bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brief Antecedent Assessment and Treatment of Tics in the General Education Classroom
Authors: Watson T. Steuart , Dufrene Brad , Weaver Adam , Butler Tonya , Meeks Caroline
Published: October 2005

The purpose of this study was to determine if specific classroom antecedents were associated with motor and vocal tics in two males diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome. Afunctional assessment consisting of teacher and student interviews, direct observations, brief functional analysis, and confirmatory naturalistic observations indicated that specific antecedents could be identified for each participant. Simplified habit reversal was then implemented only under the antecedent condition that resulted in the highest rate of tics. The rate of tics decreased under the specific antecedent condition as well as at other times as validated by behavioral observations conducted at random times. The discussion focuses on the utility of conducting such assessments, the methodological and applied limitations of the current study, and avenues for further research.
How Swift Starting Action Teams Get off the Ground
Authors: Mckinney Earl H. , Barker James R. , Davis Kevin J. , Smith Daryl
Published: October 2005

In 1989, United Airlines Flight 232 survived a catastrophic in-flight engine explosion because of, in part, the crew’s ability to communicate while under crisis conditions. Drawing on the experience of Flight 232, other flight deck crew research, and the authors’own flying experiences, the authors develop a descriptive, proposition-based model of the communication process dynamics found in such groups, which they call swift starting action teams. They argue that swift starting action teams, composed of highly trained strangers within one organization, must use communication processes that enable them to perform well immediately and manage crises in high risk environments. These processes depend on each team’s use and awareness of communication values and communication interactions. The authors discuss the communication dynamics of swift starting action teams and the implication of considering such teams in future research.
The Civil Society Sector
Authors: Lewis Laurie
Published: October 2005

The civil society sector is a growing sector of societies across the globe. With 1.8 million registered nonprofits in the United States alone, it provides an exciting landscape for organizational communication scholars to explore. This article develops an argument and some starting points for organizational communication researchers to begin work in the area. The article reviews four potential starting points: social capital; mission, effectiveness, and accountability; governance and decision making; and volunteer relationships. In each area, the article points to a set of important dynamics and constructs, references important works in the nonprofit organization literature, and suggests directions for future research for organizational communication scholarship.
Knowledge Gaps Among School Staff and the Role of High Quality Ecological Assessments in Schools
Authors: Bowen Natasha K. , Powers Joelle D.
Published: October 2005

Objective: The purpose of the current study was to examine the practice validity of a new ecological assessment instrument for third through fifth graders in terms of whether it provided school staff with new knowledge about students. Method: Preassessment knowledge of school staff was compared to data obtained from 21 children and their parents on 29 measures. Data were collected using the Elementary School Success Profile. School staff preassessment knowledge was compared to obtained data across seven domains of children’s lives (neighborhood, school, family, peers, parent educational involvement, well-being, and home behavior), data sources (child and parent), and grade level of students. Results: Preassessment knowledge was not highly correlated with obtained data; preassessment expectations matched obtained data only about 41% of the time, and knowledge varied by domain, source, and grade level. Conclusions: Ecological assessments can address gaps in school staff’s knowledge of targetable factors that influence the success of students.
Comparing Sex Offender Risk Classification Using the Static-99 and LSI-R Assessment Instruments
Authors: Gentry Amanda L. , Dulmus Catherine N. , Theriot Matthew T.
Published: October 2005

Objective: This study compares sex offender risk classification using two popular actuarial risk assessment instruments—the Static-99 and the Level of Service Inventory–Revised (LSI-R). Despite their extensive use, the two scales assess different types of risk factors and research has yet to compare them. Method: Static-99 and LSI-R risk assessments were compared for 30 adult male sex offenders attending a community-based treatment program. Results: A paired Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed a significant difference (Z = –3.962,p < .001) between the instruments, with 63.3% of the sample classified as higher risk for reoffending by the Static-99 than by the LSI-R. Conclusions: The Static-99 may be a more conservative risk assessment tool. Yet because the LSI-R provides useful information about an offender’s current needs not included on the Static-99, treatment providers should use both instruments. This more comprehensive assessment of criminogenic risk and need will better inform supervision and intervention decisions.
Resident Perceptions of Housing, Neighborhood, and Economic Conditions After Relocation From Public Housing Undergoing HOPE VI Redevelopment
Authors: Brooks Fred , Zugazaga Carole , Wolk James , Adams Mary Anne
Published: October 2005

Objective: This study evaluates participant perception of neighborhood, economic, and housing well-being of residents 4 and 5 years after forced relocation from a public housing complex in Atlanta, Georgia. Method: The study used a mixed-method, posttest-only design with two data points. Focus groups with 93 participants combined qualitative, open-ended questions with quantitative measures. Results: Four years after relocation, residents living in homes/apartments found with Section 8 housing vouchers were faring better than residents who moved to other public housing projects. A majority of voucher users believed their house, neighborhood, and overall global living situation had improved since relocation. In the year between the first and second wave of focus groups, 40% of voucher users had moved to a new house/apartment. Moving was associated with residents perceiving their situations improving in many categories. Implications: Our findings suggest HOPE VI developments are more likely to accomplish their objectives if the current administration continues full funding of the voucher program rather than implements the cutbacks it is currently proposing.
Empowering High-Risk Families of Children With Disabilities
Authors: Farber Michaela L. Z. , Maharaj Ravita
Published: October 2005

Objective: This study evaluated an adapted version of a group-based manualized parent education curriculum applied to meet the parenting needs of high-risk African American families rearing children with developmental delays. Methodology: Three successive cohorts were assessed for statistical equivalence and evaluated using a one group pre- and postdesign followed by a booster session. Dependent variables used self-reports of caregivers’ empowerment, emotional outlook, parent-child interaction, and community involvement. The analyses included paired t tests and repeated measures. Results: All outcomes evidenced statistically significant and practically meaningful positive trends subject to design limitations. Conclusions: The adaptations met the program needs of targeted participants. Future recommendations are discussed.
Life Contentment and Mental Health Care Satisfaction
Authors: Prince Jonathan D.
Published: October 2005

Objective: It is now well documented that satisfaction with mental health services is influenced by a variety of other factors (e.g., race, diagnosis, functioning level). Because of a generally brighter outlook, this study examined whether care satisfaction is also influenced by contentment in housing, social relations, or existence in general. Method: Data were collected from 264 individuals with schizophrenia who were discharged from psychiatric hospitals into community services (M = 37 years of age, SD = 9.41, 61% male). Results: Satisfaction with services was determined partially by satisfaction with housing and interpersonal relations even after accounting for the influence of age, gender, race, and level of functioning. The association was statistically significant in inpatient and outpatient care. Conclusion: Future satisfaction assessments in social work research and practice may need to account for contentment with other areas of life.
The African American Adolescent Respect Scale: A Measure of a Prosocial Attitude
Authors: Leary Joy D. , Brennan Eileen M. , Briggs Harold E.
Published: October 2005

Objectives: The respect that African American youth feel promotes psychological wellness and social identity; conversely, a lack of respect compromises their identities and is viewed as a threat to safety. This article describes the development, psychometric analysis, and validation of the African American Respect Scale, a 20-item instrument measuring prosocial attitudes held by male adolescents. Method: The scale was administered to 200 African American male youth age 14 to 18 years; 100 were incarcerated in juvenile corrections facilities, 100 resided in the community. Results: After acceptable reliability was established, factor analysis revealed three principal components labeled societal, family, and peer subscales. The subscales correlated with racial socialization and predicted the use of violence. Nonincarcerated youth scored significantly higher on all three subscales than incarcerated youth. Conclusions: Suggestions for social work practice with African American youth include assessing their attitudes toward respect, and assisting them to handle disrespect without resorting to violence.
Group Treatment of Separated Parent and Child Interaction
Authors: Briggs Harold E. , Leary Joy D. , Briggs Adam C. , Cox Wendell H. , Shibano Matsujiro
Published: October 2005

Effective child-behavior management is an important characteristic in facilitating positive parent and child interaction. The current study examines the impact of a behavioral parent-training group methodology on problem behaviors and goals for a single mother and two young boys. Results indicate that the procedures were valuable for enhancing goal achievement and reducing the frequency of problem behaviors for the single parent and the young boy participants of this case study.
The Needs of AIDS-Infected Individuals in Rural China
Authors: Lu Yun (Luke) , Trout Shirley K. , Lu Katarina , Creswell John W.
Published: October 2005

The purpose of this exploratory case study was to describe the needs and present the voices of 21 AIDS-infected individuals who contracted the disease through the selling of blood in rural China. Data sources included interviews, field notes, and letters. Three themes emerged: living in a vicious circle, awakening from the dead end, and escaping the vicious circle through education. Education emerged as an overarching theme and was identified as the catalyst that would either keep the families of those affected trapped in the vicious circle or rescue them from it. Findings are explained within the theoretical contexts of social capital, motivation theory, and Confucius’s philosophy on education. The authors discuss implications for researchers, educators, relief workers, human service workers, policy makers, and human rights advocates. They conclude with suggestions for further study.
The Complexity of Symptoms and Meanings Involving “Nerves” in the Brazilian Public Health System
Authors: Traverso-Yépez Martha , de Medeiros Luciana Fernandez
Published: October 2005

The expression “suffering from nerves” is a common complaint among lower income women in Brazil. It is used to express a generalized and usually chronic suffering with a variety of physiological, physical, and psychological symptoms. Public health professionals have trouble with this condition, in which mental and physical factors seem to interact in a complex manner. Empirical evidence comes from broader research developed at a public health unit in a lower income district in the city of Natal in northeastern Brazil. In this article, the authors focus on a 38-year-old married homemaker and mother of two teenagers. This was a longitudinal 14-month study during which they conducted 22 interviews with this woman. Throughout the interviews, the developing dialogic process provided her with room for reflection about her problem and about herself, giving rise to narratives in which the suffering was progressively related to social-structural limitations.
Australian Letters to the Editor on Tobacco: Triggers, Rhetoric, and Claims of Legitimate Voice
Authors: Smith Katherine Clegg , McLeod Kim , Wakefield Melanie
Published: October 2005

News coverage of tobacco issues influences both individual behavior change and policy progression. Thus, media advocacy is increasingly recognized as important for promoting public health. Letters to the editor (LTE) are a basic form of media advocacy, serving to demonstrate community sentiment on a given issue. Such letters are yet to receive systematic analytic consideration. The authors conducted an ethnographic content analysis of LTE on tobacco issues from a sample of 11 Australian daily newspapers over a 3-year period (2001 to 2003, N = 361). They argue that letters are artifacts of active engagement in a public debate and note that various stakeholders adopt similar strategies to pursue their objectives. They illustrate how identifying personal and collective identities is crucial in the assertion of legitimacy of voice in LTEs. Better understanding is needed of both the particular issues that spark public engagement, and the salient rhetoric employed by advocates of disparate positions.
On theories and models
Authors: Duranti Alessandro
Published: October 2005

Starting from the assumption that the ability to see patterns and thus abstract from actual events and properties of specific objects is universal, the article reviews different conceptualizations of and attitudes toward the terms ‘theory’ and ‘model’, identifying two co-existing and opposing tendencies: the love for details (originally praised by Franz Boas) and the attraction to generalizations that can cover a wide range of phenomena. Using as a backdrop seven theses here reproduced in the Appendix, the article also examines the implications of taking the notion of interaction as primary in the analysis of language and culture. Such implications involve the need to identify useful units of analysis and evaluative measures for competing theories and models.
Living with Manny's dangerous idea
Authors: Levinson Stephen C.
Published: October 2005

Daniel Dennett, in Darwin's Dangerous Idea, argues that natural selection is a universal acid that eats through other theories, because it can explain just about everything, even the structure of the mind. Emanuel (Manny) Schegloff (1987) in ‘Between Micro and Macro: Context and Other Connections’ opposes the importation of ‘macro’ (sociological/sociolinguistic) factors into the ‘micro’ (interaction analysis), suggesting that one might reverse the strategy instead. Like Darwin, he is coy about whether he just wants his own turf, but the idea opens up the possibility of interactional reductionism. I will argue against interactional reductionism on methodological grounds: Don't bite off more than you can chew! Instead I'll support the good old Durkheimian strategy of looking for intermediate variables between systems of different orders. I try and make the case with data from Rossel Island, Papua New Guinea.
The clause as a locus of grammar and interaction
Authors: Thompson Sandra A. , Couper-Kuhlen Elizabeth
Published: October 2005

This article draws on work at the interface of grammar and interaction to argue that the clause is a locus of interaction, in the sense that it is one of the most frequent grammatical formats which speakers orient to in projecting what actions are being done by others' utterances and in acting on these projections. Yet the way in which the clause affords grammatical projectability varies significantly from language to language. In fact, it depends on the nature of the clausal grammatical formats which are available as resources in a language: in some languages these allow early projection in the turn unit (as in English), in others they do not (as in Japanese). We focus here on these two languages and show that their variable grammatical projectability has repercussions on the way in which three interactional phenomena – next-turn onset, co-construction, and turn-unit extension – are realized in the respective speech communities. In each case the practices used are precisely the ones which the clausal grammatical formats in the given language promote. The evidence thus suggests that clauses are interactionally warranted, if variably built, formats for social action.
Coordinating with each other in a material world
Authors: Clark Herbert H.
Published: October 2005

In everyday joint activities, people coordinate with each other by means not only of linguistic signals, but also of material signals – signals in which they indicate things by deploying material objects, locations, or actions around them. Material signals fall into two main classes: directing-to and placing-for. In directing-to, people request addressees to direct their attention to objects, events, or themselves. In placing-for, people place objects, actions, or themselves in special sites for addressees to interpret. Both classes have many subtypes. Features of material signals were examined in pairs of people who were videotaped as they assembled TV stands, built Lego models, planned furnishings for a house, played piano duets, or bought coffee at Starbucks. In these activities, the pointing and placements were often sustained, creating three phases of signals – initiation, maintenance, and termination – each with its own interpretation.
Identity and interaction: a sociocultural linguistic approach
Authors: Bucholtz Mary , Hall Kira
Published: October 2005

The article proposes a framework for the analysis of identity as produced in linguistic interaction, based on the following principles: (1) identity is the product rather than the source of linguistic and other semiotic practices and therefore is a social and cultural rather than primarily internal psychological phenomenon; (2) identities encompass macro-level demographic categories, temporary and interactionally specific stances and participant roles, and local, ethnographically emergent cultural positions; (3) identities may be linguistically indexed through labels, implicatures, stances, styles, or linguistic structures and systems; (4) identities are relationally constructed through several, often overlapping, aspects of the relationship between self and other, including similarity/difference, genuineness/artifice and authority/ delegitimacy; and (5) identity may be in part intentional, in part habitual and less than fully conscious, in part an outcome of interactional negotiation, in part a construct of others’ perceptions and representations, and in part an outcome of larger ideological processes and structures. The principles are illustrated through examination of a variety of linguistic interactions.
Embodied knowledge
Authors: O’Connor Erin
Published: October 2005

Becoming a proficient glassblower involves an indispensable shift away from cognitive readings of practice towards corporeal readings. In learning glassblowing myself in the course of an ethnography of handicrafts in New York City, the subtleties of apprenticeship, the modes of reading and understanding the practice, both cognitive and corporeal, have emerged, making more complex our understanding of the transmission, development, and modalities of practical knowledge. Such ethnographic dissection brings phenomenological considerations to bear on the question of achieving proficient practical knowledge, and enables us to sharpen our understanding of the role of meaning in practice.
Bettor Misperceptions in the NBA
Authors: Paul Rodney J. , Weinbach Andrew P.
Published: October 2005

Systematic bettor misperceptions are found in the NBA point spread gambling market for the seasons of 1995-1996 to 2001-2002. Evidence of the overbetting of favorites is found, with a strategy of betting big underdogs rejecting the null of a fair bet. Betting big home underdogs not only rejects a fair bet but is also shown to reject the null of no profitability. In addition, betting against winning streaks, as first suggested in the “hot-hand” article of Camerer and later tested by Brown and Sauer, is also shown to be profitable.
Contrary Evidence on the Economic Effect of the Super Bowl on the Victorious City
Authors: Matheson Victor A.
Published: October 2005

Previous research has indicated a surprising statistically significant positive effect on the local economy in the city that wins the Super Bowl. An analysis of per capita personal income growth in victorious Super Bowl cities from 1970-2001 cannot further confirm these results. Although winning the Super Bowl is associated with an increase in income of $50 to $60 per capita, these results are less than half those found in previous studies and are not statistically significant at the 5% level.
Concentration of Playing Talent
Authors: Schmidt Martin B. , Berri David J.
Published: October 2005

Several authors have recently suggested that an expanding labor pool has led to improvement in professional sports leagues’ competitive balance. The basic premise is that a rise in team player options leads to less variability in player performance and therefore increased competition. The present work examines the initial step (i.e., the relationship between the influx of foreign-born players and various measures of talent compression). The results suggest that the geographic diversity of today’s baseball players has reduced variability in individual player performance.
The Golden Anniversary of “The Baseball Players’ Labor Market”
Authors: Fort Rodney
Published: October 2005

Rottenberg’s “The Baseball Players’ Labor Market” holds the original ideas behind many threads of the sports economics literature. Most well known, the article contains both the invariance proposition (IP) and the uncertainty-of-outcome hypothesis. But there is also a rather complete specification of attendance demand and much more. Given this, it is strange that the IP has been “morphed” into the Coase theorem in portions of the sports economics literature. Rottenberg deserves better than footnote status, and an insightful empirical test is lost in this transformation. This article documents this and tests the IP directly on an occurrence missed so far in the literature (but also documented by Rottenberg) to point out the continued importance of the IP, even up to the golden anniversary of its original publication.
Inequality, Trust, and Civic Engagement
Authors: Uslaner Eric M. , Brown Mitchell
Published: October 2005

This article examines why people violate rationality and take part in their communities, differentiating by types of participation, particularly political versus other, more communal types of participation. The authors argue that trust plays an important role in participation levels, but contrary to more traditional models, the causal relationship runs from trust to participation. In addition, the authors posit that trust is strongly affected by economic inequality. Using aggregated American state-level data for the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, the authors present a series of two-stage least squares models on the effects of inequality and trust on participation, controlling for other related factors. Findings indicate that inequality is the strongest determinant of trust and that trust has a greater effect on communal participation than on political participation.
Political Contribution Tax Credits and Citizen Participation
Authors: Boatright Robert G. , Malbin Michael J.
Published: October 2005

This article discusses political contribution tax credits, a campaign finance reform that seeks to encourage participation. Several states provide citizens with tax credits for part or all of their contributions to state or local candidates. Although a fewstudies have tried to estimate the budgetary impact of such programs, none has analyzed the effects of these tax credits on the propensity of citizens to contribute. We discuss the results of two surveys in one state with tax credits, Ohio— one survey each of the general public and of campaign contributors. Our results indicate that if citizens are made aware of the tax credits, they have the potential to attract donors who are more similar to the general public than the current pool of campaign contributors. Tax credits have the greatest effect on small contributors, on younger adults, and on less partisan individuals.
Greater Convenience But Not Greater Turnout
Authors: Fitzgerald Mary
Published: October 2005

In this study, I evaluate the merits of the structural-legal theory of voter participation in light of the most recent voting reforms instituted in the states. Specifically, I determine the extent to which alternative voting methods such as unrestricted absentee voting, in-person early voting, election-day registration, and motor vehicle and mail registration actually increase turnout and attract participants to the electoral arena by making voting more convenient and reducing the “costs” of participation. In doing so, voter turnout is examined in federal elections across the 50 states and over the time period 1972-2002. Apooled cross-sectional time-series model with fixed effects is used to explore the aggregate, state-level data. Overall, the results reveal the relative weakness of the structural-legal theory with regard to explaining electoral participation and show that voter turnout in U.S. elections may be less about convenience and costs than expected.
Long-term clearance from small airways decreases with age
Authors: Svartengren M. , Falk R. , Philipson K.
Published: October 2005

The prevalence of respiratory symptoms increases with age. Age has been found to be negatively associated with large airway clearance. The small airways region is considered important for development of airway disease.

Clearance after the first 24 h was studied in 46 healthy subjects with a wide age distribution, (mean 42, range 19–81 yrs). All subjects inhaled monodisperse 6 μm Teflon particles labelled with111In, with an extremely slow inhalation flow (0.05 L·s−1). The particles were mainly deposited in the small conducting airways. Lung retention was measured at 0 and 24 h, and at 7, 14 and 21 days after inhalation.

Significant relationships were found for the individual 24 h “large” airway clearance in per cent of initial lung deposition with age, forced expiratory volume in one second and forced vital capacity. Age was negatively associated with “small” airway clearance after 24 h as estimated at 2, 7, 14 and 21 days. Using stepwise linear regression only age remained significantly associated to clearance.

In conclusion, small airway clearance over 21 days was found to decrease with age. This might be one factor associated with the high prevalence of respiratory symptoms associated among the elderly.
Results of a case-detection programme for α1-antitrypsin deficiency in COPD patients
Authors: de la Roza C. , Rodríguez-Frías F. , Lara B. , Vidal R. , Jardí R. , Miravitlles M.
Published: October 2005

α1-Antitrypsin (α1-AT) deficiency is an underdiagnosed condition in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The present authors have conducted a nationwide case detection programme of α1-AT deficiency in unselected patients with COPD using dried blood spots.

The first phase analysed samples from 971 patients by determining α1-AT concentrations and identifying the deficient Z allele by genotyping using rapid real-time PCR. The second phase analysed 1,166 samples with α1-AT concentrations and identified both the S and the Z allele, but only in samples with low α1-AT concentrations.

A total of eight (0.37%) individuals with the severe deficiency PiZZ were detected. In addition, three patients were identified with the PiSZ genotype in the second phase (0.3%). The global cost of the programme was \#8364;41,512, which represents \#8364;19.42 per sample and \#8364;5,189 per PiZZ detected. A sensitivity analysis demonstrated that performing Z genotype to all samples would have resulted in increased costs of \#8364;28 per sample and \#8364;7,479.5 per PiZZ case identified.

In conclusion, a case detection programme of α1-antitrypsin deficiency in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease using dried blood spots is feasible and at a reasonable cost per case detected. Diagnostic yield and costs depend largely on inclusion criteria and the protocol for processing of samples.
Normal values for respiratory resistance using forced oscillation in subjects >65 years old
Authors: Guo Y. F. , Herrmann F. , Michel J-P. , Janssens J-P.
Published: October 2005

The aim of the present study was to determine reference values and predictive variables for respiratory impedance (Zrs) by the forced oscillation technique (FOT) in subjects aged >65 yrs.

The investigation involved a prospective study of nonsmoking subjects, with normal forced expiratory volumes. TheZrsparameters, which included average resistance between 4–16 Hz (R4–16), average resistance between 4–30 Hz (RM), resonant frequency (FN), capacitance (C) and inertance (I), were measured along with forced expiratory manoeuvres. Every subject had each parameter measured in the same sequence using FOT and spirometry.

A total of 223 subjects aged 83±8 yrs were included in the study. The mean values for forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) % predicted were 110±23. The forced vital capacity (FVC) % pred was 114±21 and the FEV1/FVC % pred was 112±11. The mean values for theZrsparameters were:R4–16: 0.25±0.07 kPa·s−1·L−1;RM: 0.25±0.06 kPa·s−1·L−1; FN: 11.0±2.8 Hz; I: 1.17±0.26 Pa·L−1·s−2; and C: 20.5±9.0 mL·hPa−1. In multiple regression models adjusted for age, sex, height and weight, height was the most influential predictor forZrsparameters based on the magnitude of the regression coefficient.

In conclusion, it was found that height was the best predictor for respiratory impedance parameters. Contribution of age and weight was negligible. However, the level of predictability for respiratory impedance parameters by regression equations was low.
Aerosol delivery of chemotherapy in an orthotopic model of lung cancer
Authors: Gagnadoux F. , Pape A. L. , Lemarié E. , Lerondel S. , Valo I. , Leblond V. , Racineux J-L. , Urban T.
Published: October 2005

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect on tumour growth of gemcitabine delivered by aerosol in an orthotopic model of lung carcinoma.

Large cell carcinoma (NCI-H460) cells were implanted intrabronchially in 24 male BALB/c nude mice on day (d) 0. Aerosols were delivered once a week from d1 to d29 using an endotracheal sprayer. Altogether, 16 animals received gemcitabine at 8 (n = 8) and 12 mg·kg−1(n = 8), and eight received a vehicle aerosol. Animals were sacrificed on d36 for histological examination.

All animals in the vehicle group developed a large infiltrating carcinoma. Comparatively, four of 13 (31%) animals treated with gemcitabine had no visible tumour and nine of 13 (69%) had a smaller carcinoma with a mean±semlargest tumour diameter of 2.05±0.7versus5±0.3 mm in the vehicle group. Gemcitabine was well tolerated at 8 mg·kg−1. At 12 mg·kg−1, three cases of fatal pulmonary oedema were observed, prompting a dose reduction to 8 mg·kg−1in the remaining animals. A dose effect was observed, with more marked tumour growth inhibition in the animals treated at 12 mg·kg−1on d1 and d8.

In conclusion, in this study, an animal model of aerosolised chemotherapy in lung cancer was developed and demonstrated inhibition of orthotopic tumour growth by aerosol delivery of gemcitabine.
The prevalence of asthma in children: a reversing trend
Authors: van Schayck C. P. , Smit H. A.
Published: October 2005

In several countries it has been observed that there has been no further increase in the prevalence of asthma. This study aimed to look at asthma prevalence in children during the past 15–30 years in The Netherlands.

Both general practice registration (Continuous Morbidity Registration, Nijmegen) and surveys of the public health service in Limburg (Southern parts of the Netherlands) were used for this purpose.

The general practice registration showed that after a five-fold increase in asthma prevalence during the 1980s and 1990s a downward trend seemed to occur around the turn of the century. The public health service confirms a clear decrease in wheezing and dyspnoea in children during the late 1990s. Thus far, there has been no satisfactory explanation for this observation.
Combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema: a distinct underrecognised entity
Authors: Cottin V. , Nunes H. , Brillet P-Y. , Delaval P. , Devouassoux G. , Tillie-Leblond I. , Israel-Biet D. , Court-Fortune I. , Valeyre D. , Cordier J-F.
Published: October 2005

The syndrome resulting from combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema has not been comprehensively described.

The current authors conducted a retrospective study of 61 patients with both emphysema of the upper zones and diffuse parenchymal lung disease with fibrosis of the lower zones of the lungs on chest computed tomography.

Patients (all smokers) included 60 males and one female, with a mean age of 65 yrs. Dyspnoea on exertion was present in all patients. Basal crackles were found in 87% and finger clubbing in 43%. Pulmonary function tests were as follows (mean±sd): total lung capacity 88%±17, forced vital capacity (FVC) 88%±18, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) 80%±21 (% predicted), FEV1/FVC 69%±13, carbon monoxide diffusion capacity of the lung 37%±16 (% predicted), carbon monoxide transfer coefficient 46%±19. Pulmonary hypertension was present in 47% of patients at diagnosis, and 55% during follow-up. Patients were followed for a mean of 2.1±2.8 yrs from diagnosis. Survival was 87.5% at 2 yrs and 54.6% at 5 yrs, with a median of 6.1 yrs. The presence of pulmonary hypertension at diagnosis was a critical determinant of prognosis.

The authors hereby individualise the computer tomography-defined syndrome of combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema characterised by subnormal spirometry, severe impairment of gas exchange, high prevalence of pulmonary hypertension, and poor survival.
Physiological response to the six-minute walk test in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Deboeck G. , Niset G. , Vachiery J-L. , Moraine J-J. , Naeije R.
Published: October 2005

The 6-min walk test (6MWT) is commonly used to evaluate exercise capacity in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, little is known about the corresponding metabolic stress as measured by cardiopulmonary exercise testing.

The present study, therefore, measured ventilatory variables and heart rate during the 6MWT and symptom-limited incremental maximal exercise testing in 20 patients with PAH.

The distance walked in 6 min was 450±22 m (mean±se). During the 6MWT, ventilation, O2consumption, CO2production and heart rate increased during the first 3–4 min, and then remained stable. As compared with the maximum values measured during the cardiopulmonary exercise test, O2consumption tended to be higher (14.2±0.6versus12.9±0.7 mL·kg−1·min−1), while maximum ventilation (46±3versus57±4 L·min−1), respiratory quotient (0.90±0.02versus1.15±0.02) and heart rate (119±4versus135±4 beats·min−1) remained lower.

In conclusion, patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension exercise at higher aerobic capacity and lower metabolic stress during the 6MWT than during a cardiopulmonary exercise test.
Pulmonary rehabilitation and the BODE index in COPD
Authors: Cote C. G. , Celli B. R.
Published: October 2005

The BODE index, which integrates body mass index, airflow limitation (forced expiratory volume in one second), dyspnoea and 6-min walk distance, predicts mortality in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) improves some components of BODE. It was hypothesised that changes in BODE may reflect the effects of PR.

To test this, participation in PR was offered to 246 patients (BODE quartiles 2–4). The patients were divided as follows: no PR (130 who declined rehabilitation or who dropped out from PR), and PR (116 who completed PR). BODE was determined at entry, after PR, and at 1 and 2 yrs. Other outcomes were: length of stay (LOS) for respiratory-related hospitalisations and mortality.

At entry, the two groups had similar age and comorbidity but different BODE. After PR, the BODE improved by 19% and returned to baseline after 2 yrs. The BODE worsened in the no PR group by 4% at 12 months and 18% at 2 yrs. Respiratory mortality at 2 yrs for PR was 7%, compared with 39% for no PR. LOS at 1 yr for COPD decreased 20% in PR, while it increased 25% in no PR.

In conclusion, pulmonary rehabilitation participation improves BODE and is associated with better outcomes. The BODE index change after pulmonary rehabilitation provides valuable prognostic information.
S-carboxymethylcysteine normalises airway responsiveness in sensitised and challenged mice
Authors: Takeda K. , Miyahara N. , Kodama T. , Taube C. , Balhorn A. , Dakhama A. , Kitamura K. , Hirano A. , Tanimoto M. , Gelfand E. W.
Published: October 2005

S-carboxymethylcysteine (S-CMC) has been used as a mucoregulator in respiratory diseases. However, the mechanism of action ofS-CMC on allergic airway inflammation has not yet been defined.

In the present study, BALB/c mice were initially sensitised and challenged to ovalbumin (OVA) and, weeks later, re-challenged with OVA (secondary challenge).S-CMC (5–100 mg·kg−1) was administered from 2 days before the secondary challenge through to the day of assay.

Mice developed airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) 6 h after the secondary challenge and increased numbers of neutrophils were present in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid. At 72 h after secondary challenge, mice again developed AHR, but the BAL fluid contained large numbers of eosinophils.S-CMC treatment was found to reduce AHR and neutrophilia at 6 h, as well as eosinophilia and AHR at 72 h. These effects appeared to be dose dependent. Goblet cell hyperplasia, observed at 72 h, was reduced byS-CMC. In BAL fluid, increased levels of interferon-γ, interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-10 and decreased levels of IL-5 and IL-13 were detected.

In conclusion, the data indicate thatS-carboxymethylcysteine is effective in reducing airway hyperresponsiveness and airway inflammation at two distinct phases of the response to the secondary allergen challenge in sensitised mice.
Occupational asthma due to manual metal-arc welding of special stainless steels
Authors: Hannu T. , Piipari R. , Kasurinen H. , Keskinen H. , Tuppurainen M. , Tuomi T.
Published: October 2005

Occupational asthma (OA) can be induced by fumes of manual metal-arc welding on stainless steel. In recent years, the use of special stainless steels (SSS) with high chromium content has increased.

This study presents two cases of OA caused by manual metal-arc welding on SSS. In both cases, the diagnosis of OA was based on respiratory symptoms, occupational exposure and positive findings in the specific challenge tests.

In the first case, a 46-yr-old welder had experienced severe dyspnoea while welding SSS (SMO steel), but not in other situations. Challenge tests with both mild steel and stainless steel using a common electrode were negative. Welding SSS with a special electrode caused a delayed 37% drop in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). In the second case, a 34-yr-old male had started to experience dyspnoea during the past few years, while welding especially SSS (Duplex steel). The workplace peak expiratory flow monitoring was suggestive of OA. Challenge tests with both mild steel and stainless steel using a common electrode did not cause bronchial obstruction. Welding SSS with a special electrode caused a delayed 31% drop in FEV1.

In conclusion, exposure to manual metal-arc welding fumes of special stainless steel should be considered as a new cause of occupational asthma.
A possible role for Epstein-Barr virus in the pathogenesis of pleural effusion
Authors: Thijsen S. F. T. , Luderer R. , van Gorp J. M. H. , Oudejans S. J. G. , Bossink A. W. J.
Published: October 2005

A high percentage of pleural effusions remain unexplained despite an intensive diagnostic workup. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infections occur worldwide and affect the majority of the population. The present study investigated the prevalence and clinical relevance of EBV in pleural effusions.

A prospective study was performed in which 60 consecutive patients with pleural effusion were enrolled. Real-time quantitative EBV-PCR was performed on pleural fluid and serum. Pleural fluid was further evaluated using standard biochemical, cytological and microbiological procedures. Demographic data, medical history and medication were recorded.

A total of 24 (40%), from 60 pleural fluids tested, were positive in the EBV-PCR. Median EBV-DNA levels for positive samples was 454 genome equivalents (geq)·mL−1(range 36–163,446 geq·mL−1). A total of 20 (59%) out of 34 unexplained pleural effusions were EBV-PCR positive. Serological analysis of all patients with a positive PCR revealed a previous infection. Patients with a positive EBV-PCR on pleural fluid were more likely to have a positive EBV-PCR on serum than patients with a negative PCR on pleural fluid.

Epstein-Barr virus reactivation in pleural fluid is a frequent event and the absence of an alternative diagnosis to explain the nature of the effusion in the majority of cases suggests an aetiological role for Epstein-Barr virus in the development of pleural effusion.
Use of heated humidification during nasal CPAP titration in obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome
Authors: Duong M. , Jayaram L. , Camfferman D. , Catcheside P. , Mykytyn I. , McEvoy R. D.
Published: October 2005

Nasal symptoms associated with the use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) in obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) can adversely impact on patients' tolerance, acceptance and adherence to nCPAP therapy. Regular use of heated humidification is effective in alleviating these symptoms and improve patient comfort.

In a randomised, parallel, double-blinded, controlled study, the present authors examined the use of heated humidification during a single night laboratory nCPAP titration in untreated OSA patients and its effect on nasal symptoms, nasal airway resistance (NAR), effective pressure and treatment tolerability and acceptance.

Baseline characteristics of subjects (n = 70) receiving placebo and humidification were (mean±sem): age 51.2±2.2versus50.6±1.6 yrs; body mass index 33.6±0.9versus35.2±0.9 kg·m−2; Epworth Sleepiness Scale 10.8±1.0versus11.3±0.7; and apnoea-hypopnoea index 43.5±4.6versus44.4±4.1 events·h−1. Total inspiratory NAR, before (0.36±0.09 (placebo)versus0.33±0.09 kPa·L−1·s−1) and after nCPAP (0.47±0.11versus0.29±0.04 kPa·L−1·s−1) were not significantly different between the groups. No difference was found in the frequency and severity of nasopharyngeal symptoms, therapeutic pressure and subjective response to nCPAP.

In conclusion, heated humidification during the initial nasal continuous positive airway pressure titration offers no additional benefit in nasal physiology, symptoms or subjective response to nasal continuous positive airway pressure, and, therefore, should not be routinely recommended.
Expiratory flow limitation and obstruction in the elderly
Authors: de Bisschop C. , Marty M. L. , Tessier J. F. , Barberger-Gateau P. , Dartigues J. F. , Guénard H.
Published: October 2005

Elderly people commonly suffer from dyspnoea, which may stem from expiratory flow limitation (EFL). The relationship between EFL, as assessed by the negative expiratory pressure method and spirometric indices, was investigated in an elderly French population. Subjects, aged 66–88 yrs, filled in socio-demographic and standardised questionnaires, which dealt with: medical history, smoking status and respiratory symptoms. EFL measurements and forced expiratory manoeuvres were performed.

Validated measurements were obtained in 750 out of 1,318 subjects: 47% were EFL+ (EFL >0), with a higher prevalence in females than in males. EFL and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) were correlated with age. A total of 116, from the 750 subjects, with no medical history and no symptoms, served as a healthy group. The prevalence of EFL+ subjects increased with the grade of dyspnoea and was highest in respiratory and cardiac patients when compared with the healthy subjects. EFL did not correlate with FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC), the usual index of obstruction. Some elderly subjects (15%) with dyspnoea but with no medical history, mainly females with small FVC and normal FEV1/FVC, had a greater EFL than the healthy subjects.

In elderly people, expiratory flow limitation measurements, along with the usual forced expiratory volume in one second/ forced vital capacity ratio, may be of value for the interpretation of dyspnoea.
From muscle disuse to myopathy in COPD: potential contribution of oxidative stress
Authors: Couillard A. , Prefaut C.
Published: October 2005

Evidence has been accumulating that chronic inactivity leading to muscle disuse is unlikely to be the only explanation for the peripheral muscle dysfunction of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.

Although a new concept of myopathy was recently proposed, the question of disuse and/or a form of myopathy is still being debated. This review proposes definitions for the terms used in this debate, discusses the relevant studies and concludes that the evidence points to a myopathy associated with muscle disuse in COPD.

COPD myopathy implies pharmacological and/or pathophysiological mechanisms that need to be identified in order to optimally orient therapeutic strategies. The literature indicates that corticosteroids, inflammation, hypoxaemia and oxidative stress are among the factors contributing to COPD muscle dysfunction, but their relative contributions have not been fully elucidated.

This review presents the advances in understanding each of these mechanisms, especially the data showing that muscle oxidative stress occurs and contributes to muscle dysfunction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The current review also reports the studies that have elucidated the molecular mechanisms underlying this stress in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease by demonstrating alterations in oxidant and/or antioxidant systems. Finally, the review considers how inflammation and hypoxaemia may trigger oxidative stress in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease muscles and presents the therapeutic modalities that should be proposed to prevent it.