bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ten‐year patterns of alcohol consumption and drinking problems among older women and men
Authors: Moos Rudolf H. , Schutte Kathleen , Brennan Penny , Moos Bernice S. 
Published: June 2004

ABSTRACTAims  This study focused on changes in 10‐year patterns of alcohol consumption among older women and men, late‐life and life history predictors of drinking problems, and gender differences in these predictors.Design, setting, participants  A sample of late‐middle‐aged community residents (N = 1291) who had consumed alcohol in the past year or shortly before was surveyed at baseline and 1 year, 4 years and 10 years later.Measurements  At each contact point, participants completed an inventory that assessed their alcohol consumption, drinking problems and health‐related and life context factors. Participants also provided information about their life history of drinking.Results  Over the 10 years, the proportion of individuals who consumed alcohol declined. Among individuals who continued to drink, women and men showed comparable declines in alcohol consumption, minor concomitants of alcohol consumption and drinking problems. In addition to the amount of alcohol consumption, smoking, friends’ approval of drinking and avoidance coping consistently predicted late‐life drinking problems. With respect to life history factors, heavy drinking, drinking problems and increased drinking in response to life events were related to a higher likelihood of late‐life drinking problems; obtaining help from family members and friends and, among men, participation in Alcoholics Anonymous, were related to a lower likelihood of problems.Conclusion  Older women and men show comparable declines in alcohol consumption and drinking problems. Specific late‐life social context and coping variables, and life history indices, are risk factors for late‐life drinking problems among both women and men.
Efficacy and safety of naltrexone and acamprosate in the treatment of alcohol dependence: a systematic review
Authors: Carmen Bouza , Angeles Magro , Ana Muñoz , María Amate José 
Published: June 2004

ABSTRACTAims  To ascertain the efficacy and safety of naltrexone and acamprosate in the treatment of alcohol dependence.Methods  Systematic review of the literature (1990–2002) and meta‐analysis of full published randomized and controlled clinical trials assessing acamprosate or naltrexone therapy in alcohol dependence. Estimates of effect were calculated according to the fixed‐effects model.Measurements  Relapse and abstinence rates, cumulative abstinence duration and treatment compliance were considered as primary outcomes.Findings  Thirty‐three studies met the inclusion criteria. Acamprosate was associated with a significant improvement in abstinence rate [odds ratio (OR): 1.88 (1.57, 2.25), P < 0.001] and days of cumulative abstinence [WMD: 26.55 (17.56, 36.54]. Short‐term administration of naltrexone reduced the relapse rate significantly [OR: 0.62 (0.52, 0.75), P < 0.001], but was not associated with a significant modification in the abstinence rate [OR: 1.26 (0.97,1.64), P = 0.08]. There were insufficient data to ascertain naltrexone's efficacy over more prolonged periods. Acamprosate had a good safety pattern and was associated with a significant improvement in treatment compliance [OR: 1.29 (1.13,1.47), P < 0.001]. Naltrexone's side effects were more numerous, yet the drug was nevertheless tolerated acceptably without being associated with a lower adherence to treatment (OR: 0.94 (0.80, 1.1), P = 0.5). However, overall compliance was relatively low with both medications.Conclusions  Both acamprosate and naltrexone are effective as adjuvant therapies for alcohol dependence in adults. Acamprosate appears to be especially useful in a therapeutic approach targeted at achieving abstinence, whereas naltrexone seems more indicated in programmes geared to controlled consumption. Both drugs are safe and acceptably tolerated but issues of compliance need to be addressed adequately to assure their usefulness in clinical practice.
Direct telemarketing of smoking cessation interventions: will smokers take the call?
Authors: Paul C. L. , Wiggers J. , Daly J. B. , Green S. , Walsh R. A. , Knight J. , Girgis A. 
Published: June 2004

ABSTRACTAims  Few smokers currently make use of available and effective cessation strategies, despite their expressed desire to quit and reported interest in cessation support. This study aimed to explore the feasibility of a telephone‐based direct‐marketing approach to delivering cessation strategies.Design, setting, measurements and participants  A community survey was conducted to explore the views of current adult smokers regarding the acceptability, likely uptake and barriers to uptake of smoking cessation services offered by direct telephone marketing.Findings  Three quarters (73.8%) of smokers contacted agreed to be surveyed. Of the 194 study participants, 75.3% reported that they would utilize vouchers for discount nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), 66.5% would use a mailed self‐help booklet, 57.2% would take up the offer of regular mailings of personalized letters and self‐help materials and 46.4% would utilize a ‘we‐call‐you’ telephone counselling service. The characteristics of those indicating likely uptake of these services were also explored. The two major barriers to uptake of services were preferring to quit without help and a belief that a particular service would not help the participant.Conclusions  The data suggest strong support for the direct marketing of smoking cessation strategies; they also highlight the need for further study of the cost‐effectiveness of telephone‐based direct marketing of smoking cessation strategies as a population‐based strategy for reducing the prevalence of smoking in the community.
The adolescent behavioral repertoire as a context for drug exposure: behavioral autarcesis at play
Authors: Chen Chuan‐Yu , Dormitzer Catherine M. , Gutiérrez Ulises , Vittetoe Kenneth , González Gonzalo B. , Anthony James C. 
Published: June 2004

ABSTRACTAims  The aim of this study is to investigate suspected behavioral autarcesis. Autarcesis refers to a mechanism of non‐specific shielding from or immunity to infection or disease. Here, suspecting that some facets of the adolescent behavioral repertoire (ABR) might shield youths from early drug involvement, we studied recent‐onset occurrence of first chances to try a drug and first actual drug use, expressed as a function of five observed ABR dimensions: religious, socializing, sports‐related, gender socialization, and home‐based activities.Design and participants  Nationally representative samples of school‐attending youths were drawn in Panama, the five Spanish heritage countries of Central America and the Dominican Republic (n = 12 797).Measurements  Drug involvement and ABR were assessed via anonymous self‐administered questionnaires.Findings  A religious activity dimension and a separate sports dimension were associated inversely with recent onset of adolescent drug experiences, and a socializing activity dimension was related to an increased occurrence of these experiences. For example, for each unit increase of the religious activity dimension of the ABR, there was an associated reduced occurrence of the first chance to try tobacco (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.63–0.90, P = 0.002). Adolescents at higher levels of sports activities and home‐based activities were less likely to experience recent‐onset actual use of marijuana (OR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.30–0.67, P < 0.001; OR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.32–0.99, P = 0.048, respectively).Conclusions  The study evidence lends some support for behavioral autarcesis. Manipulation of selected ABR dimensions might help prevent or reduce adolescent drug involvement, enhancing autarcesis as a protective mechanism.
Efficient and accurate computation of seismic traveltimes and amplitudes
Authors: Buske S. , Kästner U. 
Published: June 2004

ABSTRACTWe describe two practicable approaches for an efficient computation of seismic traveltimes and amplitudes. The first approach is based on a combined finite‐difference solution of the eikonal equation and the transport equation (the ‘FD approach’). These equations are formulated as hyperbolic conservation laws; the eikonal equation is solved numerically by a third‐order ENO–Godunov scheme for the traveltimes whereas the transport equation is solved by a first‐order upwind scheme for the amplitudes. The schemes are implemented in 2D using polar coordinates. The results are first‐arrival traveltimes and the corresponding amplitudes. The second approach uses ray tracing (the ‘ray approach’) and employs a wavefront construction (WFC) method to calculate the traveltimes. Geometrical spreading factors are then computed from these traveltimes via the ray propagator without the need for dynamic ray tracing or numerical differentiation. With this procedure it is also possible to obtain multivalued traveltimes and the corresponding geometrical spreading factors.Both methods are compared using the Marmousi model. The results show that the FD eikonal traveltimes are highly accurate and perfectly match the WFC traveltimes. The resulting FD amplitudes are smooth and consistent with the geometrical spreading factors obtained from the ray approach. Hence, both approaches can be used for fast and reliable computation of seismic first‐arrival traveltimes and amplitudes in complex models. In addition, the capabilities of the ray approach for computing traveltimes and spreading factors of later arrivals are demonstrated with the help of the Shell benchmark model.
A simple method of magnetic declination fluctuation correction for long single‐streamer positioning in a seismic survey
Authors: Martin Victor , Noble Mark S. , Pascal Georges 
Published: June 2004

ABSTRACTIn single‐streamer acquisition, the use of acoustic transducers to constrain the receiver positions is not possible, thus implying the use of compass birds to gather information on the streamer location. The compasses are, however, sensitive to the declination of the local magnetic field of the earth, and local fluctuations not accounted for can degrade the accuracy of reconstructed positions. In order to correct these small‐scale fluctuations, we propose a simple deterministic method to calculate a spatial correction to apply to the compasses that enhances the positioning accuracy. The local compass declination is calculated after a first reconstruction on the whole survey area. This method was applied with success to navigation data from a 3D survey offshore Japan, and the positioning accuracy was improved to the level of the DGPS accuracy.
To the core of porcine matter: evaluating arguments against producing transgenic pigs
Authors: Ravelingien A. , Braeckman J. 
Published: June 2004

Abstract: Background: The production of transgenic pigs for xenotransplantation is based on an urgent human need for transplantable organs. Although the particular genetic modifications are small and do not alter the organism phenotypically, several authors consider it to be morally problematic. In this paper we attempt to establish if there are genuine reasons to refrain from producing ‘humanized’ pigs.Methods: We distinguish between two types of ethical arguments against transgenesis often confused in debating the matter: consequentialist and inherent arguments. Whereas the first type of argument pertains to the potentially negative effects of the procedure, the second type claims that genetic engineering of animals is ‘inherently’ wrong; that the action itself regardless of the effects – is to be considered immoral. If this is the case, then the discussion need not be taken further. If not, then these arguments do not stand in evaluating the procedure.Results: We demonstrate that none of the claims asserting inherent wrongness of transgenesis is valid as such.Conclusion: Sound resistance to producing transgenic pigs is restricted to concerns regarding the concrete effects of the applications.
Tort liability of xenotransplantation centers
Authors: Triller Katja , Bobinski Mary‐Anne 
Published: June 2004

Abstract: Background: In the view of future clinical trials, defining possible legal theories under which xenotransplantation center could be held responsible for any adverse effect on public health is becoming increasingly important.Methods: In order to better define the tort lliability of xenotransplantation center, we reviewed the existing cases and statutes on tort and public health law.Results: Xenotransplantation center could be sued under various tort actions, including negligence, public nuisance or strict liability for ultrahazardous activity. Prerequisites for each legal action are discussed and possible scope of tort liability is addressed.Conclusion: The promotion of positive public perception and the development of appropriate insurance system could prevent future class actions to succeed in abating the xenotransplantation industry.
Increased glomerular permeability and pulmonary dysfunction following major surgery: correlation of microalbuminuria and PaO2/FiO2 ratio
Authors: Szakmány T. , Molnár Z. 
Published: June 2004

Background:  The aim of our trial was to evaluate the ability of microalbuminuria as an indicator of outcome and to investigate its relationship with the postoperative respiratory dysfunction in the initial postoperative period in a high‐risk patient group.Methods:  In our prospective, observational study patients were consecutively recruited following elective oesophagectomy, total gastrectomy, Whipple‐resection of the pancreas and liver resection due to tumour removal. Microalbuminuria (expressed as urine albumin:creatinine ratio, M:Cr) was measured before (tp), and after surgery (t0, t6, t24, t48, t72). Multiple Organ Dysfunction Scores were monitored on ICU admission than daily (t1, t2, t3). For statistical analysis, Wilcoxon's rank‐sum test, Mann–Whitney's U‐test, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and Spearman's rho test were used as appropriate.Results:  One hundred and forty patients (118 survivors and 22 non‐survivors) were recruited. Significantly higher Multiple Organ Dysfunction Scores were observed in non‐survivors throughout the study period (P < 0.001). Microalbuminuria (Cr) increased significantly (P < 0.01) on admission to the ICU (t0) compared with the preoperative levels, but levels returned to normal within 6 h and remained so for the rest of the study. There was a significant difference between survivors and non‐survivors at t0 (P < 0.01). However the ROC curve indicated that M:Cr is not a reliable descriptor of outcome. Comparison of Cr values with the PaO2/FiO2 ratio showed an inverse relationship on admission, which remained so for t24 and t48.Conclusion:  M:Cr measured on admission to the ICU was significantly higher in non‐survivors than in survivors, and also showed an inverse relationship with the PaO2/FiO2 ratio following extended abdominal surgery. However, on admission, M:Cr did not discriminate survivors from non‐survivors. Further studies are required to evaluate the prognostic value of this test for postoperative patients with risk of respiratory failure.
Analysis of a Longitudinal Ordinal Response Clinical Trial Using Dynamic Models
Authors: Lindsey P. J. , Kaufmann J. 
Published: June 2004

SummaryIn many areas of pharmaceutical research, there has been increasing use of categorical data and more specifically ordinal responses. In many cases, complex models are required to account for different types of dependences among the responses. The clinical trial that is considered here involved patients who were required to remain in a particular state to enable the doctors to examine their heart. The aim of this trial was to study the relationship between the dose of the drug administered and the time that was spent by the patient in the state permitting examination. The patient’s state was measured every second by a continuous Doppler signal which was categorized by the doctors into one of four ordered categories. Hence, the response consisted of repeated ordinal series. These series were of different lengths because the drug effect wore off faster (or slower) on certain patients depending on the drug dose administered and the infusion rate, and therefore the length of drug administration. A general method for generating new ordinal distributions is presented which is sufficiently flexible to handle unbalanced ordinal repeated measurements. It consists of obtaining a cumulative mixture distribution from a Laplace transform and introducing into it the integrated intensity of a binary logistic, continuation ratio or proportional odds model. Then, a multivariate distribution is constructed by a procedure that is similar to the updating process of the Kalman filter. Several types of history dependences are proposed.
Estimation and Prediction for Low Degree Polynomial Models Under Measurement Errors with an Application to Forest Harvesters
Authors: Nummi Tapio , Möttönen Jyrki 
Published: June 2004

Summary
In a modern computer-based forest harvester, tree stems are run in sequence through the measuring equipment root end first, and simultaneously the length and diameter are stored in a computer. These measurements may be utilized for example in the determination of the optimal cutting points of the stems. However, a problem that is often passed over is that these variables are usually measured with error. We consider estimation and prediction of stem curves when the length and diameter measurements are subject to errors. It is shown that only in the simplest case of a first-order model can the estimation be carried out unbiasedly by using standard least squares procedures. However, both the first- and the second-degree models are unbiased in prediction. Also a study on real stem is used to illustrate the models that are discussed.
Detection and Correction of Artificial Shifts in Climate Series
Authors: Caussinus Henri , Mestre Olivier 
Published: June 2004

Summary
Many long instrumental climate records are available and might provide useful information in climate research. These series are usually affected by artificial shifts, due to changes in the conditions of measurement and various kinds of spurious data. A comparison with surrounding weather-stations by means of a suitable two-factor model allows us to check the reliability of the series. An adapted penalized log-likelihood procedure is used to detect an unknown number of breaks and outliers. An example concerning temperature series from France confirms that a systematic comparison of the series together is valuable and allows us to correct the data even when no reliable series can be taken as a reference.
Semiparametric Mixture Models and Repeated Measures: The Multinomial Cut Point Model
Authors: Cruz-Medina I. R. , Hettmansperger T. P. , Thomas H. 
Published: June 2004

Summary
Suppose that we have m repeated measures on each subject, and we model the observation vectors with a finite mixture model. We further assume that the repeated measures are conditionally independent. We present methods to estimate the shape of the component distributions along with various features of the component distributions such as the medians, means and variances. We make no distributional assumptions on the components; indeed, we allow different shapes for different components.
Improved efficacy and tolerability of retinoic acid in acne vulgaris: a new topical formulation with cyclodextrin complex ψ
Authors: Anadolu RY , Sen T , Tarimci N , Birol A , Erdem C 
Published: June 2004

ABSTRACTObjectives  Retinoic acid (RA) has long been used, both topically and systemically, for disorders of keratinization, acne and related disorders. In the present study, the efficacy and tolerability of topical RA prepared as a cyclodextrin beta complex (β‐CD) is investigated in 66 acne vulgaris patients.Methods  This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study compares nightly topical application of RA/β‐CD complex hydrogel formulation (0.025%), RA/β‐CD complex in moisturizing base (0.025%), hydrogel base, moisturizer base or a commercial RA gel (0.05%) in acne vulgaris patients. Improvement of acne was assessed using a 5‐point improvement scale and by measuring sebum and moisture content of the skin using an SM 810 sebumeter/corneometer.Results  After 3 months of treatment, mean scores of acne improvement on the 5‐point scale were 4 with the RA/β‐CD complex hydrogel formulation, 4.1 with the RA/β‐CD complex in moisturizing base, 1.2 with hydrogel placebo base, 1.1 with moisturizer placebo base and 3 with the commercial RA product. All patients treated with the commercial product experienced local side‐effects. One patient discontinued due to severe irritation. None of the patients treated with the RA/β‐CD complex in the moisturizing base and hydrogel formulation experienced significant local irritation, although the sebum content of the skin decreased after application of the RA/β‐CD preparations. This change was not significant compared to controls. The moisture content of the skin was better preserved in the group treated with the RA/β‐CD complex in the moisturizing base.Conclusion  The topical RA/β‐CD complex, in hydrogel and moisturizing base, was more effective than the twice concentrated commercial RA product. There were few topical side‐effects with this new formulation, which increases patient compliance. Topical RA/β‐CD (0.025% RA) did not significantly reduce sebum secretion but may help to preserve optimum epidermal moisture content with the proper base formulation. This is the first study in the literature reporting efficacy and tolerability of the topical RA/β‐CD complex in acne vulgaris. We conclude that the topical RA/β‐CD complex displays an improved efficacy and tolerability profile and is an effective treatment alternative for acne vulgaris.
Treatment of papuloerythroderma of Ofuji with Re‐PUVA: a case report and review of the therapy§
Authors: Mutluer S , Yerebakan O , Alpsoy E , Ciftcioglu MA , Yilmaz E 
Published: June 2004

ABSTRACTPapuloerythroderma of Ofuji (PEO) is a disease of elderly men, characterized by intensely pruritic and widespread, red, flat‐topped papules with sparing of the body folds and creases (the so‐called ‘deck‐chair’ sign). The etiopathogenesis of the disease remains unknown. Psoralen plus UVA (PUVA), topical and systemic corticosteroids, etretinate, cyclosporin and interferon are the main approaches in the treatment of this rare disease. A case of PEO in a 60‐year‐old man who responded to retinoid plus PUVA (Re‐PUVA) treatment is reported here and a review of the therapy with other relevant cases is presented.