bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gene Expression Changes Induced by a Recombinant E1–/E3– Adenovirus Type 5 Vector in Human Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Scibetta Angelo G. , Copier John , Barrett Angela , Chaplin Tracy , Taylor-Papadimitriou Joyce
Published: July 2005

Objectives: Adenoviral vectors are used in transferring exogenous genes to a variety of cells and tissue types both in vitro and in vivo. Gene expression changes induced by an E1/E3-defective adenovirus vector have been studied in human mammary epithelial cells by comparing the gene expression profile in infected and uninfected cells. Methods: The human mammary epithelial cell line HB2 was infected with an E1/E3-defective adenovirus type 5 vector. Total RNA was extracted from infected and uninfected cells 24 and 72 h after infection and subjected to microarray analysis using the Affymetrix U133A genomic chip system. Semiquantitative RT-PCR confirmed the regulation of genes observed by microarray analysis. Results: The microarray analysis showed 24 and 95 transcripts to be regulated 24 and 72 h after infection, respectively. A relatively high number of genes involved in innate and inflammatory host immune responses, including interleukin-8, interleukin-6, NF-ĸB2, RELB and fos, were induced. As expected from an E1-defective virus, changes in the expression of genes involved in the G1-S transition and in the activation of cell proliferation were not detected. Conclusion: Our study provides insight into the host transcriptional response following transduction of an adenoviral vector into mammary epithelial cells.
Weekly Docetaxel and Gemcitabine as First-Line Treatment for Metastatic Breast Cancer: Results of a Multicenter Phase II Study
Authors: Palmeri S. , Vaglica M. , Spada S. , Filippelli G. , Farris A. , Palmeri L. , Massidda B. , Misino A. , Ferraù F. , Comella G. , Leonardi V. , Condemi G. , Mangiameli A. , De Cataldis G. , Macaluso M.C. , Cajozzo M. , Iannitto E. , Danova M.
Published: July 2005

Objectives: We conducted a multicenter phase II study to evaluate the clinical efficacy, toxicity, and dose intensity of a new weekly schedule of docetaxel and gemcitabine as first-line treatment of metastatic breast cancer patients. Methods: We enrolled 58 patients, 52% of whom had received a previous anthracycline-containing chemotherapy. The treatment schedule was: docetaxel 35 mg/m2 and gemcitabine 800 mg/m2 i.v. on days 1, 8, 15 every 28 days. Results: All patients were assessable for toxicity and 56 for efficacy. Overall response rate was 64.3% with 16.1% of complete responses and 48.2% of partial responses. Median survival was 22.10 months (95% CI: 15.53–28.67) and median time to tumor progression was 13.6 months (95% CI: 10.71–16.49). The most common hematological toxicity was neutropenia (no febrile neutropenia), which occurred in 28 patients (48.3%) but grade 3–4 in only 8 patients (14%). Alopecia, the most common nonhematological toxicity, occurred in 20 (34.5%) patients, but only 5 patients (8.6%) experienced grade 3 alopecia. Conclusion: The activity of docetaxel and gemcitabine in metastatic breast cancer is confirmed. The promising results of the employed schedule, in agreement with other published studies, need to be further confirmed within a phase III study.
Expression of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase Is Significantly Correlated with Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Dendritic Cell Infiltration in Patients with Advanced Gastric Carcinoma
Authors: Yamaguchi Kenichi , Saito Hiroaki , Oro Shotaro , Tatebe Shigeru , Ikeguchi Masahide , Tsujitani Shunichi
Published: July 2005

Objective: Nitric oxide (NO) is a product of L-arginine to L-citrulline conversion by nitric oxide synthase (NOS). The inducible form of NOS (iNOS) is one of three classes of NOS and the strongest producer of NO. It has been reported that NO correlates with angiogenesis and immune responses in some types of cancer, however, the correlations between iNOS expression, angiogenesis, and immune responses are still unclear in gastric carcinoma. Methods: iNOS expression was determined in 135 gastric cancer patients by immunohistochemical procedures and compared with the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), microvessel (MV) density, and dendritic cell (DC) infiltration to evaluate the effect of iNOS on angiogenesis and immune responses in gastric carcinoma. Results: iNOS expression was detected in 106 (78.5%) of 135 cases. There was a close correlation between iNOS expression and VEGF expression, a correlation with MV density and an inverse correlation with DC infiltration. There was no correlation between iNOS and p53 expression. The prognoses of patients whose tumors expressed iNOS were significantly worse than those of patients whose tumors did not express iNOS. Multivariate analysis indicated iNOS expression was an independent prognostic factor. Conclusion: iNOS might be associated with tumor progression by stimulating angiogenesis and suppressing immune responses in gastric carcinoma.
A Phase I Study of Docetaxel, Cisplatin, 5-Fluorouracil and Leucovorin
Authors: Mulcahy Mary F. , Loehrer Patrick J. , Meropol Neal J. , Rademaker Alfred W. , Benson III Al B.
Published: July 2005

Objectives: Cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and docetaxel are active agents in the treatment of upper gastrointestinal malignancies. This phase I study was undertaken to determine the maximally tolerated dose and dose-limiting toxicities of a combination of these drugs given in an ambulatory setting using a bolus schedule of 5-FU. Methods: Twenty patients with gastrointestinal malignancies were treated with docetaxel on day 1, cisplatin on day 2 and bolus 5-FU with leucovorin each day for 5 days, without prophylactic antibiotics or colony-stimulating factors. The cycle was repeated at 21-day intervals. A dose-escalating phase I design was used. Results: There were two treatment-related deaths as a result of neutropenia and sepsis. The maximally tolerated dose was docetaxel at 60 mg/m2 on day 1, cisplatin at 75 mg/m2 on day 2 and 5-FU at 200 mg/m2 with leucovorin at 20 mg/m2 daily from day 1 to day 5. At this dose, neutropenia was occurring in 4 of 6 patients treated. There were three partial responses, 1 patient with esophagogastric cancer and 2 with gastric cancer. Conclusions: This regimen demonstrates efficacy in upper gastrointestinal malignancies. Strategies to improve the tolerance of these agents in combination should be pursued.
Phase II Randomized Study Comparing the Toxicity Profile of Gemcitabine plus Cisplatin with Gemcitabine plus Oral Etoposide in the Treatment of Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Mok Tony S.K. , Lam Kwok Chi , Lee Conrad , Zhang Li , Wong Herman , Chan Anthony T.C. , Yeo Winnie , Yim Anthony P.C. , Chak Karen , Zee Benny
Published: July 2005

Objective: This is a randomized phase II study designed to compare the toxicity profile of a non-platinum-based with a platinum-based regimen in the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Methods: Eighty-nine chemotherapy-naïve patients were randomized either to gemcitabine (1,000 mg/m2, 30-min infusion on days 1, 8 and 15) and oral etoposide (50 mg, days 1–14; GE group) or gemcitabine at the same schedule and cisplatin (75 mg/m2 on day 15; GP group). The primary endpoint is toxicity, and secondary endpoints include response rate, survival outcome and quality of life (QOL). Results: The incidence of WHO grade 3 or 4 anemia, neutropenia and thrombocytopenia was 29, 44 and 22% (GE group), and 28, 49 and 23% (GP group), respectively (p = 0.75, 0.95 and 0.87, respectively). The rate of grade 2 or above nausea was numerically higher in the GP arm, but the difference was not statistically significant (GE 15.5%, GP 27.7%, p = 0.20). The rate of vomiting in the GE and GP arms was 20.0 and 20.5%, respectively (p = 0.96). However, subjective changes in QOL scores on nausea and vomiting were significantly higher in the GP arm (p = 0.001). Other symptoms including sore mouth and hair loss were significantly higher in the GE arm (p = 0.003 and 0.007, respectively). There were also significant differences observed in emotional (p = 0.014), cognitive (p = 0.028) and social functioning (p = 0.034) in favor of GP. The differences in tumor response (35.5 and 46.5% for GE and GP, respectively) were not significantly different. Median time to disease progression (33.8 and 40.7 weeks, respectively) and overall survival (41.4 and 57.3 weeks, respectively) were of borderline significance in favor of the GP arm (p = 0.055). Conclusion: This toxicity profile of GE is similar to GP, but the apparent inferior efficacy may discourage further investigation.
Therapeutic Targeting of Multiple Signaling Pathways in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Mukohara Toru , Civiello Gabriel , Johnson Bruce E. , Jänne Pasi A.
Published: July 2005

The majority of malignant pleural mesotheliomas (MPMs) aberrantly express the epidermal growth factor receptor (ErbB1). We examined the efficacy of GW572016 (lapatinib), a dual inhibitor of ErbB1/ErbB2 with a panel of 10 MPM cell lines. Two of the 10 MPM cell lines, H2373 and H2452, underwent G1/S cell cycle arrest and growth inhibition with an IC50 of 1 µM and 0.8 µM, respectively. There was no relationship between the presence or the amount of ErbB1, phospho-ErbB1, phospho-ErbB2, ErbB3, ErbB4, phospho-Akt, and Akt or the ability of lapatinib to inhibit phospho-ErbB1 in these cell lines compared to those that did not respond to lapatinib. The sensitive cell lines had a time-dependent decrease in phospho-Akt and/or ERK1/2, and an increase in p27 and when treated with lapatinib. The combination of lapatinib with U0126, LY294002 or rapamycin caused greater growth inhibition than either drug alone in the sensitive cell lines while this did not occur in the resistant cell lines. Our findings suggest that ErbB1 alone is a therapeutic target for the minority of mesotheliomas and that combining ErbB1 inhibitors with signal transduction inhibitors in mesothelioma will enhance their effectiveness. Furthermore, combinations of growth factor and signal transduction inhibitors may be needed to inhibit the growth of the majority of MPM cell lines, and therefore patients with MPM.
Dimensions of Executive Function in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Weintraub Daniel , Moberg Paul J. , Culbertson William C. , Duda John E. , Katz Ira R. , Stern Matthew B.
Published: July 2005

Background: Executive impairment is common in Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, it is unknown which dimensions of executive function are assessed by commonly used neuropsychological instruments and if clinical correlates of specific dimensions exist. Method: A convenience sample of 46 PD patients was evaluated with three executive function tests: the Tower of London-Drexel, the Trail-Making Test and the Stroop Color-Word Test. Factor analysis was used to probe for dimensions of executive control, and linear regression models were used to explore the association between the generated factors and other clinical features. Results: Factor analysis revealed two executive factors, one related to planning (eigenvalue = 4.2) and the other to inhibitory control (eigenvalue = 1.8), together accounting for 75% of the variance in scores. In linear regression models, poorer planning was associated with increasing severity of apathy (t = 2.11, p = 0.041), and diminished inhibitory control was associated with increasing severity of parkinsonism (t = 2.78, p = 0.008) and lower educational level (t = –2.23, p = 0.032). Conclusions: Planning deficits and diminished inhibitory control are two dimensions of executive impairment in PD, the former associated with decreased motivation and the latter with increased motor slowing. Similar performance on both executive and non-executive components of these instruments suggests that results of executive testing in PD may be confounded by non-executive deficits.
Evidence of Biochemical and Biomagnetic Interactions in Alzheimer’s Disease: An MEG and MR Spectroscopy Study
Authors: Maestú F. , García-Segura J. , Ortiz T. , Montoya J. , Fernández A. , Gil-Gregorio P. , Campo P. , Fernández S. , Viaño J. , Portera A.
Published: July 2005

Background: Several neuroimaging studies have shown reliable differences between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients and age-matched controls. However, few studies have demonstrated the interactions between neuroimaging methods for the diagnoses of AD. Objective: In this study, we try to elucidate the complementary nature of magnetoencephalography (MEG) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) examinations in the assessmentof AD. Methods: Ten patients fulfilling the NINCDS-ADRDA criteria of probable AD, and 10 elderly individuals with no history of neurological or psychiatric illness serving as age-matched controls participated in the study. All patients and controls received an MRS, MEG and neuropsychological assessment. MEG data were obtained in the context of a working memory task, previously utilized in a similar sample of patients. Results: The AD group showed a reduced number of activity sources over left temporoparietal areas during the late portion of the evoked magnetic field (between 400–800 ms), as well as a bilateral temporoparietal increase in creatine and myoinositol concentrations, and in the myoinositol/N-acetyl-aspartate ratio. The combination of the variables ‘number of dipoles during the late portion of the evoked magnetic field’ and ‘myoinositol/N-acetyl-aspartate ratio’ accounted for 65% of the variance of the Mini Mental State Examination scores. Conclusions: These results highlight the importance of assessing the complex brain pathology underlying AD by utilizing multiple brain examination modalities in a coordinate approach.
Age Effect on Retina and Optic Disc Normal Values
Authors: Neubauer Aljoscha S. , Chryssafis Christos , Thiel Martin , Tsinopoulos Ioannis , Hirneiss Christoph , Kampik Anselm
Published: July 2005

Purpose: To investigate retinal thickness and optic disc parameters by the Retinal Thickness Analyzer (RTA) glaucoma program in older normal subjects and to determine any age effect. Methods: Subjects over 40 years of age without any prior history of eye diseases were recruited. Only subjects completely normal on clinical ophthalmologic examination and on visual field testing by Humphrey Field Analyzer (HFA) using the SITA 24-2 program were included. A total of 74 eyes from 74 subjects with even age distribution over the decades were enrolled and underwent topographic measurements of the posterior pole and of the optic disc by RTA. The ‘glaucoma full’ program in software version 4.11B was applied. Results: Mean patient age was 59.9 ± 10.3 years with a range from 40 to 80 years. The only parameter intraocular pressure (IOP) correlated with was retinal posterior pole asymmetry (r = 0.27, p = 0.02). IOP itself increased significantly with age (r = 0.341, p = 0.003). Mean defect and pattern standard deviation of the HFA did not correlate with any of the retinal or optic disc measurements. Increasing age correlated significantly with some of the morphologic measurements of the RTA: decreasing perifoveal minimum thickness (r = –0.258, p = 0.026), increased cup-to-disc area ratio (r = 0.302, p = 0.016) and increased cup area (r = 0.338 p = 0.007). Conclusions: An age effect exists for some of the retina and optic disc measurements obtained by the RTA.
Nutritional Intervention Study with Argan Oil in Man: Effects on Lipids and Apolipoproteins
Authors: Derouiche A. , Cherki M. , Drissi A. , Bamou Y. , El Messal M. , Idrissi-Oudghiri A. , Lecerf J.M. , Adlouni A.
Published: July 2005

Aim: To evaluate whether the consumption of virgin argan oil (VAO) is associated with a change in serum lipids and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease in healthy Moroccans. Methods: Sixty volunteers consumed butter (25 g/day) during 2 weeks (stabilization period) and were randomly divided into two groups: the treatment group received 25 g/day of VAO during 3 weeks (intervention period), and the control group received 25 g/day of extra virgin olive oil (EVO). Throughout the study, weight, blood pressure, and daily food intake were measured. Serum total cholesterol and low- and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and apolipoproteins A-I and B were measured at the end of each diet period. Results: Analysis of food intake showed that the daily diet is isocaloric for the butter regimen (2,537 ± 244 kcal/day) as well as for the VAO and EVO regimens (2,561± 246 and 2,560 ± 253 kcal/day, respectively). Analysis of the lipid intake showed a reduction in saturated fatty acids with VAO and EVO regimens (27 ± 1.4 and 26.4 ± 3.4%, respectively) as compared with the stabilization period (41.6 ± 2.4%). The analysis of serum lipids showed a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and apolipoprotein A-I in both VAO group (8.4%, p = 0.012, and 5.2%, p = 0.027, respectively) and EVO group (17.3%, p = 0.001, and 5.9%, p = 0.036, respectively). However, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and apolipoprotein B (13.8%, p = 0.037, and 7.8%, p = 0.039, respectively) decreased significantly only in EVO group as compared with the stabilization period, while triglycerides decreased significantly by 17.5% (p = 0.039) only in VAO group. Conclusion: These results confirm the cholesterol-lowering effect of EVO and show for the first time the triglyceride-lowering effect of VAO in men.
Baseline Neuropsychological Profile and Cognitive Response to Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunting for Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Thomas George , McGirt Matthew J. , Woodworth Graeme , Heidler Jennifer , Rigamonti Daniele , Hillis Argye E. , Williams Michael A.
Published: July 2005

Objective: To evaluate neurocognitive changes and predict neurocognitive outcome after ventriculoperitoneal shunting for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (INPH). Background: Reports of neurocognitive response to shunting have been variable and studies that predict cognitive outcomes after shunting are limited. We reviewed our experience with cognitive outcomes for INPH patients who were selected for shunting based on abnormal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure monitoring and positive response in any of the NPH symptoms following large volume CSF drainage. Methods: Forty-two INPH patients underwent neurocognitive testing and Folstein Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) prior to shunting. Neurocognitive testing or MMSEwere performed at least 3 months after shunt insertion. Significant improvement in a neurocognitive subtest was defined as improvement by one standard deviation (1 SD) for the patient’s age, sex and education level. Significant improvement in overall neurocognitive outcome was defined as a 4-point improvement in MMSE or improvement by 1 SD in 50% of the administered neurocognitive subtests. Nonparametric tests were used to assess changes. Predictors of outcome were assessed via logistic regression analysis. Results: Twenty-two patients (52.3%) showed overall neurocognitive improvement, and significant improvement was seen in tests of verbal memory and psychomotor speed. Predictive analysis showed that patients scoring more than 1 SD below mean at baseline on verbal memory immediate recall were fourfold less likely to show overall cognitive improvement, and sixfold less likely if also associated with visuoconstructional deficit or executive dysfunction. Verbal memory scores at baseline were higher in patients who showed overall cognitive improvement. Conclusions: Shunting INPH patients on the basis of CSF pressure monitoring and drainage response shows a significant rate of cognitive improvement, and baseline neurocognitive test scores may distinguish patients likely to respond to shunt surgery from those who will not.
Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and Magnetoencephalographic Estimation of Delta Dipole Density: A Combination of Techniques That May Contribute to the Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Fernández Alberto , García-Segura Juan Manuel , Ortiz Tomás , Montoya Julia , Maestú Fernando , Gil-Gregorio Pedro , Campo Pablo , Viaño Juan
Published: July 2005

Whole-head magnetoencephalographic recordings were obtained from 10 patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and 10 healthy controls in a resting position. Spectroscopic examinations were performed by means of a 1.5-tesla whole-body scanner in the temporoparietal regions of both hemispheres. The relationship between 1H-MRS-based and magnetoencephalography (MEG)-based measures and their conjoined capability to improve the diagnosis of AD were investigated in this study. Logistic regression analyses were performed. Three separated logistic models were calculated for 1H-MRS-based metabolites, low-frequency magnetic activity, and the combination of both measures. A combined myoinositol/N-acetyl aspartate (mI/NAA)-delta dipole density (DD) model predicted the diagnosis with 90% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Additionally, the combination of temporoparietal mI/NAA and delta DD values explained the variability of individuals’ cognitive status. The results support the notion that a multidisciplinary approach may improve the understanding and diagnosis of AD.
Effects of Diet and Simvastatin on Fatty Acid Composition in Hypercholesterolemic Men
Authors: Jula Antti , Marniemi Jukka , Rönnemaa Tapani , Virtanen Arja , Huupponen Risto
Published: July 2005

Objective—

To explore the separate and combined effects of simvastatin and a low-saturated diet rich in α-linolenic acid on serum fatty acids.

Methods and Results—

120 hypercholesterolemic men were randomly allocated to a habitual diet or dietary treatment group and to receive, in random order, simvastatin 20 mg/d or placebo, each for 12 weeks, in a double-blind manner. Dietary treatment decreased proportions from total fatty acids of palmitic acid (C16:0) by 3.3% (
P
<0.05), stearic acid (C18:0) by 3.7% (
P
<0.05) and increased proportions of oleic acid (C18:1n-9) by 4.2% (
P
<0.01), and α-linolenic acid (C18:3n-3) by 29.8% (
P
<0.001). Simvastatin decreased proportions from total fatty acids of palmitic acid by 2.0% (
P
<0.01), linoleic acid (C18:2n-6) by 5.3% (
P
<0.001), and α-linolenic acid by 6.8% (
P
<0.05), and increased proportions of γ-linolenic acid (C18:3n-6) by 11.1% (
P
<0.001), dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (C20:3n-6) by 4.2% (
P
<0.01), arachidonic acid (C20:4n-6) by 14.2% (
P
<0.001), and the sum of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (C20-22) by 9.0% (
P
<0.001). Simvastatin increased ratios of stearic to palmitic, γ-linolenic to linoleic, and arachidonic to dihomo-γ-linolenic acid by 7.6%, 17.0%, and 10.0% (
P
<0.001 for all), respectively, suggesting increased fatty acid elongase and Δ6- and Δ5-desaturase enzyme activities.

Conclusions—

Increased formation of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and their metabolites may contribute a substantial part of the pleiotropic effects of simvastatin.
Heme Oxygenase and Atherosclerosis
Authors: Morita Toshisuke
Published: July 2005

Overproduction of reactive oxygen species under pathophysiological conditions, including dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, and smoking, is integral in the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The reactive oxygen species released from all types of vascular cells regulate various signaling pathways that mediate not only vascular inflammation in atherogenesis but also antioxidative and antiinflammatory responses. One such protective and stress-induced protein is heme oxygenase (HO). HO is the first rate-limiting enzyme in heme breakdown to generate equimolar quantities of carbon monoxide, biliverdin, and free ferrous iron. Accumulating evidence has shown that inducible HO (HO-1) and its products function as adaptive molecules against oxidative insults. The proposed mechanisms by which HO-1 exerts its cytoprotective effects include its abilities to degrade the pro-oxidative heme, to release biliverdin and subsequently convert it bilirubin, both of which have antioxidant properties, and to generate carbon monoxide, which has antiproliferative and antiinflammatory as well as vasodilatory properties. Herein, I highlight the relationship of HO and cardiovascular disease, especially atherosclerosis, gene-targeting approaches in animal models, and the potential for and concern about HO-1 as a novel therapeutic target for cardiovascular diseases.
Vascular Remodeling in Mice Lacking the Cytoplasmic Domain of Tissue Factor
Authors: Ott Ilka , Michaelis Cornelia , Schuermann Maren , Steppich Birgit , Seitz Isabell , Dewerchin Mieke , Zohlnhofer Dietlind , Wessely Rainer , Rudelius Martina , Schömig Albert , Carmeliet Peter
Published: July 2005

Tissue factor (TF), the cell surface receptor for the serine protease FVIIa supports cell migration by interaction with the cytoskeleton. Intracellular signaling pathways dependent on the cytoplasmic domain of TF modify cell migration and may alter vascular remodeling. Vascular remodeling was analyzed in a femoral artery injury and a blood flow cessation model in mice with a targeted deletion of the 18 carboxy-terminal intracellular amino acids of TF (TF
Δct/Δct
) and compared with TF wild-type mice (TF
wt/wt
). Morphometric analysis revealed a decrease in the intima/media ratio after vascular injury in arteries from TF
Δct/Δct
compared with TF
wt/wt
mice (femoral artery injury: 2.4±0.3 TF
wt/wt
versus 0.6±0.3 TF
Δct/Δct
, n=9 to 10,
P
=0.002; carotis ligation: 0.45+0.11 TF
wt/wt
versus 0.22+0.03 TF
Δct/Δct
, n=12 to 14,
P
=0.09). This was caused by an increase in the media by 54% (
P
=0.04) in the femoral artery model and by 32% (
P
=0.03) after carotis ligation and was associated with an increased number of proliferating cells. Isolated aortic smooth muscle cells (SMCs) of TF
wt/wt
mice showed an increased migratory response toward the TF ligand active site-inhibited FVIIa that was abolished in TF
Δct/Δct
SMC. In contrast, the unstimulated proliferation rate was increased in TF
Δct/Δct
SMC compared with TF
wt/wt
SMCs. Thus, retention of SMCs attributable to a migratory defect and increased proliferation results in thickening of the media and in decrease in neointima formation after arterial injury. TF cytoplasmic domain signaling alters vascular remodeling and, thereby, may play a role in the development of restenosis, atherosclerotic disease, and neovascularization.
Coding of Stroke and Stroke Risk Factors Using
International Classification of Diseases
, Revisions 9 and 10
Authors: Kokotailo Rae A. , Hill Michael D.
Published: July 2005

Background and Purpose—

Surveillance is necessary to understand and meet the future demands stroke will place on health care. Administrative data are the most accessible data source for stroke surveillance in Canada. The
International Classification of Diseases
, 10th revision (ICD-10) coding system has potential improvements over ICD-9 for stroke classification. Our purpose was to compare hospital discharge abstract coding using ICD-9 and ICD-10 for stroke and its risk factors.

Methods—

We took advantage of a switch in coding systems from ICD-9 to ICD-10 to independently review stroke patient charts. From time periods April 2000 to March 2001, 717 charts, and from April 2002 to March 2003, 249 charts were randomly selected for review. Using a before-and-after time period design, the accuracy of hospital coding of stroke (part I) and stroke risk factors (part II) using ICD-9 and ICD-10 was compared. We used careful definitions of stroke and its types based on ICD-9 using the fourth and fifth digit modifier codes.

Results—

Stroke coding was equally good with ICD-9 (90% [CI
95
86 to 93] correct) and ICD-10 [92% (CI
95
88 to 95 correct) with ICD-10. There were some differences in coding by stroke type, notably with transient ischemic attack, but these differences were not statistically significant. Atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease/ischemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension were coded with high sensitivity (81% to 91%) and specificity (83% to 100%). ICD-10 was as good as ICD-9 for stroke risk factor coding.

Conclusions—

Passive surveillance using administrative data are a useful tool for identifying stroke and its risk factors using both ICD-9 and ICD-10.
School Boundary and Student Assignment Procedures in Large, Urban, Public School Systems
Authors: Brown Arlene K. , Knight Karen W.
Published: July 2005

This article examines school boundaries and student assignments in large, urban school districts across the nation compared to procedures utilized in Broward County, Florida, the sixth largest school district in the nation. Findings of a survey developed and designed to determine the procedures used for considering diversity issues when setting school boundary and student assignment policies are contrasted. Survey results are discussed for 14 large, urban school districts outside of Florida and four urban school districts within Florida.
Career Academies as a Professionally Engaging and Supportive Teaching Experience
Authors: Orr Margaret Terry
Published: July 2005

The career academy experience challenges the assumptions of traditional high school about the role of schooling for students’ career and college transitions and stresses contextual and integrated teaching. This alternative educational approach encourages teachers to focus more collectively on preparing students through their curriculum, instructional practices, and working relationships. The National Academy Foundation (NAF) supports an intensive and coherent academy model using teacher professional development, curriculum materials, technical assistance, and linkages to industry-specific employers. Using survey results of 34 teachers in 10 career academies and 26 comparison teachers in the same high schools, coupled with case study findings of the 10 academies, this article shows the positive relationship between commitment to the academy program focus, organizational support, teachers’ collaborative work, and perceived effectiveness with students. NAF’s resources uniquely influence these outcomes for participating teachers, demonstrating the added benefit of intermediary support in fostering instructional coherence, student-centered instruction, and teacher effectiveness.
The Political Tension of Education as a Public Good
Authors: Easley Jacob
Published: July 2005

This article discusses the inherent political nature of educational systems and the tensions that arise between this political nature and the agenda to promote education as a public good. Current debates about the efficacy of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) are used to illustrate this point. Although there is promise in the goals of NCLB, the author contends that issues regarding equitable educational funding within states and civil liberties for all students must continually remain in the forefront for this act to actualize education as a public good.
‘In An Aeroplane, Yes, In An Aeroplane’: Within-Unit Repetitions in Classroom Discourse
Authors: Todd Richard Watson
Published: July 2005

This paper looks at the functions of repetition of lexical items which fall within a single T-unit. Examining data from a foundation English course at a Thai university, transcripts of eliciting transactions from 12 lessons were divided into T-units. Within-unit repetitions were identi-fied and categorized. Categories of repetition found, in order of frequency, were emphasis, clarification, affirmation, left-fronting, choral units, re-initiation, and pedagogic reformulation. These functions were found to be related to the discourse move the repetition occurs in and to the type of repetition, but were not related to individual teachers. The findings suggest that within-unit repetition is primarily used to aid students’ comprehension of teacher talk.
Challenging Mestizaje
Authors: Safa Helen I.
Published: July 2005

This article compares the contemporary movements for cultural autonomy and social legitimation organized by the indigenous and Afrodescendant populations of Latin America. These movements are challenging the concept of blanqueamiento or whitening embedded in the process of mestizaje in Latin America. Whitening proclaimed the superiority of white European culture over indigenous and black culture, a concept these movements are challenging by proclaiming their own cultural autonomy. In particular, the article will examine the increasing role of women in both these movements, and how women are reconciling the tension between ethnic/racial and gender consciousness.
Through the Prism of the Internet Cafe
Authors: Qiu Jack Linchuan , Liuning Zhou
Published: July 2005

Using the ecology of games perspective, this article analyzes China’s regulation of internet cafes. Based on the analyses of regulatory documents, interviews, and news coverage, we identify three games fundamental to our understanding of the subject: (1) the establishment of national regulatory regime, (2) local policy implementation, and (3) market competition. We situate the discussion of game players, their goals, strategies, and performances in the context of rapidly increasing internet cafe penetration under intensifying government regulation, a manifestation of the inevitable clash between state and market at the local levels of internet development. This culminated in the April 2003 proposal by the Ministry of Culture for a national chain-store model, which led to a “nested game” involving key players from all three essential games including national regulators, local state agencies, cafe operators, user groups (e.g. students and migrant workers), and members of the urban elite (e.g. parents and teachers). We conclude by maintaining that there is a pressing need for more research on internet cafes as localized points of access control; that the processes of internet cafe regulation constitute a prism for the examination of the internet’s socio-political ramifications; and that the ecology of games provides an insightful theoretical framework for this analytical task.
Semi-active Fuzzy Sliding Mode Control of Full Vehicle and Suspensions
Authors: Liu H. , Nonami K. , Hagiwara T.
Published: July 2005

The suspension of a vehicle is the support system between a vehicle body and wheels. The purpose of a suspension system is to support the vehicle body and increase ride comfort. Care must be taken in the design of a suspension system because if the attenuation force becomes large, the passenger will be subjected to a very rough ride under high-frequency disturbances, and if the attenuation force becomes small, the ride will feel overly soft at low frequencies. Furthermore, if the spring constant is too low, the vehicle’s natural frequency of vibration will be low, and thus the heave, rolling, and pitching will be large. In this study, a fuzzy sliding mode controller for a real vehicle has been designed. A new method for designing the fuzzy sliding mode switch hyperplane has been proposed. Experiment results are presented to confirm the effectiveness of this new algorithm.
NiTi-wire Shape Memory Alloy Dampers to Simultaneously Damp Tension, Compression, and Torsion
Authors: Han Yu-Lin , Xing De-Jin , Xiao Er-Tian , Li Ai-Qun
Published: July 2005

NiTi-wire shape memory alloy (SMA) dampers, which utilize NiTi SMA wires to simultaneously damp tension, compression, and torsion, have been developed for structural control implementation in this study. First, three reduced-scale NiTi-wire SMA dampers were constructed. Then, mechanics analysis of the NiTi-wire SMA dampers was performed, based on a model of the SMA-wire restoring force and on tension, compression, and torsion damping analysis. Finally, tension, compression, and torsion experiments were carried out, using the three reduced-scale NiTi-wire SMA dampers of different diameters. The experimental results revealed that all of the three reduced-scale NiTi-wire SMA dampers had the ability to simultaneously supply tension damping, compression damping, and torsion damping, and the results were found to be similar to the damping analytical results.
Sway Reduction on Quay-side Container Cranes Using Delayed Feedback Controller: Simulations and Experiments
Authors: Masoud Ziyad N. , Nayfeh Ali H. , Nayfeh Nader A.
Published: July 2005

Traditionally, a container crane is modeled as a simple pendulum with either a flexible or a rigid hoisting cable, and a lumped mass at the end of the cable. However, in the case of quay-side container cranes, the actual configuration of the hoisting mechanism is significantly different; it consists typically of a set of four hoisting cables. The cables are hoisted from four different points on a trolley and are attached on the load side to four points on a spreader bar used to lift containers. A controller design based on the actual model will most likely result in a response superior to those based on simple pendulum models. In this paper, we develop a mathematical model of the actual quay-side container crane. A simplified model is then used to obtain the gain and time delay for a delayed feedback controller, which will be used for the control of payload sway oscillation. Performance of the controller is simulated on a 1/10th scale computer model of a 65 ton container crane using the full model. Simulation results are verified experimentally on a 1/10th scale model of the same container crane.
Closing the Home Care Case: Clinicians’ Perspectives on Family Caregiving
Authors: Hokenstad Alene , Hart Andrea Y. , Gould David A. , Halper Deborah , Levine Carol
Published: July 2005

Focus groups revealed five inherent conflicts that affect home health care clinicians’ interactions with family caregivers: (a) Services often depend on caregivers’ participation, but the home care system does not give them formal status or consideration; (b) clinicians must balance competing priorities within a short time frame; (c) clinicians recognize that families have unmet emotional and training needs, but benefits are not designed to address them; (d) clinicians face conflicting professional roles as patient advocates and service gatekeepers; and (e) agencies reserve social work services, a key to caregiver access to community resources, for their most difficult cases. Building a more rational system will involve raising awareness about the system’s limitation, providing more training and support for caregivers and the professionals who interact with them, and aligning financial incentives with the realities of what it takes to prepare caregivers to care for patients with complex needs when formal services end.
The Myriad Roles of the Home Care Social Worker
Authors: Dyeson Timothy B.
Published: July 2005

The home care social worker has many roles to play within the treatment milieu. This article briefly describes the primary roles of the home care social worker. Some of the roles are mandated by Medicare, and other roles are indigenous to the field of social work. The roles include direct service provider, advocate, community organizer, team educator, team consultant, and one who helps reduce health care costs.
Canonical Correlation Reveals Important Relations between Health Locus of Control, Coping, Affect and Values
Authors: Masters Kevin S. , Wallston Kenneth A.
Published: July 2005

This article explored advantages of canonical correlation using the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control (MHLC) scales in relation to measures of coping, affect and values. Survey data collected from 659 participants demonstrated significant canonical correlations between the MHLC and synthetic variables representing all three of these constructs. Results verified some previously hypothesized relations (e.g. external health control relates to passive coping) and introduced new findings pertaining to the relations between networks of MHLC variables and networks of the other three constructs (e.g. positive affect relates to collaborative control between self and God regarding health). Canonical correlation promotes greater understanding of relations between health loci of control and other multidimensional variables than can be obtained through simpler analytic strategies.
Ignoring the Non-ignorables?
Authors: König Thomas , Finke Daniel , Daimer Stephanie
Published: July 2005

Missing or incomplete data on actors’ positions can cause significant problems in political analysis. Research on missing values suggests the use of multiple imputation methods rather than case deletion, but few studies have yet considered the non-ignorable problem - positions that are hidden for strategic purposes. We examine this problem and discuss the advantages and drawbacks of (i) multiple imputation as implemented in AMELIA; (ii) a computationally easy but, in the context of spatial modelling, straightforward measure of indifference and (iii) a conditional averaging algorithm, LDM, which seeks to reasonably fix actors’ positions in the policy space pre- and post-imputation. The analysis suggests that actors biased by the status quo strategically hide their more supportive positions. Although none of the existing methods - which produce quite different results - is perfectly suited for imputing hidden positions, LDM has the highest hit rate for the conjectured more supportive position.
Understanding iron homeostasis through genetic analysis of hemochromatosis and related disorders
Authors: Camaschella Clara
Published: July 2005

Genetic analysis of hemochromatosis has led to the discovery of a number of genes whose mutations disrupt iron homeostasis and lead to iron overload. The introduction of molecular tests into clinical practice has provided a tool for early diagnosis of these conditions. It has become clear that hemochromatosis includes a spectrum of disorders that range from simple biochemical abnormalities to chronic asymptomatic tissue damage in midlife to serious life-threatening diseases in young subjects. Molecular studies have identified the systemic loop that controls iron homeostasis and is centered on the hepcidin-ferroportin interaction. The complexity of this regulatory pathway accounts for the genetic heterogeneity of hemochromatosis and related disorders and raises the possibility that genes encoding components of the pathway may be modifiers of the main genotype. Molecular diagnosis has improved the classification of the genetic conditions leading to iron overload and identified novel entities, characterized by both iron loading and variable degrees of anemia. Despite the progress in the diagnosis, classification, and mechanisms of iron overload disorders, the treatment of affected patients continues to rely on regular phlebotomy. Understanding the molecular circuitry of iron control may lead to the identification of potential therapeutic targets for novel treatment strategies to be used in association with or as an alternative to phlebotomy.
Incidence and risk factors for liver enzyme elevation during highly active antiretroviral therapy in HIV-HCV co-infected patients: results from the Italian EPOKA-MASTER Cohort
Authors: Torti Carlo , Lapadula Giuseppe , Casari Salvatore , Puoti Massimo , Nelson Mark , Quiros-Roldan Eugenia , Bella Daniele , Pastore Giuseppe , Ladisa Nicoletta , Minoli Lorenzo , Sotgiu Giovanni , Mazzotta Francesco , Caputo Sergio Lo , Di Perri Giovanni , Filice Gaetano , Tinelli Carmine , Carosi Giampiero ,   the EPOKA-MASTER Study Group
Published: July 2005

Background

The risk of hepatotoxicity associated with different highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) regimens (containing multiple-protease inhibitors, single-protease inhibitors or non nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors) in HIV-HCV co-infected patients has not been fully assessed.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of a prospective cohort of 1,038 HIV-HCV co-infected patients who commenced a new HAART in the Italian MASTER database. Patients were stratified into naïve and experienced to antiretroviral therapy before starting the study regimens. Time to grade ≥III hepatotoxicity (as by ACTG classification) was the primary outcome. Secondary outcome was time to grade IV hepatotoxicity.

Results

Incidence of grade ≥III hepatotoxicity was 17.71 per 100 patient-years (p-yr) of follow up in naïve patient group and 8.22 per 100 p-yrs in experienced group (grade IV: 4.13 per 100 p-yrs and 1.08 per 100 p-yrs, respectively). In the latter group, the only independent factors associated with shorter time to the event at proportional hazards regression model were: previous liver transaminase elevations to grade ≥III, higher baseline alanine amino-transferase values, and use of a non nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor based regimen. In the naive group, baseline aspartate transaminase level was associated with the primary outcome.

Conclusion

Use of a single or multiple protease inhibitor based regimen was not associated with risk of hepatotoxicity in either naïve or experienced patient groups to a statistically significant extent. A cautious approach with strict monitoring should be applied in HIV-HCV co-infected experienced patients with previous liver transaminase elevations, higher baseline alanine amino-transferase values and who receive regimens containing non nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors.
Local versus systemic effect of ovulation-inducing factor in the seminal plasma of alpacas
Authors: Ratto Marcelo H , Huanca Wilfredo , Singh Jaswant , Adams Gregg P
Published: July 2005

Background

Camelids are induced (reflex) ovulators. We have recently documented the presence of an ovulation-inducing factor (OIF) in the seminal plasma of alpacas and llamas. The objective was to test the hypothesis that OIF exerts its effect via a systemic rather than a local route and that endometrial curettage will enhance the ovulatory response to intrauterine deposition of seminal plasma in alpacas.

Methods

Female alpacas were assigned randomly to 6 groups (n = 15 to 17 per group) in a 2 × 3 factorial design to test the effect of seminal plasma versus phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) given by intramuscular injection, by intrauterine infusion, or by intrauterine infusion after endometrial curettage. Specifically, alpacas in the respective groups were given 1) 2 ml of alpaca seminal plasma intramuscularly, 2) 2 ml of PBS intramuscularly (negative control group), 3) 2 ml of alpaca seminal plasma by intrauterine infusion, 4) 2 ml of PBS by intrauterine infusion (negative control group), 5) 2 ml of alpaca seminal plasma by intrauterine infusion after endometrial curettage, or 6) 2 ml of PBS by intrauterine infusion after endometrial curettage (negative control group). The alpacas were examined by transrectal ultrasonography to detect ovulation and measure follicular and luteal diameters.

Results

Intramuscular administration of seminal plasma resulted in a higher ovulation rate than intrauterine administration of seminal plasma (93% versus 41%; P < 0.01), while intrauterine seminal plasma after endometrial curettage was intermediate (67%). None of the saline-treated controls ovulated. The diameter of the CL after treatment-induced ovulation was not affected by the route of administration of seminal plasma.

Conclusion

We conclude that 1) OIF in seminal plasma effects ovulation via a systemic rather than a local route, 2) disruption of the endometrial mucosa by curettage facilitated the absorption of OIF and increased the ovulatory effect of seminal plasma, and 3) ovulation in alpacas is not associated with a physical stimulation of the genital tract, and 4) the alpaca represents an excellent biological model to evaluate the bioactivity of OIF.