bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevention of surgical site infection after breast cancer surgery by targeted prophylaxis antibiotic in patients at high risk of surgical site infection
Authors: Nicolas Penel , Yazdan Yazdanpanah , Marie‐Pierre Chauvet , Stéphanie Clisant , Sylvia Giard , Jean‐Charles Neu , Danièle Lefebvre , Charles Fournier , Jacques Bonneterre
Published: April 2007

Objective

We previously showed that previous chemotherapy and immediate breast reconstruction were associated with an increased risk of surgical site infection (SSI) in patients undergoing breast cancer surgery. The present before–after study evaluated a preventive strategy for high‐risk patients.

Patients and Methods

We compared the incidence of SSI in two prospective observational cohorts of patients underwent clean procedure in curative intent for a‐biopsy proven breast cancer: a historical cohort followed before implementation of a preventive strategy and a second cohort followed thereafter. The strategy consisted of identifying patients at risk of SSI and prophylaxis administration of cefuroxime to those patients. The impact of our strategy was analyzed using a logistic regression model adjusted for potential confounders.

Results

SSI incidence was estimated at 19/542 (3.5%) before preventive strategy versus 2/247 (0.8%) thereafter (crude odds ratio (OR) 0.22 confidence interval [95% CI 0.05–0.97], P = 0.03). After adjustment for confounders (breast reconstruction, previous breast surgery, and duration of surgery), our preventive strategy reduced the risk of SSI by 81% (adjusted OR 0.19 [95% CI 0.04–0.85], P = 0.03).

Conclusion

These results showed that antibiotic prophylaxis is beneficial for patients at high‐risk of WI after breast cancer surgery. Randomized controlled trials should now confirm these findings. J. Surg. Oncol. 2007;96:124–129. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Alleviation of oxidative and nitrosative stress following curative resection in patient with oral cavity cancer
Authors: Rasheed Muzib Hassanal , Beevi Syed Sultan , Rajaraman R. , Bose S.J.C.
Published: April 2007

Background

Oxidative stress by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitrosative stress by reactive nitrogen species (RNS) are proven initiators and promoters in carcinogenesis. Elevated ROS/RNS with lowered antioxidants occur in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of oral cavity. Ours is the first study to evaluate the effect of curative resection on both oxidative and nitrosative stress in such patients.

Methods

This study was conducted on 24 cancer patients and with age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls. Lipid peroxidation products, nitric oxide (NO) products and ceruloplasmin (CPL) in plasma were measured before and after surgery. Similarly enzymatic antioxidants in erythrocytes and non‐enzymatic antioxidants in plasma were measured.

Results

Statistically significant elevation of lipid peroxidation, NO products and CPL and depletion of antioxidants were found in cancer patients compared with controls. After curative surgical resection there was a statistically significant fall in oxidants and CPL coupled with a rise in antioxidants.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that oxidative/nitrosative stress could play a significant role in oral cavity cancer (OCC) and that curative resection is effective in alleviating this oxidative/nitrosative burden. Significant mitigation of oxidative/nitrosative stress could indicate the completeness of resection since tumor forms the major source of oxidants. J. Surg. Oncol. 2007;96: 194–199. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Utility transversality: a value‐based approach
Authors: Matheson James E. , Abbas Ali E.
Published: April 2007

We examine multiattribute decision problems where a value function is specified over the attributes of a decision problem, as is typically done in the deterministic phase of a decision analysis. When uncertainty is present, a utility function is assigned over the value function to represent the decision maker's risk attitude towards value, which we refer to as a value‐based approach. A fundamental result of using the value‐based approach is a closed form expression that relates the risk aversion functions of the individual attributes to the trade‐off functions between them. We call this relation utility transversality. The utility transversality relation asserts that once the value function is specified there is only one dimension of risk attitude in multiattribute decision problems. The construction of multiattribute utility functions using the value‐based approach provides the flexibility to model more general functional forms that do not require assumptions of utility independence. For example, we derive a new family of multiattribute utility functions that describes richer preference structures than the usual multilinear family. We also show that many classical results of utility theory, such as risk sharing and the notion of a corporate risk tolerance, can be derived simply from the utility transversality relations by appropriate choice of the value function. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐term cognitive profile and incidence of dementia after STN‐DBS in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Aybek Selma , Gronchi‐Perrin Aline , Berney Alexandre , Chiuvé Sabina Catalano , Villemure Jean‐Guy , Burkhard Pierre R. , Vingerhoets François J. G.
Published: April 2007

An effect of subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN‐DBS) on cognition has been suspected but long‐term observations are lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long‐term cognitive profile and the incidence of dementia in a cohort of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients treated by STN‐DBS. 57 consecutive patients were prospectively assessed by the mean of a neuropsychological battery over 3 years after surgery. Dementia (DSM‐IV) and UPDRS I to IV were recorded. 24.5% of patients converted to dementia over 3 years (incidence of 89 of 1,000 per year). This group of patients cognitively continuously worsened over 3 years up to fulfilling dementia criteria (PDD). The rest of the cohort remained cognitively stable (PD) over the whole follow‐up. Preoperative differences between PDD and PD included older age (69.2 ± 5.8 years; 62.6 ± 8 years), presence of hallucinations and poorer executive score (10.1 ± 5.9; 5.5 ± 4.4). The incidence of dementia over 3 years after STN‐DBS is similar to the one reported in medically treated patients. The PDD presented preoperative risk factors of developing dementia similar to those described in medically treated patients. These observations suggest dementia being secondary to the natural evolution of PD rather than a direct effect of STN‐DBS. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Health related quality of life in patients with dystonia and their caregivers in New Zealand and Australia
Authors: Lim Vanessa K.
Published: April 2007

Health Related Quality of Life (HRQL) was assessed by the SF‐36 in a group of patients with dystonia in New Zealand and Australia. The caregivers of these people were also asked to participate. Low scores from the SF‐36 indicate a disability or limitation in HRQL. Compared with the national norms of the respective countries, the participants with dystonia for both countries were significantly lower in the eight dimensions of the SF‐36, suggesting that patients with dystonia have lower HRQL compared with their respective national norms without dystonia. In contrast to the patients with dystonia, caregivers did not show lower HRQL scores than their national norms, suggesting that while dystonia affects the HRQL of those with the disorder, their caregivers may be less affected. Descriptive and demographic information were also gathered and are discussed. An important factor that may affect the HRQL of patients with dystonia is the length of time required to be diagnosed in this sample and the number of medical practitioners the patients consulted prior to a confirmed diagnosis. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Striatal delivery of CERE‐120, an AAV2 vector encoding human neurturin, enhances activity of the dopaminergic nigrostriatal system in aged monkeys
Authors: Herzog Christopher D. , Dass Biplob , Holden James E. , Stansell James , Gasmi Mehdi , Tuszynski Mark H. , Bartus Raymond T. , Kordower Jeffrey H.
Published: April 2007

Neurturin (NTN) is a potent survival factor for midbrain dopaminergic neurons. CERE‐120, an adeno‐associated virus type 2 (AAV2) vector encoding human NTN (AAV2‐NTN), is currently being developed as a potential therapy for Parkinson's disease. This study examined the bioactivity and safety/tolerability of AAV2‐NTN in the aged monkey model of nigrostriatal dopamine insufficiency. Aged rhesus monkeys received unilateral injections of AAV2‐NTN into the caudate and putamen, with each animal therefore serving as its own control. Robust expression of NTN within the nigrostriatal system was observed 8 months postadministration. 18F‐fluorodopa imaging using positron emission tomography revealed statistically significant increases in 18F‐fluorodopa uptake in the injected striatum compared with the uninjected side at 4 and 8 months. In addition, at 8 months postadministration, a significant enhancement in tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactive fibers and an increase in the number of tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactive cells was observed in the AAV2‐NTN injected striatum compared with the uninjected side. Robust activation of phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase immunoreactivity in the substantia nigra was also observed. Histopathological analyses revealed no adverse effects of AAV2‐NTN in the brain. Collectively, these results are consistent with the neurotrophic effects of NTN on the dopaminergic nigrostriatal system and extend the growing body of evidence supporting the concept that AAV2‐NTN may have therapeutic benefit for Parkinson's disease. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society
Mathematical analysis of a viscoelastic problem with temperature‐dependent coefficients—Part I: Existence and uniqueness
Authors: Barral Patricia , Naya‐Riveiro M. Cristina , Quintela Peregrina
Published: April 2007

The aim of this article is to study the quasistatic evolution of a thermoviscoelastic problem whose behaviour law is of the Maxwell–Norton type with coefficients depending on temperature. In this law, the deformation rate tensor is a superposition of viscoelastic and thermal contributions. The existence and uniqueness of the solution is proved. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An integrated sample preparation to determine coccidiostats and emerging Fusarium‐mycotoxins in various poultry tissues with LC‐MS/MS
Authors: Jestoi Marika , Rokka Mervi , Peltonen Kimmo
Published: April 2007

The usefulness of an existing sample preparation technique used for ionophoric coccidiostats (lasalocid, monensin, salinomycin and narasin) was applied in the analysis of emerging Fusarium‐mycotoxins beauvericin (BEA) and enniatins (ENNs) in poultry tissues (liver and meat). Also, maduramicin and liver as a new sample matrix was introduced. The developed methods were validated and applied for the determination of coccidiostats and BEA/ENNs in Finnish poultry tissues in 2004–2005. The validation parameters demonstrated that the integrated sample preparation technique is applicable to the parallel determination of these contaminants in poultry tissues. Of the samples analysed (276 meat and 43 liver), only trace levels of LAS, MON, SAL, NAR and MAD were detected in 7, 3, 5, 6 and 4% of the samples, respectively. Interestingly, for the first time, traces of BEA and ENNs could also be detected in animal tissues. BEA and ENNs A, A1, B and B1 were found in 2, 0.3, 0.6, 4 and 3% of the samples, respectively. The simultaneous presence of coccidiostats and mycotoxins was detected in three turkey samples in 2004.
Green tea catechins upregulate superoxide dismutase and catalase in fruit flies
Authors: Li Yuk Man , Chan Ho Yin Edwin , Huang Yu , Chen Zhen Yu
Published: April 2007

Chinese Longjing green tea is an excellent source of polyphenol antioxidants. HPLC analysis revealed that Longjing green tea catechin extract (GTC) contained 62% epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), 19% epigallocatechin (EGC), 9% epicatechin gallate (ECG), and 7% epicatechin (EC). Investigating the effect of GTC on the lifespan of Drosophila melanogaster, we observed that a 10 mg GTC/mL diet could prolong its 50% survival time by 36% and mean lifespan by 16%. This was consistent with 17% reduction in total body lipid hydroperoxide (LPO) level in GTC‐treated flies compared to the control group. Supplementation of 10 mg GTC/mL diet increased the survival time only in wild type Oregon‐R‐C (OR) but not in two mutant fly lines, SODn108/TM3 (gene for superoxide dismutase (SOD) was knocked out) and Catn1/TM3 (gene for catalase was knocked out), when the flies were challenged with paraquat or hydrogen peroxide. Accordingly, SOD and catalase activities in OR wild type increased by 40 and 19%, respectively. RT‐PCR analysis indicated that the genes for copper–zinc containing SOD (CuZnSOD), manganese containing SOD (MnSOD), and catalase were upregulated. It was concluded that prolonging lifespan by GTC in D. melanogaster was influenced, among others, by upregulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes.
Dose effects of the food spice cardamom on aspects of hamster gut physiology
Authors: Huang Ya‐Ling , Yen Gow‐Chin , Sheu Fuu , Lin Jin‐Yuarn , Chau Chi‐Fai
Published: April 2007

The dose effects of pectic polysaccharide‐rich extract from the food spice cardamom (Amomum villosum Lour.) on intestinal environment were investigated. The results showed that pectic polysaccharides and hemicellulose were the major polysaccharides in the cardamom extract. The administration of cardamom extract (0.5 and 1.5 g/100 g diet) effectively (p < 0.05) shortened hamster gastrointestinal transit time by ∼︁ 58%, increased fecal moisture contents (148–174%), increased SCFA concentrations in hindgut (4.0‐ to 7.8‐fold), decreased the activities of β‐D‐glucuronidase (by 71.4–85.7%), β‐D‐glucosidase (by 24.3–51.5%), mucinase (by 63.6–72.7%), and urease (by 88.8–90.4%) in feces, and reduced the production of toxic ammonia (by 16.1–64.5%). These findings suggested that the consumption of cardamom extract (at least 0.5 g/100 g diet or 40 mg/day) might exert a favorable effect on improving the gastrointestinal milieu, and also provide a clue to substantiate its traditional therapeutic uses and dosage for intestinal health improvement.
Factor VII polymorphisms influence the plasma response to diets with different fat content, in a healthy Caucasian population
Authors: Fernández de la Puebla Rafael Ángel , Pérez‐Martínez Pablo , Carmona José , López‐Miranda Carmen Marín José , Paniagua Juan Antonio , Fuentes Francisco , Pérez‐Jiménez Francisco
Published: April 2007

To determine the influence of the factor VII gene polymorphisms, R353Q and 5'F7, on factor VII Ag plasma levels after the consumption of diets with different fat contents. Methods: 59 healthy individuals (42 RR, 16 RQ, 1 QQ at the R353Q and 46 A1A1, 13 A1A2 at the 5'F7) consumed 3 diets during 4‐weeks each: a Saturated diet (SAT) enriched in saturated fatty acid (SFA) (38% fat, 20% SFA), followed by a carbohydrate (CHO)‐rich diet (30% fat, 55% CHO) or a Mediterranean diet (MEDIT) enriched in monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) (38% fat, 22% MUFA) following a randomized crossover design. Plasma lipids and FVII Ag plasma levels were determined at the end of each dietary period. Results: After a SAT diet, RR homozygotes had greater concentrations of FVII Ag compared with MEDIT and CHO diets than did carriers of the minority Q allele (82.76 ± 1.3 vs. 75.02 ± 2.4, p = 0.001). The 5'F7 polymorphism behaved in a similar fashion (A1A1 81.98 ± 1.4 vs. A1A2 75.37 ± 2.4, p = 0.026). Conclusions: Our data show that carriers of the RR and/or A1A1 genotype present higher FVII Ag levels after the consumption of a SAT diet compared with the MEDIT and CHO rich diets.
Effects of red grape skin and seed extract supplementation on atherosclerosis in Watanabe heritable hyperlipidemic rabbits
Authors: Frederiksen Hanne , Mortensen Alicja , Schrøder Malene , Frandsen Henrik , Bysted Anette , Knuthsen Pia , Rasmussen Salka E.
Published: April 2007

Epidemiological studies have suggested an association between consumption of red wine and other polyphenolic compounds and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. In the present study, Watanabe heritable hyperlipidemic (WHHL) rabbits were used to investigate the effects of polyphenols in a red grape skin and seed extract (GSE) on the development of atherosclerosis. WHHL rabbits received either semisynthetic diet (casein based) or semisynthetic diet added GSE over a period of 15 wk. Plasma lipids and aortic cholesterol accumulation were measured. Feeding semisynthetic diet was associated with increasing hypercholesterolemia, which was developing slower in GSE group compared to the controls as recorded by significantly lower plasma cholesterol in dosage week 7 (males: P < 0.05, females: P < 0.01) and 11 (males: P < 0.01). Aortic atherosclerosis evaluated as the cholesterol content in aortic tissue was comparable in the control and GSE‐dosed females, but it was significantly reduced in the abdominal part of GSE‐dosed male compared to the controls (P < 0.05). In conclusion, feeding GSE extract to WHHL rabbits had no significant effects in females but was associated with transient less hypercholesterolemic response to semisynthetic diet and, furthermore, retarded the development of aortic atherosclerosis in males as demonstrated by significantly lower cholesterol content in the abdominal part.
Axonal degeneration in the Trembler‐j mouse demonstrated by stimulated single‐fiber electromyography
Authors: Meekins Gregg D. , Carter Gregory T. , Emery Michael J. , Weiss Michael D.
Published: April 2007

The Trembler‐j (Tr‐j) mouse is a naturally occurring mutant with a point mutation in the peripheral myelin protein‐22 gene causing severe peripheral nerve demyelination. It is a genetically homologous murine model for Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1A (CMT 1A). Our prior pilot studies using stimulated single‐fiber needle electromyograpy (SSFEMG) showed increased jitter in 60‐day‐old Tr‐j mice compared to age‐matched, wildtype animals. The aim of this study was to better elucidate the etiology of increased jitter in Tr‐j mice and test the following hypotheses: (1) the increased jitter in Tr‐j mice is due to turnover of endplates secondary to axonal degeneration with reinnervation and not to conduction block secondary to demyelination of motor nerve axons; and (2) aging Tr‐j mice demonstrate increased jitter and fiber density compared with younger mutant mice due to progressive motor axon loss. SSFEMG studies performed on 60‐ and 140‐day‐old mice indicated that average mean consecutive difference (MCD) and fiber density estimates (FDE) were significantly increased in Tr‐j mice at both ages compared to age‐matched wildtypes. FDE also increased substantially in older mutant mice. Intraperitoneal neostigmine injections produced significant reductions in average MCD in Tr‐j mice, suggesting that impaired neuromuscular transmission is an early pathologic feature in these mice and likely reflects distal axonal degeneration. Our findings corroborate our prior pilot study, although in a much larger number of animals across a wider age span. Our study also indicates that SSFEMG, performed in a serial fashion, is a useful, noninvasive method of detecting progressive axon loss in this murine model of CMT 1A. This technique may be a valuable tool to study the affects of genetic or pharmaceutical interventions in murine models of peripheral neuropathy. Muscle Nerve, 2007
Decentralisation and poverty: conceptual framework and application to Uganda
Authors: Steiner Susan
Published: April 2007

In order to shed further light on the discussion about decentralisation‐poverty linkages in developing countries, this article introduces a conceptual framework for the relationship between decentralisation and poverty. The framework takes the form of an optimal scenario and indicates potential ways for an impact of decentralisation on poverty. Three different but interrelated channels are identified. Decentralisation is considered to affect poverty through providing opportunities for previously excluded people to participate in public decision‐making, through increasing efficiency in the provision of local public services due to an informational advantage of local governments over the central government and through granting autonomy to geographically separable conflict groups and entitling local bodies to resolve local‐level conflicts. Based on the experience with decentralisation in Uganda, it is shown that these channels are often not fully realised in practice. Different reasons are singled out for the Ugandan case, among them low levels of information about local government affairs, limited human capital and financial resources, restricted local autonomy, corruption and patronage, high administrative costs related with decentralisation and low downward accountability. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Managerial autonomy: does it matter for the performance of water utilities?
Authors: Braadbaart Okke , van Eybergen Niels , Hoffer Jan
Published: April 2007

The public administration literature asserts that autonomy is central to performance. In this article we develop a managerial autonomy index, which we apply to 22 water utilities in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The 16 items that underlie our composite autonomy index display a high degree of internal consistency. This speaks for the validity of the autonomy concept. We find that the autonomy scores of the 22 utilities vary widely. We also find strong and positive associations between autonomy scores and six out of eight key performance indicators. Our results support the idea that autonomy is central to the performance of water service providers. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of low‐molecular‐weight heparin and antithrombin versus antithrombin alone for the prevention of symptomatic venous thromboembolism in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Meister Bernhard , Kropshofer Gabriele , Klein‐Franke Andreas , Strasak Alexander M. , Hager Josef , Streif Werner
Published: April 2007

Background

Children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have a substantial risk for thromboembolism (TE) that is related to L‐asparaginase‐induced antithrombin (AT) deficiency and placement of central venous lines. Recent in vitro studies showed that the anticoagulant effects of low‐molecular‐weight heparin were profoundly affected by endogenous AT levels in children undergoing ALL therapy.

Methods

A total of 112 consecutively recruited children with newly diagnosed ALL treated according to BFM 95/2000 protocols were enrolled in this trial. This prospective cohort study was carried out to determine the influence of combined low molecular weight heparin‐prophylaxis (enoxaparin 1 mg/kg/ per day) and AT supplementation versus AT alone (noncontemporaneous control group) on the incidence of symptomatic TE during a follow‐up of 240 days.

Results

To maintain AT plasma levels above 50%, nearly 60% of all children needed at least one, most children two or three AT supplementations during induction therapy. 12.7% of the children that did receive only AT‐prophylaxis (n = 71) (95% CI = 6.0–22.7) developed objectively confirmed symptomatic TE, as compared with no TE in children after combined prophylaxis (n = 41) (95% CI = 0.0–8.6, P < 0.05). Thromboses were located in the sinovenous system in the brain (n = 3), the lower deep veins (n = 3), the upper deep veins (n = 2) and in an upper deep vein combined with pulmonary embolism (n = 1).

Conclusion

Prophylaxis with enoxaparin was safe and effective in preventing TE. Although our data are encouraging, the in vivo efficacy of combined enoxaparin and AT prophylaxis to prevent symptomatic venous TE in children with ALL should be evaluated in a prospective randomized clinical trial. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;50:298–303. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Determining objectives: A behavior systems approach
Authors: Homme Lloyd
Published: April 2007

Instructional objectives may be obtained form subject matter experts (SMEs), or they may be derived empirically form the analysis and design of behavior systems. In the latter case, instructional objectives are defined as sets of behaviors required to fulfill the overall objectives of the behavior system when these behaviors are best executed by human beings and when no humans can be found whose behavior repertoire already contains these specific behaviors.

It is essential to start with a definition of systems objectives and derive these behavior specifications in the process of designing the behavior system which will fulfill these objectives. A distinction is made between educational and training objectives. Educational objectives are equated with systems objectives, and training objectives are equated with behavior components of behavior systems.
Mechanical properties–morphology relationships in nano‐/microstructured epoxy matrices modified with PEO–PPO–PEO block copolymers
Authors: Larrañaga Maider , Serrano Elena , Martin Maria Dolores , Tercjak Agnieszka , Kortaberria Galder , de la Caba Koro , Riccardi Carmen Cristina , Mondragon Iñaki
Published: April 2007

Epoxy‐based blends containing poly(ethylene oxide)‐co‐poly(propylene oxide)‐co‐poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO–PPO–PEO) block copolymers with different PEO/PPO molar ratios have been investigated in order to analyze the effect of the generated morphologies and interactions between components on the mechanical properties of the blends. Mechanical, morphological and dynamic mechanical analyses indicate that the observed increase of flexural modulus can be related to the decrease of free volume. In modified systems that remain miscible, an increase of flexural modulus, strength and fracture toughness can be observed. Also, macrophase‐ and microphase‐separated systems show an increase of fracture toughness but not of flexural modulus and strength at low contents of block copolymers. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Interfacial interaction in EVA‐carbon nanotube and EVA‐clay nanocomposites
Authors: Miltner Hans E. , Peeterbroeck Sophie , Viville Pascal , Dubois Philippe , Van Mele Bruno
Published: April 2007

Proper filler‐matrix compatibility is a key factor in view of obtaining nanocomposites with well‐dispersed nanofillers displaying enhanced properties. In this respect, polymer‐filler interaction can be improved by a proper combination of matrix and nanofiller polarities. This is explored for matrices ranging from nonpolar high density poly(ethylene) to ethylene‐vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers with varying vinyl acetate contents, in combination with several types of organoclay or carbon nanotubes. A novel in situ characterization methodology using modulated temperature differential scanning calorimetry is presented to evaluate the matrix‐filler interaction. During quasi‐isothermal crystallization of the matrix, an “excess” contribution is observed in the recorded heat capacity signal because of reversible melting and crystallization. Its magnitude considerably decreases upon addition of nanofiller in case of strong interfacial interaction, whereas the influence is moderate in case of a less interacting matrix‐filler combination. It is suggested that the “excess heat capacity” can be used to quantify the segmental mobility of polymer chains in the vicinity of the nanofiller. Hence it provides valuable information on the strength of interaction, governed by the physical and chemical nature of matrix and filler. Heating experiments subsequent to quasi‐isothermal crystallization point at a certain degree of molecular ordering, responsible for crystal nucleation in EVA copolymers. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 45: 1291–1302, 2007
Prospective study of depression and fatigue in men with advanced prostate cancer receiving hormone therapy
Authors: Pirl William F. , Greer Joseph A. , Goode Melissa , Smith Matthew R.
Published: April 2007

Purpose: We prospectively examined the development of depressive symptoms and fatigue among men with locally advanced prostate cancer receiving hormone therapy.

Methods: Fifty‐two men with advanced or recurrent prostate cancer were randomly assigned to receive either parenteral leuprolide or oral bicalutamide. Patients completed the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) at pretreatment baseline, 6 months, and 12 months.

Results: Rates of at least mild depression ranged from 10.4 to 16.3% over the 12 months and were not significantly different at each time point. Mean change in BDI scores from baseline to 6 months for the entire sample was 0.91 (SE = 0.73), and from baseline to 12 months was 0.35 (SE = 0.67). Mean FSS scores increased significantly from baseline (M = 24.43, SD = 11.75) to 6 months (M = 27.93, SD = 13.52) and remained steady at 12 months (M = 27.80, SD = 14.44). There were no significant differences in depression between the two types of hormone therapy.

Conclusion: Hormone therapy does not appear to cause clinically significant changes in depression among men with locally advanced prostate cancer. However, fatigue increased significantly over the study period. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quasiclassical theory of electronic transport in mesoscopic systems: Luttinger liquids revisited
Authors: Eckern Ulrich , Schwab Peter
Published: April 2007

The method of the quasiclassical Green's function is used to determine the equilibrium properties of one‐dimensional (1D) interacting Fermi systems, in particular, the bulk and the local (near a hard wall) density of states. While this is a novel approach to 1D systems, our findings do agree with standard results for Luttinger liquids obtained with the bosonization method. Analogies to the so‐called P (E) theory of tunneling through ultrasmall junctions are pointed out and are exploited. Further applications of the Green's function method for 1D systems are discussed. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Numerical study of the relationship between growth condition and atomic arrangement of InGaN
Authors: Kangawa Y. , Kakimoto K. , Ito T. , Koukitu A.
Published: April 2007

Monte Carlo simulations of InGaN MOVPE were carried out to investigate the relationship between growth conditions and atomic arrangement in thin films grown on (0001) and (11$ \bar 2 $0). In the case of small input partial pressures of indium, it was found that compositional instability was enhanced during the site exchanging process instead of the adsorption process. Moreover, it was found that compositional fluctuation in thin films grown on (11$ \bar 2 $0) is smaller than that in thin films grown on (0001). This suggests that accumulated stress near the growth surface influences the compositional fluctuation. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
MOCVD regrowth of InGaN on N‐polar and Ga‐polar pillar and stripe nanostructures
Authors: Fichtenbaum N. A. , Neufeld C. J. , Schaake C. , Wu Y. , Wong M. H. , Grundmann M. , Keller S. , DenBaars S. P. , Speck J. S. , Mishra U. K.
Published: April 2007

N‐polar (000$ \bar 1 $) and Ga‐polar (0001) GaN templates were patterned with holographic lithography and etched to form nanopillars (NP) and nanostripes (NS) arrays, upon which InGaN and GaN was subsequently regrown by metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). A wide range of growth conditions were explored to determine the structural impact of the growth conditions. The results were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). It was observed that the initial polarity of the GaN template used to form the pillar or stripe nanostructures had a significant impact upon the results of the regrowth. The Ga‐polar NP exhibited (0001), {01$ \bar 1 $0}, and {01$ \bar 1 $1} facets, while the N‐polar NP exhibited (000$ \bar 1 $) and {01$ \bar 1 $0} facets. The NS samples also exhibited different facet formation depending upon the initial polarity. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
First‐principles calculation and X‐ray absorption fine structure analysis of Fe doping mechanism for semi‐insulating GaN growth on GaAs substrates
Authors: Togashi R. , Satoh F. , Murakami H. , Iihara J. , Yamaguchi K. , Kumagai Y. , Koukitu A.
Published: April 2007

In order to fabricate an Fe‐doped semi‐insulating (SI) GaN substrate by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) using (111)A GaAs as a starting substrate, the Fe doping mechanism was investigated by two approaches: first‐principles calculation and X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) measurements. First‐principles study clarified that Fe and As atoms are substituting for the Ga and N atoms in the wurtzite GaN lattice, respectively. In addition, incorporation of Fe in GaN was found to be hindered by adjacent As in the N site. XAFS analysis performed for an Fe‐doped SI GaN substrate, obtained by protecting backside of the GaAs substrate, showed that the Fe atoms are substituting for the Ga site in GaN. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
p‐type InN and In‐rich InGaN
Authors: Ager J. W. , Jones R. E. , Yamaguchi D. M. , Yu K. M. , Walukiewicz W. , Li S. X. , Haller E. E. , Lu H. , Schaff W. J.
Published: April 2007

Capacitance–voltage (CV) measurements using a liquid electrolyte as rectifying contact were used to provide definitive proof of p‐type activity beneath a surface inversion layer in Mg‐doped InN and In‐rich InGaN. Analysis of CV data using the Poisson equation allows net charge as a function of depth to be determined. In undoped InN, good agreement of the net donor concentration below the surface accumulation layer with bulk Hall effect data is obtained. In Mg‐doped InN and InGaN, the CV data are shown to be consistent with the presence of a net acceptor concentration NA–ND near 1019 cm–3 below a surface inversion layer. (© 2007 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Homoepitaxy of ZnO: from the substrates to doping
Authors: Neumann C. , Lautenschläger S. , Graubner S. , Sann J. , Volbers N. , Meyer B. K. , Bläsing J. , Krost A. , Bertram F. , Christen J.
Published: April 2007

The cover of the current issue shows the appearance of terrace structures with monoatomic step heights of a pre‐treated ZnO single crystal substrate. The picture relates to the article by C. Neumann et al. [1] and presents the results of homoepitaxial growth of ZnO films with the main focus on the ZnO substrate surface preparation in order to reach high quality two‐dimensional growth. This work was presented at Symposium F of the 2006 E‐MRS Fall Meeting in Warsaw, Poland, 4–8 September 2006.

The research group of Bruno K. Meyer, 1st Physics Institute of the Justus Liebig University at Gießen, Germany, has ongoing activities in the study of excitonic and defect related properties in wide band gap semiconductors supported by the in‐house‐growth by chemical vapor and sputter deposition of new, functional oxide semiconductors.
Structural characterisation of unsaturated bacterial hopanoids by atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation liquid chromatography/ion trap mass spectrometry
Authors: Talbot Helen M. , Rohmer Michel , Farrimond Paul
Published: April 2007

The production of bacteriohopanepolyols (BHPs) is widespread in many different groups of prokaryotes; however, unsaturated components are less common except amongst the acetic acid bacteria. Here we describe the characterisation of mono‐ (Δ6 or Δ11) and diunsaturated (Δ6,11) bacteriohopanetetrols isolated from the acetic acid bacterium Gluconacetobacter xylinus (formerly Acetobacter aceti ssp. xylinum) by atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation ion trap mass spectrometry (APCI‐MSn). APCI‐MS2 spectra are compared with equivalent electron ionisation (EI) spectra and differences in fragmentation pathways are discussed. Having established characteristic spectral features for a range of unsaturated BHPs we now have the ability to rapidly detect the presence of unsaturated BHPs in both natural environmental samples (soils, sediments, water columns) as well as in microbial cultures. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ion chromatography/inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for simultaneous determination of glyphosate, glufosinate, fosamine and ethephon at nanogram levels in water
Authors: Guo Zhong‐Xian , Cai Qiantao , Yang Zhaoguang
Published: April 2007

This paper describes the first approach that simultaneously quantifies four polar, water‐soluble organophosphorus herbicides, i.e., glyphosate, glufosinate, fosamine and ethephon, at nanogram levels in environmental waters. The target herbicides were separated completely by ion chromatography (IC) on a polymer anion‐exchange column, Dionex IonPac AS16 (4.0 mm × 250 mm), with 30 mM citric acid flowing at 0.70 mL min−1 as the eluent. On‐line inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) using a quadrupole mass spectrometer was employed as a sensitive and selective detector of the effluents. Various parameters affecting the separation and detection were systematically examined and optimized. Detection limits of the herbicides achieved with the proposed IC/ICP‐MS method were 1.1–1.4 µg L−1 (as compound) based on a 500‐µL sample injection. Matrix anions, metal ions, phosphate, polyphosphates, non‐polar and other polar organophosphorus pesticides showed no interference. The developed method was validated using reservoir water, treated water and NEWater samples spiked at the level of 10–25 µg L−1 with satisfactory recoveries (95–109%). It is applicable to the simultaneous determination of µg L−1 concentrations of the herbicides in polluted water. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Generalized homogeneous quasi‐continuous controllers
Authors: Levant Arie , Pavlov Yuri
Published: April 2007

A new class of arbitrary‐order homogeneous quasi‐continuous sliding‐mode controllers containing numerous functional parameters is proposed. All the controllers also have robust output‐feedback versions. A numerical procedure is established for the first time for setting the controller parameters. A finite‐time stable 5‐sliding mode is demonstrated for the first time. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The challenge of altering elementary school teachers' beliefs and practices regarding linguistic and cultural diversity in science instruction
Authors: Lee Okhee , Luykx Aurolyn , Buxton Cory , Shaver Annis
Published: April 2007

This study examined the impact of a professional development intervention aimed at helping elementary teachers incorporate elements of students' home language and culture into science instruction. The intervention consisted of instructional units and materials and teacher workshops. The research involved 43 third‐ and fourth‐grade teachers at six elementary schools in a large urban school district. These teachers participated in the intervention for 2 consecutive years. The study was conducted using both quantitative and qualitative methods based on focus group interviews, a questionnaire, and classroom observations. The results indicate that as teachers began their participation in the intervention, they rarely incorporated students' home language or culture into science instruction. During the 2‐year period of the intervention, teachers' beliefs and practices remained relatively stable and did not show significant change. Possible explanations for the limited effectiveness of the intervention are addressed, and implications for professional development efforts are discussed. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 44: 1269–1291, 2007
The relationship of freshmen's physics achievement and their related affective characteristics
Authors: Gungor Almer (Abak) , Eryılmaz Ali , Fakıoglu Turgut
Published: April 2007

The purpose of this study was to determine the best‐fitting structural equation model between the freshmen's physics achievement and selected affective characteristics related to physics. These characteristics are students' situational interest in physics, personal interest in physics, aspiring extra activities related to physics, importance of physics, importance of electricity, physics course anxiety, physics test anxiety, physics achievement motivation, student motivation in physics, self‐efficacy in physics, self‐concept in physics, and locus of control. The researchers developed the affective characteristics questionnaire that consisted of 12 subdimensions, and has 53 items related to these subdimensions. The questionnaire was applied to 890 freshmen physics students at the universities in Ankara. Two models were tested: a unidimensional model and a multidimensional model. However, a third model, which is more similar to the multidimensional model, exhibited the best fit for the freshmen. Moreover, the results revealed that achievement motivation was the most influential affective characteristic on physics achievement. On the other hand, motivation in physics had a negative influence on physics achievement in the model, and the influence of the students' attitudes towards physics was not statistically significant. Thus, one should especially pay attention to the students' achievement motivation in physics if the aim is to increase students' physics achievement. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 44: 1036–1056, 2007
Co-existence of physiologically similar sulfate-reducing bacteria in a full-scale sulfidogenic bioreactor fed with a single organic electron donor
Authors: Dar Shabir A. , Stams Alfons J. M. , Kuenen J. Gijs , Muyzer Gerard
Published: April 2007

A combination of culture-dependent and independent methods was used to study the co-existence of different sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) in an upflow anaerobic sludge bed reactor treating sulfate-rich wastewater. The wastewater was fed with ethanol as an external electron donor. Twenty six strains of SRB were randomly picked and isolated from the highest serial dilution that showed growth (i.e. 108). Repetitive enterobacterial palindromic polymerase chain reaction and whole cell protein profiling revealed a low genetic diversity, with only two genotypes among the 26 strains obtained in the pure culture. The low genetic diversity suggests the absence of micro-niches within the reactor, which might be due to a low spatial and temporal micro-heterogeneity. The total 16S rDNA sequencing of two representative strains L3 and L7 indicated a close relatedness to the genus Desulfovibrio. The two strains differed in as many as five physiological traits, which might allow them to occupy distinct niches and thus co-exist within the same habitat. Whole cell hybridisation with fluorescently labeled oligonucleotide probes was performed to characterise the SRB community in the reactor. The isolated strains Desulfovibrio L3 and Desulfovibrio L7 were the most dominant SRB, representing 30–35% and 25–35%, respectively, of the total SRB community. Desulfobulbus-like bacteria contributed for 20–25%, and the Desulfobacca acetoxidans-specific probe targeted approximately 15–20% of the total SRB. The whole cell hybridisation results thus revealed a consortium of four different species of SRB that can be enriched and maintained on a single energy source in a full-scale sulfidogenic reactor.
Beneficial Effect of Partial Portal Decompression Using the Inferior Mesenteric Vein for Intractable Gastroesophageal Variceal Bleeding in Patients With Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Yamamoto Satoshi , Sato Yoshinobu , Nakatsuka Hideki , Oya Hiroshi , Kobayashi Takashi , Hatakeyama Katsuyoshi
Published: April 2007

Background

Use of the inferior mesenteric vein (IMV) for partial portal decompression has not been recommended as a first‐line option for intractable gastroesophageal variceal bleeding because of the thin diameter of the vein. Although these indications remain relevant, few reports have compared partial portal decompression using the IMV with other therapies. We propose that partial portal decompression using the IMV is a useful alternative treatment for intractable variceal bleeding.

Methods

We performed partial portal decompression using the IMV in eight patients with intractable variceal bleeding that had been uncontrolled using medical and endoscopic therapies. All patients were classified into Child’s class B or C. The surgical data, morbidity, and mortality were assessed.

Results

Mean portal venous pressure significantly decreased from 26.9 ± 2.0 mmHg before the surgery to 19.8 ± 3.9 mmHg after the surgery. The operative mortality rate was 0%. The mean duration of hospital stay was 25.5 ± 13.3 days. Although one patient experienced recurrent bleeding, shunt patency was well maintained in all patients during the follow‐up period (mean 28.9 ± 14.1 months). Six patients are still alive and well without ascites or hepatic encephalopathy. Two of the Child’s class C patients who underwent emergency shunt died owing to hepatic decompensation.

Conclusion

Partial portal decompression using the IMV can be a safe, effective way to treat intractable variceal bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis. However, use of the shunt procedure may have the most survival benefits for cirrhotic patients with preserved liver function.
Role of Centchroman in Regression of Mastalgia and Fibroadenoma
Authors: Dhar Anita , Srivastava Anurag
Published: April 2007

Objectives

Centchroman (Ormeloxifene) is a novel non‐steroidal, selective antiestrogen. Because of its selective antiestrogen action, centchroman has been used for treatment of mastalgia and fibroadenoma.

Materials and Methods

Benign breast disease patients up to 35 years of age attending our surgery outpatient department from August 2003 to September 2004 and fulfilling the inclusion criterion were included in this study. They were started on centchroman 30 mg on alternate days for a period of 3 months and were followed up for 6 months. Results were recorded as per clinical examination, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and ultrasonography for breast lump size.

Results

A total of 60 patients were included in this pilot study, 42 (70%) of whom had mastalgia with or without nodularity, and 18 (30%) had fibroadenoma. Noncyclical pain was recorded in 38 patients (90%), and cyclical pain was recorded in only 4 (10%) patients. A VAS score of 10 was recorded by 33 (80%) patients (severe pain), and the remaining 9 patients (20%) had VAS scores from 7 to 10. Fibroadenoma size ranged from 1.5 to 5 cm., single or multiple in one or both breasts. There was a good response in the mastalgia group, with a decrease in the VAS scoring from 10 to 3 in 90 % of the patients in the first week. Almost all of the patients were painless at the end of one month, with complete disappearance of the nodularity. In the fibroadenoma group there was a mixed response, with complete disappearence in 40%, partial regression in 20%, and no response at all in the remaining 40%. There were very few side effects.

Conclusions

Centchroman is a safe nonsteroidal drug for the treatment of mastalgia and fibroadenoma. It has shown good results in mastalgia and is a safe drug as compared to the drugs of choice used at present (danazole and bromocriptine). Further randomized studies are in progress and are needed to determine its definitive role in this patient group.