bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Detection of Circulating Tumor Cells in the Peripheral Blood of Patients with Colorectal Cancer Using RT‐PCR: Significance of the Prediction of Postoperative Metastasis
Authors: Wang Jaw‐Yuan , Wu Chan‐Han , Lu Chien‐Yu , Hsieh Jan‐Sing , Wu Deng‐Chyang , Huang Sung‐Yu , Lin Shiu‐Ru
Published: May 2006

Background

Approximately 20%–45% of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients ultimately develop local recurrence or metastasis following curative surgical resection. The latter is caused by tumor cells shed from the primary carcinoma prior to or during operation, currently undetected by standard clinical staging. Fortunately, the presence of tumor cells in peripheral blood can be detected by molecular methods and is being regarded increasingly as a clinically relevant prognostic factor.

Materials and Methods

To detect the presence of circulating tumor cells and evaluate their relationship to postoperative metastatic relapse, we simultaneously examined human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), cytokeratin‐19 (CK‐19), cytokeratin‐20 (CK‐20), and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) mRNA (messenger RNA) in the peripheral blood of 72 CRC patients and 30 healthy individuals. Using a reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), these tumor‐related mRNAs were amplified; in addition, analyses were carried out for their correlation with patients’ clinicopathologic features, as well as the occurrence of postoperative metastasis.

Results

In RT‐PCR analysis of the peripheral blood, 69.4% (50 out of 72), 66.7% (48 out of 72), 52.8% (38 out of 72), and 72.2% (52 out of 72) of CRC patients were positive for hTERT, CK‐19, CK‐20, and CEA mRNA respectively. All 30 healthy individuals were negative for hTERT and CEA mRNA expression, while 2 were positive for either CK‐19 mRNA or CK‐20 mRNA expression. The detection of CEA mRNA was significantly correlated with depth of tumor invasion (P = 0.012), vessel invasion (P = 0.035), TNM stage (P < 0.0001), and postoperative metastasis (P < 0.0001), while positive hTERT mRNA was correlated with TNM stage (P = 0.037) and CK‐19 was correlated with depth of tumor invasion (P = 0.039) and postoperative metastasis (P = 0.017). In addition, multivariate logistic regression showed that only CEA mRNA was an independent and significant predictor of postoperative metastasis (P = 0.006). Our findings suggest that CEA mRNA may be a more reliable marker than hTERT, CK‐19, and CK‐20 for the detection of circulating cancer cells in the peripheral blood of CRC patients.

Conclusions

Using RT‐PCR for the detection of CEA mRNA is feasible and may be a promising tool for early detection of micrometastatic circulating tumor cells in CRC patients. CRC patients expressing positive CEA mRNA in peripheral blood have a significantly higher risk of postoperative metastasis. Nevertheless, confirmation of CEA mRNA as a prognostic predictive factor requires the continuation of patient follow‐up.
Essential Trauma Care in Ghana: Adaptation and Implementation on the Political Tough Road
Authors: Quansah Robert
Published: May 2006

Background

The main goal of the Essential Trauma Care (EsTC) project is to promote affordable and sustainable improvements in trauma care, on the ground in individual countries and their health care facilities. This has been occurring in several countries, including Ghana.

Results

The EsTC project has helped to solidify previously haphazard interactions between stakeholders from different sectors. It has allowed trauma care clinicians to interact more effectively with other groups, such as the Ministry of Health and the WHO country office. It has allowed the clinicians and other stakeholders to more effectively lobby government for increased attention to trauma care services. These interactions have led to a high‐profile stakeholders meeting, the Road Safety and Essential Trauma Care Workshop, which has represented the highest level of attention to trauma care in the country thus far. This meeting has generated a set of policy recommendations, which has been presented to Parliament for study, and, it is hoped, adoption.

Conclusions

To convert these recommendations to solid, sustainable action in improving care for the injured, we need to continue to engage in advocacy and to work with Parliament, the Ministry of Health, and other stakeholders, as well as to confront the deeper problems of Ghana’s brain drain, civil strife, and poverty.
Effect of Portal Vein Occlusion on the Pancreas: An Experimental Model
Authors: Aydede Hasan , Erhan Yamac , Ikgül Ozer , Cilaker Serap , Sakarya Aslan , Vatansever Seda
Published: May 2006

Background

The effects of portal vein occlusion on the pancreas are not clearly understood. Therefore, we studied histomorphological changes induced in the rat pancreas by various periods of portal vein occlusion.

Materials and methods

Sixty female Wistar albino rats were randomly allocated into four groups of 15 each. In Group I (control), rats underwent sham laparotomy to expose the portal vein proximal to its bifurcation. In Groups II–IV, rats underwent laparotomy followed by portal vein occlusion by clamping for 15, 30, and 60 minutes respectively. The pancreas was removed immediately after sham laparotomy in Group I and immediately after clamp release in Groups II–IV. Pancreatic tissue specimens were subjected to histochemical analysis for cell typing and diagnosis, immunohistochemical analysis for identification of the inflammatory markers tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and inducible NOS (iNOS), and TUNEL analysis was carried out for identification of apoptotic cells.

Results

Histochemistry revealed signs of inflammation in pancreatic tissue from rats subjected to portal vein occlusion. Immunohistochemistry revealed that the expression of proinflammatory cytokines TNF‐α and IL‐1β and the oxidative damage indicator iNOS in rat pancreatic tissue increased progressively with the duration of portal vein occlusion. TUNEL assay revealed no signs of apoptosis in any of the groups.

Conclusion

We conclude that portal vein occlusion triggers an inflammatory response in the pancreas that worsens the longer the occlusion lasts.
Evaluation of da Vinci Nissen Fundoplication Clinical Results and Cost Minimization
Authors: Nakadi Issam El , Mélot Christian , Closset Jean , De Moor Véronique , Bétroune Kahina , Feron Pascale , Lingier Pierre , Gelin Michel
Published: May 2006

Background

A new technical tool was developed and introduced into the therapeutic field of videoscopic surgery—robotic telemanipulation surgery. The aim of this study is to investigate in a prospective randomized trial the feasibility of the Nissen procedure using the da Vinci and to evaluate the benefits and the costs of this new technique compared with the conventional laparoscopic approach.

Materials and methods

Twenty patients with gastro‐esophageal reflux disease (GERD) were randomized into laparoscopic Nissen versus robot‐assisted Nissen fundoplication. All the patients signed an informed consent document. The time data of the procedure, the efficacy of the instruments, the intra‐operative incidents, postoperative morbidity, and cost minimization are presented.

Results

Nine patients were assigned to the robot, and 11 to the laparoscopic procedure. Both groups were similar in age, male/female ratio, and body mass index. The robot procedure time was significantly longer. The hospital stay and the alimentation day were similar. The number of postoperative complaints was similar after the 1st, 6th, and 12th postoperative months. However, on the 3rd postoperative month, the number of complaints was significantly higher in the robot group. The robot procedure was more expensive with regard to the instrumentation and reusable material, the nursing costs, the investment costs, and the maintenance costs.

Conclusions

No clear advantage of using robotics in the Nissen procedure was observed. The procedure seems to be feasible and safe. The technique is limited because of unadapted instruments. The disadvantages are the high costs and prolonged operative time.
Clinical Significance of Lymph Node Micrometastasis in Ampullary Carcinoma
Authors: Sakata Eiko , Shirai Yoshio , Yokoyama Naoyuki , Wakai Toshifumi , Sakata Jun , Hatakeyama Katsuyoshi
Published: May 2006

Background

This study aimed to clarify the clinical significance of lymph node micrometastasis in ampullary carcinoma.

Materials and Methods

Pancreaticoduodenectomy with regional lymphadenectomy was performed for 50 consecutive patients with ampullary carcinoma. A total of 1,283 regional lymph nodes (median, 25 per patient) were examined histologically for metastases. Overt metastasis was defined as metastasis detected during routine histologic examination with hematoxylin and eosin. Micrometastasis was defined as metastasis first detected by immunohistochemistry with an antibody against cytokeratins 7 and 8. The median follow‐up period was 119 months after resection.

Results

Overt metastasis was positive in 90 lymph nodes from 27 patients. Micrometastasis was positive in 33 lymph nodes from 12 patients, all of whom also had overt nodal metastases. Patients with nodal micrometastasis had a larger number of lymph nodes with overt metastasis (median, 3.5) than those without (median, 0; P < 0.001). Overt metastasis to distant nodes (superior mesenteric nodes, para‐aortic nodes) was more frequent (P = 0.001 and P = 0.038, respectively) in patients with nodal micrometastasis. Nodal micrometastasis was found to be a strong independent prognostic factor on univariate (P < 0.0001) and multivariate (relative risk, 5.085; P = 0.007) analyses. From among the 27 patients with overt nodal metastasis, the outcome after resection was significantly worse in the patients with nodal micrometastasis (median survival time of 11 months) than in those without (median survival time of 63 months; P = 0.0009).

Conclusions

Immunohistochemically detected lymph node micrometastasis indicates intensive lymphatic spread, and thus adversely affects the survival of patients with ampullary carcinoma.
Conversion of hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenases into hydroxymandelate synthases by directed evolution
Authors: O’Hare Helen M. , Huang Fanglu , Holding Andrew , Choroba Oliver W. , Spencer Jonathan B.
Published: May 2006

Hydroxymandelate synthase (HmaS) and hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HppD) are non‐heme iron‐dependent dioxygenases, which share a common substrate and first catalytic step. The catalytic pathways then diverge to yield hydroxymandelate for secondary metabolism, or homogentisate in tyrosine catabolism. To probe the differences between these related active sites that channel a common intermediate down alternative pathways, we attempted to interconvert their activities by directed evolution. HmaS activity was readily introduced to HppD by just two amino acid changes. A parallel attempt to engineer HppD activity in HmaS was unsuccessful, suggesting that homogentisate synthesis places greater chemical and steric demands on the active site.
A model for co‐translational translocation: Ribosome‐regulated nascent polypeptide translocation at the protein‐conducting channel
Authors: Mitra Kakoli , Frank Joachim
Published: May 2006

The protein‐conducting channel (PCC) must allow both the translocation of soluble polypeptide regions across, and the lateral partitioning of hydrophobic transmembrane helices (TMHs) into, the membrane. We have analyzed existing structures of ribosomes and ribosome–PCC complexes and observe conformational changes suggesting that the ribosome may sense and orient the nascent polypeptide and also facilitate conformational changes in the PCC, subsequently directing the nascent polypeptide into the appropriate PCC‐mediated translocation mode. The PCC is predicted to be able to accommodate one central, consolidated channel or two segregated pores with different lipid accessibilities, which may enable the lipid‐mediated partitioning of a TMH from one pore, while the other, aqueous, pore allows translocation of a hydrophilic polypeptide segment. Our hypothesis suggests a plausible mechanism for the transitioning of the PCC between different configurations.
CHOP is involved in neuronal apoptosis induced by neurotrophic factor deprivation
Authors: Tajiri Seiji , Yano Shigetoshi , Morioka Motohiro , Kuratsu Jun-ichi , Mori Masataka , Gotoh Tomomi
Published: May 2006

Neurotrophic factors are essential for the survival of neurons. We found that the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress‐C/EBP homologues protein (CHOP) pathway to be activated during neurotrophic factor deprivation‐induced apoptosis in PC12 neuronal cells and in primary cultured neurons, and this apoptosis was suppressed in the neurons from chop
−/− mice. In addition, we found that CHOP is expressed in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and striatum of the young adult mouse brain. The number of apoptotic cells in the SVZ decreased in chop
−/− mice. These results indicate that the ER stress‐CHOP pathway plays a role in neuronal apoptosis during the development of the brain.
Hyperosmotic stress activates p65/RelB NFκB in cultured cardiomyocytes with dichotomic actions on caspase activation and cell death
Authors: Eisner Verónica , Quiroga Clara , Criollo Alfredo , Eltit José Miguel , Chiong Mario , Parra Valentina , Hidalgo Karla , Toro Barbra , Díaz-Araya Guillermo , Lavandero Sergio
Published: May 2006

NFκB is a participant in the process whereby cells adapt to stress. We have evaluated the activation of NFκB pathway by hyperosmotic stress in cultured cardiomyocytes and its role in the activation of caspase and cell death. Exposure of cultured rat cardiomyocytes to hyperosmotic conditions induced phosphorylation of IKKα/β as well as degradation of IκBα. All five members of the NFκB family were identified in cardiomyocytes. Analysis of the subcellular distribution of NFκB isoforms in response to hyperosmotic stress showed parallel migration of p65 and RelB from the cytosol to the nucleus. Measurement of the binding of NFκB to the consensus DNA κB‐site binding by EMSA revealed an oscillatory profile with maximum binding 1, 2 and 6 h after initiation of the hyperosmotic stress. Supershift analysis revealed that p65 and RelB (but not p50, p52 or cRel) were involved in the binding of NFκB to DNA. Hyperosmotic stress also resulted in activation of the NFκB‐lux reporter gene, transient activation of caspases 9 and 3 and phosphatidylserine externalization. The effect on cell viability was not prevented by ZVAD (a general caspase inhibitor). Blockade of NFκB with AdIκBα, an IκBα dominant negative overexpressing adenovirus, prevented activation of caspase 9 (more than that caspase 3) but did not affect cell death in hyperosmotically stressed cardiomyocytes. We conclude that hyperosmotic stress activates p65 and RelB NFκB isoforms and NFκB mediates caspase 9 activation in cardiomyocytes. However cell death triggered by hyperosmotic stress was caspase‐ and NFκB‐independent.
Regulation of gonadotropin secretion and puberty onset by neuromedin U
Authors: Fukue Yoshihiko , Sato Takahiro , Teranishi Hitoshi , Hanada Reiko , Takahashi Tomoko , Nakashima Yoshiki , Kojima Masayasu
Published: May 2006

Neuromedin U (NMU), an anorexigenic peptide, was originally isolated from porcine spinal cord in 1985. As NMU is abundant in the anterior pituitary gland, we investigated the effects of NMU on gonadotropin secretion. Both NMU and its receptors, NMUR1 and NMUR2, were expressed in the pituitary gland. NMU suppressed LH and FSH releases from rat anterior pituitary cells. Moreover, NMU‐deficient mice exhibit an early onset of vaginal opening. The LHβ/FSHβ ratio, which is an index of puberty onset, is high in young NMU‐deficient mice. These results indicate that NMU suppresses gonadotropin secretion and regulates the onset of puberty.
Changes in Scaphoid Bone Density after Acute Fracture
Authors: MADELEY N. J. , STEPHEN A. B. , DOWNING N. D. , DAVIS T. R. C.
Published: May 2006

The radiographic density of the proximal fragments of 16 scaphoid fractures was assessed on scaphoid series radiographs taken at 6 to 12 weeks. In addition, dual energy X-ray absorptiometry measurements of bone mineral density in the distal radius and proximal and distal fracture fragments were performed at 1 to 2 weeks and 6 to 12 weeks. Median reductions of 9% and 10% were observed in bone mineral density in the proximal fracture fragment and the distal radius respectively, but these did not correlate with the radiographic density of the proximal fragment. A greater median reduction in bone mineral density (27%) was observed in the distal fracture fragment and more bone loss occurred at this site when there was an apparent increase in the radiographic density of the proximal fragment (median fall of 0.23 g/cm2 versus 0.14 g/cm2). Thus, apparent increased radiographic density of the proximal fragment may be due to increased bone loss from the distal fragment.
Laundering “money”: on the need for conceptual clarity within the sociology of money
Authors: Dodd Nigel
Published: May 2006

Recent work by sociologists, geographers and anthropologists has drawn attention to the “de-territorialization” of money, and to the emergence of “alternative” monetary forms such as e-money and complementary currencies. The increasingly diverse nature of these forms raises doubts as to whether “money” is a sufficiently coherent entity to be covered by a single definition. In this paper, these doubts are explored through a critical evaluation of the work of four prominent scholars of money: Cohen, Ingham, Zelizer and Hart. I argue that, despite their empirical richness, these approaches are undermined by a number of conceptual confusions: for example, by a tendency to refer to “money” and “currency” as if they were synonymous. The paper concludes by suggesting that Simmel’s “pure concept” of money provides the most promising basis on which to develop an analytically rigorous treatment of money which can embrace the variety of forms which circulate today.
Trust as an Action
Authors: Dumouchel Paul
Published: May 2006

Most authors view trust as a psychological disposition that motivates an agent to cooperative behavior in circumstances where the consequences of the agent’s action are uncertain and especially when this uncertainty depends on the reaction of other agents. This article criticizes this general approach and argues that trust is best seen as the action rather than as whatever it is that motivates it. Trust is defined as an act through which an agent gives to another agent power over him or herself.
Incertitudes sur l’Habitus
Authors: Frère Bruno
Published: May 2006

Bourdieu was the founder of a structuralist paradigm which is now often applied by some sociologists and strongly criticised by others. We are interested here in the intermediate attempts made by Lahire and Corcuff. Without omitting to notice some dead ends, they understood the interest of the “singular” habitus concept. After following their approach, we propose a “fictional” definition of this habitus in order to make this paradigm operational in areas where its heuristic capacity is low (like the new social movements).
An Outline of a Revisionist Theory of Modernity
Authors: Kaviraj Sudipta
Published: May 2006

Modernization, contrary to the common assumption of most writings in the field, does not follow a uniform path. The diversity of the historical experiences in the Third World countries imposes a severe revision of the theory. The case of India is taken as a good example. It helps the author to declare that there are two theorical lines which must be at the same time divided and connected. The first is functionalist, the second sequentiel, including contradictions and break thoughts. A last section is devoted to the necessity of reflexivity.
The Origins of Campaign Agendas
Authors: SIDES JOHN
Published: May 2006

Why and how do candidates choose the issues on which their campaigns are based? Drawing on a large database of candidate advertisements from the 1998 House and Senate campaigns, extant theories of issue emphasis, which focus on factors such as party ownership and candidate record, are tested here and these theories are expanded by examining in more detail the role of constituency characteristics. Most notably, party ownership's impact is demonstrated to be weak: candidates are more willing to ‘trespass’ or talk about the other party's issues than previous literature has found. Also ‘trespassing’ is shown to be facilitated by framing the other party's issues in certain ways. The results have implications for theories of candidate strategy and for normative questions, such as how much ‘dialogue’ occurs in campaigns.
Trade and the Timing of Elections
Authors: KAYSER MARK ANDREAS
Published: May 2006

Do trade-transmitted international business cycles affect the timing of national elections? This article shows that export expansions do not differ substantively from booms in aggregate output in inviting opportunistic governments to call elections, especially as their terms mature. Further analysis confirms two ancillary implications of this relationship: (a) that clusters of countries tend to hold elections in periods of international economic expansion and (b) that national election cycles, much like business cycles, have become more correlated over time, most prominently in Europe. The findings in this article raise implications for continued economic integration: freer movement of goods, services and capital may imply more correlated business cycles and, by extension, election cycles.
Economic Geography and Economic Voting: Evidence from the US States
Authors: EBEID MICHAEL , RODDEN JONATHAN
Published: May 2006

If voters use information about the economy to assess the competence of incumbents, a connection between economic conditions and incumbent success should only be discernible in settings where public policy might plausibly affect the economy, and where the assignment of government responsibility is relatively straightforward. Applying this logic to gubernatorial elections in the United States, we test the following hypothesis: the connection between economic conditions and incumbents' vote shares is mediated by the structure of the state economy. This hypothesis is premised on the idea that voters understand that raw macroeconomic aggregates – when driven by factors like weather, commodity prices and federal policy – are poor signals of incumbent performance. Using data from gubernatorial elections held between 1950 and 1998, we show that the connection between macroeconomic indicators and incumbent success is weak in states dominated by natural resources and farming but quite strong elsewhere. This finding helps explain why earlier studies found no connection between state-level economic conditions and gubernatorial elections.
Geology and timing of dextral strike-slip shear zones in Danmarkshavn, North-East Greenland Caledonides
Authors: SARTINI-RIDEOUT C. , GILOTTI J. A. , McCLELLAND W. C.
Published: May 2006

The North-East Greenland eclogite province is divided into a western, central and eastern block by the sinistral Storstrømmen shear zone in the west and the dextral Germania Land deformation zone in the east. A family of steep, NNW-striking dextral mylonite zones in the Danmarkshavn area are geometrically and kinematically similar to the ductile Germania Land deformation zone, located 25 km to the east. Amphibolite facies deformation at Danmarkshavn is characterized by boudinage of eclogite bodies within quartzofeldspathic host gneisses, pegmatite emplacement into the boudin necks and subsequent deformation of pegmatites parallel to gneissosity, a widespread component of dextral shear within the gneisses, and localization of strain into 10–50 m thick dextral mylonite zones. The gneisses and concordant mylonite zones are cut by a swarm of weakly to undeformed, steeply dipping, E–W-striking pegmatitic dykes. Oscillatory-zoned zircon cores from two boudin neck pegmatites give weighted mean 206Pb/238U sensitive, high mass resolution ion microprobe (SHRIMP) ages of 376 ± 5 Ma and 343 ± 7 Ma. Cathodoluminescence images of these zircons reveal complex additional rims, with ages from ranging from c. 360 to 320 Ma. Oscillatory-zoned, prismatic zircons from two late, cross-cutting pegmatites yield weighted mean 206Pb/238U SHRIMP ages of 343 ± 5 Ma and 332 ± 3 Ma. Zircons from the boudin neck pegmatites record a prolonged growth history, marked by fluid influx, during amphibolite facies metamorphism beginning at c. 375 Ma. The cross-cutting pegmatites show that dextral deformation in the gneisses and ductile mylonite zones had stopped by c. 340 Ma. Ultrahigh-pressure metamorphism in the eastern block at 360 Ma requires that the Greenland Caledonides were in an overall contractional plate tectonic regime. This, combined with 20% steep amphibolite facies lineations in the eclogites, gneisses and mylonites suggests that dextral transpression may have been responsible for a first stage of eclogite exhumation between 370 and 340 Ma.
DISABILITY LIFE EXPECTANCY FOR THE ELDERLY, CITY OF SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL, 2000: GENDER AND EDUCATIONAL DIFFERENCES
Authors: CAMARGOS MIRELA CASTRO SANTOS , MACHADO CARLA JORGE , DO NASCIMENTO RODRIGUES ROBERTO
Published: May 2006

There is evidence that ‘health life expectancy’ (expected number of years to be lived in health) differs by socioeconomic status. Time spent in health or disability plays a critical role in the use of health care services. The objective of this study was to estimate ‘disability life expectancy’ by age, gender and education attainment for the elderly of the city of São Paulo, Brazil, in the year 2000. Data came from the SABE database, population censuses and mortality statistics (SEADE Foundation). Life expectancy with disability was calculated using Sullivan’s method on the basis of the current probability of death and prevalence of disability by educational level. The prevalence of disability increased with age, for both sexes and both levels of educational attainment studied. Men showed a lower prevalence of disability, in general, and persons with lower educational attainment showed a higher prevalence of disability. Regarding life expectancy, women could expect to live longer than men, with and without disability. For both sexes, the percentage of life expectancy lived with disability decreased with increasing educational attainment. With increasing educational attainment, the sex differences in the percentage of remaining years to be lived with disability increased for most ages. Finally, the percentage of remaining years to be lived with disability increased with age for males and females, except for males with high educational attainment between the ages 70–75 and 75–80. The results may serve as a guide for public policies in the country, since health problems faced by older persons, such as disability, are the result of a number of past experiences during their life-times, such as health care, housing conditions, hygiene practices and education. Education influences health behaviours and is related, to some extent, to all these factors. Therefore, improvements in education for the disadvantaged may improve health.
Intratympanic gentamicin for Ménière's disease: effect on quality of life as assessed by Glasgow benefit inventory
Authors: Banerjee A S , Johnson I J M
Published: May 2006

Objectives: To evaluate patients' quality of life after receiving intratympanic gentamicin as treatment for Ménière's disease.

Design: Retrospective study using the Glasgow benefit inventory scale (GBI) questionnaire.

Participants: Patients diagnosed with Ménière's disease, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) diagnostic criteria (refractory to medical management), who were treated with intratympanic gentamicin injection.

Materials and methods: This retrospective study included all patients diagnosed with Ménière's disease (according to AAO-HNS criteria; refractory to medical management) undergoing gentamicin labyrinthectomy in our unit over the preceding three years. Other causes of hearing loss were ruled out as all patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging, electronystagmography and sway magnetometry. Patients underwent gentamicin infiltration at a concentration of 2 ml of 30 mg/ml and were reviewed six weeks later and received a repeat injection if no benefit was evident. Six months after their last follow up, they were sent a GBI questionnaire. Twenty-one questionnaires were posted, and the response rate was 81 per cent.

Results: As per the responses received, the total benefit of intratympanic gentamicin injection was found to be +30.3. The three components of GBI were analysed separately; it was found that general benefit was greatest (+33.3), followed by physical benefit (+28.1) and social benefit (+21.6).

Conclusion: This study suggests that gentamicin definitely improves quality of life in patients with Ménière's disease and should be the first line of treatment if medical management fails.
Demonstration of current drive by a rotating magnetic dipole field
Authors: GIERSCH L. , SLOUGH J. T. , WINGLEE R.
Published: May 2006

A dipole-like rotating magnetic field was produced by a pair of circular, orthogonal coils inside a metal vacuum chamber. When these coils were immersed in plasma, large currents were driven outside the coils: the currents in the plasma were generated and sustained by the rotating magnetic dipole (RMD) field. The peak RMD-driven current was at roughly two RMD coil radii, and this current (60 kA m−) was sufficient to reverse the ambient magnetic field (33 G). Plasma density, electron temperature, magnetic field and current probes indicated that plasma formed inside the coils, then expanded outward until the plasma reached equilibrium. This equilibrium configuration was adequately described by single-fluid magnetohydrodynamic equilibrium, wherein the cross product of the driven current and magnetic filed was approximately equal to the pressure gradient. The ratio of plasma pressure to magnetic field pressure, β, was locally greater than unity.
Tokamak turbulence at the scrape-off layer in TCABR with an ergodic magnetic limiter
Authors: HELLER M. V. A. P. , CALDAS I. L. , FERREIRA A. A. , SAETTONE E. A. O. , VANNUCCI A.
Published: May 2006

The influence of an ergodic magnetic limiter (EML) on plasma turbulence is investigated in the Tokamak Chauffage Alfvén Brésilien (TCABR), a tokamak with a peculiar natural superposition of the electrostatic and magnetic fluctuation power spectra. Experimental results show that the EML perturbation can reduce both the magnetic oscillation and the electrostatic plasma turbulence. Whenever this occurs, the turbulence-driven particle transport is also reduced. Moreover, a bispectral analysis shows that the nonlinear coupling between low- and high-frequency electrostatic fluctuations increases significantly with the EML application.
The alliance against depression: 2-year evaluation of a community-based intervention to reduce suicidality
Authors: HEGERL ULRICH , ALTHAUS DAVID , SCHMIDTKE ARMIN , NIKLEWSKI GUENTER
Published: May 2006

Background. The global burden and large diagnostic and therapeutic deficits associated with depressive disorders call for intervention programs. The aim of the Nuremberg Alliance against Depression (NAD) is to establish and to assess the effectiveness of a four-level intervention program for improving the care of patients with depression.

Method. A 2-year intervention program was performed in Nuremberg (480000 inhabitants) at four levels: training of family doctors and support through different methods; a public relations campaign informing about depression; cooperation with community facilitators (teachers, priests, local media, etc.); and support for self-help activities as well as for high-risk groups. The effects of the 2-year intervention on the number of suicidal acts (completed suicides plus suicide attempts, main outcome criterion) were evaluated with respect to a 1-year baseline and a control region (Wuerzburg, 270000 inhabitants).

Results. Compared to the control region, a reduction in frequency of suicidal acts was observed in Nuremberg during the 2-year intervention (2001 v. 2000: −19·4%; p[les ]0·082; 2002 v. 2000: −24%, p[les ]0·004). Considering suicide attempts only (secondary outcome criterion), the same effect was found (2001 v. 2000: −18·3%, p[les ]0·023; 2002 v. 2000: −26·5%, p<0·001). The reduction was most noticeable for high-risk methods (e.g. hanging, jumping, shooting). Concerning completed suicides, there were no significant differences compared to the control region.

Conclusions. The NAD appeared to be effective in reducing suicidality. It provides a concept as well as many methods that are currently being implemented in several other intervention regions in Germany and in other countries.
Democracy and the politics of the Word: Stout and Hauerwas on democracy and scripture
Authors: Pecknold C. C.
Published: May 2006

This article review considers the recent book by Jeffrey Stout, Democracy and Tradition, as a response to the work of Stanley Hauerwas and other Christian ‘new traditionalists’. The essay presents a brief overview of the book in order to ask questions of both Stout and Hauerwas. The author considers how ‘new traditionalists’ might respond to Stout with a theological concern for ‘participation’ in God's triune life as a model for citizenship, recommending that the scriptures play a more central role in public, democratic discourse.
Survivors of the nations: a response to Fergusson and Pecknold
Authors: Stout Jeffrey
Published: May 2006

This paper responds to two article reviews of Democracy and Tradition – one by David Fergusson, the other by C. C. Pecknold. The first part of the paper seeks to clarify the author's critique of Alasdair MacIntyre and Stanley Hauerwas, in particular MacIntyre's claim that our society is inherently incapable of sustaining rational discussion and Hauerwas's conception of what ‘being the church’ implies. The second part defends and extends the author's account of secularization. The third part considers truth, objectivity and the relationship between philosophy and political culture.
Teleoperation of mobile robots with time-varying delay
Authors: Slawiñski Emanuel , Mut Vicente , Postigo José F.
Published: May 2006

This paper proposes a stable control structure for the bilateral teleoperation of mobile robots. The proposed control structure includes a time-delay compensation placed on both the local and remote sites of the teleoperation system. To illustrate the performance and stability of the proposed control structure, experiences on a Pioneer 2DX mobile robot teleoperated through a commercial joystick with visual feedback, are shown.
User profiling in personal information agents: a survey
Authors: GODOY DANIELA , AMANDI ANALIA
Published: May 2006

Personal information agents have emerged in the last decade to help users to cope with the increasing amount of information available on the Internet. These agents are intelligent assistants that perform several information-related tasks such as finding, filtering and monitoring relevant information on behalf of users or communities of users. In order to provide personalized assistance, personal agents rely on representations of user information interests and preferences contained in user profiles. In this paper, we present a summary of the state-of-the-art in user profiling in the context of intelligent information agents. Existing approaches and lines of research in the main dimensions of user profiling, such as acquisition, learning, adaptation and evaluation, are discussed.
Applications of machine learning: matching problems to tasks and methods
Authors: VAN SOMEREN MAARTEN , URBANČIČ TANJA
Published: May 2006

The terminology of Machine Learning and Data Mining methods does not always allow a simple match between practical problems and methods. While some problems look similar from the user's point of view, but require different methods to be solved, some others look very different, yet they can be solved by applying the same methods and tools. Choosing appropriate Machine Learning methods for problem solving in practice is therefore largely a matter of experience and it is not realistic to expect a simple look-up table with matches between problems and methods. However, some guidelines can be given and a collection that summarizes other people's experience can also be helpful. A small number of definitions characterize the tasks that are performed by a large proportion of methods. Most of the variation in methods is concerned with differences in data types and algorithmic aspects of methods. In this paper, we summarize the main task types and illustrate how a wide variety of practical problems are formulated in terms of these tasks. The match between problems and tasks is illustrated with a collection of example applications with the aim of helping to express new practical problems as Machine Learning tasks. Some tasks can be decomposed into subtasks, allowing a wider variety of matches between practical problems and (combinations of) methods. We review the main principles for choosing between alternatives and illustrate this with a large collection of applications. We believe that this provides some guidelines.
Social mixing patterns for transmission models of close contact infections: exploring self-evaluation and diary-based data collection through a web-based interface
Authors: BEUTELS P. , SHKEDY Z. , AERTS M. , VAN DAMME P.
Published: May 2006

Although mixing patterns are crucial in dynamic transmission models of close contact infections, they are largely estimated by intuition. Using a convenience sample (n=73), we tested self-evaluation and prospective diary surveys with a web-based interface, in order to obtain social contact data. The number of recorded contacts was significantly (P<0·01) greater on workdays (18·1) vs. weekend days (12·3) for conversations, and vice versa for touching (5·4 and 7·2 respectively). Mixing was highly assortative with age for both (adults contacting other adults vs. 0- to 5-year-olds, odds ratio 8·9–10·8). Respondents shared a closed environment significantly more often with >20 other adults than with >20 children. The difference in number of contacts per day was non-significant between self-evaluation and diary (P=0·619 for conversations, P=0·125 for touching). We conclude that self-evaluation could yield similar results to diary surveys for general or very recent mixing information. More detailed data could be collected by diary, at little effort to respondents.
The Lanczos and conjugate gradient algorithms in finite precision arithmetic
Authors: Meurant Gérard , Strakoš Zdeněk
Published: May 2006

The Lanczos and conjugate gradient algorithms were introduced more than five decades ago as tools for numerical computation of dominant eigenvalues of symmetric matrices and for solving linear algebraic systems with symmetric positive definite matrices, respectively. Because of their fundamental relationship with the theory of orthogonal polynomials and Gauss quadrature of the Riemann-Stieltjes integral, the Lanczos and conjugate gradient algorithms represent very interesting general mathematical objects, with highly nonlinear properties which can be conveniently translated from algebraic language into the language of mathematical analysis, and vice versa. The algorithms are also very interesting numerically, since their numerical behaviour can be explained by an elegant mathematical theory, and the interplay between analysis and algebra is useful there too.

Motivated by this view, the present contribution wishes to pay a tribute to those who have made an understanding of the Lanczos and conjugate gradient algorithms possible through their pioneering work, and to review recent solutions of several open problems that have also contributed to knowledge of the subject.
Maximin: a direct approach to sustainability
Authors: CAIRNS ROBERT D. , LONG NGO VAN
Published: May 2006

We solve directly a general maximin (sustainment, intergenerational-equity) problem. Because the shadow values of a maximin problem do not correspond to the shadow values from a general discounted-utility solution, they correspond to the prices of only a very special competitive economy. Virtual discount factors for the economy arise. They do not correspond to hyperbolic discount factors. Hartwick's rule is derived and generalized naturally to take into account non-autonomous and non-deterministic features of the economy. Under uncertainty, Hartwick's rule is the analytic expression of a form of precautionary principle. Hotelling's rule is a necessary condition, but may be more complex than has been appreciated in simple models. Some interpretations of strong sustainment are special cases of weak sustainment but, paradoxically, may be more difficult to solve.
Preferential vs. multilateral trade liberalization: evidence and open questions
Authors: LIMÃO NUNO
Published: May 2006

All but one WTO member currently trade under one or more preferential trade agreements (PTAs). Despite the concern since the early 1990s that these agreements may be a stumbling block to multilateral trade liberalization (MTL) their numbers have risen at an increasing rate in the last 15 years. As preferential liberalization appears to become the rule rather than the exception, it is essential to ask whether there is evidence that it affects MTL. To do so we analyze recent empirical research that finds the US's and EU's PTAs were a stumbling block to their MTL in the Uruguay Round. We also propose new empirical work to answer more definitively whether PTAs are a stumbling block to worldwide MTL.
The challenges of WTO law: strategies for developing country adaptation
Authors: SHAFFER GREGORY
Published: May 2006

Although developing countries vary significantly in terms of trading profiles, they generally face three primary challenges if they are to participate effectively in the WTO dispute settlement system. These challenges are: (i) a relative lack of legal expertise in WTO law; (ii) constrained financial resources, including for the hiring of outside counsel; and (iii) fear of political and economic pressure. We can roughly categorize these challenges as constraints of law, money, and politics. This article explores various strategies for responding to these challenges, none of which involves a modification of the rules of the WTO's Dispute Settlement Understanding.
Product-specific rules of origin in EU and US preferential trading arrangements: an assessment
Authors: CADOT OLIVIER , CARRERE CELINE , DE MELO JAIME , TUMURCHUDUR BOLORMAA
Published: May 2006

Building on earlier work by Estevadeordal (2000), we construct a synthetic index (R-index) intending to capture the restrictiveness of rules of origin in preferential trading agreements. The R-index is applied to NAFTA and the Single List of the EU's PANEURO system covering all of the EU's preferential trade agreements. The R-index highlights how a common set of rules of origin can affect countries differently depending on their export structures, and how their complexity varies across sectors. Having controlled for the extent of tariff preference at the tariff-line level, the R-index contributes to explain differences in the rate at which preferences are used. Finally, we compute estimates of the compliance costs associated with rules of origin under NAFTA and under PANEURO and find them to be between 6.8% of good value (NAFTA) and 8% (PANEURO).
Die hochgradige Arteria carotis interna-Stenose – Stellenwert der Sonographie
Authors: Jungius  , Jung  , Clevert
Published: May 2006

Die Stenose der ACI stellt eine wichtige und behandelbare Ursache zerebraler Ischämien dar. Mit Fokussierung auf die sonographischen Verfahren werden morphologische und hämodynamische Stenosekriterien dargestellt und die differierenden Terminologien diskutiert. Hierbei werden auch weniger bekannte sonographische Methoden wie kontrastmittelunterstützte Power-Doppler-Sonographie und B-Flow berücksichtigt.
Ultraschallausbildung am Ultraschallsimulator
Authors: Terkamp  , Walter  , Benter  , Hoffmann  , Kirchner  , Dettmer  , Caselitz  , Wagner  , Reindell  , Simanowski  , Manns  , Gebel
Published: May 2006

Die Ultraschallausbildung lässt sich durch Schulung am Ultraschallsimulator verbessern, wobei die subjektive Akzeptanz der Simulatorausbildung noch nicht evaluiert wurde. Diese untersuchten wir bei Ultraschallkursteilnehmern der verschiedensten Qualifikationsniveaus im Rahmen eines Kurses der abdominellen Notfallsonographie während eines internationalen Ultraschall-Kongresses, während eines DEGUM Sonographie Grund-, Aufbau- und Refresherkurses und während einer Schulung in einem deutschen Schwerpunktkankenhaus und einem Universitätsklinikum. Insgesamt beurteilten 62.3% aller Kursteilnehmer die Bildqualität der Simulatorfälle als gut. Die Fallauswahl wurde von 84.3% der Kursteilnehmer und der Lernerfolg von 92.7% der Kursteilnehmer als gut beurteilt. 98.5% der Teilnehmer wünschten die Entwicklung weiterer Simulator-basierter Ultraschallkurse und 95.3% der Teilnehmer regten eine generelle Integration der Simulatorschulung in die Ultraschallausbildung an.
Anatomie ultrasonique du réseau veineux: Connaissances essentielles
Authors: Tutta
Published: May 2006

L'étude de l'anatomie des veines des membres inférieurs est compliquée. La présence de nombreuses veines superficielles et profondes, de collatérales et de veines d'anastomose, rend ardue la description globale du réseau veineux, d'autant plus que la nomenclature peut être variable malgré les gros efforts entrepris pour l'unification des termes descriptifs. Les nombreuses variantes anatomiques participent à la complexité de la possibilité d'exprimer verbalement ou par écrit de façon précise et concise une situation qui puisse correspondre à la réalité. Mais qu'est-ce la réalité? Normalement, l'examen phlébologique est demandé pour évaluation de la maladie veineuse soit aiguë soit chronique. On doit donc pouvoir connaître les paramètres de «normalité» pour pouvoir juger de la pathologie. Le stéthoscope du phlébologue a toujours été le «crayon Doppler». Aujourd'hui, dans l'optique d'un examen effectué par le spécialiste, seul l'Echo-Doppler (Duplex) semble apporter des informations suffisantes qui puissent amener à un diagnostic de fonctionnement dynamique normal et pathologique et aboutir donc à une conclusion adéquate sur l'attitude thérapeutique cohérente à adopter. De plus, cet instrument échographique est actuellement à disposition des spécialistes en ultrasonographie, intégré le plus souvent dans les appareils de gamme moyenne et haute et son utilisation peut apporter une aide au diagnostic différentiel tout particulièrement dans la recherche des thromboses veineuses profondes. Néanmoins, vue l'implication éthique et médico-légale d'un diagnostic erroné dans le cadre de la maladie thromboembolique potentiellement mortelle, l'exploration des veines doit être réservée à celui qui possède une formation adéquate. Les sociétés de spécialité en Ultrasonographie, Angiologie e Phlébologie ont émis (situation en Suisse) les directives précises pour la formation en Echo-Doppler.