reported a coefficient on public capital that is upward biased. This paper, which controls for heterogeneity in the data, finds the coefficient on public capital to be smaller than that presented in previous studies. This finding has important policy implications. It indicates that while investment in public capital may have a positive impact on the private sector, this impact will be much smaller than predicted by previous studies.
Financial Policy and Efficiency of Resource Utilization in Developing Countries
Authors: ODEDOKUN M.O.
Published: July 2006

This study examines the effects of selected policies on economic efficiency in 81 developing countries by pooling cross‐country data over various subperids between 1961–90. An incremental output‐capital ratio is the measure of economic efficiency, while the policy variables include: export orientation, size of the public sector, directed credit program through development bank lendings, financial depth (computed as the ratio of the flow of real value of monetary liabilities to real GDP), inflation rate, real interest rate, and real exchange rate distortion. The export‐orientation, financial depth, and real interest rate are found to promote economic efficiency, while other policy variables are found to hinder it.
Vacancy Dynamics and Labor Market Efficiency in the Dutch Labor Market
Authors: GORTER CEES , NIJKAMP PETER , PELS ERIC
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACT
This paper focuses on cyclical and regional variations in vacancy dynamics in labor markets with persistent imbalances between demand and supply. In particular the so‐called matching approach is used to investigate labor market efficiency across regions and over the business cycle. In this matching approach the relationship between the flow of filled vacancies and regional stocks of unemployed job seekers and vacant jobs is specified in a “search production” function. The matching approach is applied to the Dutch labor market, which is characterized by strong disequilibria and persistent regional differences in unemployment and vacancy rates. To explore the development of these regional imbalances from a demand side perspective, the dynamic structure of regional data on vacancies is analyzed over the business cycle. The movements of vacancy duration and the change in the vacancy stock over time appear to be similar across Dutch regions. Moreover, an investigation of the structural causes of regional variations in vacancy duration via shift‐share analysis makes clear that regional differences in sectoral composition of unfilled vacancies do not contribute to regional differences in vacancy duration in the period 1989–93. Estimation results of a matching model reveal that there are no region‐specific differences in labor market efficiency to produce filled vacancies. The ratio of vacancies to unemployment appears to be the critical determinant of the matching process in the Dutch regions. Another general (non region‐specific) finding is that the estimated labor market efficiency increases during recessionary and recovery periods while it decreases during an economic boom.
Integrating Econometric and Input‐Output Models in a Multiregional Context
Authors: REY SERGIO J. , DEV BORIS
Published: July 2006

ABSTRACTThis paper explores the extension of integrated econometric/input‐output models from a single to a multiregional context. A number of methodological issues associated with existing treatments of extraregional relations in both traditional multiregional econometric models and the more recent single region integrated models are discussed. A series of new approaches are introduced that rely on the integration of econometric and input‐output methods to specify extraregional linkages. A comparison of these alternative modeling approaches is undertaken using employment series for 5 regions in Southern California. The forecasting accuracies are evaluated in a series of out‐of‐sample forecasting experiments. The findings suggest that the forecasting performance of the multiregional extensions of the integrated approach is competitive with the performance of single region implementations. The performance of the alternative multiregional approaches is found to be relatively more sensitive to regionalization of the IO component and the level of industrial disaggregation than to the incorporation of distance in the specification of the multiregional linkages.
The Norwegian Home‐building Industry — Locally Embedded or in the Space of Flows?
Authors: ORDERUD GEIR INGE
Published: July 2006

During the last 25 years the neoliberal institutional turn and globalization have caused profound structural changes and challenged our theoretical understandings. In this article the emerging structure of the Norwegian home‐building industry is presented, with a focus on the interaction between different actors in the different stages and functions of the home‐building network. The structure of employer–contractor relations in the liberalized housing market is disclosed and used as a basis for discussing the theoretical perspectives developed by Amin and Thrift’s work on circulation and distanciation and by Castells’ work on the network enterprise and space of flows. The questions asked are whether these trends are seen in the Norwegian home‐building industry. From the analysis we learn that home‐building is considered a local business due to: a capacity restraint regarding local market knowledge; the interaction with local planning authorities; face‐to‐face meetings; and social relations. On the other hand, there are a set of factors that tell a ‘circulation’ story: an increasing number of participants, especially in design and planning; a more complex market structure; and a need for developer’s knowledge on trends in design and construction. In sum, the analysis discloses a structure of increasing circulation but without a corresponding distanciation, and from Castells’ perspective there is an emerging space of flows, but still a rather local geometry; a pattern probably prone to change in the years to come.
DEBATES AND DEVELOPMENTS. Competitive Cities and Secure Nations: Conflict and Convergence in Urban Waterfront Agendas after 9/11
Authors: COWEN DEBORAH , BUNCE SUSANNAH
Published: July 2006

In this exploratory article we investigate how longstanding ‘competitive city’ projects are actively reshaped by recent national security initiatives in urban waterfronts. We argue that port districts in large waterfront cities are becoming critical sites where actors are struggling to further different agendas. While proponents of competitive city projects appear directly concerned with promoting a particular vision of capitalist urban development in contrast to the national security agenda of port and border securitization, we contend that a simple dichotomy between ‘economy’ and ‘security’ cannot capture their complex intermingling. We examine the emergent public discourses of port (in)security in the US and Canada since 9/11, paying particular attention to the convergences between port security and waterfront gentrification initiatives, while also noting conflicts between these agendas. We identify four key areas of change: relations of power in the governance of port spaces, rationales of urban planning decisions, physical redesign of urban port spaces, and conflicts between ‘economy’ and ‘security’. Post 9/11 port security initiatives are sometimes at odds and other times at ease with the competitive city agendas that are readily apparent in urban waterfront redevelopments. Both projects have disturbing implications for social justice in waterfront cities.
Abnormal compartmentalization of norepinephrine in mouse dentate gyrus in α‐synuclein knockout and A30P transgenic mice
Authors: Yavich Leonid , Jäkälä Pekka , Tanila Heikki
Published: July 2006

In the dentate gyrus of the mouse hippocampus, presynaptic recruitment of norepinephrine in response to repeated‐burst stimulation can be described in terms of an interaction between storage and readily releasable pools. The dynamics of this interaction depends on neuronal activity (bursting), so that the higher the demand for norepinephrine, the faster it is delivered from the storage pool. We also found that α‐synuclein, a presynaptic protein that plays a crucial role in dopamine compartmentalization in the striatum, is also involved in the compartmentalization of norepinephrine in the dentate gyrus. Experiments in transgenic mice with modified or absent α‐synuclein revealed that the familial Parkinson's disease‐linked α‐synuclein mutation A30P can cause selective changes in the function of noradrenergic terminals. Addition of mutated human α‐synuclein abolished the normal norepinephrine mobilization. There were no compensatory mechanisms available in the norepinephrine presynaptic terminals. In contrast, deletion of mouse α‐synuclein is compensated for by increased vesicle transport from the storage pool. The effects are essentially the same as previously reported for dopaminergic terminals in the striatum, indicating that the important role of α‐synuclein in neurotransmitter mobilization is not limited to dopaminergic terminals.
Magnetocardiographic Assessment of Healed Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Hänninen Helena , Holmström Miia , Vesterinen Paula , Karvonen Milla , Väänänen Heikki , Oikarinen Lasse , Mäkijärvi Markku , Nenonen Jukka , Lauerma Kirsi , Katila Toivo , Toivonen Lauri
Published: July 2006

Background: We evaluated the capability of multichannel magnetocardiography (MCG) to detect healed myocardial infarction (MI).

Methods: Multichannel MCG over frontal chest was recorded at rest in 21 patients with healed MI, detected by cine‐ and contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging, and in 26 healthy controls. Of the 21 MI patients, 11 had non‐Q wave and 10 Q wave MIs. QRS, ST‐segment, T wave and ST‐T wave integrals, ST‐segment and T wave amplitudes, and QRS and ST‐T wave magnetic field map orientations were measured.

Results: The MCG repolarization indexes, such as ST segment and ST‐T wave integrals, separated the MI group from the controls (ST‐T wave integral −1.4 ± 5.3 vs 1.5 ± 4.7 pTs, P = 0.034). The abnormalities were more distinct in the Q wave‐MI than in the non‐Q wave MI subgroup. In the latter, however, a trend similar to the Q wave MI group was found. The relation of QRS area to ST segment and T wave integral improved the detection of healed MIs compared to the ST‐T wave indexes alone (QRS‐ST‐T discordance 14 ± 10 vs 5.0 ± 7.1 pTs, P = 0.003). When comparing the MI group to the controls, the orientation of the magnetic field maps differed in the ST‐T wave maps (163 ± 119° vs 58 ± 17°, P < 0.001) but not in the QRS maps (111 ± 95° vs 106 ±93°, P = 0.646).

Conclusions: The MCG repolarization variables can detect healed MI. These ST‐T wave abnormalities are more pronounced in patients with Q wave MI than in patients with non‐Q wave MIs. Relating the signals of depolarization and repolarization phases improves the detection of healed MI. Repolarization abnormalities are common in healed MI and thus should not always be interpreted as present ongoing ischemia.
Effect of Right Bundle Branch Block on Electrocardiographic Amplitudes, Including Combined Voltage Criteria Used for the Detection of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
Authors: Chan Peter G. , Logue Michael , Kligfield Paul
Published: July 2006

Background: Although right bundle branch block (RBBB) delays right ventricular depolarization, its effect on cancellation of right and left ventricular forces within the QRS complex has not been quantified during stable temporal and physiological conditions. Systematic changes in QRS amplitude during transient RBBB bear directly on performance of standard ECG criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), and these changes require quantification.

Methods: We examined the instantaneous effect of RBBB on QRS amplitudes and LVH voltages in 40 patients who had intermittent complete RBBB during a single 10 sec standard 12‐lead ECG recording, comprising 0.1% of approximately 400,000 consecutive ECGs in a university teaching hospital setting. Amplitudes were measured by magnifying graticule to the nearest 25 microvolts, averaged for up to 3 normal and 3 RBBB complexes, and compared by paired t test.

Results: RBBB was associated with an increase in initial QRS forces (RV1, RV2, and QV6) but significant decreases in mean mid‐QRS amplitudes that reflect left ventricular depolarization (RaVL [−75 microvolts], SV1 [−389 microvolts], SV3 [−617 microvolts], RV5 [−100 microvolts], and RV6 [−123 microvolts]). All late QRS forces were increased with RBBB (R'V1, SV5, SI). As a result, combined voltages used for LVH criteria were significantly reduced by RBBB: Sokolow‐Lyon voltage decreased from 1520 ± 739 to 1014 ± 512 microvolts (p < 0.001), and Cornell voltage decreased from 1438 ± 683 to 746 ± 399 microvolts (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: RBBB is associated with significant reduction in "left ventricular" QRS amplitudes of the standard ECG, consistent with cancellation, rather than unmasking, of left ventricular mid‐QRS forces by altered septal and delayed right ventricular depolarization. Because QRS voltages that are routinely combined for the detection of LVH are reduced in RBBB, standard LVH criteria will perform with lower sensitivity in patients with RBBB.
Right Precordial Leads and Lead aVR at Exercise Electrocardiography: Does It Change Test Results?
Authors: Bainey Kevin R. , Kalia Nove , Carter D. , Hrynchyshyn Gregory , Kasza Leslie , Lee T. K. , Wirzba Brian , Senaratne Manohara P. J.
Published: July 2006

Background: A recent study on exercise testing (ET) suggested that ST‐segment changes in the right precordial leads (RPL) may increase its sensitivity substantially. However, this study looked at a highly selected population of patients who all underwent thallium‐201 scintigraphy and coronary angiography. The present study evaluated the clinical utility of ST‐segment changes in the RPL and lead aVR in an unselected population of patients undergoing ET.

Methods: A total of 906 consecutive patients who received ET were included in the study. ET was done using the Bruce Protocol with a 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG) substituting V4R and V6R for V1 and V6. Leads V1 and V6 were selected for omission as these two leads hardly ever manifest changes in isolation. Substituting two leads would obviate the need for a more complex recording system, thus improving clinical utility.

Results: On the basis of horizontal/downsloping ST‐segment depression (STD) of 1.0 mm or more (the usually accepted criterion for a positive ET), 159 (17.5%) patients had a positive ET. In those patients with a negative ET (545 patients), 4 patients (0.7%) manifested STD and 5 patients (0.9%) manifested ST‐segment elevation (STE) in leads V4R and/or V6R, respectively. Of note, 44.7% of the positive ET group had STE in lead aVR.

Conclusion: The use of ST‐segment changes in RPL during exercise stress testing does not appreciably change the test results of a standard ET. If one was to consider an additional marker, STE in aVR may be more useful, as it shows a stronger correlation with positive tests and does not require the recording of additional leads.
Mutational analysis of MYC in common epithelial cancers and acute leukemias
Authors: LEE JONG WOO , SOUNG YOUNG HWA , KIM SU YOUNG , NAM SUK WOO , PARK WON SANG , LEE JUNG YOUNG , YOO NAM JIN , LEE SUG HYUNG
Published: July 2006

In addition to chromosomal translocation, the MYC gene in the N‐terminal coding region showed clustered point mutations in Burkitt's lymphomas. A recent study showed that these point mutations inactivated the apoptosis activity of MYC and contributed to the tumor transformation. To see whether the point mutations of MYC are involved in tumors besides Burkitt's lymphomas, we analyzed the N‐terminal cluster region of the mutations in 507 cancers from gastric, colorectal, breast and lung carcinomas, and acute leukemias, by polymerase chain reaction‐based single‐strand conformation polymorphism assay. However, there was no somatic mutation of the MYC gene in the cancers. The data suggest that the point mutation of the MYC gene in the N‐terminal domain may be very rare and may not contribute to the development of common human cancers besides Burkitt's lymphomas.
The effect on horizontal tooth mobility of experimental trauma to the periodontal membrane in regions of tension or compression in monkeys
Authors: Picton D. C. A. , Slatter Janet M.
Published: July 2006

After normal tooth mobility was measured for thirty‐two incisors in six adult male monkeys (Macaca irus) trauma to the mesial or distal gingiva was produced by passing a scalpel blade down the gingival crevice until the alveolar crest was reached. Force was then applied towards or away from the lesion and the mobility reassessed. A fine steel blade was then passed into the periodontal membrane on the same side as the gingival lesion to a depth of the apical one third, a manoeuvre which was completed in one and a half minutes. The mobility was again estimated. Significant increases in mobility were produced when the periodontal tissues were traumatised but the increases in mobility which followed disruption of the gingival regions were significant only on the side of compression. Damage to areas of tension in the membrane caused an increase of similar magnitude to trauma of areas of compression. It is concluded that both these mechanisms operate when horizontal force is applied to teeth in the approximal direction and appear to be of equal importance.
Levels of platelet activating factor in gingival crevice fluid following periodontal surgical therapy
Authors: Keles G. C. , Cetinkaya B. O. , Isildak I. , Koprulu H. , Acikgoz G.
Published: July 2006

Background and Objective:  Elevated levels of platelet activating factor (PAF), a potent inflammatory phospholipid mediator, have been previously detected in gingival tissues and gingival crevice fluid (GCF) in periodontal disease. However, the role of this mediator during wound healing after periodontal surgery remains unclear. The hypothesis, a relationship between PAF levels and periodontal healing, was tested by measuring PAF levels in GCF samples collected from sites that had undergone guided tissue regeneration (GTR) or flap surgery.

Material and Methods:  Using a split‐mouth design, 30 intrabony defects were randomly assigned to treatment with GTR (group 1) or to flap surgery (group 2). GCF was sampled pre‐operatively and at 6‐, 12‐ and 24‐wk follow‐up evaluation visits. PAF levels in GCF were analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Results:  Both treatment modalities significantly reduced the probing pocket depth and improved the clinical attachment level (p < 0.01). Compared with pre‐operative values, the GCF volume and PAF levels were significantly decreased at postoperative weeks 6, 12 and 24 in both groups (p < 0.01). There were also significant differences in GCF volume and PAF levels at all time points up to 24 wks in both groups (p < 0.01). No statistically significant differences were observed in any of the parameters investigated between the two groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:  PAF is detectable in GCF by HPLC and showed a continuous decrease at all the time points monitored following periodontal surgical therapy. This suggests that changes in the levels of this mediator in GCF might be useful for monitoring the progress of periodontal repair and regeneration.
Vac8p, an Armadillo Repeat Protein, Coordinates Vacuole Inheritance With Multiple Vacuolar Processes
Authors: Tang Fusheng , Peng Yutian , Nau Johnathan J. , Kauffman Emily J. , Weisman Lois S.
Published: July 2006

Vac8p, an armadillo (ARM) repeat protein, is required for multiple vacuolar processes. It functions in vacuole inheritance, cytoplasm‐to‐vacuole protein targeting pathway, formation of the nucleus–vacuole junction and vacuole–vacuole fusion. These functions each utilize a distinct Vac8p‐binding partner. Here, we report an additional Vac8p function: caffeine resistance. We show that Vac8p function in caffeine resistance is mediated via a newly identified Vac8p‐binding partner, Tco89p. The interaction between Vac8p and each binding partner requires an overlapping subset of Vac8p ARM repeats. Moreover, these partners can compete with each other for access to Vac8p. Furthermore, Vac8p is enriched in three separate subdomains on the vacuole, each with a unique binding partner dedicated to a different vacuolar function. These findings suggest that a major role of Vac8p is to spatially separate multiple functions thereby enabling vacuole inheritance to occur concurrently with other vacuolar processes.
Case report: Giant intermuscular lipoma of the forearm
Authors: Tallini Angus , Tan Swee T.
Published: July 2006

Lipoma is the commonest soft tissue tumour, usually found subcutaneously. However, intermuscular and intramuscular lipomas are uncommon and they rarely occur in the distal extremities where they can be associated with restriction of movement or nerve compression syndromes. These lesions can prove a diagnostic challenge, and should be managed differently from subcutaneous lipomas as their proximity to neurovascular structures and distortion of anatomy pose a risk during excision. As well, intramuscular lipomas are prone to recur.
Training model for end‐to‐side microvascular anastomosis in rat
Authors: Ng Raymond Wai‐Man
Published: July 2006

End‐to‐side microsurgery is technically more challenging than end‐to‐end microvascular anastomosis. However, there is no ideal model to practice this exercise. An animal training model is described for practising this type of anastomosis.
Pre‐emptive analgesia and metronidazole on post‐haemorrhoidectomy pain control
Authors: Ng Simon Siu‐Man , Lee Janet Fung‐Yee , Cheung Ka‐Yin , Leung Ka‐Lau , Yiu Raymond Ying‐Chang , Lau Wan‐Yee
Published: July 2006

Background:  Post‐haemorrhoidectomy wound pain is often the focus of concern for patients as well as their clinicians. Despite the recent enthusiasm brought about by stapled haemorrhoidectomy, conventional haemorrhoidectomy still remains the mainstay of surgical treatment for symptomatic third and fourth degree haemorrhoids in places where healthcare funding cannot afford these expensive devices. The present study aims at evaluating the effectiveness of pre‐emptive analgesia and oral metronidazole in reducing wound pain and complications after open haemorrhoidectomy.

Method:  Patients with symptomatic third or fourth degree haemorrhoids undergoing open haemorrhoidectomy were randomized into four groups. Group 1 received pre‐emptive analgesia (0.5% bupivacaine). Group 2 received oral metronidazole (400 mg three times daily for 1 week). Group 3 received both treatments while group 4 was the control group.

Results:  Number of patients recruited was 105. There was no significant difference among the four groups in terms of pain scores on the first three postoperative days, analgesic requirements, hospital stay and the time to return to normal daily activities. Patients who received oral metronidazole had significantly less pain at the time of the first bowel motion (P = 0.037).

Conclusion:  Oral metronidazole significantly reduces pain during the first bowel motion after open haemorrhoidectomy. Pre‐emptive analgesia with 0.5% bupivacaine does not reduce postoperative pain.
Radical retropubic prostatectomy: How I do it
Authors: Wong Bill Tak‐Hing
Published: July 2006

Prostate cancer has become one of the leading cancers affecting men in Hong Kong. Radical prostatectomy remains the ideal treatment for the cure of prostate cancer. Evolution in the technique of radical prostatectomy, based on a better understanding of the periprostatic anatomy, has reduced operative morbidity in terms of blood loss, incontinence and impotence, and has rendered radical retropubic prostatectomy a safe operation and the standard surgical approach.
Use of Analog Plotter in Water‐Control Problemsa
Authors: Sherwood C. B. , Klein Howard
Published: July 2006

The City of Fort Lauderdale's Prospect well field, near the coast in southeastern Florida, is developed in the highly permeable Biscayne aquifer. Major drainage canals which transect the well‐field area are hydraulically connected with the aquifer. Although the canals were designed primarily to drain ground water from storage during wet periods, they serve also to convey water eastward from large inland conservation areas during dry periods, to replenish the aquifer in coastal areas, and to retard salt‐water encroachment.

An aquifer analog plotter and model were used to predict changes in ground‐water levels in the Prospect well‐field area caused by changes in the regulation of the canals. Analysis of the model showed that if water stages in the canals were controlled at locations downstream from existing control structures, the area of recharge from the canals to the well field would be increased and a rise in ground‐water levels would result. The increase in ground‐water storage would permit larger withdrawals from existing facilities and would offer additional protection from salt‐water encroachment.