bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Marital Status Predict the Odds of Suicidal Death in Taiwan? A Seven‐Year Population‐Based Study
Authors: Yeh Jui‐Yuan , Xirasagar Sudha , Liu Tsai‐Ching , Li Chong‐Yi , Lin Herng‐Ching
Published: July 2008

Using nationwide, 7‐year population‐based data for 1997–2003, we examined marital status to see if it predicted suicide among the ethnic Chinese population of Taiwan. Using cause of death data, with a case‐control design, two groups—total adult suicide deaths, n = 17,850, the study group, and adult deaths other than suicide, n = 71,400 (randomly selected from age, sex, and geographic region matched controls, four per suicide)—were studied. Using multiple logistic regression analysis including age‐marital status interaction, adjusted estimates show divorced status to be the most detrimental for suicide propensity, with males showing stronger effect size. Females never married, aged below 35 and 65‐plus, and widowed 65‐plus had lower suicide odds.
Advancing Prevention Research on the Role of Culture in Suicide Prevention
Authors: Joe Sean , Canetto Silvia Sara , Romer Daniel
Published: July 2008

Despite evidence of considerable racial/ethnic variation in adolescent suicidal behavior in the United States, research on youth of European American descent accounts for much of what is know about preventing adolescent suicide. In response to the need to advance research on the phenomenology and prevention of suicidal behavior among ethnic minority populations, NIMH co‐sponsored the “Pragmatic Considerations of Culture in Preventing Suicide” workshop to elicit through interdisciplinary dialogue how culture can be considered in the design, development, and implementation of suicidal behavior prevention programs. In this discussion paper we consider the three ethnic minority suicide prevention efforts described in the articles appearing in this issue, along with workshop participants' comments, and propose six major areas where issues of culture need to be better integrated into suicidal behavior research.
The Paradox of Thailand's 1997 “People's Constitution”: Be Careful What You Wish For
Authors: Kuhonta Erik Martinez
Published: July 2008

Thailand's adoption of a new constitution in 1997 was meant to advance far-reaching reforms in the country's democratic development. A decade later, it is clear that these constitutional reforms failed. The Constitution unintentionally consolidated Prime Minister Thaksin's grip on power and indirectly precipitated the conditions for the 2006 coup. This article argues that the drafters' search for a more stable democratic government helped produce an electoral authoritarian regime that triggered the military to intervene.
Controlling the Chinese Media: An Uncertain Business
Authors: Hassid Jonathan
Published: July 2008

Increasing economic liberalization of the Chinese media has not resulted in proportional political liberalization, and previous explanations for the state's puzzlingly firm grip are inadequate. This article argues that a “regime of uncertainty” is critical toward keeping the Chinese media in line.
China's Soft Power: Discussions, Resources, and Prospects
Authors: Cho Young Nam , Jeong Jong Ho
Published: July 2008

This article analyzes discussions, resources, and prospects for soft power in China, focusing on the Beijing Consensus, foreign policy, and civilization. It posits that the country's recognition of soft power and its application to national policies is an important factor in explaining China's rapidly increasing influence in Asia.
International Women in South Korea's Sex Industry: A New Commodity Frontier
Authors: Kim Joon K. , Fu May
Published: July 2008

The influx of Russian entertainers and sex workers to South Korea exemplifies complex intersections of cultural and economic factors that fuel international migration of women. This article discusses the role of race and nationalism in constructing the ideal type of Western women that serves as a new commodity frontier.
“Going for Income” in Village Tibet: A Longitudinal Analysis of Change and Adaptation, 1997–2007
Authors: Goldstein Melvyn C. , Childs Geoff , Wangdui Puchung
Published: July 2008

Rural Tibet is in the throes of a major paradigm shift from a predominately subsistence agricultural economy to a new mixed economy in which non-farm income plays a dominant role. This paper examines this change, comparing longitudinal data collected through direct fieldwork in rural Tibet in 1997–98 and 2006–07.
Recent developments in robustness and relation with risk
Authors: Agarwal J. , England J.
Published: July 2008

Structural engineering is a mature discipline, but in practice the nature of demands or actions on a structure remains uncertain. It is difficult to foresee where damage, for example resulting from an accident or material degradation, might occur. A structure that is robust will be able to cope with such unexpected demands without disproportionate consequences. There is, however, no satisfactory measure of robustness: not even a widely agreed definition. In this paper an overview of the current guidelines and methodologies to achieve a robust structure is provided. Most of the analytical studies assume a model of loading, but to achieve robustness there is a need to identify potential weaknesses in the form of a structure. In this respect, structural vulnerability theory can be an effective tool to reduce the risk of propagation of failure owing to unforeseen damage or actions. Similar models are already used in the insurance industry to determine the risk to natural and man-made hazards.
Structural reliability and performance-based engineering
Authors: Ellingwood B. R.
Published: July 2008

Civil infrastructure facilities must be designed to withstand demands imposed by their service requirements and by natural environmental events. In the past four decades, structural reliability methods have matured to the point that they now provide the framework for addressing safety and serviceability issues in modern codified structural design, and most countries have adopted such methods for code development. While the normal design process usually results in a constructed facility with a degree of integrity that is also available to withstand challenges from unforeseen events, events outside the traditional design envelope may result in severe damage or economic losses and, in extreme instances, precipitate catastrophic collapse. In an era of heightened public awareness of infrastructure performance, performance-based engineering (PBE) offers a new paradigm that may allow structural engineers to meet these challenges and to better match building design with owner, occupant and social performance expectations. Successful implementation of PBE will require understanding and acceptance of the supporting quantitative structural reliability risk assessment methods and risk-informed decision tools summarised in this paper.
Potential effects of perfluorinated compounds in common cormorants from Lake Biwa, Japan: An implication from the hepatic gene expression profiles by microarray
Authors: Nakayama Kei , Iwata Hisato , Tao Lin , Kannan Kurunthachalam , Imoto Mai , Kim Eun-Young , Tashiro Kosuke , Tanabe Shinsuke
Published: July 2008

Contamination levels of perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), including perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), perfluorooctane sulfonamide (PFOSA), perfluorohexanesulfonate (PFHS), and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), were determined in the livers of wild common cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo) from Lake Biwa, Japan. Potential effects of PFCs alone and combined effects by complex mixture of PFCs and dioxins and related compounds (DRCs) were also assessed by gene expression profiling using a cormorant oligo array. Perfluorooctanesulfonate, PFNA, and PFOSA were detected in almost all liver samples analyzed, while concentrations of PFHS and PFOA were below the limit of quantification. The microarray data analyses revealed that hepatic PFC levels were correlated with the expression of 74 genes. Real-time reverse-transcript polymerase chain reaction data demonstrated that PFOS concentration was positively correlated with mRNA levels of glutathione peroxidase 1 and glutathione S-transferase alpha 3 and negatively correlated with levels of heat shock 70-kDa protein 8 and tumor rejection antigen 1 mRNAs. These results suggest the induction of antioxidant enzymes in response to oxidative stress caused by PFCs and the suppression of molecular chaperones, leading to reduction in protein stability. Moreover, multiple regression analyses identified seven significant models in which certain genes showed expression levels altered by accumulation of PFCs and DRCs. The regression models explained associations with cytochrome P450 1A mRNA and protein expression levels, and its catalytic activity, ethoxy-resorufin-O-deethylase of both PFNA and the 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin toxic equivalent levels. Thus, the regression models suggested the potential of PFCs to enhance toxicities of DRCs. Since mixture toxicity is an urgent issue, further study is required to understand the effects of mixtures of PFCs and DRCs in wild cormorants.
Development and application of a species sensitivity distribution for temperature-induced mortality in the aquatic environment
Authors: de Vries Pepijn , Tamis Jacqueline E , Murk Albertinka J , Smit Mathijs G. D
Published: July 2008

Current European legislation has static water quality objectives for temperature effects, based on the most sensitive species. In the present study a species sensitivity distribution (SSD) for elevated temperatures is developed on the basis of temperature sensitivity data (mortality) of 50 aquatic species. The SSD applies to risk assessment of heat discharges that are localized in space or time. As collected median lethal temperatures (LT50 values) for different species depend on the acclimation temperature, the SSD is also a function of the acclimation temperature. Data from a thermal discharge in The Netherlands are used to show the applicability of the developed SSD in environmental risk assessment. Although restrictions exist in the application of the developed SSD, it is concluded that the SSD approach can be applied to assess the effects of elevated temperature. Application of the concept of SSD to temperature changes allows harmonization of environmental risk assessment for stressors in the aquatic environment. When a synchronization of the assessment methods is achieved, the steps to integration of risks from toxic and nontoxic stressors can be made.
Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetry of Environmental Carcinogens
Authors: Barek Jiri , Peckova Karolina , Vyskocil Vlastimil
Published: July 2008

This review describes our recent results regarding adsorptive stripping voltammetric determination of submicromolar and nanomolar concentrations of various environmentally important chemical carcinogens using both traditional (hanging mercury drop electrode, carbon paste electrode) and non-traditional types of electrodes (solid amalgam electrodes, glassy carbon paste electrodes, carbon ink film electrodes, solid composite electrodes). The review concentrates on our own results in the context of the general development in the filed.
Electrochemical Stripping Techniques in Analysis of Nucleic Acids and their Constituents
Authors: Fojta Miroslav , Jelen Frantisek , Havran Ludek , Palecek Emil
Published: July 2008

The ability of nucleic acids (NA) and their components to accumulate at electrode surfaces and electrochemical properties of these species are closely related. This review is devoted to electrochemical stripping techniques applied in NA studies. Cathodic or anodic stripping voltammetry have been used for a highly sensitive determination of nucleobases, nucleosides, nucleotides or acid-hydrolyzed NAs, based on formation of sparingly soluble complexes of the NA constituents with electrochemically generated mercury or copper(I) ions. DNAs, RNAs and their synthetic analogues, either unmodified or labeled with electroactive markers, have been analyzed by adsorptive stripping (AdS) techniques with mercury, mercury film, amalgam and carbon-based electrodes. Strong adsorption of NAs at the electrode surfaces has been utilized in adsorptive transfer stripping (AdTS) techniques. In AdTS, a NA-modified electrode is prepared by adsorptive accumulation of the NA at the electrode surface, followed by transfer into background electrolyte not containing any NA. NA-modified electrodes can be used as simple electrochemical NA sensors. Recent applications of AdS and AdTS in NA microanalysis, in detection of DNA damage as well as in studies of DNA hybridization or DNA-protein interactions are reviewed.
The Rise and Fall of RCMP Community Justice Forums: Restorative Justice and Public Safety Interoperability in Canada
Authors: Deukmedjian John Edward
Published: July 2008

RCMP executives and the Canadian government promoted community justice forums (family group conferences) in the late 1990s. They did so because CJFs offered a process consistent with the national community-policing strategy. When this strategy changed, executives cut their support for the program. This paper argues that this “rise” and “fall” was a function of the program's theoretical and procedural alignment with shifting strategies of national governance. This raises a question about the role of restorative forums in Canadian governance. If such programs remain desirable, multi-agency forums (police, public schools, child welfare, immigration) may well align with the nascent governmental framework of public safety interoperability. The paper also considers another possibility: non-state local peacemaking forums. The conclusion discusses potential benefits and limits of these possibilities. It also offers general theoretical observations on the role of alignment in governmental programming.
Problems and Solutions for Social Science Journals at Chinese Universities
Authors: Feng-Nian Wang
Published: July 2008

As an academic vehicle, social science journals undoubtedly play an important role in cultural communication. And with the development of research in the humanities and social sciences in China, universities’ social science journals have also undergone rapid development; there are still problems, however, including limited regional authorship, lack of individuality, small circulation, and a tendency toward pan-politicization, that hinder the further development of our journals. The article discusses solutions to these problems, including strict peer review, an emphasis on journals’ individuality, a strengthening of journals’ market awareness, and the expediting of internationalization.
“Moving Forward”: Success from a Physiotherapist's Point of View
Authors: Takeuchi Rumi , O'Brien Michelle M. , Ormond Keli B. , Brown Steven D.J. , Maly Monica R.
Published: July 2008

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to capture the meaning of professional success to experienced physiotherapists practising in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Methods: Using a qualitative, phenomenological approach, 10 physiotherapists from the GTA each participated in a 60-minute, semistructured, face-to-face interview. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using the vanKaam method, modified by Moustakas.

Results: Participants described success as “moving forward,” a dynamic and evolving experience that extends throughout an entire career. Study participants identified three markers of professional success: positive patient outcome, career advancement, and advancement of the physiotherapy profession. The experience of moving forward toward success applied to all of these markers and was driven by making choices. Choices made throughout a career were influenced by mentorship and self-reflection.

Conclusions: The physiotherapists in this study described different indicators of success than have been described by other health care or corporate professionals in the literature. Success in the physiotherapy profession is experienced as a circular rather than linear process. Physiotherapists, professional organizations, and employers have a role in fostering professional success. We suggest the introduction of mentorship and self-reflection programmes early in one's career, focusing on the three markers of success: patient outcomes, career advancement, and advancement of the profession.
Convergent Validity of the Constant-Murley Outcome Measure in Patients with Rotator Cuff Disease
Authors: Razmjou Helen , Bean Andrea , MacDermid Joy C. , van Osnabrugge Varda , Travers Niki , Holtby Richard
Published: July 2008

Purpose: Despite the popularity of the Constant-Murley score (CMS), a combined patient-report and objective (health professional administered) shoulder outcome measure, minimal information exists on its reliability or validity. The purpose of this study was to examine (1) internal consistency and convergent validity of the CMS and (2) the degree to which other shoulder measures explain variation in range of motion and strength components of the CMS.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study of outcome measures, 45 patients undergoing conservative or surgical treatment for rotator cuff disease participated. Two disease-specific outcome measures, one shoulder-specific measure, and one upper extremity outcome measure were compared to the CMS.

Results: Correlations between competing measures and relative total CMS were moderate (0.56 to 0.75). The American Shoulder & Elbow Score, the Upper Extremity Functional Index, the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index, and the Rotator Cuff Quality of Life index explained 38%, 28%, 26%, and 10% of variance of the objective component of the CMS respectively.

Conclusions: The patient-report component of the CMS measures a multidimensional concept. The strength component had moderate correlations with isometric strength measures of the shoulder external rotators and abductors. The total CMS appears to measure a construct that is not totally captured by competing measures. The unexplained variance may be due, in part, to the lack of importance of the patient's physical impairment to symptoms or activity limitations as measured by other instruments.
Same-segment and adjacent-segment disease following posterior cervical foraminotomy
Authors: Clarke Michelle J. , Ecker Robert D. , Krauss William E. , McClelland Robyn L. , Dekutoski Mark B.
Published: July 2008

Object

The cervical foraminotomy was pioneered in the 1940s to address radicular symptoms via a posterior approach, but the long-term outcome has not been adequately studied.

Methods

The authors retrospectively analyzed data obtained from 303 patients (188 male and 115 female, mean age 49.2 years) who had consecutively undergone a single-level posterior foraminotomy for cervical radiculopathy between 1972 and 1992. The median follow-up duration was 7.1 years. The major end point studied was the development of symptomatic adjacent- or same-segment disease. Incidence rates per 1000 person-years were calculated, and the natural history of the disease was predicted using Kaplan–Meier survivorship analysis.

In 15 (4.9%) of 303 patients, symptomatic adjacent-segment disease developed, yielding a rate of 6.4/1000 person-years at risk. This included nine (2.9%) of 303 patients requiring reoperation, yielding a rate of 3.8/1000 person-years. Kaplan–Meier survivorship analysis suggested a relatively stable annual 0.7% rate for developing adjacent-segment disease, with a 10-year rate of 6.7%. Ten patients developed same-segment disease, yielding a risk rate of 3.9/1000 person-years.

Kaplan–Meier survivorship analysis demonstrated a 5- and 10-year risk rate of developing same-segment disease of 3.2 and 5.0%, respectively.

Conclusions

Although additional study is needed, analysis of the present data suggests that posterior foraminotomy is associated with a low rate of same- and adjacent-segment disease.
A comparison of changes over time in cervical foraminal height after tricortical iliac graft or polyetheretherketone cage placement following anterior discectomy
Authors: Çelik Suat E. , Kara Ayhan , Çelik Sevinç
Published: July 2008

Object

The authors prospectively evaluated cervical foraminal height changes after anterior cervical discectomy and fusion. To their knowledge, this prospective study is the first in which foraminal height changes over time are compared following the placement of a tricortical graft or a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cage.

Methods

The patients were randomly divided in two groups. In one group, 30 patients underwent anterior cervical microdiscectomy and free bone graft (FBG) insertion at 46 levels via the Smith–Robinson technique. The FBG was harvested from the right iliac crest. Another 35 patients underwent the same operation, but fusion was provided by the insertion of PEEK intervertebral cages at 41 levels. Fusion status and the C2–7 Cobb angle, interspace height, and foraminal height changes were observed on anterior, lateral, and oblique radiographs obtained at the 18-month follow-up examination.

There were no differences between the groups with regard to clinical recovery, fusion status, and Cobb angle. A significant interspace height reduction was observed in the FBG group during the 1st postoperative month. In the FBG group, the mean heights (± standard deviation) of the foramina were 8.2 ± 2.7 mm preoperatively, 10.8 ± 2.6 mm on postoperative Day 2, and 8.1 ± 1.5 mm after 18 months of follow up. In the PEEK cage group, the mean heights were 8.4 ± 2.8 mm preoperatively, 10.3 ± 1.1 mm on postoperative Day 2, and 9.6 ± 1.2 mm after 18 months of follow up. The increase in foraminal height was significantly preserved at the 6th, 12th, and 18th months in the cage group.

Conclusions

In both groups the foraminal height increased sufficiently and the nerve root was decompressed postoperatively. The PEEK cages may provide sufficient preservation of foraminal height even 1.5 years after the operation.
Cervical neurapraxia in elite athletes: evaluation and surgical treatment
Authors: Maroon Joseph C. , El-Kadi Hikmat , Abla Adnan A. , Wecht Daniel A. , Bost Jeffrey , Norwig John , Bream Tim
Published: July 2008

Object

Neurapraxia, transient posttraumatic paralysis of the motor and/or sensory tracts in the spinal cord, may be a career-ending event in an athlete. Management, rehabilitation, and return-to-play decisions remain controversial.

Methods

Five elite football players were evaluated after experiencing episodes of neurapraxia. All patients experienced bilateral paresthesias—three in all four extremities and two in the upper extremities—lasting a few minutes to more than 24 hours. Transient motor deficits occurred in two individuals but caused no permanent sequelae. Neuroimaging confirmed the presence of herniated discs, focal cord compression, and no parenchymal changes in all cases.

All patients underwent anterior cervical microdiscectomy and fusion, and cervical plates were placed in four. After aggressive rehabilitation and confirmation of fusion ranging from 9 weeks to 8 months postoperatively, the players were allowed to return to active play. Two of the players developed recurrent career-ending disc herniations, one above and the other below the fusion level. One player required repeated spinal cord decompression.

Conclusions

Neurologically intact athletes with focal cord compression due to a single-level herniated disc may safely return to football after undergoing decompressive surgery and confirmation of fusion. It appears, however, that there may be an increased chance of repeated herniation above or below a fused level.
Spinal cord glioblastoma multiforme induced by radiation after treatment for Hodgkin disease
Authors: Ng Ching , Fairhall Jacob , Rathmalgoda Chamishani , Stening Warwick , Smee Robert
Published: July 2008

✓The authors report on a 26-year-old man with a very rare case of radiation-induced intramedullary spinal cord glioblastoma multiforme, which developed several years after radiotherapy for Hodgkin disease.
Clinical outcomes and complications after pedicle subtraction osteotomy for correction of thoracolumbar kyphosis
Authors: Ikenaga Minoru , Shikata Jitsuhiko , Takemoto Mitsuru , Tanaka Chiaki
Published: July 2008

Object

Many patient complications have been reported after the use of the pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) technique. To the authors' knowledge, no previous reseachers have reported on the causes of complications after using the single-stage PSO technique with a posterior approach. The purpose of this study was to investigate complications after the procedure, to clarify the factors influencing the complications, and to identify ways to minimize complications.

Methods

Records for 67 patients treated with the PSO technique were examined retrospectively. All complications were recorded and analyzed in relation to the radiological and clinical outcomes.

No patient died or became paraplegic as a result of surgery. There were 48 surgery-related complications in 27 patients (40%): six intraoperative, four perioperative, and 38 late-onset postoperative complications. As the study progressed and more patients were treated, the rate of intraoperative complications decreased significantly. The incidence of late-onset complications associated with an adjacent-segment progression of kyphosis was lower in patients with a long fusion from a midthoracic vertebra to the sacrum or pelvis than in patients treated with a shorter fusion. The C-7 plumb line values and postoperative complications were closely correlated with clinical results.

Conclusions

Intraoperative complications can be prevented or the risks minimized with adequate surgical training. Most of the late-onset complications in these patients were related to the progression of kyphosis. The frequency of complications was closely correlated with patient satisfaction at follow up. Correcting the C-7 plumb line value with minimal complications appeared to lead to better clinical results.
Inhibition of x-irradiation–enhanced locomotor recovery after spinal cord injury by hyperbaric oxygen or the antioxidant nitroxide tempol
Authors: Hillard Virany H. , Peng Hong , Das Kaushik , Murali Raj , Moorthy Chitti R. , Etlinger Joseph D. , Zeman Richard J.
Published: July 2008

Object

Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO), the nitroxide antioxidant tempol, and x-irradiation have been used to promote locomotor recovery in experimental models of spinal cord injury. The authors used x-irradiation of the injury site together with either HBO or tempol to determine whether combined therapy offers greater benefit to rats.

Methods

Contusion injury was produced with a weight-drop device in rats at the T-10 level, and recovery was determined using the 21-point Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor scale. Locomotor function recovered progressively during the 6-week postinjury observation period and was significantly greater after x-irradiation (20 Gy) of the injury site or treatment with tempol (275 mg/kg intraperitoneally) than in untreated rats (final BBB Scores 10.6 [x-irradiation treated] and 9.1 [tempol treated] compared with 6.4 [untreated], p < 0.05). Recovery was not significantly improved by HBO (2 atm for 1 hour [BBB Score 8.2, p > 0.05]). Interestingly, the improved recovery of locomotor function after x-irradiation, in contrast with antiproliferative radiotherapy for neoplasia, was inhibited when used together with either HBO or tempol (BBB Scores 8.2 and 8.3, respectively). The ability of tempol to block enhanced locomotor recovery by x-irradiation was accompanied by prevention of alopecia at the irradiation site. The extent of locomotor recovery following treatment with tempol, HBO, and x-irradiation correlated with measurements of spared spinal cord tissue at the contusion epicenter.

Conclusions

These results suggest that these treatments, when used alone, can activate neuroprotective mechanisms but, in combination, may result in neurotoxicity.
Single-stage total C-2 intralesional spondylectomy for chordoma with three-column reconstruction
Authors: Suchomel Petr , Buchvald Pavel , Barsa Pavel , Froehlich Robert , Choutka Ondrej , Krejzar Zdenek , Sourkova Petra , Endrych Ladislav , Dzan Ladislav
Published: July 2008

✓Chordomas are locally invasive, malignant bone tumors that rarely occur in the cervical spine. En bloc resection or even fully resecting the tumor along its margin offers improved patient survival and a potential disease cure. Complete resection of tumors involving the upper cervical vertebrae requires a combined anterior–posterior approach but is complicated by the presence of vertebral arteries (VAs). In addition, reconstruction of the postresection defect may be prone to failure.

The authors present a case of a chordoma involving the axis that was treated using a single-stage total intralesional C-2 spondylectomy with preservation of both VAs because the patient did not tolerate a preoperative occlusion test. A three-column reconstruction technique is also presented.
Use of newly developed instruments and endoscopes: full-endoscopic resection of lumbar disc herniations via the interlaminar and lateral transforaminal approach
Authors: Ruetten Sebastian , Komp Martin , Merk Harry , Godolias Georgios
Published: July 2008

Object

Even with good results, conventional disc operations may result in subsequent damage due to trauma. Endoscopic techniques have become the standard in many areas because of the advantages they offer intraoperatively and postoperatively in rehabilitation. The goal of this prospective study was to examine the expanded technical possibilities of full-endoscopic transforaminal and interlaminar resection of herniated lumbar discs in which the authors used newly developed optics and instruments. The focus was on questions of achieving sufficient decompression, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the minimally invasive procedure.

Methods

Two hundred thirty-two patients underwent follow up for 2 years after undergoing surgery. In addition to general and specific parameters, the following measuring instruments were used: a visual analog scale, the German version of the North American Spine Society instrument, and the Oswestry Disability Index of low-back pain disability.

Postoperatively 84% of the patients no longer had leg pain, and 12% had only occasional pain. The results of decompression were equivalent to those of conventional procedures. The incidence of traumatization was reduced. Epidural scarring was minimized. The recurrence rate was 6.0%. No serious surgical complications were observed. Resection of the herniated disc was technically possible in all cases in which the new instruments were used.

Conclusions

The authors view the aforedescribed techniques, which offer the advantages of a truly minimally invasive procedure, as a sufficient and safe supplementation and alternative to conventional procedures, when the appropriate indication criteria are heeded. The new endoscope with its 4.2-mm working channel and corresponding instruments significantly reduced the technical problems.
Cortical reorganization in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy
Authors: Holly Langston T. , Dong Yun , Albistegui-Dubois Richard , Marehbian Jonathan , Dobkin Bruce
Published: July 2008

Object

Recent investigations have demonstrated that the cerebral cortex can reorganize as a result of spinal cord injury and may play a role in preserving neurological function. Reorganization of cortical representational maps in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) has not been previously described. The authors sought to determine the feasibility of using functional magnetic resonance (fMR) imaging in patients with CSM to investigate changes in the cortical representation of the wrist and ankle before and after surgical intervention.

Methods

Four patients with clinical and imaging evidence of CSM were prospectively enrolled in this study. The patients underwent preoperative neurological examination, functional assessment, cervical imaging, and brain fMR imaging. The fMR imaging activation task undertaken was either wrist extension or ankle dorsiflexion, depending on whether the patient's primary impairment was hand dysfunction or gait difficulty. The cohort then underwent further evaluations at 6 weeks and 3 and 6 months postoperatively. In addition, five healthy volunteers underwent fMR imaging at two different time points and served as controls.

In the healthy volunteers fMR imaging demonstrated areas of focal cortical activation limited to the contralateral primary motor area for the assigned motor tasks; the activation patterns were stable throughout repeated imaging. In comparison, in patients with CSM fMR imaging demonstrated expansion of the cortical representation of the affected extremity. Surgical decompression resulted in improvements in neurological function and reorganization of the representational map.

Conclusions

The findings of this preliminary study demonstrate the potential of fMR imaging to assess changes in cortical representation before and after surgical intervention in patients with CSM. A future study involving a larger cohort of patients as well as the stratification of patients with CSM, based on the aforementioned factors that influence cortical adaptation, will allow a more detailed quantitative analysis.
Spinal epidural arteriovenous fistulas associated with progressive myelopathy
Authors: Silva Nivaldo , Januel Anne Christine , Tall Philippe , Cognard Christophe
Published: July 2008

✓The authors report the cases of four patients who presented with progressive myelopathy (one patient had been asymptomatic for 25 years) due to spinal epidural arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs). Clinical symptoms and magnetic resonance imaging findings were similar to those of dural AVFs. In contrast to dural AVFs, angiography showed that the lesions were fed by multiple vessels and drained in one case in multiple veins. Perimedullary venous drainage was visible in three of the four cases. All fistulas were cured by embolization; arterial access was used in two cases and venous in two. The authors' aim in this paper is to emphasize the differences between dural and epidural AVFs in terms of their physiopathology and angioarchitecture as well as the therapeutic strategy.
Progressive, repeated lumbar compression fracture at the same level after vertebral kyphoplasty with calcium phosphate cement
Authors: Heo Dong-Hwa , Kuh Sung-Uk
Published: July 2008

✓ The authors report a case of vertebral body collapse after kyphoplasty in which calcium phosphate cement (CPC) was used. The patient, a 69-year-old woman in whom an L-1 compression fracture had been revealed on magnetic resonance imaging, had been treated at another regional hospital for the compressed vertebra. Kyphoplasty in which CPC was used had been performed at that time. Two months later, she suffered from severe upper back pain, which was the same as the previously existing pain, and she experienced progressive weakness of both lower extremities (motor strength Grade 4/5). A more severe compression of the L-1 vertebra was revealed, and thecal sac compression caused by retrobulging of the CPC on the collapsed L-1 vertebra was present 5 months posttreatment. The authors performed decompression and fusion surgery to treat the repeatedly collapsed L-1 vertebra. They suggest that the use of CPC in vertebrae with compression fractures should be reconsidered.
Electrochemical Investigation of Oligonucleotide-DNA Hybridization on Poly(4-Methoxyphenethylamine)
Authors: Silva Francielle B. , Vieira Sabrina N. , Goulart Luiz R. , Boodts Julien F. C. , Brito-Madurro Ana G. , Madurro João M.
Published: July 2008

This work describes the immobilization of purine and pyrimidine bases and immobilization/hybridization of synthetic oligonucleotides on graphite electrodes modified with poly(4-methoxyphenethylamine) produced in acid medium. The immobilization of adenine, guanine, cytosine and thymine on these modified electrodes was efficient, producing characteristic peaks. Another relevant observation is that, according to the literature, pyrimidine bases, cytosine and thymine are more difficult to detect. However, when immobilized onto the poly(4-methoxyphenethylamine), a significant increase in the magnitude of the current was obtained. The observation of the hybridization between the poly(GA) probe and its complementary, poly(CT) target, was possible by monitoring the guanosine and adenosine peaks or through methylene blue indicator, using differential pulse voltammetry. Hybridization results in a decrease of the peak current of guanosine and adenosine or the signal of methylene blue accumulated on the modified electrode surface. The hybridization with the complementary target was also investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results showed a significant modification in the Nyquist plot, after addition of the complementary target, with increase of the charge transference resistance.
Intergroup relations and home range use in Verreaux's sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi)
Authors: Benadi Gita , Fichtel Claudia , Kappeler Peter
Published: July 2008

Relationships between neighboring groups feature prominently in socioecological theory, but few empirical studies have focused on the effects of neighbors on the behavior of primates. Interactions between neighboring groups are most conspicuous during intergroup encounters, but the likelihood of encounters with neighbors can also affect ranging and activity patterns indirectly, and, as a result, behavioral patterns in areas of exclusive use may differ from those in overlap areas of adjacent home ranges. The aim of this study was to examine intergroup relations and spatial variation in home range use in Verreaux's sifaka (Propithecus verreauxi) during the annual mating season. Based on 230 hr of focal animal data collected from ten members of five adjacent groups, we found that behavioral patterns and patterns of resource utilization were not markedly different between areas of exclusive use and overlap areas of adjacent home ranges. Group cohesion tended to be higher in overlap than in core areas, but the proportion of time spent resting and foraging did not differ between these two areas. However, dominant males exhibited a higher scent‐marking rate in overlap areas. Observations during intergroup encounters revealed that chases between males occurred frequently, whereas fights involving physical contact were not observed. We also found that the intergroup dominance hierarchy depended on the relative group size or the number of males in each group, with groups of lower dominance rank exhibiting a tendency to sleep proportionally more often in their core areas. The results of this study suggest that in primate species with a moderate level of intergroup aggression, such as Verreaux's sifaka, the possibility of encountering neighbors in areas of home range overlap does not exert strong influence on their behavior and resource utilization. Am. J. Primatol. 70:956–965, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pharmacokinetics of dexamethasone in a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Earp Justin C. , Pyszczynski Nancy A. , Molano Diana S. , Jusko William J.
Published: July 2008

Dexamethasone (DEX) is often given for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and clinical dosing regimens of DEX have often been based empirically. This study tests whether the inflammation processes in a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis alters the clearance and volume of distribution of DEX when compared with healthy controls. Groups of healthy and arthritic male Lewis rats received either a low (0.225 mg/kg) or high (2.25 mg/kg) intramuscular dose of DEX. Arthritis was induced by intradermal injection of type II porcine collagen in incomplete Freund's adjuvant emulsion at the base of the tail. DEX was dosed in the arthritic animals 22 days post arthritis induction. Plasma DEX concentrations were determined by HPLC. Plasma concentration versus time data were analysed by non‐compartmental analysis and pharmacokinetic model fitting using the population pharmacokinetic software NONMEM V. A linear bi‐exponential pharmacokinetic model with extravascular input described the data for both healthy and arthritic animals. Clearance was the only parameter determined statistically different between both groups (healthy=1.05 l/h/kg, arthritic=1.19 l/h/kg). The steady‐state volume of distribution for both groups was 4.85 l/kg. The slight difference in clearance was visibly undetectable and unlikely to produce meaningful changes in DEX disposition in arthritic rats. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predicting % of crystallinity in FCC catalysts by FT‐MIR and PLS
Authors: Dago Angel , Talavera Isneri , Fernández Reinaldo , Hernández Noslen , Laza Mercedes
Published: July 2008

This paper describes an analytical procedure for prediction of percent of crystallinity of fluidized catalytic cracking catalysts (FCC) using Fourier transform mid infrared spectroscopy (FT‐MIR) and partial least‐squares (PLS) multivariate calibration technique. In order to make a robust regression model, multiplicative scatter correction (MSC) and smoothed second derivative pre‐processing methods were tested. Root mean squared error of prediction (RMSEP) of an independent test set was used to measure the performance of the models. The comparison shows that reasonable values of RMSEP and RMSECV were obtained for PLS‐MSC model (RMSEP = 0.8% and RMSECV = 1.3%). The accuracy of the results obtained by the PLS‐MSC regression model is in accordance with the uncertainty of the XRPD reference method. The developed method can be implemented in a refinery laboratory environment with ease. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of an outreach and internal navigation program on breast cancer diagnosis in an urban cancer center with a large African‐American population
Authors: Gabram Sheryl G. A. , Lund Mary Jo B. , Gardner Jessica , Hatchett Nadjo , Bumpers Harvey L. , Okoli Joel , Rizzo Monica , Johnson Barbara J. , Kirkpatrick Gina B. , Brawley Otis W.
Published: July 2008

BACKGROUND.

Compared with white women, African‐American (AA) women who are diagnosed with breast cancer experience an excess in mortality. To improve outcomes, the authors implemented community education and outreach initiatives in their cancer center, at affiliated primary care sites, and in the surrounding communities. They then assessed the effectiveness of these outreach initiatives and internal patient navigation on stage of diagnosis.

METHODS.

This cross‐sectional study was an analysis of all women with breast cancer who were diagnosed and/or treated in the years from 2001 through 2004. The outreach initiatives were implemented in 2001; 125 trained Community Health Advocates (CHAs) provided educational programs to the community, and Patient Navigators communicated directly with patients to encourage screening, diagnostic procedures, and treatment.

RESULTS.

In total, 487 patients were diagnosed/treated from 2001 through 2004. Since 2001, there were 1148 community interventions by CHAs with an estimated program attendance of >10,000 participants. In the interval from 2001 through 2004, the proportion of stage 0 (in situ) breast cancers increased from 12.4% (n = 14) to 25.8% (n = 33; P < .005), and there was a decline in stage IV invasive breast cancers from 16.8% (n = 19) to 9.4% (n = 12; P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS.

The outreach initiatives and internal patient navigation appear to have improved stage at diagnosis. To determine whether specific patients presented earlier as a result of specific community outreach initiatives, prospective work is underway to measure the effects of these interventions on potential stage migration. Similarly, prospective data are being collected to determine whether Patient Navigators influence treatment and appointment adherence as well as the underlying reasons for barriers to specific interventions in this underserved minority population. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Parotid cancer: Impact of changes from the 1997 to the 2002 American Joint Committee on Cancer classification on outcome prediction
Authors: Schroeder Ursula , Groppe Daniela , Mueller Rolf‐Peter , Guntinas‐Lichius Orlando
Published: July 2008

BACKGROUND.

The TNM classification [American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC)] of salivary gland cancer was revised again in 2002. In the present study, the outcome prediction of the new TNM system was compared with the old 1997 TNM system in 202 patients with primary parotid cancer.

METHODS.

All patients treated from 1986 to 2006 were reclassified in both TNM systems. Disease‐free survival (DFS) rates were calculated. The prognostic validity of both the TNM system and other factors were analyzed univariately (log‐rank test) and multivariately (Cox regression).

RESULTS.

AJCC TNM stage changes from 1997 to 2002 altered the disease staging in 35% of the patients. Concerning DFS, the new TNM 2002 staging allowed significantly better separation of stage III, but not of stage I versus stage II. The TNM 2002 staging was the most powerful predictor for DFS according to multivariate analysis. The 1997 system showed no independent significance. The subclassification of the new stage IV was not satisfactory; no clear distinction of IVA versus III, and IVA versus IVB was possible.

CONCLUSIONS.

The TNM 2002 staging is more valid than the 1997 system, but a significant problem was observed in separating stage I from stage II, and within the stage IV subgroups. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Analysis of flow cytometry data using an automatic processing tool
Authors: Jeffries David , Zaidi Irfan , de Jong Bouke , Holland Martin J. , Miles David J. C.
Published: July 2008

In spite of recent advances in flow cytometry technology, most cytometry data is still analyzed manually which is labor‐intensive for large datasets and prone to bias and inconsistency. We designed an automatic processing tool (APT) to rapidly and consistently define and describe cell populations across large datasets. Image processing, smoothing, and clustering algorithms were used to generate an expert system that automatically reproduces the functionality of commercial manual cytometry processing tools. The algorithms were developed using a dataset collected from CMV‐infected infants and combined within a graphical user interface, to create the APT. The APT was used to identify regulatory T‐cells in HIV‐infected adults, based on expression of FOXP3. Results from the APT were compared directly with the manual analyses of five immunologists and showed close agreement, with a concordance correlation coefficient of 0.96 (95% CI 0.91–0.98). The APT was well accepted by users and able to process around 100 data files per hour. By applying consistent criteria to all data generated by a study, the APT can provide a level of objectivity that is difficult to match using conventional manual analysis. © 2008 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry