bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Patronage in the Ancient Near East
Authors: Westbrook Raymond 
Published: June 2005

AbstractPatronage is generally assumed by scholars to have been a universal feature of ancient Near Eastern societies, but has been neglected as a topic of serious investigation. The purpose of this study is to offer, without prior assumptions, textual evidence that establishes the existence of the concept of patronage. The approach is to present case studies from various parts of the region which are best explained by the presence of patronage. For these purposes patronage is narrowly de fined on the basis of ancient Roman and contemporary anthropological models. Les historiens du Proche-Orient ancien supposent que le patronage était un phénomène universel dans la région, sans que ce sujet n'ait fait l'objet d'une étude approfondie. Dans cet article je propose de présenter sans présomptions préalables des preuves textuelles que le concept de patronage existait. L'approche est de présenter des cas concrets provenants de plusieurs parties de la région qui s'expliquent au mieux par la présence du patronage. À ces fins, j'adopte une définition étroite du patronage, à la base de modèles romains anciens et antropologiques modernes.
Market Welfare in the Early-Modern Ottoman Economy—A Historiographic Overview with Many Questions
Authors: Shechter Relli 
Published: June 2005

AbstractIn early-modern Ottoman economy the notion of market welfare proposed here meant a system that partially sti fled competition and efficiency for the sake of economic stability and equity for those established within its boundaries. Such a system worked even in the face of political decentralization when economic regulation from "above" (Istanbul and "the state") was seemingly on the wane. Discussing available research and raising questions for future study, the article examines forms of regulation from the "middle" by local officials/notables, courts, and economic institutions in cities throughout the Empire and the role of consumers in economic regulation. The article further suggests why economic opening in a later era of integration into the world economy gradually put an end to an inward-looking, early-modern economic life. Dans l'économie ottomane du début de l'ère moderne (17e–18e siècles), la notion, proposée ici, de bien-être par le marché signifiait un système qui décourageait voire étouffait partiellement compétition et efficacité dans le but d'assurer une stabilité et une équité économique à ceux compris dans son périmètre. Un tel système fonctionnait toujours même dans un contexte de décentralisation politique, alors que la régulation économique venue « d'en haut » (d'Istanbul et de « l'Etat » ) semblait être en train de s'affaiblir. Considérant la recherche effectuée à ce sujet et soulevant des nouvelles questions pour une future enquête, le présent article étudie des formes de régulation émanant du « milieu » et établies localement par des fonctionnaires/dignitaires, des tribunaux, et des institutions économiques dans des villes à travers l'Empire, ainsi que le rôle joué par les consommateurs dans ce processus. L'article tente aussi d'expliquer pourquoi l'ouverture économique durant la période postérieure, celle de l'intégration dans l'économie mondiale, a mis fin, progressivement, à une vie économique tournée vers l'intérieur qui a caractérisé le début de l'ère moderne.
Impaired Ig class switch in mice deficient for the X-linked lymphoproliferative disease gene Sap
Authors: Al-Alem Umaima , Li Cuiling , Forey Nathalie , Relouzat Francis , Fondanèche Marie-Claude , Tavtigian Sean V. , Wang Zhao-Qi , Latour Sylvain , Yin Luo 
Published: June 2005

AbstractX-linked lymphoproliferative disease (XLP) is characterized by abnormal immune responses to Epstein-Barr virus attributed to inactivating mutations of the SAP gene. Previous studies showed immunoglobulin E (IgE) deficiency and low serum IgG levels in Sap-deficient mice before and after viral infections, which are associated with impaired CD4+ T-helper function. In the present work, we find that signaling lymphocytic activation molecule (SLAM)-associated protein (SAP) is expressed in B cells and this expression is down-regulated after stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interleukin 4 (IL-4). We demonstrate that B cells from Sap-deficient mice exhibit reduced IgG and IgA production in vitro. This impairment correlates with decreased circular transcript levels of Iα, Iγ2a, Iγ2b, and Iγ3 after stimulation, which indicate a defective Ig switch recombination in Sap-deficient B cells. While XLP is believed to cause defects in T, natural killer T (NKT), and natural killer (NK) cells, our results indicate that B cells are also affected. (Blood. 2005;106:2069-2075)
Paradoxic inhibition of human natural interferon-producing cells by the activating receptor NKp44
Authors: Fuchs Anja , Cella Marina , Kondo Takayuki , Colonna Marco 
Published: June 2005

Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cell-mediated cytotoxicity is triggered by multiple activating receptors associated with the signaling adaptor protein DNAX activation protein 12/killer cell-activating receptor-associated protein (DAP12/KARAP). Here, we show that one of these receptors, NKp44, is present on a subset of natural interferon-producing cells (IPCs) in tonsils. NKp44 expression can also be induced on blood IPCs after in vitro culture with interleukin 3 (IL-3). Crosslinking of NKp44 does not trigger IPC-mediated cytotoxicity but, paradoxically, inhibits interferon α (IFN-α) production by IPCs in response to cytosine-phosphate-guanosine (CpG) oligonucleotides. We find that IPCs in tonsils are in close contact with CD8+ T cells and demonstrate that a subset of memory CD8+ T cells produces IL-3. Therefore, IL-3-mediated induction of NKp44 on IPCs may be an important component of the ongoing crosstalk between the innate and adaptive immune response that allows memory CD8+ T cells to control the IPC response to virus. (Blood. 2005;106: 2076-2082)
Inhibition of mitochondrial respiration elevates oxygen concentration but leaves regulation of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) intact
Authors: Doege Kathrin , Heine Sandra , Jensen Inga , Jelkmann Wolfgang , Metzen Eric 
Published: June 2005

Abstract
The transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is critical for erythropoietin and other factors involved in the adaptation of the organism to hypoxic stress. Conflicting results have been published regarding the role of the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC) in the regulation of HIF-1α. We assessed cellular hypoxia by pimonidazole staining and blotting of the O2-labile HIF-1 α-subunit in human osteosarcoma cell cultures (U2OS and 143B). In conventional, gas-impermeable cell culture dishes, ETC inhibitors had no effect on pimonidazole staining or HIF-1α abundance in a 20% O2 atmosphere; both parameters were undetectable. Pimonidazole staining and HIF activity were substantial in 0.1% O2 irrespective of ETC inhibition. At an intermediate oxygen concentration (3% O2) pimonidazole staining and HIF-α expression were detectable but strongly reduced after ETC inhibition in conventional cell cultures. All effects of ETC inhibition on HIF-1α regulation were eliminated in gas-permeable dishes. As shown in a 143B subclone deficient in mitochondrial DNA (206ρ0), genetic inactivation of the ETC led to similar responses with respect to HIF-1α regulation as ETC inhibitors. Our data demonstrate that reduction of oxygen consumption reduces the O2 gradient in conventional cell cultures, causing elevation of the cellular O2 concentration, which leads to degradation of HIF-α.
Respiratory rehabilitation after acute exacerbation of COPD may reduce risk for readmission and mortality – a systematic review
Authors: Puhan Milo A , Scharplatz Madlaina , Troosters Thierry , Steurer Johann 
Published: June 2005

Abstract

Background
Acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) represent a major burden for patients and health care systems. Respiratory rehabilitation may improve prognosis in these patients by addressing relevant risk factors for exacerbations such as low exercise capacity. To study whether respiratory rehabilitation after acute exacerbation improves prognosis and health status compared to usual care, we quantified its effects using meta-analyses.

Methods
Systematic review of randomized controlled trials identified by searches in six electronic databases, contacts with experts, hand-searches of bibliographies of included studies and conference proceedings. We included randomized trials comparing the effect of respiratory rehabilitation and usual care on hospital admissions, health-related quality of life (HRQL), exercise capacity and mortality in COPD patients after acute exacerbation. Two reviewers independently selected relevant studies, extracted the data and evaluated the study quality. We pooled the results using fixed effects models where statistically significant heterogeneity (p ≤ 0.1) was absent.

Results
We identified six trials including 230 patients. Respiratory rehabilitation reduced the risk for hospital admissions (pooled relative risk 0.26 [0.12–0.54]) and mortality (0.45 [0.22–0.91]). Weighted mean differences on the Chronic Respiratory Questionnaire were 1.37 (95% CI 1.13–1.61) for the fatigue domain, 1.36 (0.94–1.77) for emotional function and 1.88 (1.67–2.09) for mastery. Weighted mean differences for the St. Georges Respiratory Questionnaire total score, impacts and activities domains were -11.1 (95% CI -17.1 to -5.2), -17.1 (95% CI -23.6 to -10.7) and -9.9 (95% CI -18.0 to -1.7). In all trials, rehabilitation improved exercise capacity (64–215 meters in six-minute walk tests and weighted mean difference for shuttle walk test 81 meter, 95% CI 48–115).

Conclusion
Evidence from six trials suggests that respiratory rehabilitation is effective in COPD patients after acute exacerbation. Larger trials, however, are needed to further investigate the role of respiratory rehabilitation after acute exacerbation and its potential to reduce costs caused by COPD.
TGF-β1 induces human alveolar epithelial to mesenchymal cell transition (EMT)
Authors: Kasai Hidenori , Allen Jeremy T , Mason Roger M , Kamimura Takashi , Zhang Zhi 
Published: June 2005

Abstract
Background
Fibroblastic foci are characteristic features in lung parenchyma of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). They comprise aggregates of mesenchymal cells which underlie sites of unresolved epithelial injury and are associated with progression of fibrosis. However, the cellular origins of these mesenchymal phenotypes remain unclear. We examined whether the potent fibrogenic cytokine TGF-β1 could induce epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the human alveolar epithelial cell line, A549, and investigated the signaling pathway of TGF-β1-mediated EMT.

Methods
A549 cells were examined for evidence of EMT after treatment with TGF-β1. EMT was assessed by: morphology under phase-contrast microscopy; Western analysis of cell lysates for expression of mesenchymal phenotypic markers including fibronectin EDA (Fn-EDA), and expression of epithelial phenotypic markers including E-cadherin (E-cad). Markers of fibrogenesis, including collagens and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) were also evaluated by measuring mRNA level using RT-PCR, and protein by immunofluorescence or Western blotting. Signaling pathways for EMT were characterized by Western analysis of cell lysates using monoclonal antibodies to detect phosphorylated Erk1/2 and Smad2 after TGF-β1 treatment in the presence or absence of MEK inhibitors. The role of Smad2 in TGF-β1-mediated EMT was investigated using siRNA.

Results
The data showed that TGF-β1, but not TNF-α or IL-1β, induced A549 cells with an alveolar epithelial type II cell phenotype to undergo EMT in a time-and concentration-dependent manner. The process of EMT was accompanied by morphological alteration and expression of the fibroblast phenotypic markers Fn-EDA and vimentin, concomitant with a downregulation of the epithelial phenotype marker E-cad. Furthermore, cells that had undergone EMT showed enhanced expression of markers of fibrogenesis including collagens type I and III and CTGF. MMP-2 expression was also evidenced. TGF-β1-induced EMT occurred through phosphorylation of Smad2 and was inhibited by Smad2 gene silencing; MEK inhibitors failed to attenuate either EMT-associated Smad2 phosphorylation or the observed phenotypic changes.

Conclusion
Our study shows that TGF-β1 induces A549 alveolar epithelial cells to undergo EMT via Smad2 activation. Our data support the concept of EMT in lung epithelial cells, and suggest the need for further studies to investigate the phenomenon.
Follow-up care by patient's own general practitioner after contact with out-of-hours care. A descriptive study
Authors: van Uden Caro JT , Zwietering Paul J , Hobma Sjoerd O , Ament Andre JHA , Wesseling Geertjan , van Schayck Onno CP , Crebolder Harry FJM 
Published: June 2005

Abstract
Background
Little is known about the care process after patients have contacted a GP cooperative for out-of-hours care. The objective of this study was to determine the proportion of patients who seek follow-up care after contact with a GP cooperative for out-of-hours care, and to gain insight into factors that are related to this follow-up care.

Methods
A total of 2805 patients who contacted a GP cooperative for out-of-hours care were sent a questionnaire. They were asked whether they had attended their own GP within a week after their contact with the cooperative, and for what reason. To investigate whether other variables are related to follow-up care, a logistic regression analysis was applied. Variables that entered in this analysis were patient characteristics (age, gender, etc.) and patient opinion on correctness of diagnosis, urgency and severity of the medical complaint.

Results
The response rate was 42%. In total, 48% of the patients received follow-up care from their own GP. Only 20% were referred or advised to attend their own GP. Others attended because their medical condition worsened or because they were concerned about their complaint. Variables that predicted follow-up care were the patient's opinion on the correctness of the diagnosis, patient's health insurance, and severity of the medical problem.

Conclusion
Almost half of all patients in this study who contacted the GP cooperative for out-of-hours care attended their own GP during office hours within a week, for the same medical complaint. The most important factor that predicted follow-up care from the patient's own GP after an out-of-hours contact was the patient's degree of confidence in the diagnosis established at the GP cooperative. Despite the limited generalisability, this study is a first step in providing insight into the dimension of follow-up care after a patient has contacted the GP cooperative for out-of-hours primary care.
PSA testing for prostate cancer: an online survey of the views and reported practice of General Practitioners in the UK
Authors: Brett Jo , Watson Eila , Hewitson Paul , Bukach Colleen , Edwards Adrian , Elwyn Glyn , Austoker Joan 
Published: June 2005

Abstract
Background
The role of Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) testing in the early detection of prostate cancer is controversial. Current UK policy stipulates that any man who wishes to have a PSA test should have access to the test, provided he has been given full information about the benefits and limitations of testing. This study aimed to determine UK GPs' current reported practice regarding PSA testing, and their views towards informed decision-making and PSA testing.

Method
Online questionnaire survey, with a sample of 421 GPs randomly selected from a database of GPs across the UK.

Results
95% (400/421) of GPs responded. 76% of GPs reported having performed a PSA test for an asymptomatic man at least once in the previous three months, with 13% reported having tested more than five men in this period. A majority of GPs reported they would do a PSA test for men presenting with a family history and requesting a test, for asymptomatic men requesting a test and also for men presenting with lower urinary tract symptoms. Reported testing rates were highest for men with a family history. Amongst men with lower urinary tract symptoms and men with no symptoms, reported testing rates were significantly higher for older than younger men.
The majority of GPs expressed support for the current policy (67%), and favoured both the general practitioner and the man being involved in the decision making process (83%). 90% of GPs indicated that they would discuss the benefits and limitation of testing with the man, with most (61%) preferring to ask the man to make a further appointment if he decides to be tested.

Conclusion
This study indicates that PSA testing in asymptomatic men is a regular occurrence in the UK, and that there is general support from GPs for the current policy of making PSA tests available to 'informed' men who are concerned about prostate cancer. While most GPs indicated they would discuss the benefits and limitations prior to PSA testing, and most GPs favoured a shared approach to decision making, it is not known to what extent men are actually being informed. Research is needed to evaluate the most effective approach to assisting men in making an informed decision about whether or not to have a PSA test.
Agreement between diagnoses reached by clinical examination and available reference standards: a prospective study of 216 patients with lumbopelvic pain
Authors: Laslett Mark , McDonald Barry , Tropp Hans , Aprill Charles N , Öberg Birgitta 
Published: June 2005

Abstract
Background
The tissue origin of low back pain (LBP) or referred lower extremity symptoms (LES) may be identified in about 70% of cases using advanced imaging, discography and facet or sacroiliac joint blocks. These techniques are invasive and availability varies. A clinical examination is non-invasive and widely available but its validity is questioned. Diagnostic studies usually examine single tests in relation to single reference standards, yet in clinical practice, clinicians use multiple tests and select from a range of possible diagnoses. There is a need for studies that evaluate the diagnostic performance of clinical diagnoses against available reference standards.

Methods
We compared blinded clinical diagnoses with diagnoses based on available reference standards for known causes of LBP or LES such as discography, facet, sacroiliac or hip joint blocks, epidurals injections, advanced imaging studies or any combination of these tests. A prospective, blinded validity design was employed. Physiotherapists examined consecutive patients with chronic lumbopelvic pain and/or referred LES scheduled to receive the reference standard examinations. When diagnoses were in complete agreement regardless of complexity, "exact" agreement was recorded. When the clinical diagnosis was included within the reference standard diagnoses, "clinical agreement" was recorded. The proportional chance criterion (PCC) statistic was used to estimate agreement on multiple diagnostic possibilities because it accounts for the prevalence of individual categories in the sample. The kappa statistic was used to estimate agreement on six pathoanatomic diagnoses.

Results
In a sample of chronic LBP patients (n = 216) with high levels of disability and distress, 67% received a patho-anatomic diagnosis based on available reference standards, and 10% had more than one tissue origin of pain identified. For 27 diagnostic categories and combinations, chance clinical agreement (PCC) was estimated at 13%. "Exact" agreement between clinical and reference standard diagnoses was 32% and "clinical agreement" 51%. For six pathoanatomic categories (disc, facet joint, sacroiliac joint, hip joint, nerve root and spinal stenosis), PCC was 33% with actual agreement 56%. There was no overlap of 95% confidence intervals on any comparison. Diagnostic agreement on the six most common patho-anatomic categories produced a kappa of 0.31.

Conclusion
Clinical diagnoses agree with reference standards diagnoses more often than chance. Using available reference standards, most patients can have a tissue source of pain identified.
Geographic variations of childhood asthma hospitalization and outpatient visits and proximity to ambient pollution sources at a U.S.-Canada border crossing
Authors: Oyana Tonny J , Rivers Patrick A 
Published: June 2005

Abstract

Background
Childhood asthma is a significant public health problem in the United States and evidence is accumulating regarding the contribution from traffic and ambient air pollution. This study is a companion piece of a related Buffalo asthma study in adults recently published in the July 2004 issue of American Journal of Public Health. This study focuses on children under 18 years of age diagnosed with asthma during a three-year period (2000–2002). In order to determine the effects of particulate air pollution on public health, we conducted an ecologic study of childhood asthma and point-source respirable particulate air pollution in patients diagnosed with asthma (n = 6,425). Patients diagnosed with gastroenteritis (n = 5,132) were used as controls.

Results
Although the results of this study show spatial patterns similar to the ones observed in the adult study, a multiple-comparison test shows that EPA-designated focus sites located in Buffalo's east side are statistically (p < 0.008) more linked to childhood asthma than sites located elsewhere.

Conclusion
Findings of this study can be useful in geographic targeting and in the design of optimal and preventive measures.
A space-time analysis of the proportion of late stage breast cancer in Massachusetts, 1988 to 1997
Authors: Sheehan T Joseph , DeChello Laurie M 
Published: June 2005

Abstract

Background
Early detection is the best way to control breast cancer. This observational epidemiologic study uses ten years of data, 1988–1997, to determine whether the observed variations in the proportion of breast cancers diagnosed at late stage are simply random or are statistically significant with respect to both geographical location and time.

Results
A total of three spatial-temporal areas were found to deviate significantly from randomness in the unadjusted analysis; one of the three areas contained statistically significant excesses in proportion of late stage, while two areas were identified as significantly lower than expected. The area of excess spanned the first three years of the study period, while the low areas spanned the last five years of the study period. Some of these areas were no longer statistically significant when adjustments were made for SES and urban/rural status.

Conclusion
Although there was an area of excess in eastern Massachusetts, it only spanned the first three years of the study period. The low areas were fairly consistent, spanning the last five years of the study period.