bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does adverse selection affect bid–ask spreads for options?
Authors: Bartram Söhnke M. , Fehle Frank , Shrider David G.
Published: March 2008

This study examines two different option markets to test whether differences in the level of adverse selection faced by market makers affect the size of bid–ask spreads. The data are from bank‐issued options that trade on EuWax, where market makers face little adverse selection and traditional options that trade on EuRex. The results support the hypothesis that the adverse selection component of the bid–ask spread is important, as options on EuWax have lower bid–ask spreads than comparable options on EuRex. The results show that the adverse selection component represents at least half of the overall bid–ask spreads on the traditional EuRex. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 28:417–437, 2008
The effects of ECT on cognitive functioning in the elderly: a review
Authors: Tielkes Caroline E. M. , Comijs Hannie C. , Verwijk Esmée , Stek Max L.
Published: March 2008

Background

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as a single course or in maintenance form (M‐ECT) is an effective treatment in depressed elderly. However, ECT may have adverse effects on cognition.

Objective

To review all studies from 1980–2006 on ECT and cognition in the elderly with a minimum age of 55 years or a mean age of 55 years, and with valid measurements of cognition before and after ECT.

Results

Nine out of the 15 eligible studies were focused exclusively on the elderly. Three studies reported verbal learning‐ and recall problems post ECT, while three studies found positive effects of ECT on memory, speed of processing and concentration. Global cognitive functioning in patients with cognitive impairment improved in all studies. At follow up, most studies reported improvement of cognitive functions. Learning verbal information and executive functioning were impaired in M‐ECT patients whereas global cognition remained stable after M‐ECT over a year.

Conclusions

To date research of ECT on cognitive functioning in the elderly is very limited. Small sample size, lack of controls, use of a single screening instrument and a short follow up period may explain the conflicting results. Given the clinical importance, more extensive research on cognition in elderly treated with ECT is urgently needed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neurocognitive profiles in older adults with and without major depression
Authors: Fischer Corinne , Schweizer Tom A. , Atkins Jana H. , Bozanovic Radenka , Norris Mireille , Herrmann Nathan , Nisenbaum Rosane , Rourke Sean B.
Published: March 2008

Objectives

To delineate the differences between older persons with and without a diagnosis of major depression.

Methods

Participants were recruited from three outpatient clinics serving older patients at St Michael's Hospital. To be included in the study, participants had to speak English and have no evidence of significant sensory deficits that would interfere with neuropsychological testing. Participants were excluded if they had active delirium, active CNS disease (including dementia), active substance abuse, unstable medical disease, recent ECT treatment and a current/past diagnosis of a psychotic disorder. The diagnosis of major depression was made by qualified professionals in accordance with established guidelines. Participants were administered structured measures assessing global cognition, medical co‐morbidity, subjective memory complaints, mood and detailed neurocognitive testing evaluating working memory, attention and speed of processing. Differences between depressed and non‐depressed subjects with respect to these measures were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results

Thirty‐six participants were included in this study. The depressed (n = 17) and non‐depressed (n = 19) groups were well matched in terms of age, education, medical co‐morbidity and mini‐mental state exam (MMSE) score. While the depressed subgroup had significantly higher subjective memory, language and cognitive complaints, there were no significant differences observed between the two subgroups on measures of memory and learning, attention and speed of information processing, fine motor dexterity and verbal fluency.

Conclusion

This study suggests that while significant depressive symptoms are strongly associated with increased cognitive complaints, they are not associated necessarily with objective cognitive impairment. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalence of psychiatric symptoms and mental disorders detected in primary care in an elderly Spanish population. The PSICOTARD Study: preliminary findings
Authors: Olivera Javier , Benabarre Sergio , Lorente Teófilo , Rodríguez Mariano , Pelegrín Carmelo , Calvo José María , Leris José María , Idáñez Dolores , Arnal Santiago
Published: March 2008

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of mental health problems among the elderly attending Primary Care centres in the Province of Huesca (Spain). To detect factors associated with the psychopathology of the elderly, and to demonstrate that specific training for GPs (General Practitioners) in the use of psychogeriatric screening instruments significantly increases detection.

Methods

Sample selection was made by means of systematic random sampling, stratified by the participants' health centres. Two hundred and ninety‐three patients over 65 were assessed with the Spanish version of the Mini‐Mental State Examination, Clock Drawing Test, Verbal Fluency, Informant Questionnaire (detection of cognitive impairment), Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale, Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Geriatric Mental State Schedule (items for delusions, hallucinations, obsessive ideas and hypochondriacal ideas).

Results

Almost half the patients (46.1%) presented some type of psychiatric symptom at the time of assessment. The most prevalent disorders were: cognitive impairment (16.4%), anxiety (15.7%), depression (14.3%), psychosis (6.1%), obsessive symptoms (4.4%) and hypochondriacal ideas (7.2%). Women presented more psychopathological disorders than men (58.7% vs 34.0%). Age, severity of physical illness, poor social support and previous psychiatric comorbidity were associated with psychiatric disorders in the elderly.

Conclusions

Only 29% of the elderly population studied had a previous psychiatric diagnosis, so the detection of mental problems in old age is low in Primary Care. When Family Doctors are trained in psychogeriatric screening instruments, detection and sensitivity in the recognition of these important health problems increases. Greater training in psychogeriatric assessment is required in Primary Care. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does job satisfaction improve the health of workers? New evidence using panel data and objective measures of health
Authors: Fischer Justina A. V. , Sousa‐Poza Alfonso
Published: March 2008

This paper evaluates the relationship between job satisfaction and measures of health of workers using the German Socio‐Economic Panel. Methodologically, it addresses two important design problems encountered frequently in the literature: (a) cross‐sectional causality problems and (b) the absence of objective measures of physical health that complement self‐reported measures of health status. Not only does using the panel structure with individual fixed effects mitigate the bias from omitting unobservable personal psycho‐social characteristics, but employing more objective health measures such as health‐system contacts and disability addresses such measurement problems relating to self‐report assessments of health status.

We find a positive link between job satisfaction (and changes over time therein) and subjective health measures (and changes therein); that is, employees with higher or improved job satisfaction levels feel healthier and are more satisfied with their health. This observation also holds true for more objective measures of health. Particularly, improvements in job satisfaction over time appear to prevent workers from (further) health deterioration. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
To vaccinate or to screen—is that the question?
Authors: Hann Alison , Peckham Stephen
Published: March 2008

The recent recommendation by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) that the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine should be routinely given to girls aged 12–13 raises important questions about prevention programmes to combat cervical cancer in the UK. The proposal of a mass immunization programme against HPV also presents some important ethical dilemmas. This paper discusses these questions within the current context of cervical cancer prevention programmes considering issues of efficacy and the impact of immunization on women and the implications for the current cervical screening programme. We argue that despite the JCVI recommendation to implement a national vaccination programme in the UK, which will undoubtedly save lives, further consideration needs to be given to key concerns about the efficacy of the delivery programme and potential risks associated with this, the additional costs of delivery of such a programme, the challenge of ensuring continued vaccination coverage among the highest risk population, the goals of the vaccination programme and the need to continue cervical cancer screening despite a vaccination programme. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A class of group divisible 3‐designs and their applications
Authors: Wang J. , Ji L.
Published: March 2008

In this article, we first show that a group divisible 3‐design with block sizes from {4, 6}, index unity and group‐type 2m exists for every integer m≥ 4 with the exception of m = 5. Such group divisible 3‐designs play an important role in our subsequent complete solution to the existence problem for directed H‐designs DHλ(m, r, 4, 3)s. We also consider a way to construct optimal codes capable of correcting one deletion or insertion using the directed H‐designs. In this way, the optimal single‐deletion/insertion‐correcting codes of length 4 can be constructed for all even alphabet sizes. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 17: 136–146, 2009
Alpha‐1 adrenergic receptor transactivates signal transducer and activator of transcription‐3 (Stat3) through activation of Src and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in hepatocytes
Authors: Han Chang , Bowen William C. , Michalopoulos George K. , Wu Tong
Published: March 2008

Hepatocytes express adrenergic receptors (ARs) that modulate several functions, including liver regeneration, hepatocyte proliferation, glycogenolysis, gluconeogenesis, synthesis of urea and fatty acid metabolism. Adrenergic hepatic function in adults is mainly under the control of α1‐ARs; however, the mechanism through which they influence diverse processes remains incompletely understood. This study describes a novel α1‐AR‐mediated transactivation of signal transducer and activator of transcription‐3 (Stat3) in primary and transformed hepatocytes. Treatment of primary rat hepatocytes with the α1‐AR agonist, phenylephrine (PE), induced a rapid phosphorylation of Stat3. PE also increased Stat3 phosphorylation, DNA binding and transcription activity in transformed human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (Hep3B). The PE‐induced Stat3 phosphorylation, DNA binding and reporter activity were completely blocked by the selective α1‐AR antagonist, prazosin. In addition, transfection of Hep3B cells with human α1B‐AR expression vector also enhanced Stat3 phosphorylation and reporter activity. Moreover, overexpression of RGS2, a protein inhibitor of Gq/11signaling, blocked PE‐induced Stat3 phosphorylation and reporter activity. The observations that PE induced the formation of c‐Src‐Stat3 binding complex and phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and that inhibiting Src and EGFR prevented PE‐induced Stat3 activation indicate the involvement of Src and EGFR. Taken together, these observations demonstrate a novel α1‐AR‐mediated Stat3 activation that involves Gq/11, Src, and EGFR in hepatic cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 216: 486–497, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chromatin organization and virus gene expression
Authors: Lieberman Paul M.
Published: March 2008

Many viruses introduce DNA into the host‐cell nucleus, where they must either embrace or confront chromatin factors as a support or obstacle to completion of their life cycle. Compared to the eukaryotic cell, viruses have compact and rapidly evolving genomes. Despite their smaller size, viruses have complex life cycles that involve dynamic changes in DNA structure. Nuclear entry, transcription, replication, genome stabilization, and virion packaging involve complex changes in chromosome organization and structure. Chromatin dynamics and epigenetic modifications play major roles in viral and host chromosome biology. In some cases, viruses may use novel or viral‐specific epigenetic modifying activities, which may reflect variant pathways that distinguish their behavior from the bulk of the cellular chromosome. This review examines several recent discoveries that highlight the role of chromatin dynamics in the life cycle of DNA viruses. J. Cell. Physiol. 216: 295–302, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Simulated solar light‐induced p53 mutagenesis in SKH‐1 mouse skin: A dose–response assessment
Authors: Verkler Tracie L. , Delongchamp Robert R. , Miller Barbara J. , Webb Peggy J. , Howard Paul C. , Parsons Barbara L.
Published: March 2008

Sunlight and ultraviolet‐induced mutation of the p53 gene is a frequent, possibly obligate step in skin cancer development, making quantitative measurement of p53 mutation an ideal biomarker for sunlight‐induced skin carcinogenesis. To understand how the appearance of p53 mutation relates to skin tumor development, SKH‐1 hairless mice were exposed 5 d per week to one of four different doses of simulated solar light (SSL; 0, 6.85, 13.70, 20.55 mJ · CIE/cm2) previously characterized for their tumorigenic potential. Allele‐specific competitive blocker‐PCR (ACB‐PCR) was used to measure levels of p53 codon 270 CGT to TGT mutation within DNA isolated from dorsal skin of exposed mice. For each dose, p53 mutant fraction (MF) was measured after 4, 16, and 28 wk of exposure. Significant dose‐ and time‐dependent increases in p53 MF were identified. All p53 MF measurements were integrated by relating the observed p53 MF to the cumulative dose of SSL. The increase in the logarithm of p53 MF was described by the linear function: log10 MF = α + 0.0016 · d, where α is the spontaneous log10 MF after a particular time point and d is the dose of SSL in mJ · CIE/cm2. The p53 MF induced in nontumor bearing skin by 28 wk of exposure at the high dose of SSL was significantly lower than that found in skin tumors induced by ∼32 wk of exposure to the same dose of SSL. p53 MF showed a strong negative correlation with tumor latency, suggesting this quantitative biomarker has the potential to predict tumorigenicity. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Troglitazone inhibits cell migration, adhesion, and spreading by modulating cytoskeletal rearrangement in human breast cancer cells
Authors: Wang Pei‐Shan , Chou Fu‐Sheng , Porchia Leonardo , Saji Motoyasu , Pinzone Joseph J.
Published: March 2008

Metastatic tumors are the primary cause of death in patients with breast cancer. Recent data indicate that the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ) ligands, thiazolidinediones (TZDs), possess anti‐invasive activities on human breast cancer cells. However, the effects of TZDs on other metastatic properties of breast cancer cells such as adhesion, spreading, and migration are not well established. In this study, we show that troglitazone (TG), a member of the TZD family, inhibits lamellipodia formation or membrane ruffling as well as actin polymerization at these structures in MDA‐MB‐231 and T47D breast cancer cells. In addition, TG reduces migration, adhesion, and spreading on fibronectin (FN)‐coated plates. These phenomena were associated with the dramatic decrease of Tyr397 and Tyr576 phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and the detergent‐insoluble Rac1. We also found that TG upregulates Tyr416 phosphorylation of Src, but downregulates the Src–FAK complex. Moreover, we use a PPARγ‐inactive derivative of TG (STG28) and a PPARγ antagonist (GW9662) to eliminate PPARγ‐mediated effects. We found that treatment with STG28 or GW9662 plus TG showed similar effects compared to TG treatment alone on tyrosine phosphorylation of FAK and Src, indicating that these effects are not the result of PPARγ activation. Interestingly, we found that TG upregulates actin filament assembly at the point of cell–cell contact in T47D cells, indicating that TG may also upregulate cell–cell adhesion in breast cancer cells which express E‐cadherin. These results suggested that TG should be investigated further for its therapeutic potential in metastatic breast cancer. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Does familiarity breed trust? Revisiting the antecedents of trust
Authors: Gulati Ranjay , Sytch Maxim
Published: March 2008

This paper investigates how the history of interaction between organizations and between organizational boundary spanners contributes to the formation of trust between firms. Our findings, using data on the supplier–buyer relationships of two major US auto manufacturers, suggest that history affects trust formation in a complex non‐linear fashion, involving a period of ambivalence early in a relationship. We show that certain kinds of exchange partners can systematically reap differential returns from a common history of interaction. Organizational similarity significantly enhances the ability of exchange partners to translate the benefits of the joint history of interaction into a stock of trust. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sales contests, promotion decisions and heterogeneous risk
Authors: Bono James W.
Published: March 2008

This paper examines a general model of sales contests in which agents have heterogeneous attitudes toward risk. It shows that agents that are less risk averse have a higher probability of success. A corollary to this result shows that when absolute risk aversion is decreasing in wealth, wealthier agents have a higher probability of promotion. The same wealth effect makes it possible for more risk averse agents to take greater risks in a multi‐round promotion tournament. Next, a stability analysis shows that these equilibria are attractors under a best response dynamic. While it is well‐known that sales contests can be an effective incentive device for eliciting effort from employees, this research suggests the added benefit that when used as a basis for promotion decisions, sales contests act to filter the hardest working agents to the top of the corporate hierarchy. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Delphi study investigating consensus among expert physiotherapists in relation to the management of low back pain
Authors: Ferguson Fraser C , Brownlee Margaret , Webster Valerie
Published: March 2008

Objectives: Low back pain (LBP) affects a large proportion of the adult population, with over 90% of people expected to experience symptoms associated with it. LBP is one of the most common conditions managed by primary health care practitioners, and physiotherapists are the largest professional group responsible for its management. Clinical guidelines exist for the management of LBP and are based on the best available evidence. However, there is currently no consensus on the actual physiotherapy management of this condition.

Methods: A three‐round Delphi study was conducted among expert physiotherapists (n = 34). A focus group was initially convened to review the key questions, developed following a review of the literature. An expert panel then produced their responses, which were ranked in subsequent rounds, using a five‐point Likert scale, until a predetermined point of consensus was reached.

Results: The results of this study indicated that it is possible to establish consensus among expert clinicians in relation to the management of LBP, with consensus reached on 64 (67.3%) of the 95 responses identified. The results also showed that, in general, physiotherapy management within the location studied conformed to current LBP evidence‐based clinical guidelines. In addition, the expert panel identified the importance of a biopsychosocial approach to LBP management.

Conclusions: Although the study identified that consensus existed in relation to many aspects of physiotherapy management of LBP, it was also noted that confusion existed in relation to several key areas of practice, highlighting the need for further work. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface passivation of high‐efficiency silicon solar cells by atomic‐layer‐deposited Al2O3
Authors: Schmidt J. , Merkle A. , Brendel R. , Hoex B. , de Sanden M. C. M. van , Kessels W. M. M.
Published: March 2008

Atomic‐layer‐deposited aluminium oxide (Al2O3) is applied as rear‐surface‐passivating dielectric layer to passivated emitter and rear cell (PERC)‐type crystalline silicon (c‐Si) solar cells. The excellent passivation of low‐resistivityp‐type silicon by the negative‐charge‐dielectric Al2O3is confirmed on the device level by an independently confirmed energy conversion efficiency of 20·6%. The best results are obtained for a stack consisting of a 30 nm Al2O3film covered by a 200 nm plasma‐enhanced‐chemical‐vapour‐deposited silicon oxide (SiOx) layer, resulting in a rear surface recombination velocity (SRV) of 70 cm/s. Comparable results are obtained for a 130 nm single‐layer of Al2O3, resulting in a rear SRV of 90 cm/s. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photovoltaic module reliability model based on field degradation studies
Authors: Vázquez Manuel , Rey‐Stolle Ignacio
Published: March 2008

Crystalline silicon photovoltaic (PV) modules are often stated as being the most reliable element in PV systems. This presumable high reliability is reflected by their long power warranty periods. In agreement with these long warranty times, PV modules have a very low total number of returns, the exceptions usually being the result of catastrophic failures. Up to now, failures resulting from degradation are not typically taken into consideration because of the difficulties in measuring the power of an individual module in a system. However, lasting recent years PV systems are changing from small isolated systems to large grid‐connected power stations. In this new scenario, customers will become more sensitive to power losses and the need for a reliability model based on degradation may become of utmost importance. In this paper, a PV module reliability model based on degradation studies is presented. The main analytical functions of reliability engineering are evaluated using this model and applied to a practical case, based on state‐of‐the‐art parameters of crystalline silicon PV technology. Relevant and defensible power warranties and other reliability data are obtained with this model based on measured degradation rates and time‐dependent power variability. In the derivation of the model some assumptions are made about the future behaviour of the products—i.e. linear degradation rates—although the approach can be used for other assumed functional profiles as well. The method documented in this paper explicitly shows manufacturers how to make reasonable and sensible warranty projections. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Factors influencing opioid‐taking self‐efficacy and analgesic adherence in Taiwanese outpatients with cancer
Authors: Liang Shu‐Yuan , Yates Patsy , Edwards Helen , Tsay Shiow‐Luan
Published: March 2008

Aim: Although research has suggested that medication adherence rates are lower than what is needed to achieve optimal pain control, the role of patient beliefs and attitudes in influencing opioid adherence has rarely been examined. Perceived self‐efficacy is reported to be an important construct in predicting and enhancing adherence behaviour. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between opioid‐taking self‐efficacy, opioid beliefs, adherence behaviours, and pain experience amongst Taiwanese cancer outpatients.

Method: The cross‐sectional study included 92 oncology outpatients in two teaching hospitals in the Taipei area of Taiwan. The research instruments included the Opioid‐Taking Self‐Efficacy Scale‐Cancer (OTSES‐CA), the Pain Opioid Analgesic Beliefs Scale‐Cancer (POABS‐CA), opioid adherence, and the Brief Pain Inventory‐Chinese (BPI‐Chinese).

Results: Opioid‐taking self‐efficacy demonstrated a significant positive relationship with patients' opioid adherence (r=0.22, p<0.05) and pain relief (r=0.35, p<0.01), while also demonstrating a significant positive correlation with worst pain (r=0.25, p<0.05). In addition, the more negative beliefs regarding opioids the patient had, the worse their adherence to around the clock analgesic regimen (r=−0.30, p<0.01). Multivariate analysis identified opioid‐taking self‐efficacy continued to have a significant independent influence on opioid adherence and pain relief, after controlling for key demographic variables. Self‐efficacy accounted for 4% (R=0.04, p=0.043) of the variance and opioid beliefs accounted for 8% (R=0.08, p=0.007) of the variance in opioid adherence. Multivariate analysis also identified that opioid‐taking self‐efficacy accounted for 11% (R=0.11, p=0.001) of the variance in pain relief, but opioid beliefs did not continue to have an independent effect for this outcome.

Conclusions: The study highlights the potential importance of a patient's self‐efficacy beliefs in adherence to medication and key pain outcomes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Applying a conceptual model for examining health‐related quality of life in long‐term breast cancer survivors: CALGB study 79804
Authors: Paskett Electra D. , Herndon James E. , Day Jeannette M. , Stark Nancy N. , Winer Eric P. , Grubbs Stephen S. , Pavy Michael D. , Shapiro Charles L. , List Marcy A. , Hensley Martee L. , Naughton Michelle A. , Kornblith Alice B. , Habin Karleen R. , Fleming Gini F. , Bittoni Marisa A.
Published: March 2008

Objectives: The Survivor's Health and Reaction study used a quality‐of‐life model adapted for cancer survivors by Dow and colleagues to identify factors related to global health‐related quality of life (HRQL) and to document the prevalence of problems and health‐oriented behaviors in a follow‐up study of breast cancer patients who participated in CALGB 8541.

Methods: A total of 245 survivors (78% of those invited) who were 9.4–16.5 years post‐diagnosis completed surveys that inquired about current HRQL, economic, spiritual, physical and psychosocial concerns, and health‐oriented behaviors (e.g. smoking, exercise, and supplement use). A regression model was developed to examine factors related to global HRQL across all domains.

Results: The regression model revealed that decreased energy levels (odds ratio (OR)=1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03, 1.07), having heart disease (OR=5.01, 95% CI: 1.39, 18.1), having two or more co‐morbidities (OR=2.39, 95% CI: 1.10, 5.19), and lower social support (OR=1.03, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.05) were associated with lower global HRQL. Factors related to psychological, spiritual, and economic domains were not predictive of global HRQL. Regarding lifestyle changes, some women reported engaging in health‐oriented behaviors since their cancer diagnosis, such as improving eating habits (54%), increasing exercise (32%), and reducing/quitting smoking (20%). The most prevalent problems reported by women at follow‐up were menopausal symptoms (64%), such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, osteoporosis (25%), and lymphedema (23%).

Conclusion: Suggestions are provided to target interventions, such as provider‐based strategies, in order to improve HRQL in long‐term breast cancer survivors. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Personal control after a breast cancer diagnosis: stability and adaptive value
Authors: Henselmans Inge , Sanderman Robbert , Baas Peter C. , Smink Ans , Ranchor Adelita V.
Published: March 2008

Objective: This longitudinal study aims to gain more insight in both the changes in personal control due to a breast cancer diagnosis, as well as in the stress‐buffering effect of personal control.

Methods: Personal control and distress were assessed in breast cancer patients not treated with chemotherapy (n=47), breast cancer patients treated with chemotherapy (n=32) and in healthy women (n=58) at 3, 9 and 15 months after diagnosis.

Results: Results indicate that personal control was affected only in patients treated with chemotherapy, particularly right after the completion of treatment. Furthermore, the cross‐sectional and longitudinal results provide modest support for the stress‐buffering potential of control.

Conclusions: The findings and future directions of research on the role of personal control in the adjustment to cancer will be discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of interface impurities in electroplated Cu layers by using GD‐OES and TOF‐SIMS
Authors: Klemm Denis , Stangl Marcel , Peeva Anita , Hoffmann Volker , Wetzig Klaus , Eckert Jürgen
Published: March 2008

Electrochemically deposited (ECD) copper layers used as interconnect metallizations exhibit incorporated impurities in the form of H, S, C, O, N, and Cl originating from additives in the electrolyte solution. These impurities were observed in the whole layer and especially at the interface to the underlying Cu seed layer due to an increased adsorption at the beginning of the electroplating process. Time‐of‐flight (TOF)‐SIMS and glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy (GD‐OES) were carried out for interface analysis of 100‐nmECD thin Cu films plated on a 50‐nm Cu seed layer deposited by physical vapor deposition (PVD). This reveals the respective advantages and disadvantages of both techniques for thin film analysis. Also the effect of a modification of the electroplating procedure is shown. This so‐called Hot Start Plating inhibits the additive adsorption and decreases the undesirable incorporation of impurities. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DFT study on the adsorption of NO on iron tape‐porphyrin
Authors: Nguyen Tien Quang , Sison Escaño Mary Clare , Shimoji Nobuaki , Nakanishi Hiroshi , Kasai Hideaki
Published: March 2008

We have investigated the electronic properties of iron tape‐porphyrin and its complex with NO. We found that at the stable position, Fe‐N‐O angle is about 148° . As regards the electronic properties, there appears an energy gap between conduction band and valence band. We attribute these changes in electronic properties to the strong interaction involving the dxz, dyz and dzz orbitals of the Fe atoms and the π* orbitals of NO molecule. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A state‐of‐the‐practice study on communication and coordination between chinese software suppliers and their global outsourcers
Authors: Ma Jianqiang , Li Jingyue , Chen Weibing , Conradi Reidar , Ji Junzhong , Liu Chunnian
Published: March 2008

Most studies of software outsourcing focus on how to manage outsourcing from the perspective of the outsourcer. There are few studies of outsourcing presented from the viewpoint of the supplier. Given that more and more Chinese software companies are getting software outsourcing subcontracts from all over the world, it is important to understand how software outsourcing projects are actually performed in China, and to identify ways in which performance might be improved. Our study first collected data through a questionnaire‐based survey from 53 finished projects in 41 Chinese software suppliers. A follow‐up study was performed by telephone interviews with 11 participants, to find explanations for phenomena revealed by the preceding survey. The results show that: (a) differences in natural languages are not a real obstacle for Chinese software suppliers; (b) e‐mail is most used to discuss issues related to development, while face‐to‐face meetings are mainly used to discuss issues related to management and requirements; and (c) the two main reasons for overtime work at the Chinese suppliers are changes to the design or requirements that are proposed by the outsourcers and the suppliers' initial underestimation of the effort required. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of pair programming on thoroughness and fault detection effectiveness of unit test suites
Authors: Madeyski Lech
Published: March 2008

Pair programming (PP) is regarded as one of the practices that can make testing more rigorous, thorough and effective. Therefore, we examined PP versus solo programming (SP) with respect to both thoroughness and fault detection effectiveness of test suites. Branch coverage (BC) and mutation score indicator (MSI) were used as measures of how thoroughly tests exercise programs, and how effective they are, respectively. It turned out that the PP practice did not significantly affect BC (U = 471.5, nonsignificant, r = − 0.03) and MSI (U = 422.0, nonsignificant, r = − 0.12). These results are consistent with the results of selective analysis in which projects with a limited number of assertions are excluded. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was performed to get a more sensitive measure of our experiment effect as well as to reduce preexisting differences among subjects. The obtained results do not support anecdotal opinion regarding the positive impact of PP on thoroughness or fault detection effectiveness of unit tests. The validity of the results must be considered within the context of the limitations of the study, e.g. it is possible that the benefits of PP will appear in longer, more complex projects. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biological Behavior and Prognosis of Encapsulated Papillary Carcinoma of the Thyroid: Experience of a Japanese Hospital for Thyroid Care
Authors: Ito Yasuhiro , Hirokawa Mitsuyoshi , Uruno Takashi , Kihara Minoru , Higashiyama Takuya , Takamura Yuuki , Miya Akihiro , Kobayashi Kaoru , Matsuzuka Fumio , Miyauchi Akira
Published: March 2008

Aims

A subtype of papillary thyroid carcinoma that is totally surrounded by a fibrous capsule is designated an encapsulated carcinoma. In this study, we investigated the biologic behavior and prognosis of this type of carcinoma.

Methods

The clinicopathologic parameters and prognosis were compared between 1207 patients with conventional papillary carcinoma and 149 patients diagnosed as having encapsulated papillary carcinoma who underwent initial surgery between 1987 and 1996.

Results

Sex, age, and the tumor size of the encapsulated carcinoma did not differ from those of patients with conventional papillary carcinoma. However, none of the patients with encapsulated carcinoma showed distant metastasis at diagnosis. The incidences of pathologic lymph node metastasis and clinically apparent lateral node metastasis in patients with encapsulated carcinomas were significantly lower than in those with a conventional papillary carcinoma. Ten patients (6.7%) with encapsulated carcinoma showed recurrence after surgery. After excluding recurrence to the remnant thyroid, disease‐free survival of patients with encapsulated carcinoma was significantly better than that of those with conventional papillary carcinoma. None of the patients with encapsulated carcinoma died of carcinoma.

Conclusion

Encapsulated papillary carcinoma exhibits a more indolent biologic behavior than conventional papillary carcinoma. However, because recurrence to locoregional and even distant organs can be seen, careful and constant postoperative follow‐up is recommended.
Correlation of Rheological and Microstructural Properties in a Model Lipid System
Authors: Liang Baomin , Shi Yuping , Hartel Richard W.
Published: March 2008

Model systems having different microstructures and rheological properties were obtained by controlled crystallization from a mixture of high‐melting and low‐melting lipids. Based on analysis of confocal scanning light microscopic images, the microstructural characteristics of the systems were quantified by use of different approaches including microstructure density, Euler characteristic, nearest‐neighbor analysis, fractal dimension of microstructure interface, and fractal dimension by the particle‐counting method (PCM). The solid‐fat content (SFC) of semisolid lipid samples was measured by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and rheological properties were analyzed by compressive penetration tests with a texture analyzer. As expected, SFC had a major impact on rheological properties, but lipid crystalline microstructure also had significant effects. Correlation analysis showed that rheological properties were highly correlated with the various quantitative microstructural parameters, with the exception of the fractal dimension by the PCM. Empirical models adequately correlated rheological properties with SFC and microstructure density. Compression modulus increased by a factor of about ten as SFC increased from 0.28 to 0.51. However, for systems with the same SFC, compression modulus was dependent on microstructure. At low SFC compression modulus increased by about a factor of seven over the range of microstructures formed, whereas at higher SFC compression modulus only increased by a factor of about two.
Practical and conceptual limitations of tissue Doppler imaging to predict reverse remodelling in cardiac resynchronisation therapy
Authors: De Boeck Bart W.L. , Meine Mathias , Leenders Geert E. , Teske Arco J. , van Wessel Harry , Kirkels J. Hans , Prinzen Frits W. , Doevendans Pieter A. , Cramer Maarten J.
Published: March 2008

Background:

Recent, conflicting results about the use of tissue Doppler imaging derived (TDI‐) asynchrony indices to predict reverse remodelling after cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) have raised questions about their physiological meaning and methodological limitations.

Methods:

In 41 patients, baseline TDI‐derived septal to lateral delays of peak velocities (TDI‐SL), standard deviation of peak velocities over 12 segments (Ts‐SD), and peak 2D longitudinal strain (strain‐SL) were compared with volumetric response (reduction in end‐systolic volume of ≥ 15%) after at least 6 months of CRT. Timing of peak TDI velocities was compared to timing of 2DS velocities and strain‐SL. Influence of sample position, transverse motion, and interobserver inconsistency of the chosen peak velocities was assessed. Diagnostic accuracy of TDI‐based delays was compared to accuracy of visual and 2D strain‐based assessment.

Results:

After 7.0±3.2 months of CRT, 24 patients were classified as responders. TDI‐SL and Ts‐SD were similar between responders and nonresponders at baseline, did not predict response, and were unaffected by CRT. Visual asynchrony scoring and strain‐SL were better predictors of response than TDI‐SL and Ts‐SD. TDI measurements were highly susceptible to sample location and transverse motion components and poorly correlated with the timing of longitudinal contraction. There was a considerably poor agreement between observers with regard to scoring of TDI‐SL and Ts‐SD.

Conclusion:

TDI‐based measurements of asynchrony do not appear robust predictors of volume response to CRT.
A role for p38α mitogen‐activated protein kinase in embryonic cardiac differentiation
Authors: Hernández-Torres Francisco , Martínez-Fernández Sergio , Zuluaga Susana , Nebreda Ángel , Porras Almudena , Aránega Amelia E. , Navarro Francisco
Published: March 2008

Cardiac differentiation involves cross‐regulation of several transcription factors, such as Mef2C, regulated by p38α MAP kinase. We analysed the role of p38α in cardiac differentiation. Either the absence or inhibition of p38α impairs MEF2C nuclear localization in cardiomyocytes, colocalising with vimentin at the perinuclear region. As a consequence, expression of the Mef2C targets, ANF and myocardin, is drastically downregulated. In contrast, Mlc2v and crt are mainly unaltered, probably by the strong Mef2B upregulation, conpensating for the impaired Mef2C transactivity. In addition, p38α deficiency leads to a decrease in the phosphorylated Mlc2v fraction and α‐actinin accumulation causing sarcomere disorganisation. We propose a critical role for p38α in early stages of cardiac differentiation by modulation of Mef2C localisation and sarcomeric assembly.
Pliocene-Quaternary orogeny in the Central Tien Shan
Authors: Trifonov V.G. , Artyushkov E.V. , Dodonov A.E. , Bachmanov D.M. , Mikolaichuk A.V. , Vishnyakov F.A.
Published: March 2008

Formation of mountains of the Central Tien Shan is usually explained by the isostatic response of the crust to its shortening caused by the India-Eurasia collision. The rise of the region in the period from Oligocene to Late Pliocene (2 myr ago) reached ∼700 m on average, which corresponds to the isostatic response. For the last 2 myr (Late Pliocene–Quaternary), the rate of rise increased by an order of magnitude. This is proved by the coarsening of Cenozoic molasse up the sections, acceleration of cutting of drainage systems into ridges, and formation of new ridges within basins. In the Quaternary, most of intermontane basins underwent uplifting, though not so intense. The average rate of lateral crustal shortening increased ∼2–2.5 times only, and the contribution of this process to the Late Pliocene-Quaternary orogeny was no more than 10%. The acceleration of rise was caused mainly by the convective replacement of the mantle lithosphere by the less dense asthenosphere. This was due to the quick softening of the mantle lithosphere as a result of the infiltration of active fluid from the lower mantle. Such accelerations of crustal uplifting took place in the Pliocene and Quaternary in many continental regions. This evidences that mantle processes, first of all, the full or partial replacement of the mantle lithosphere by the asthenosphere, played an important role in the formation of mountains.
Estimating magnitudes of prehistoric earthquakes from landslide data: first experience in southeastern Altai
Authors: Nepop R.K. , Agatova A.R.
Published: March 2008

We report the first experience of deriving the magnitudes of prehistoric earthquakes in southeastern Gorny Altai from the size of largest landslides they triggered using an empirical correlation between the earthquake magnitude and the volume of associated landslides. The applicability of this relationship to the Altai region has been checked against data on the M= 7.5 Chuya earthquake of 2003 that induced a great landslide event. The paleoearthquake magnitudes derived from landslide volume are the minimum estimates; the largest magnitudes of earthquakes of about the same size and location as the Chuya event have been predicted with a simplified linear dependence of earthquake magnitude versus detachment length. The magnitudes obtained with the new approach are of a satisfactory accuracy improving proportionally for younger earthquakes. The estimates spanning magnitudes from 6.9 to largest possible in nature indicate high seismic activity of the area through the Holocene and its seismotectonic identity with the Mongolian Altai.
β-Cryptoxanthin from supplements or carotenoid-enhanced maize maintains liver vitamin A in Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) better than or equal to β-carotene supplements
Authors: Davis Christopher , Jing Hua , Howe Julie A. , Rocheford Torbert , Tanumihardjo Sherry A.
Published: March 2008

Maize with enhanced provitamin A carotenoids (biofortified), accomplished through conventional plant breeding, maintains vitamin A (VA) status in Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus). Two studies in gerbils compared the VA value of β-cryptoxanthin with β-carotene. Study 1 (n 47) examined oil supplements and study 2 (n 46) used maize with enhanced β-cryptoxanthin and β-carotene. After 4 weeks' depletion, seven or six gerbils were killed; remaining gerbils were placed into weight-matched groups of 10. In study 1, daily supplements were cottonseed oil, and 35, 35 or 17·5 nmol VA (retinyl acetate), β-cryptoxanthin or β-carotene, respectively, for 3 weeks. In study 2, one group of gerbils was fed a 50 % biofortified maize diet which contained 2·9 nmol β-cryptoxanthin and 3·2 nmol β-carotene/g feed. Other groups were given equivalent β-carotene or VA supplements based on prior-day intake from the biofortified maize or oil only for 4 weeks. In study 1, liver retinol was higher in the VA (0·74 (sd 0·11) μmol) and β-cryptoxanthin (0·65 (sd 0·10) μmol) groups than in the β-carotene (0·49 (sd 0·13) μmol) and control (0·41 (sd 0·16) μmol) groups (P < 0·05). In study 2, the VA (1·17 (sd 0·19) μmol) and maize (0·71 (sd 0·18) μmol) groups had higher liver retinol than the control (0·42 (sd 0·16) μmol) group (P < 0·05), whereas the β-carotene (0·57 (sd 0·21) μmol) group did not. Bioconversion factors (i.e. 2·74 μg β-cryptoxanthin and 2·4 μg β-carotene equivalents in maize to 1 μg retinol) were lower than the Institute of Medicine values.
Does larval aggregation pheromone of codling moth,Cydia pomonella, induce attraction or arrestment of receivers?
Authors: Jumean Z. , Wood C. , Gries G.
Published: March 2008

Cocoon-spinning larvae of the codling moth,Cydia pomonella, emit a pheromone that mediates aggregation by pupation site-seeking fifth-instar larvae. It was unknown and, thus, we tested whether the aggregation pheromone induces arrestment or attraction responses. In paired straight-tube experiment 1, fifth-instars moved faster and farther upwind toward cospecific cocoons compared to blank controls. In still-air cage experiment 2, fifth-instars selected more often as first and final choices of pupation sites those with cocooning conspecifics than those without. Finally, in Y-tube olfactometer experiment 3, fifth-instars anemotactically responded to, and preferred, side arms with cocooning conspecifics to those without. Our data provide evidence that codling moth larvae are attracted to, rather than merely arrested by, larval aggregation pheromone. These results help explain reported aggregations or clumped distributions of larvae on tree trunks, which would likely not occur if they were based merely on chance encounter of cocoon-spinning larvae by foraging larvae.
Electrocautery for cutaneous flap creation during thyroidectomy: a randomised, controlled study
Authors: Barbaros U , Erbil Y , Aksakal N , Çıtlak G , İşsever H , Bozbora A , Özarmağan S
Published: March 2008

Background:

Although electrocautery has been used widely in surgery, the fear of delayed wound healing and infection persists. We aimed to evaluate the risk factors for wound complications and the rate of wound complications, comparing the use of electrocautery or scissors in cutaneous flap creation during thyroidectomy.

Design:

The study group comprised 239 consecutive patients scheduled for thyroidectomy.

Subjects:

Patients were randomly assigned to cutaneous flap dissection by either electrocautery (group one, n = 126) or scissors (group two, n = 113). Age, gender, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiology score, tissue weight, operating time, incision length, cutaneous tissue depth, thyroid function and surgeon experience were recorded and compared with the rate of post-operative wound complications in both groups.

Results:

There were no significant differences between the overall rate of post-operative wound complications, comparing groups one and two (7.9 vs 10.6 per cent, respectively; p = 0.74). Significant positive correlations were found between wound complication and age (Spearman's rank coefficient (rs) = 0.135, p = 0.036), body mass index (rs = 0.379, p = 0.0001), cutaneous tissue depth (rs = 0.677, p = 0.0001) and tissue weight (rs = 0.643, p = 0.0001). According to logistic regression analysis, a body mass index of more than 27.5 kg/m2 was associated with a 13.7-fold increased rate of post-operative wound complications.

Conclusion:

When creating cutaneous flaps during thyroidectomy, the use of electrocautery is as safe as the use of scissors. Such electrocautery does not increase the risk of wound complications in thyroid surgery.