bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MetaboMiner – semi-automated identification of metabolites from 2D NMR spectra of complex biofluids
Authors: Xia Jianguo , Bjorndahl Trent C , Tang Peter , Wishart David S
Published: November 2008

Background

One-dimensional (1D) 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is widely used in metabolomic studies involving biofluids and tissue extracts. There are several software packages that support compound identification and quantification via 1D 1H NMR by spectral fitting techniques. Because 1D 1H NMR spectra are characterized by extensive peak overlap or spectral congestion, two-dimensional (2D) NMR, with its increased spectral resolution, could potentially improve and even automate compound identification or quantification. However, the lack of dedicated software for this purpose significantly restricts the application of 2D NMR methods to most metabolomic studies.

Results

We describe a standalone graphics software tool, called MetaboMiner, which can be used to automatically or semi-automatically identify metabolites in complex biofluids from 2D NMR spectra. MetaboMiner is able to handle both 1H-1H total correlation spectroscopy (TOCSY) and 1H-13C heteronuclear single quantum correlation (HSQC) data. It identifies compounds by comparing 2D spectral patterns in the NMR spectrum of the biofluid mixture with specially constructed libraries containing reference spectra of ~500 pure compounds. Tests using a variety of synthetic and real spectra of compound mixtures showed that MetaboMiner is able to identify >80% of detectable metabolites from good quality NMR spectra.

Conclusion

MetaboMiner is a freely available, easy-to-use, NMR-based metabolomics tool that facilitates automatic peak processing, rapid compound identification, and facile spectrum annotation from either 2D TOCSY or HSQC spectra. Using comprehensive reference libraries coupled with robust algorithms for peak matching and compound identification, the program greatly simplifies the process of metabolite identification in complex 2D NMR spectra.
Absolute quantification of the budding yeast transcriptome by means of competitive PCR between genomic and complementary DNAs
Authors: Miura Fumihito , Kawaguchi Noriko , Yoshida Mikio , Uematsu Chihiro , Kito Keiji , Sakaki Yoshiyuki , Ito Takashi
Published: November 2008

Background

An ideal format to describe transcriptome would be its composition measured on the scale of absolute numbers of individual mRNAs per cell. It would help not only to precisely grasp the structure of the transcriptome but also to accelerate data exchange and integration.

Results

We conceived an idea of competitive PCR between genomic DNA and cDNA. Since the former contains every gene exactly at the same copy number, it can serve as an ideal normalization standard for the latter to obtain stoichiometric composition data of the transcriptome. This data can then be easily converted to absolute quantification data provided with an appropriate calibration. To implement this idea, we improved adaptor-tagged competitive PCR, originally developed for relative quantification of the 3'-end restriction fragment of each cDNA, such that it can be applied to any restriction fragment. We demonstrated that this "generalized" adaptor-tagged competitive PCR (GATC-PCR) can be performed between genomic DNA and cDNA to accurately measure absolute expression level of each mRNA in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Furthermore, we constructed a large-scale GATC-PCR system to measure absolute expression levels of 5,038 genes to show that the yeast contains more than 30,000 copies of mRNA molecules per cell.

Conclusion

We developed a GATC-PCR method to accurately measure absolute expression levels of mRNAs by means of competitive amplification of genomic and cDNA copies of each gene. A large-scale application of GATC-PCR to the budding yeast transcriptome revealed that it is twice or more as large as previously estimated. This method is flexibly applicable to both targeted and genome-wide analyses of absolute expression levels of mRNAs.
Lead exposure study among workers in lead acid battery repair units of transport service enterprises, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ahmed Kemal , Ayana Gonfa , Engidawork Ephrem
Published: November 2008

Background

Lead exposure is common in automobile battery manufacture and repair, radiator repair, secondary smelters and welding units. Urinary Aminolevulinic acid has validity as a surrogate measure of blood lead level among workers occupationally exposed to lead. This study had therefore assessed the magnitude of lead exposure in battery repair workers of three transport service enterprises.

Methods

To this effect, a cross-sectional study was carried out on lead exposure among storage battery repair workers between November 2004 and May 2005 from Anbasa, Comet and Walia transport service enterprises, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Subjective information from the workers was obtained by making use of structured questionnaire. Other information was obtained from walkthrough evaluation of the repair units. Aminolevulinic acid levels in urine were used as an index of the exposure. This was coupled to measurements of other relevant parameters in blood and urine collected from adult subjects working in the repair units as well as age matched control subjects that were not occupationally exposed to lead. Aminolevulinic acid was determined by spectrophotometry, while creatinine clearance, serum creatinine, urea and uric acid levels were determined using AMS Autolab analyzer.

Results

Urinary aminolevulinic acid levels were found to be significantly higher in exposed group (16 μg/ml ± 2.0) compared to the non-exposed ones (7 μg/ml ± 1.0) (p < 0.001). Alcohol taking exposed subjects exhibited a significant increase in urinary aminolevulinic acid levels than non-alcohol taking ones (p < 0.05). Moreover, urinary aminolevulinic acid levels of exposed subjects increased with age (p < 0.001) as well as duration of employment (p < 0.001). Whereas serum uric acid levels of exposed subjects was significantly higher than non-exposed ones (p < 0.05), no statistically significant difference had been found in renal indices and other measured parameters between exposed and non-exposed subjects. From the questionnaire responses and walkthrough observations, it was also known that all the repair units did not implement effective preventive and control measures for workplace lead exposure.

Conclusion

Taken together, these findings indicated that workers in lead acid battery repair units of the transport service enterprises are not protected from possibly high lead exposure. Thus, strict enforcement of appropriate and cost effective preventive and control measures is required by all the enterprises.
The development of multiple drug use among anabolic-androgenic steroid users: six subjective case reports
Authors: Skårberg Kurt , Nyberg Fred , Engström Ingemar
Published: November 2008

Background

The inappropriate use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) was originally a problem among athletes but AAS are now often used in nonsport situations and by patients attending regular addiction clinics. The aim of this study was to improve understanding of the development of multiple drug use in patients seeking treatment at an addiction clinic for AAS-related problems.

Methods

We interviewed six patients (four men and two women) with experience of AAS use who were attending an addiction clinic for what they believed were AAS-related problems. The patients were interviewed in-depth about their life stories, with special emphasis on social background, substance use, the development of total drug use and subjective experienced psychological and physical side effects.

Results

There was significant variation in the development of drug use in relation to social background, onset of drug use, relationship to AAS use and experience of AAS effects. All patients had initially experienced positive effects from AAS but, over time, the negative experiences had outweighed the positive effects. All patients were dedicated to excess training and took AAS in combination with gym training, indicating that the use of these drugs is closely related to this form of training. Use of multiple drugs was common either in parallel with AAS use or serially.

Conclusion

The study shows the importance of understanding how AAS use can develop either with or without the concomitant use of other drugs of abuse. The use of AAS can, however, progress to the use of other drugs. The study also indicates the importance of obtaining accurate, comprehensive information about the development of AAS use in designing treatment programmes and prevention strategies in this area.
Recurrent Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction in a patient with Q fever pneumonia: a case report
Authors: Aloizos Stavros , Gourgiotis Stavros , Oikonomou Konstantinos , Stakia Paraskevi
Published: November 2008

Q fever is a zoonotic disease caused by coxiella burnetii. The Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction (JHR) is associated with the antibiotic treatment of certain bacterial infections. We report a very rare case of a 36-year-old male with Q fever pneumonia that resulted in recurrent ARDS and presented the JHR during his treatment. The patient was admitted for treatment of community acquired pneumonia. He developed ARDS, was intubated and placed on mechanical ventilation. Doxycycline was empirically added to his antibiotic regiment. The patient presented an acute rise in temperature, tachycardia, tachypnea, hypoxia, hypotension and a temporary deterioration of his chest x-ray. The same 6-hour-long reaction which is known as JHR was presented another 3 times. Cultures were negative but antibodies against coxiella burnetii were positive. This case reminds us that any deterioration of a patient treated in the ICU should not be considered as a new septic episode and time should be allowed for the antibiotic regiments.
Successful use of recombinant activated factor VII for postoperative associated haemorrhage: a case report
Authors: Vlachos Konstantinos , Archontovasilis Fotis , Papadima Artemisia , Maragiannis Dimitrios , Aloizos Stavros , Lagoudianakis Emmanuel , Dalianoudis Ioannis G , Koronakis Nikolaos , Chrysikos John , Zaravinos Spyros , Manouras Andreas
Published: November 2008

Background

Coagulopathy is a major contributing factor to bleeding related mortality even after achieving adequate surgical control of the haemorrhage in trauma and surgical patients.

Case presentation

A 65 years old Greek man was admitted in our ICU with critical haemorrhage following renal biopsy. Despite surgical exploration the patient continued to bleed resulting in a vicious cycle of transfusion, coagulopathy and re-bleeding. After all standard management options were exhausted, the patient was given rFVIIa (total dose 4,8 mg). Clinical improvement was noted without adverse thrombotic complications. One month later the same patient was operated on for a suspected retroperitoneal infected collection that it was assumed to be the cause of persistent pyrexia. After abdominal washout, he suffered haemorrhagic shock with postoperative coagulopathy. Standard transfusion therapy was again unsuccessful. The patient was given rFVIIa again resulting in an immediate reduction in coagulopathic haemorrhage accompanied by a significant improvement in laboratory measurements and reduction in blood products requirements.

Conclusion

Published clinical experiences for the use of rFVIIa in trauma patients are limited to small series and case reports. However, in trauma patients, administration of rFVIIa appears to be effective in addition to prompt surgical intervention as an adjunctive haemostatic measure to control life threatening bleeding in appropriately selected patients.
Involvement of heparan sulfate proteoglycans in cellular uptake of high molecular weight kininogen
Authors: Melo Kátia R.B. , Gutierrez Augusto , Nascimento Fábio D. , Araújo Mariana S. , Sampaio Misako U. , Carmona Adriana K. , Coulson-Thomas Yvette M. , Trindade Edvaldo S. , Nader Helena B. , Tersariol Ivarne L.S. , Motta Guacyara
Published: November 2008

In this study, we analyzed the influence of proteoglycans on the interaction between human high molecular weight kininogen (HK) and the cell surface. We found that D5-related peptide inhibits HK-biotin cellular uptake. Confocal microscopy showed that HK colocalizes with heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) at the cell surface. When biotin-HK is incubated with rabbit aorta endothelial cells (RAECs) and CHO-K1 cells, it is internalized into acidic intracellular vesicles, whereas when incubated with CHO-745 cells, which express reduced levels of glycosaminoglycans, HK is not internalized. To further verify the hypothesis that HSPG-dependent mechanisms are involved in HK uptake and proteolytic processing in lysosomes, we tested chloroquine, which blocks Alexa 488-HK colocalization with Lyso Tracker in acidic endosomal vesicles. The process of HK internalization was blocked by low temperatures, methyl-β-cyclodextrin, FCCP and 2-deoxy-d-glucose, implying that HK uptake into acidic vesicles is energy-dependent and most likely involves binding to HSPG structures localized in cholesterol-rich domains present in the plasma membrane. Kinin generation at the cell surface was much higher in tumorigenic cells (CHO-K1) when compared to endothelial cells (RAECs). The present data indicate that the process of HK endocytosis involving HSPG is a novel additional mechanism which may control kinin generation at the cell surface.
Isotope tracing enhancement of chemiluminescence assays for nitric oxide research
Authors: Cornelius Julia , Tran Tuan , Turner Nicole , Piazza Abigail , Mills Lauren , Slack Ryan , Hauser Sean , Alexander J. Steven , Grisham Matthew B. , Feelisch Martin , Rodriguez Juan
Published: November 2008

Chemiluminescence assays are used widely for the detection of nitric oxide (NO)-derived species in biological fluids and tissues. Here, we demonstrate that these assays can be interfaced with mass-sensitive detectors for parallel determination of isotopic abundance. Results obtained with tri-iodide and ascorbic acid-based reductive assays indicate that mass spectrometric detection enables NO isotope-tracing experiments to be carried out to a limit of detectability of a few picomoles, a sensitivity similar to that of standard gas phase chemiluminescence methods. The advantage afforded by mass spectrometric detection is demonstrated using the murine macrophage cell line J774, which is shown here to reduce 15NO3
- to 15NO2
- under anoxic conditions. The particular combination of an analytical and cellular system described here may hold promise for future characterization of the enzymatic pathways contributing to mammalian nitrate reductase activity, without background interference from 14NO2
- derived from other sources.
Murine and human cathepsin B exhibit similar properties: possible implications for drug discovery
Authors: Caglič Dejan , Kosec Gregor , Bojič Lea , Reinheckel Thomas , Turk Vito , Turk Boris
Published: November 2008

Validation of drug targets and subsequent preclinical studies are usually carried out on animal disease models, with mouse being the most commonly used. However, results from mouse models cannot always be directly related to human disease. Major discrepancies between the properties of murine and human variants were observed during the evaluation of compounds targeting cathepsins S and K. It is important, therefore, to know whether similar differences exist between murine and human cathepsin B. Thus, both enzymes were expressed and biochemically characterized. The enzymes exhibited similar biochemical properties, indicating that cathepsin B transgenic mouse models could be useful for studying its role in human pathologies.
Selectivity of propeptide-enzyme interaction in cathepsin L-like cysteine proteases
Authors: Schilling Klaus , Körner Alexandra , Sehmisch Saskia , Kreusch Annett , Kleint Ramona , Benedix Yvonne , Schlabrakowski Anne , Wiederanders Bernd
Published: November 2008

Cathepsin L-like endopeptidases of the papain family are synthesized as proenzymes. N-terminal proregions are essential for folding and latency of the enzyme unit. While selectivity has been reported for the inhibitory function of papain-family propeptides, there is no systematic investigation of the selectivity of their chaperone-like function to date. The chaperone-like cross-reactivity between the cathepsins S, K, and L were thoroughly quantified in trans-experiments, i.e., with isolated propeptides and mature enzymes, and compared to the inhibitory cross-reactivity. The three endopeptidases have been chosen due to only minimal evolutionary distance and nearly identical X-ray structures of their zymogenes. The intramolecular chaperone function of the proregion was found to be more selective than the inhibitory activity and significant differences were found between the selectivity profiles, underlining the assumption that the inhibitory and the chaperone-like propeptide functions are autonomous. Considering the data published on the intramolecular chaperone-like propeptide function within other protease classes as well, our data suggest that intrinsically structured propeptides are more selective than intrinsically unstructured propeptides, i.e., those adopting tertiary structure elements only in complex with their maternal enzyme.
The endocannabinoid system in bull sperm and bovine oviductal epithelium: role of anandamide in sperm–oviduct interaction
Authors: Gervasi María Gracia , Rapanelli Maximiliano , Ribeiro María Laura , Farina Mariana , Billi Silvia , Franchi Ana María , Martinez Silvina Perez
Published: November 2008

Anandamide binds to cannabinoid receptors and plays several central and peripheral functions. The aim of this work was to study the possible role for this endocannabinoid in controlling sperm–oviduct interaction in mammals. We observed that bull sperm and bovine oviductal epithelial cells express cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, and fatty acid amide hydrolase, the enzyme that controls intracellular anandamide levels. A quantitative assay to determine whether anandamide was involved in bovine sperm–oviduct interaction was developed. R(+)-methanandamide, a non-hydrolysable anandamide analog, inhibited sperm binding to and induced sperm release from oviductal epithelia. Selective CB1 antagonists (SR141716A or AM251) completely blocked R(+)-methanandamide effects. However, SR144528, a selective CB2 antagonist, did not exert any effect, indicating that only CB1 was involved in R(+)-methanandamide effect. This effect was not caused by inhibition of the sperm progressive motility or by induction of the acrosome reaction. Overall, our findings indicate for the first time that the endocannabinoid system is present in bovine sperm and oviductal epithelium and that anandamide modulates the sperm–oviduct interaction, by inhibition of sperm binding and induction of sperm release from oviductal epithelial cells, probably by activating CB1 receptors.
Multinational operations of US for-profit hospital chains: trends and implications.
Authors: Berliner H S , Regan C
Published: November 2008

The expansion of United States for-profit hospital chains into the international arena is a new and important development. Experiences with contract management of middle eastern hospitals in the early 1970s gave the American firms impetus to pursue ownership of health facilities in other parts of the world. US companies now operate over 95 foreign hospitals. The reasons for this involvement include the political receptivity of the government of the host nation; the potential for rapid growth and profits; the lack of indigenous competition; and the ability to occupy a distinct niche within the extant health services organization. The political and ideological implications of the growth of private medicine, particularly in the United Kingdom, in terms of its effects on the National Health Service are discussed. Questions for future research are posed.
Workplace homicides of Texas males.
Authors: Davis H
Published: November 2008

A review of Texas death certificates for 1975-84 identified 779 civilian males whose deaths were homicides that occurred in the workplace. Injuries from firearms caused 81 per cent of the deaths. The overall rate of workplace homicide was 2.1/100,000 male workers/year. Males employed in taxicab service had the highest rate of workplace homicide. 78.2/100,000 male workers/year. Males employed in certain retail trade industries, law enforcement, and the private-security industry also had high rates of workplace homicide. Male workers greater than or equal to 65 years old were at especially high risk, with a workplace-homicide rate 3.5 times that of younger workers. A review of medical examiners' records in five urban counties indicated that 32 per cent of victims who had worked in eating-and-drinking places and 5 per cent of other workers had blood or cerebrospinal-fluid alcohol levels greater than or equal to 0.10 g/dl. These results provide a base for designing effective strategies to prevent workplace homicides.
Determinants of quitting smoking.
Authors: Kabat G C , Wynder E L
Published: November 2008

Factors associated with quitting smoking were examined in 3,778 male and 1,486 female ever-smoking patients hospitalized with non-tobacco-related conditions interviewed between 1977 and 1985. Quitters were defined as those who had stopped smoking at least one year prior to admission. More than 80 per cent of male and female quitters had stopped more than five years prior to diagnosis. The lifetime quit rate (no. ex-smokers/no. ever smokers) X 100 was higher in males than in females, and in both sexes the quit rate increased with increasing age, education level, and occupational level. Jews had higher quit rates compared to non-Jews, and Whites had higher quit rates than Blacks. Those who were divorced or separated had lower quit rates than those who were not. In both sexes, light smokers and heavy smokers had elevated quit rates. The quit rate also increased with increasing interval between waking and smoking the first cigarette of the day. Logistic regression models were used to adjust simultaneously for the role of different variables.
An application of the Sentinel Health Event (Occupational) concept to death certificates.
Authors: Lalich N R , Schuster L L
Published: November 2008

This article describes a computer-based application of the Sentinel Health Event (Occupational) [SHE(O)] concept, developed in conjunction with five states, to monitor deaths which are occupationally related. The states have coded their state death certificate files for industry and occupation, using the decedent's usual occupation and industry as reported on the death certificate. From these files, the SHE(O) computer program selects deaths which are likely to be work-related, based on a previously published SHE(O) list of 50 disease rubrics and associated industries and occupations. The computer program matches the SHE(O) list with the recorded industry, occupation, and underlying cause of death. The program has been tested using 1984 death certificate data from Maine, upstate New York (excluding New York City), North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island. Approximately 1 to 2 per cent of all deaths were selected by the program, with lung cancer and coal workers' pneumoconiosis being the most frequent cause of death. The SHE(O) program may be useful for identifying deaths which are potentially occupationally related, but its utility and its application to death certificates needs further evaluation before recommending widespread use. Limitations are discussed, as well as plans for improving the application of the SHE(O) concept to death certificates.
Health behavior of elderly Hispanic women: does cultural assimilation make a difference?
Authors: Marks G , Solis J , Richardson J L , Collins L M , Birba L , Hisserich J C
Published: November 2008

The role of cultural assimilation in Hispanic health behavior has received little empirical examination. Prior studies have operationalized assimilation primarily in terms of language preference and have obtained weak or no effects. We interviewed 603 elderly Hispanic women residing in Los Angeles to evaluate the usefulness of cultural factors as predictors of preventive health behavior (e.g., physical examination, screening for breast cancer) more rigorously. Factor analysis of responses yielded four dimensions of cultural assimilation: "language preference", "country of birth", "contact with homeland", and "attitudes about children's friends." After controlling for education and age, no dimension of assimilation associated strongly or consistently with health behavior. Of the four dimensions, use of English language associated most closely with increased screening, although most of the effects for language were small in magnitude. These findings, coupled with those of other studies, strongly suggest that cultural factors may have little impact on the health behavior of Hispanics. Access to and availability of services, affective reactions toward screening, and sociodemographic factors are stronger determinants of Hispanic health practices.
Outbreak of scombroid fish poisoning, Taiwan.
Authors: Chen K T , Malison M D
Published: November 2008

Fish implicated in outbreaks of scombroid poisoning have usually undergone prolonged storage at an inadequate temperature. We report an outbreak of scombroid poisoning in which fish stored on ice for two days caused illness after standing at room temperature for only three to four hours; fish from the same catch did not cause illness after standing at room temperature only one hour. This outbreak suggests scombrotoxins may be produced more rapidly than previously thought possible.
Preventing rubella: assessing missed opportunities for immunization.
Authors: Robertson S E , Cochi S L , Bunn G A , Morse D L , Preblud S R
Published: November 2008

Cases of rubella continue to occur among adults in the United States because 10-20 per cent of persons in this age group remain susceptible. To evaluate the potential preventability of these cases, we present a method for assessing missed opportunities for rubella immunization, based on immunization recommendations of the Immunization Practices Advisory Committee (ACIP) of the US Public Health Service (PHS). Immunization programs faced with limited resources can use analysis of missed opportunities to focus on those gaps in implementation contributing most to the remaining rubella cases.
The international system of units (SI) in historical perspective.
Authors: van Assendelft O W
Published: November 2008

American medical journals are shifting to selected SI (Système International d'Unités) units for reporting measurements. Limitation of SI units deemed suitable for use in reporting clinical laboratory results stems from recommendations put forth by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry. Limitations are: 1) the liter as sole recommended unit of volume in concentration measurement; 2) substance concentration (unit mole) favored over mass concentration (submultiples of the kilogram); and 3) discouraging the use of the prefixes hecto-, deca-, deci-, and centi-. Further discussion by the American Medical Association and other organizations is required before consensus in the US medical community can be reached as to extent of and time frame for conversion to SI for reporting clinical laboratory measurements.
An outbreak of watermelon-borne pesticide toxicity.
Authors: Green M A , Heumann M A , Wehr H M , Foster L R , Williams L P , Polder J A , Morgan C L , Wagner S L , Wanke L A , Witt J M
Published: November 2008

The largest reported United States outbreak of illness caused by a foodborne pesticide was due to aldicarb-contaminated watermelons. In Oregon, where the first episodes of toxicity were reported, 264 reports were received, and 61 definite cases were identified. Residues of aldicarb, a cholinesterase inhibitor, were found in 10 of 16 tested melons which had been eaten by persons meeting the case definition. The outbreak demonstrates the need for enhanced physician vigilance with respect to anticholinesterase intoxication. It also demonstrates the value of an established system for reporting of unusual illness to public health officials.
Reducing antipsychotic drug prescribing for nursing home patients: a controlled trial of the effect of an educational visit.
Authors: Ray W A , Blazer D G , Schaffner W , Federspiel C F
Published: November 2008

We conducted a statewide, controlled trial of the efficacy of an educational visit in reducing antipsychotic drug prescribing for nursing home patients. Frequent antipsychotic drug prescribers were visited by a trained physician counselor who stressed known drug risks for elderly patients and suggested techniques for reducing antipsychotic drug use. Although well-received, the visit did not reduce antipsychotic drug prescribing. This negative finding suggests that future interventions address factors within the nursing home which encourage antipsychotic drug use.
Foster home care for the frail elderly as an alternative to nursing home care: an experimental evaluation.
Authors: Oktay J S , Volland P J
Published: November 2008

This paper describes a program (Community Care Program) in which some elderly hospital patients who were candidates for nursing home placement were placed in foster homes. Caregivers were carefully trained and supervised. A total of 112 elderly inpatients were randomly assigned to placement in a nursing home or a foster care home. Patients and caregivers were interviewed at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after placement. Community Care Program patients were more likely to maintain or improve ADL (activities of daily living) and mental status scores. They also had better nursing outcomes and were more likely to get out of the house than were nursing home patients. Nursing home patients had higher life satisfaction, and participated in more social and recreational activities. The Community Care Program was 17 per cent less costly than nursing home care. The results suggest that foster care may be a viable alternative for a segment of the nursing home population.
Trends in mortality caused by respiratory distress syndrome in the United States, 1969-83.
Authors: Malloy M H , Hartford R B , Kleinman J C
Published: November 2008

Using United States vital statistical data we examined trends in infant deaths from Respiratory Distress Syndrome/Hyaline Membrane Disease (RDS/HMD) for 1969 to 1983, by race and age at death. In order to improve comparability of diagnosis across two revisions of the International Classification of Diseases, deaths from RDS/HMD were ascertained using both underlying and associated causes of death. These data document a 2 per cent per year increase in infant mortality attributed to RDS/HMD for all races during interval I (1969-73) followed by 9 per cent per year decreases during intervals II (1974-78) and III (1979-83). However, there was a marked difference between Whites and Blacks in these trends. In the White population, RDS/HMD infant mortality increased by 2.2 per cent per year in interval I but then decreased by 10.5 per cent per year in interval II and 8.9 per cent per year in interval III. Among Blacks, on the other hand, the initial increase in RDS/HMD mortality was steeper (5.2 per cent per year) and the subsequent decreases were less (6.3 per cent per year and 8.0 per cent per year). As a result, the Black-White ratio in infant mortality attributed to RDS/HMD increased from 1.32 in 1969-73, to 1.59 in 1974-78 and to 1.72 in 1979-83. The proportion of RDS/HMD deaths that occurred in the postneonatal period increased from 1.1 per cent in interval I to 3.6 per cent in interval II to 5.0 per cent in interval III.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Effect of government and commercial warnings on reducing prescription misuse: the case of propoxyphene.
Authors: Soumerai S B , Avorn J , Gortmaker S , Hawley S
Published: November 2008

We analyzed trends in prescribing and overdose deaths related to propoxyphene (e.g., Darvon) before and after a 1978-80 informational campaign carried out by the US Food and Drug Administration and the drug's manufacturer through mailed warnings, face-to-face education of prescribers, press releases, and labeling changes. The goals included a reduction in propoxyphene use with alcohol or other CNS depressants, reduced prescribing of refills, and cessation of prescribing for patients at risk of abuse and misuse (suicide). We conducted time-series analyses of nationwide propoxyphene use data 1974-83 and analyzed data on drug overdose death rates covering a combined population of about 83 million. Segmented regression methods were used to determine if the informational program was associated with changes in trends of prescribing or overdose deaths. Comparison drug series were analyzed to control for other secular trends in prescribing. Nationwide propoxyphene use during the warnings continued a pre-existing decline of about 8 per cent per year, but this decline halted after the warnings. The no-refill recommendation had no impact on refill rates. The risk of overdose death per propoxyphene prescription filled has remained about constant since 1979. Sharper declines in misuse of such drugs will require stronger, more sustained regulatory or educational measures.
Health status of Ethiopian refugees in the United States.
Authors: Parenti D M , Lucas D , Lee A , Hollenkamp R H
Published: November 2008

The health status of 239 Ethiopian refugees in the United States was evaluated. Over 70 per cent were males 15-30 years old. Positive PPDs (purified protein derivative of tuberculin) were observed in 72 per cent and 3.4 per cent had abnormal chest x-rays. One patient had active tuberculosis. Other laboratory abnormalities included: intestinal parasites (36.7 per cent), anemia (14.9 per cent), eosinophilia (14 per cent), positive syphilis serology (7.5 per cent), and hepatitis B surface antigenemia (9.4 per cent). The most prevalent intestinal parasites were Giardia lamblia, Trichuris trichiura, and Schistosoma mansoni.
The effect of physician terminology preference on coronary heart disease mortality: an artifact uncovered by the 9th revision ICD.
Authors: Sorlie P D , Gold E B
Published: November 2008

We dual coded 2,268 deaths due to heart disease occurring in Maryland, using the 8th and 9th revisions of the International Classification of Diseases (ICDA-8, Adapted for Use in the United States, and ICD-9). Certifier preference was for generalized cardiovascular terms rather than terms specific to the heart, resulting in an artifactual change in chronic ischemic heart disease death (IHD) rates in Maryland between 1978 and 1979 because the 8th and 9th ICD revisions classified these terms differently. Medical examiners were more likely to use these generalized cardiovascular terms as were physicians who went to certain medical schools in the state. The physician's terminology preference was associated with the sex and race of the decedent and was related to aspects of the patient's medical care. The ICD should be modified in the 10th revision to allow for the separate classification of generalized cardiovascular terminology within the ischemic heart disease category.
Mass media and smoking cessation: a critical review.
Authors: Flay B R
Published: November 2008

Evaluations of 40 mass media programs/campaigns designed to influence cigarette smoking were reviewed. Information/motivation programs/campaigns generally produced changes in awareness, knowledge, and attitudes. Extensive national campaigns also produced meaningful behavioral change. Programs/campaigns designed to promote some specific smoking-related action produced mixed results, depending in large part on the type of promotion involved. Mass media cessation clinics were found to be effective, with media plus social support being more effective than viewing plus printed material, and either combination being more effective than viewing alone. It was concluded that mass media health promotion programs can be more effective than many academics may have thought, but that the knowledge necessary to ensure such success is seriously lacking. Research studies, rather than simple evaluations, are needed to improve our knowledge base and build a science of mass media health promotion.
Shigellosis outbreak associated with swimming.
Authors: Makintubee S , Mallonee J , Istre G R
Published: November 2008

In June 1982, an outbreak of gastrointestinal illness caused by Shigella sonnei occurred among residents of two counties in Oklahoma. A case-control study of cases and age and sex-matched controls showed an association with attendance at a southern Oklahoma lake (14/17 cases vs 3/17 controls, matched pair odds ratio [OR] 9/0, confidence interval [CI] 2.4-infinity). A survey of 85 persons who had visited the lake area showed that persons who had swum were more likely to have been ill with a gastrointestinal illness (50 per cent) than persons who had not swum (0 per cent); among those who had swum, illness was more frequent among those who reported having water in their mouths while swimming (62 per cent) than those who did not (19 per cent) (OR = 6.9, 95% CI = 2.2-21.5). No further primary lake-associated cases had onset of symptoms beyond two days of closing the reservoir. Swimming should be considered as a potential source of enteric infections.
Adolescent depression, alcohol and drug abuse.
Authors: Deykin E Y , Levy J C , Wells V
Published: November 2008

The Diagnostic Interview Schedule was employed to ascertain the prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD), alcohol and substance abuse in a sample of 424 college students aged 16 to 19 years. Applying DSM III criteria, the prevalence of MDD was 6.8 per cent; of alcohol abuse, 8.2 per cent; and of substance abuse 9.4 per cent. Alcohol abuse was associated with MDD, but not with other psychiatric diagnoses. Substance abuse was associated both with MDD and with other psychiatric diagnoses as well. The onset of MDD almost always preceded alcohol or substance abuse suggesting the possibility of self-medication as a factor in the development of alcohol or substance abuse.
Initial effects of the New York State auto safety belt law.
Authors: Latimer E A , Lave L B
Published: November 2008

New York State began enforcing a mandatory automobile safety belt use law on January 1, 1985. We present a preliminary analysis of its effect on fatalities and injuries. Applying a Poisson statistical model to pre- and post-law belt usage rates together with counts of fatalities and injuries in 12 metropolitan areas, we estimate the first six months' application of the law averted 220 fatal, 1,500 severe, 4,600 moderate, and 2,600 light injuries across the state. The Poisson approach gives estimates of injuries averted considerably greater than simple year to year comparisons, indicating that media announcements have understated the efficacy of requiring safety belt usage.
Risk of fatherhood among black teenage males.
Authors: Rivara F P , Sweeney P J , Henderson B F
Published: November 2008

Among a group of 67 Black teenage fathers and 77 controls, the risk of repeat fatherhood at an average 20 months follow-up was 21.2 conceptions per 100 person years compared to a rate of 9.0 conceptions per 100 person years among teenage males not previously fathers. Repeat fathers came from families in which there were role models for teenage parenthood. The results suggest that teenage fathers should be included in teenage pregnancy prevention and follow-up programs.
Alcohol consumption among pregnant smokers: effects of a smoking cessation intervention program.
Authors: Fox N L , Sexton M J , Hebel J R
Published: November 2008

This study describes patterns of alcohol consumption among pregnant women who participated in a randomized clinical trial of smoking cessation intervention. Data on alcohol habits were obtained prospectively prior to the 18th week of gestation and during the 8th month of pregnancy. Average alcohol intake for both groups was reduced primarily prior to registration for prenatal care. The smoking cessation intervention reduced smoking during pregnancy but had no effect on alcohol intake.
Prenatal screening and pregnant women's attitudes toward the abortion of defective fetuses.
Authors: Faden R R , Chwalow A J , Quaid K , Chase G A , Lopes C , Leonard C O , Holtzman N A
Published: November 2008

We studied the attitudes of 490 pregnant women toward the abortion of defective fetuses. Three hundred of these women were participating in a prenatal screening program for neural tube defects. Although theoretical accounts of the effects of behavior on attitude would suggest that participation in a screening program would affect abortion attitudes, evidence in support of such an association was weak. The overwhelming majority of women, regardless of whether they had participated in the screening program, believed that women are justified in having an abortion in the face of fetal abnormality. There was a sharp increase in the number of screening program participants who said they would have an abortion when the probability of the fetus being affected with a neural tube defect rose from 95 per cent to 100 per cent.
Trends in esophageal cancer mortality among US blacks and whites.
Authors: Blot W J , Fraumeni J F
Published: November 2008

National age-adjusted rates of mortality from esophageal cancer have increased among Blacks in the United States, while remaining nearly unchanged among Whites. By 1980, esophageal cancer had become one of the leading causes of cancer death among Blacks, with the excess among males under age 55 exceeding six-fold. Inferences about the causes of esophageal cancer cannot be made from this descriptive survey, but the rising trend raises etiologic hypotheses about environmental exposures (e.g., alcohol, tobacco, nutrition) that may differentially affect Blacks.
Degree of public support for household hazardous waste control alternatives.
Authors: Tuthill R W , Stanek E J , Willis C , Moore G S
Published: November 2008

This paper reports information from Massachusetts on attitudes of householders toward alternative approaches and economic solutions to household hazardous waste (HHW) generation and disposal. Residents appear to be aware of the nature of the HHW problem and clearly support action to address the problem. The majority support a law fining householders for the improper disposal of HHW, endorse paying a sales tax on domestic hazardous products to finance safe disposal, and appear willing to drive up to five miles to dispose of HHW twice yearly.
Mortality among the elderly in the Alameda County Study: behavioral and demographic risk factors.
Authors: Kaplan G A , Seeman T E , Cohen R D , Knudsen L P , Guralnik J
Published: November 2008

We studied the association between behavioral and demographic risk factors and 17-year mortality in members of the Alameda County (California) Study who were 60-94 years of age at baseline. In this age group, increased risk of death is associated with being male, smoking, having little leisure-time physical activity, deviating from moderate weight relative to height, and not regularly eating breakfast. These increased risks were independent of age, race, socioeconomic position (SEP), other behavioral risk factors, and baseline physical health status. Further examination of the group aged 70 or more revealed the same patterns of heightened risk.
An outbreak of Brucella melitensis infection by airborne transmission among laboratory workers.
Authors: Ollé-Goig J E , Canela-Soler J
Published: November 2008

An outbreak of acute brucellosis infection was detected among the employees of a biologicals manufacturing laboratory located in Girona, Spain. The first cases appeared six weeks after a vaccine with attenuated Brucella melitensis, Rev-1 had been produced for one week. A clinical and epidemiologic investigation conducted among the 164 employees found 22 patients with clinical symptoms and positive serology, and six patients detected by serology only (attack rate: 17.1 per cent). Blood cultures were obtained from two patients and Brucella melitensis was isolated. Employees working in areas with open windows above the laboratory air extracting system had an attack rate of 39.5 per cent, substantially higher than those working in other locations. When vaccine was manufactured again, an electric oven reaching 300 degrees C had been installed in the air extracting system just before its exit to the exterior. Appropriate culture medium plates were exposed to the laboratory air before and after passing through the oven. Brucellae were isolated from the plates exposed to the air before passing through the oven but not after doing so.
Spousal veto over family planning services.
Authors: Cook R J , Maine D
Published: November 2008

In many countries a spouse, usually the husband, can veto a partner's use of family planning services. Where spousal veto acts as a barrier to family planning services it represents a serious threat to the lives and health of women and children. Removal of spousal authorization requirements has been shown to increase the use of family planning services. The Family Guidance Association of Ethiopia, for example, removed their requirement in 1982 and clinic utilization increased by 26 per cent within a few months. Courts of several countries have held that spousal veto practices violate principles of personal privacy and autonomy and the right to health care. The effect of such judgements has been to reinforce rights to sexual nondiscrimination found, for example, in national constitutions and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. This article discusses the nature and application of spousal veto practices, explains how such requirements can violate certain human rights, and explores possible remedies to this problem, including ministerial, legislative, and judicial initiatives.
Intestinal parasites in pet store puppies in Atlanta.
Authors: Stehr-Green J K , Murray G , Schantz P M , Wahlquist S P
Published: November 2008

We examined 143 pups from 14 Atlanta area pet stores for intestinal parasites and reviewed deworming practices and information given to customers. Seventy-four (52 per cent) of the pups had at least one parasite including Giardia sp. (34 per cent), Toxocara canis (12 per cent), and Isospora sp. (9 per cent). Eighty-eight per cent received some form of anthelminthic treatment while at the store. Only six (43 per cent) of the stores routinely informed clients of the need to continue deworming procedures once the pup left the store.
A comparison of estrogen and progesterone receptors in black and white breast cancer patients.
Authors: Beverly L N , Flanders W D , Go R C , Soong S J
Published: November 2008

After standardization for age and menopausal status, the prevalence of estrogen receptor positivity among 88 White breast cancer patients was about .72 compared with a prevalence of about .54 among Black patients. The prevalence of progesterone receptor positivity was also higher among White than among Black patients, although the magnitude of the difference was smaller. These differences were unchanged after adjustment for tumor size and nodal and distant metastases in addition to age and menopausal status.
A prospective study of giardiasis and water supplies in Colorado.
Authors: Lapham S C , Hopkins R S , White M C , Blair J R , Bissell R A , Simpson G L
Published: November 2008

A prospective study of 484 visitors to Vail and Aspen/Snowmass, Colorado, was conducted to determine the risk of acquiring giardiasis. Of the 259 visitors to Vail, no cases of giardiasis were confirmed and only one of 12 water filtrates were positive for Giardia cysts. Of 225 visitors to Aspen/Snowmass two cases of giardiasis were confirmed and 12 of 20 water filtrates were positive for Giardia cysts. The regular occurrence of Giardia cysts in Aspen and Snowmass water was associated with lower rates of giardiasis acquisition than reported during outbreaks of waterborne giardiasis.