bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individualizing Quality-of-Life Outcomes Reporting: How Localized Prostate Cancer Treatments Affect Patients With Different Levels of Baseline Urinary, Bowel, and Sexual Function
Authors: Chen Ronald C. , Clark Jack A. , Talcott James A.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

Although it is the most powerful predictor of early prostate cancer treatment-related complications and quality-of-life (QOL) outcomes, most studies do not stratify results by baseline function. Further, reporting functional outcomes as averaged numerical results may obscure informatively disparate courses. Using levels of treatment-related dysfunction, we address these problems and present the final QOL outcomes of our prospective cohort study of patients with early prostate cancer.

Methods

We created categories for sexual, bowel, and urinary function, measured using numerical scores of the validated Prostate Cancer Symptom Indices and stratified into “normal,” “intermediate” and “poor” levels of function by incorporating patient-reported symptom and distress information. We present QOL outcomes for 409 patients 36 months after radical prostatectomy, external-beam radiation therapy, and brachytherapy.

Results

Different levels of baseline sexual, bowel, and urinary function produced distinctive treatment-related changes from baseline to 36 months. In general, the average scale increases in dysfunction were greatest among patients with normal baseline function, although patients with normal and intermediate baseline function had similar increases in sexual dysfunction. For patients whose baseline urinary obstruction/irritation was poor, both average scale scores and most patients' level of function improved after treatment, particularly after surgery.

Conclusion

The use of functional levels to stratify treatment-related outcomes by pretreatment functional status and to display the proportions of patients with improved, stable, or worsened function after treatment provides information that more specifically conveys the expected impact of treatment to patients choosing among localized prostate cancer treatments.
Outcome of Patients With Early-Stage Breast Cancer Treated With Doxorubicin-Based Adjuvant Chemotherapy As a Function of HER2 and TOP2A Status
Authors: Tubbs Raymond , Barlow William E. , Budd G. Thomas , Swain Eric , Porter Peggy , Gown Allen , Yeh I-Ten , Sledge George , Shapiro Charles , Ingle James , Haskell Charles , Albain Kathy S. , Livingston Robert , Hayes Daniel F.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

Amplification and deletion of the TOP2A gene have been reported as positive predictive markers of response to anthracycline-based therapy. We determined the status of the HER2 and TOP2A genes in a large cohort of breast cancer patients treated with adjuvant doxorubicin (A) and cyclophosphamide (C).

Patients and Methods

TOP2A/CEP17 and HER2/CEP17 fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) were performed on tissue microarrays (TMAs) constructed from 2,123 of the 3,125 women with moderate-risk primary breast cancer who received equivalent doses of either concurrent adjuvant chemotherapy with A plus C (n = 1,592) or sequential A followed by C (n = 1,533).

Results

An abnormal TOP2A genotype was identified for 153 (9.4%) of 1,626 patients (4.0% amplified; 5.4% deleted). An abnormal HER2 genotype was identified for 303 (20.4%) of 1,483 patients (18.8% amplified; 1.6% deleted). No significant differences in either overall survival (OS) or disease-free survival (DFS) were identified for TOP2A. In univariate analysis, OS and DFS rates were strongly and adversely associated only with higher levels of HER2 amplification (ratio ≥ 4.0). Survival was not associated with low-level HER2 amplification (ratio ≥ 2; OS hazard ratio [HR], 1.14; P = .39; DFS HR, 1.07; P = .62), but it was associated for a ratio ≥ 4 (OS HR, 1.45; P = .03; DFS HR, 1.38; P = .033), in which analysis was adjusted for menopausal status, hormone receptor status, treatment, number of positive nodes, and tumor size.

Conclusion

In this population of patients with early-stage breast cancer who were treated with adjuvant AC chemotherapy, TOP2A abnormalities were not associated with outcome. HER2 high-level amplification was a prognostic marker in anthracycline-treated patients.
Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation Is Able to Induce Long-Term Remissions in Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma: A Retrospective Study From the Lymphoma Working Party of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Kyriakou Charalampia , Canals Carmen , Finke Jürgen , Kobbe Guido , Harousseau Jean-Luc , Kolb Hans-Jochem , Novitzky Nicolas , Goldstone Anthony H. , Sureda Anna , Schmitz Norbert
Published: July 2009

Purpose

To analyze the long-term outcome in terms of nonrelapse mortality (NRM), relapse rate (RR), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) in patients with angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL) treated with allogeneic stem-cell transplantation (alloSCT).

Patients and Methods

Forty-five patients with AITL who had undergone an alloSCT between January 1998 and December 2005 and were registered in the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation database were analyzed. Median age was 48 years (range, 23 to 68 years), 34 patients had received ≥ two lines of chemotherapy before alloSCT, and 11 patients had experienced treatment failure with a prior autologous stem-cell transplantation. Twenty-five patients underwent a myeloablative alloSCT, and 20 underwent a reduced-intensity alloSCT. Donors were HLA-identical siblings in 26 patients. Twenty-seven patients were allografted in chemotherapy-sensitive disease, and 18 were allografted in refractory disease.

Results

The cumulative incidence of NRM was 18%, 22%, and 25% at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Patients with poor performance status had a significantly higher NRM (P = .01). RR was estimated as 16% and 20% at 2 and 3 years, respectively, and was lower in patients developing chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD). PFS and OS rates were 62% and 53% and 66% and 64% at 1 and 3 years, respectively, and were significantly better in chemotherapy-sensitive patients.

Conclusion

AlloSCT represents a valid therapeutic option for patients with AITL. Both the lower RR after transplantation as well as the decreased RR in patients developing cGVHD after the alloSCT suggests the existence of a clinically relevant graft-versus-lymphoma effect.
Detecting BRCA2 Protein Truncation in Tissue Biopsies to Identify Breast Cancers That Arise in BRCA2 Gene Mutation Carriers
Authors: Watson Patrice , Lieberman Rita , Snyder Carrie , Clark Vanessa J. , Lynch Henry T. , Holt Jeffrey T.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

Mutations in the BRCA2 gene are dominantly inherited but cause cancers when the wild-type allele has loss of heterozygosity (LOH) within the cancer. Because most disease-associated BRCA2 mutations are protein-truncating mutations, a test for truncated BRCA2 proteins should identify most BRCA2 hereditary cancers.

Methods

We have developed a tissue truncation test to identify truncated BRCA2 proteins in breast cancer tissue biopsies in vivo that does not use amplification or genetic manipulations. N-terminal and C-terminal antibodies are used to visualize protein truncation by demonstrating that the beginning of the protein is present but the end (ie, terminus) is absent.

Results

A quantitative C-terminal immunostaining score or a C-terminal to N-terminal truncation ratio correctly classified 20 of 21 breast cancers arising in BRCA2 mutation carriers and 57 of 58 cancers arising outside the context of a multiple-case breast cancer family. This represents a sensitivity of 95% and a specificity of 98%. Because of the presence of C-terminal BRCA2 protein and atypical clinical features of the misclassified cancer in a BRCA2 mutation carrier, we performed polymerase chain reaction and sequence analyses on this cancer. The results showed continued presence of the BRCA2 wild-type allele in the cancer, which indicated that intact BRCA2 protein was present in this cancer.

Conclusion

This immunohistochemistry-based test (which takes only 4 hours) appears to identify BRCA2 hereditary cancer with high accuracy. The test also appears to diagnose the biochemical loss of BRCA2 protein in cancers (ie, BRCA2-mutant genotype), which will usually but not always agree with the presence of a germline BRCA2 mutation found by susceptibility testing by DNA sequencing of blood samples.
Sex Steroid, Gonadotropin, Cortisol, and Prolactin Levels in Healthy, Massively Obese Women: Correlation with Abdominal Fat Cell Size and Effect of Weight Reduction*
Authors: GRENMAN S. , RÖNNEMAA T. , IRJALA K. , KAIHOLA H. L. , GRÖNROOS M.
Published: July 2009

To examine hormonal status in obese, gynecologically normal women we studied 25 regularly menstruating, massively obese (mean weight, 120 kg) women participating in a weight reduction program and 25 age-matched normal weight (mean weight, 60 kg) women. Serum 17β-estradiol (E2), estrone (E1), androstenedione (A), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, testosterone, LH, FSH, PRL, and cortisol concentrations were measured during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. Waist to hip ratio and abdominal fat cell size were measured at the beginning of the study. The serum levels of E2 (P < 0.04) as well as those of A, SHBG, and LH (P < 0.002) were lower in the obese group. Consequently, the testosterone to SHBG ratio and the E1 to A ratio were higher and the LH to FSH ratio was lower in this group. Waist to hip ratio did not correlate with the levels of circulating hormones or SHBG, but an inverse correlation was found between abdominal fat cell size and A as well as the LH to FSH ratio in the nonhirsute women of the obese group. Subsequent to moderate weight reduction (13.2 kg), serum A and Ei levels (P < 0.01) increased, and serum cortisol levels decreased (P < 0.001). Thus, massive obesity is associated with abnormalities in hormonal balance in gynecologically symptomless women, there being an association between E1, E2, A, LH, cortisol, and relative weight and/or abdominal fat cell size.
TheDrosophilaU7 snRNP proteins Lsm10 and Lsm11 are required for histone pre-mRNA processing and play an essential role in development
Authors: Godfrey Ashley C. , White Anne E. , Tatomer Deirdre C. , Marzluff William F. , Duronio Robert J.
Published: July 2009

Metazoan replication-dependent histone mRNAs are not polyadenylated, and instead terminate in a conserved stem–loop structure generated by an endonucleolytic cleavage of the pre-mRNA involving U7 snRNP. U7 snRNP contains two like-Sm proteins, Lsm10 and Lsm11, which replace SmD1 and SmD2 in the canonical heptameric Sm protein ring that binds spliceosomal snRNAs. Here we show that mutations in either theDrosophila Lsm10or theLsm11gene disrupt normal histone pre-mRNA processing, resulting in production of poly(A)+ histone mRNA as a result of transcriptional read-through to cryptic polyadenylation sites present downstream from each histone gene. This molecular phenotype is indistinguishable from that which we previously described for mutations in U7 snRNA. Lsm10 protein fails to accumulate inLsm11mutants, suggesting that a pool of Lsm10–Lsm11 dimers provides precursors for U7 snRNP assembly. Unexpectedly, U7 snRNA was detected inLsm11andLsm1mutants and could be precipitated with anti-trimethylguanosine antibodies, suggesting that it assembles into a snRNP particle in the absence of Lsm10 and Lsm11. However, this U7 snRNA could not be detected at the histone locus body, suggesting that Lsm10 and Lsm11 are necessary for U7 snRNP localization. In contrast toU7snRNA null mutants, which are viable,Lsm10andLsm11mutants do not survive to adulthood. Because we cannot detect differences in the histone mRNA phenotype betweenLsm10orLsm11andU7mutants, we propose that the different terminal developmental phenotypes result from the participation of Lsm10 and Lsm11 in an essential function that is distinct from histone pre-mRNA processing and that is independent of U7 snRNA.
Real-Time Delay Estimation in Overloaded Multiserver Queues with Abandonments
Authors: Ibrahim Rouba , Whitt Ward
Published: July 2009

We use heavy-traffic limits and computer simulation to study the performance of alternative real-time delay estimators in the overloaded GI/GI/s+GI multiserver queueing model, allowing customer abandonment. These delay estimates may be used to make delay announcements in call centers and related service systems. We characterize performance by the expected mean squared error in steady state. We exploit established approximations for performance measures with a nonexponential abandonment-time distribution to obtain new delay estimators that effectively cope with nonexponential abandonment-time distributions.
Examining the effects of communication apprehension within assessment centres
Authors: Blume Brian D. , Dreher George F. , Baldwin Timothy T.
Published: July 2009

Communication apprehension (CA), an individual difference variable not previously examined within assessment centres, was negatively related to critical thinking and oral communication scores. CA also mediated the relationships between participants' extraversion and emotional stability and their dimension scores. In addition, results indicated that for critical thinking scores, there was a significant interaction between exercise form (i.e., a presentation vs. group discussion) and CA.
Statistical and Economical Efficiency in Assessment of Liver Regeneration Using Defined Sample Size and Selection in Combination With a Fully Automated Image Analysis System
Authors: Deng Meihong , Kleinert Robert , Huang Hai , He Qing , Madrahimova Fotima , Dirsch Olaf , Dahmen Uta
Published: July 2009

Quantification of liver regeneration is frequently based on determining the 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine labeling index (BrdU-LI). The quantitative result is influenced by preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical variables such as the region of interest (ROI). We aimed to present our newly developed and validated automatic computer-based image analysis system (AnalySIS-Macro), and to standardize the selection and sample size of ROIs. Images from BrdU-labeled and immunohistochemically stained liver sections were analyzed conventionally and with the newly developed AnalySIS-Macro and used for validation of the system. Automatic quantification correlated well with the manual counting result ( r=0.9976). Validation of our AnalySIS-Macro revealed its high sensitivity (.90%) and specificity. The BrdU-LI ranged from 11% to 57% within the same liver (32.96 ± 11.94%), reflecting the highly variable spatial distribution of hepatocyte proliferation. At least 2000 hepatocytes (10 images at 200× magnification) per lobe were required as sample size for achieving a representative BrdU-LI. Furthermore, the number of pericentral areas should be equal to that of periportal areas. The combination of our AnalySIS-Macro with rules for the selection and size of ROIs represents an accurate, sensitive, specific, and efficient diagnostic tool for the determination of the BrdU-LI and the spatial distribution of proliferating hepatocytes.
Ein XML-basiertes Datenbanksystem für digitale Wörterbücher — Ein Werkstattbericht aus dem Institut für Deutsche SpracheAn XML-Based Database System for Online Dictionaries — A Report on Lexicographic Work at the Institute for German Language
Authors: Müller-Spitzer Carolin , Schneider Roman
Published: July 2009

Das Online-Wortschatz-Informationssystem Deutsch (OWID) ist ein digitales Wörterbuchportal des Instituts für Deutsche Sprache. Alle darin zusammengeführten lexikografischen Daten sind auf XML-Basis feingranular strukturiert. Speicherung, Verwaltung und Retrieval dieser Daten übernimmt das Oracle-basierte Electronic Dictionary Administration System (EDAS). Der vorliegende Beitrag erläutert die XML-basierte Modellierung der Daten, XML-spezifische Fragen der Speicherung, sowie das Retrieval mit XPath und SQL/XML.
The Genetic Basis of Transgressive Ovary Size in Honeybee Workers
Authors: Linksvayer Timothy A , Rueppell Olav , Siegel Adam , Kaftanoglu Osman , Page Robert E , Amdam Gro V
Published: July 2009

Ovarioles are the functional unit of the female insect reproductive organs and the number of ovarioles per ovary strongly influences egg-laying rate and fecundity. Social evolution in the honeybee (Apis mellifera) has resulted in queens with 200–360 total ovarioles and workers with usually 20 or less. In addition, variation in ovariole number among workers relates to worker sensory tuning, foraging behavior, and the ability to lay unfertilized male-destined eggs. To study the genetic architecture of worker ovariole number, we performed a series of crosses between Africanized and European bees that differ in worker ovariole number. Unexpectedly, these crosses produced transgressive worker phenotypes with extreme ovariole numbers that were sensitive to the social environment. We used a new selective pooled DNA interval mapping approach with two Africanized backcrosses to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) underlying the transgressive ovary phenotype. We identified one QTL on chromosome 11 and found some evidence for another QTL on chromosome 2. Both QTL regions contain plausible functional candidate genes. The ovariole number of foragers was correlated with the sugar concentration of collected nectar, supporting previous studies showing a link between worker physiology and foraging behavior. We discuss how the phenotype of extreme worker ovariole numbers and the underlying genetic factors we identified could be linked to the development of queen traits.
Functional Analysis of saxophone, the Drosophila Gene Encoding the BMP Type I Receptor Ortholog of Human ALK1/ACVRL1 and ACVR1/ALK2
Authors: Twombly Vern , Bangi Erdem , Le Viet , Malnic Bettina , Singer Matthew A , Wharton Kristi A
Published: July 2009

In metazoans, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) direct a myriad of developmental and adult homeostatic events through their heterotetrameric type I and type II receptor complexes. We examined 3 existing and 12 newly generated mutations in the Drosophila type I receptor gene, saxophone (sax), the ortholog of the human Activin Receptor-Like Kinase1 and -2 (ALK1/ACVRL1 and ALK2/ACVR1) genes. Our genetic analyses identified two distinct classes of sax alleles. The first class consists of homozygous viable gain-of-function (GOF) alleles that exhibit (1) synthetic lethality in combination with mutations in BMP pathway components, and (2) significant maternal effect lethality that can be rescued by an increased dosage of the BMP encoding gene, dpp+. In contrast, the second class consists of alleles that are recessive lethal and do not exhibit lethality in combination with mutations in other BMP pathway components. The alleles in this second class are clearly loss-of-function (LOF) with both complete and partial loss-of-function mutations represented. We find that one allele in the second class of recessive lethals exhibits dominant-negative behavior, albeit distinct from the GOF activity of the first class of viable alleles. On the basis of the fact that the first class of viable alleles can be reverted to lethality and on our ability to independently generate recessive lethal sax mutations, our analysis demonstrates that sax is an essential gene. Consistent with this conclusion, we find that a normal sax transcript is produced by saxP, a viable allele previously reported to be null, and that this allele can be reverted to lethality. Interestingly, we determine that two mutations in the first class of sax alleles show the same amino acid substitutions as mutations in the human receptors ALK1/ACVRl-1 and ACVR1/ALK2, responsible for cases of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia type 2 (HHT2) and fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP), respectively. Finally, the data presented here identify different functional requirements for the Sax receptor, support the proposal that Sax participates in a heteromeric receptor complex, and provide a mechanistic framework for future investigations into disease states that arise from defects in BMP/TGF-β signaling.
Reproductive Value and Fluctuating Selection in an Age-Structured Population
Authors: Engen Steinar , Lande Russell , Sæther Bernt-Erik
Published: July 2009

Fluctuations in age structure caused by environmental stochasticity create autocorrelation and transient fluctuations in both population size and allele frequency, which complicate demographic and evolutionary analyses. Following a suggestion of Fisher, we show that weighting individuals of different age by their reproductive value serves as a filter, removing temporal autocorrelation in population demography and evolution due to stochastic age structure. Assuming weak selection, random mating, and a stationary distribution of environments with no autocorrelation, we derive a diffusion approximation for evolution of the reproductive value weighted allele frequency. The expected evolution obeys an adaptive topography defined by the long-run growth rate of the population. The expected fitness of a genotype is its Malthusian fitness in the average environment minus the covariance of its growth rate with that of the population. Simulations of the age-structured model verify the accuracy of the diffusion approximation. We develop statistical methods for measuring the expected selection on the reproductive value weighted allele frequency in a fluctuating age-structured population.
Lethal Mutagenesis in Viruses and Bacteria
Authors: Chen Peiqiu , Shakhnovich Eugene I
Published: July 2009

In this work we study how mutations that change physical properties of cell proteins (stability) affect population survival and growth. We present a model in which the genotype is presented as a set folding free energies of cell proteins. Mutations occur upon replication, so stabilities of some proteins in daughter cells differ from those in the parent cell by amounts deduced from the distribution of mutational effects on protein stability. The genotype–phenotype relationship posits that the cell's fitness (replication rate) is proportional to the concentration of its folded proteins and that unstable essential proteins result in lethality. Simulations reveal that lethal mutagenesis occurs at a mutation rate close to seven mutations in each replication of the genome for RNA viruses and at about half that rate for DNA-based organisms, in accord with earlier predictions from analytical theory and experimental results. This number appears somewhat dependent on the number of genes in the organisms and the organism's natural death rate. Further, our model reproduces the distribution of stabilities of natural proteins, in excellent agreement with experiments. We find that species with high mutation rates tend to have less stable proteins compared to species with low mutation rates.
Analysis of Synthetic Lethality Reveals Genetic Interactions Between the GTPase Snu114p and snRNAs in the Catalytic Core of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Spliceosome
Authors: Frazer Lily Novak , Lovell Simon C , O'Keefe Raymond T
Published: July 2009

Conformational changes of snRNAs in the spliceosome required for pre-mRNA splicing are regulated by eight ATPases and one GTPase Snu114p. The Snu114p guanine state regulates U4/U6 unwinding during spliceosome activation and U2/U6 unwinding during spliceosome disassembly through the ATPase Brr2p. We investigated 618 genetic interactions to identify an extensive genetic interaction network between SNU114 and snRNAs. Snu114p G domain alleles were exacerbated by mutations that stabilize U4/U6 base pairing. G domain alleles were made worse by U2 and U6 mutations that stabilize or destabilize U2/U6 base pairing in helix I. Compensatory mutations that restored U2/U6 base pairing in helix I relieved synthetic lethality. Snu114p G domain alleles were also worsened by mutations in U6 predicted to increase 5′ splice site base pairing. Both N-terminal and G domain alleles were exacerbated by U5 loop 1 mutations at positions involved in aligning exons while C-terminus alleles were synthetically lethal with U5 internal loop 1 mutations. This suggests a spatial orientation for Snu114p with U5. We propose that the RNA base pairing state is directly or indirectly sensed by the Snu114p G domain allowing the Snu114p C-terminal domain to regulate Brr2p or other proteins to bring about RNA/RNA rearrangements required for splicing.
Bruising Frequency and Patterns in Children With Physical Disabilities
Authors: Goldberg Amy P. , Tobin Jane , Daigneau Janet , Griffith Robert T. , Reinert Steven E. , Jenny Carole
Published: July 2009

OBJECTIVE: We obtained normative data on bruising in children with physical disability in functioning and evaluated factors associated with bruising in this population.

METHODS: We studied children with physical and/or cognitive disabilities who attend a school that provides comprehensive services. Over a 15-month period, the children had skin examinations, including external inspection of the genitalia and anus. For each child, we gathered information on demographics, medications, growth measures, medical conditions, equipment used, and muscle tone. Functional independence in basic mobility, self-care, and social communication was assessed by using the Functional Independence Measure for Children (WeeFIM). Results were compared with a previously studied nondisabled or “typical” population of children.

RESULTS: Fifty children and adolescents 4 to 20 years of age had 2 skin examinations. There was no relationship between the number of bruises and the child's age, race, or BMI. Overall, our subjects were more likely to have at least 1 bruise noted than nondisabled children from a comparable study. There was no significant relationship between the number of bruises and functional mobility, self-care, cognition, or muscle tone. The bruising locations in our study group were different from those of nondisabled children. However, in both groups bruises were rarely found on the neck, ears, chin, anterior chest, or buttocks.

CONCLUSIONS: The children in our study were different from nondisabled children in the frequency and pattern of their bruising. Areas uncommonly bruised in typical children were also uncommonly bruised in the disabled children. Although increasing age and mobility clearly make a difference in the number of bruises a typically functioning child sustains, these factors are not relevant when evaluating bruises on a child with disabilities. Other factors such as muscle tone, cognition, and equipment should be considered when evaluating a child with significant disabilities who presents with bruises.
Prenatal Airborne Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Exposure and Child IQ at Age 5 Years
Authors: Perera Frederica P. , Li Zhigang , Whyatt Robin , Hoepner Lori , Wang Shuang , Camann David , Rauh Virginia
Published: July 2009

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the relationship between prenatal exposure to airborne polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and child intelligence.

METHODS: Children of nonsmoking black or Dominican-American women residing in New York City were monitored from in utero to 5 years of age, with determination of prenatal PAH exposure through personal air monitoring for the mothers during pregnancy. At 5 years of age, intelligence was assessed for 249 children by using the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence-Revised. Multivariate linear regression models were used to estimate and to test the associations between prenatal PAH exposure and IQ.

RESULTS: After adjustment for maternal intelligence, quality of the home caretaking environment, environmental tobacco smoke exposure, and other potentially confounding factors, high PAH levels (above the median of 2.26 ng/m3) were inversely associated with full-scale IQ (P = .007) and verbal IQ (P = .003) scores. Children in the high-exposure group had full-scale and verbal IQ scores that were 4.31 and 4.67 points lower, respectively, than those of less-exposed children (≤2.26 ng/m3). The associations between logarithmically transformed, continuous, PAH levels and these IQ measures also were significant (full-scale IQ: β = −3.00; P = .009; verbal IQ: β = −3.53; P = .002).

CONCLUSION: These results provide evidence that environmental PAHs at levels encountered in New York City air can affect children's IQ adversely.
Characteristics of Infant Homicides: Findings From a U.S. Multisite Reporting System
Authors: Fujiwara Takeo , Barber Catherine , Schaechter Judy , Hemenway David
Published: July 2009

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to describe homicides of infants (children <2 years of age) in the U.S.

METHODS: Cases were derived from the National Violent Injury Statistics System; 71 incidents involving 72 infant homicides were in the data set. Type 1 involved beating/shaking injuries inflicted by a caretaker; type 2 involved all other homicides (including neonaticide, intimate partner problem-related homicide, crime-related death, and other types).

RESULTS: Seventy-five percent of the incidents were type 1 incidents, perpetrated mainly by men (83%; typically the infant's father or the boyfriend of the infant's mother). In 85% of the type 1 incidents, the infant was transported to the hospital, usually at the initiative of the perpetrator or another household member. In almost one half of the type 1 incidents, a false story was offered initially to explain the injuries. In contrast, the type 2 incidents (16 cases) were perpetrated mainly by women (11 of 16 cases) and involved methods such as poisoning, drowning, sharp instruments, or withdrawal of food and water; most infants were not taken to the hospital. Although 93% of incidents were perpetrated by caretakers, the large differences between the 2 incident types suggest different avenues for prevention.

CONCLUSIONS: The circumstances involved in the type 1 homicides (beatings by caretakers) suggested that those attacks occurred impulsively, death was unintended, and emergency care was summoned, often with a false story. Previous abuse was suspected in more than one half of those incidents.
The association between serum TSH concentration and thyroid cancer
Authors: Boelaert Kristien
Published: July 2009

There is mounting evidence that the serum concentration of TSH is an independent predictor for the diagnosis of thyroid malignancy in patients with nodular thyroid disease. Furthermore, preoperative serum TSH concentrations are higher in patients with more aggressive tumours, suggesting a potential role for TSH in the progression of differentiated thyroid cancer. Based on these observations, patients with higher serum TSH concentrations and borderline cytological results may require more aggressive investigation and treatment when compared with those with lower baseline TSH levels. The mechanisms underlying the finding of higher serum TSH in patients with thyroid cancer remain unexplained. In this issue of Endocrine-Related Cancer, Fiore et al. have analysed the relationship between serum TSH and diagnosis of papillary thyroid cancer in 10 178 patients with nodular thyroid disease who were investigated by fine-needle aspiration biopsy. They found significantly higher TSH concentrations in patients who were subsequently diagnosed with thyroid cancer compared with those with benign disease. In addition, they found that the development of autonomous thyroid function (TSH<0.4 μU/ml) was associated with a reduction in the risk of papillary thyroid carcinoma. In this commentary, the evidence regarding the association between serum TSH and thyroid cancer is discussed placing these new findings into context.
Briefing: Independent review through peer assist: a new approach to managing risk
Authors: Carpenter John
Published: July 2009

The UK Standing Committee on Structural Safety is promoting a new and more holistic form of independent project review as a way to reduce the risk of structural failure. Committee secretary John Carpenter explains the background and benefits.
Briefing: Routes to qualification: more choice creates greater flexibility
Authors: Clarke Barry
Published: July 2009

Barry Clarke, ICE vice president and chairman of the UK Joint Board of Moderators further learning committee, explains recent developments in education and how it provides greater flexibility for anyone wishing to qualify as a chartered or incorporated civil engineer.
Satellite mapping in cities: how good can it get?
Authors: Hancock Craig , Roberts Gethin , Taha Ahmad
Published: July 2009

Society needs better maps of its ever-more congested cities – particularly for buried utilities, the locations of which are approximate at best. One of the most convenient surveying methods is to use global satellite-navigation systems, but ‘urban canyons’ are not ideal for satellite reception. This paper looks at the current and future status of the world's global navigation satellite system (GNSS) constellations and the advantages they offer for positioning surveys. Tests using a satellite-navigation system simulator show that a large proportion of urban areas are indeed difficult to position to centimetre level using a single satellite constellation alone, but this could improve significantly with the addition of further constellations in the near future.
A Latent Classification of Male Batterers
Authors: Mauricio Anne M. , Lopez Frederick G.
Published: July 2009

Regression latent class analysis was used to identify batterer subgroups with distinct violence patterns and to examine associations between class membership and adult attachment orientations as well as antisocial and borderline personality disorders. Results supported three batterer subgroups, with classes varying on frequency and severity of violence. The high-level violence class represented 40% of batterers, and both anxious and avoidant adult attachment orientations as well as borderline personality characteristics predicted membership in this class. The moderate-level violence class represented 35% of the batterers, and adult anxious attachment orientation was associated with membership in this class. The low-level violence class represented 25% of the sample and reported significantly less violence than other classes. Neither adult attachment orientations nor personality disorders predicted membership in this class.
Official Incidents of Domestic Violence: Types, Injury, and Associations With Nonofficial Couple Aggression
Authors: Capaldi Deborah M. , Shortt Joann Wu , Kim Hyoun K. , Wilson Jane , Crosby Lynn , Tucci Shivan
Published: July 2009

Official police reports of intimate partner violence (IPV) were examined in a community sample of young, at-risk couples to determine the degree of mutuality and the relation between IPV arrests and aggression toward a partner (self-reported, partner reported, and observed). Arrests were predominantly of the men. Men were more likely to initiate physical contact, use physical force, and inflict injuries than women, although few injuries required medical attention. In the context of nonofficial aggression toward a partner, overall, women had higher levels of physical and psychological aggression compared to men, and levels of severe physical aggression did not differ by gender. Couples with an IPV arrest were more aggressive toward each other than couples with no IPV arrests; however, nonofficial levels of aggression were not higher for men than for women among couples experiencing an IPV incident.
Gender Variations in Dating Violence and Positive Conflict Resolution Among Mexican Adolescents
Authors: Antônio Tiago , Hokoda Audrey
Published: July 2009

The present study examined gender variations on dating violence and conflict resolution among Mexican adolescents. Two hundred and eighty-five high school students, aged 15 to 18 years, were recruited in Monterrey, Mexico. Verbal-emotional abuse was positively related to physical abuse and negatively associated with engagement of positive conflict resolution. No gender differences were found in physical abuse, verbal-emotional abuse, and positive conflict resolution. The findings have implications for the development of teen relationship violence intervention programs that focus on teaching positive conflict resolution skills to Mexican youth.
Mortality of Women From Intimate Partner Violence in South Africa: A National Epidemiological Study
Authors: Abrahams Naeemah , Jewkes Rachel , Martin Lorna J. , Mathews Shanaaz , Vetten Lisa , Lombard Carl
Published: July 2009

The purpose of this article is to describe mortality of women from intimate partner violence (IPV) in South Africa using a retrospective national study in a proportionate random sample of 25 mortuaries. Homicides identified from mortuary, autopsy, and police records. There were 3,797 female homicides, of which 50.3% were from IPV. The mortality rate from IPV was 8.8 per 100,000 women. Mortality from IPV were elevated among those 14 to 44 years and women of color. Blunt force injuries were more common, while strangulation or asphyxiation were less common. The national IPV mortality rate was more than twice that found in the United States. The study highlights the value of collecting reliable data across the globe to develop interventions for advocacy of which gender equity is critical.
Onsite Wastewater Denitrification Using a Hydrogenotrophic Hollow‐Fiber Membrane Bioreactor
Authors: Sahu Ashish K. , Sengupta Sukalyan , Ergas Sarina J.
Published: July 2009

Hydrogenotrophic wastewater denitrification was investigated using a bench‐scale hollow‐fiber membrane bioreactor (HFMB). In the HFMB, hydrogen (H 2) was passed through the lumen of hollow‐fiber membranes and nitrified wastewater was supplied to the shell of the reactor. A mass transfer model was developed and found to be a good tool to estimate H 2 mass transfer coefficients at varying recirculation velocities. Under steady conditions, effluent NO 3 − ‐N concentrations less than 10 mg/L were achieved at an empty bed contact time of 8.3 hours when pH and membrane fouling were controlled. An average nitrogen flux of 0.88 g NO 3 − ‐N/m 2 · d was observed. Dissolved oxygen in the influent wastewater did not adversely affect overall nitrogen removal. Under transient conditions, similar to those of onsite processes, overall nitrogen removal efficiencies of 74 to 82% were observed. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that the denitrifying biofilm was loosely associated with the membrane surfaces.
Transport of Large Solids in Sewer Pipes
Authors: Walski Thomas , Edwards Bryce , Helfer Emil , Whitman Brian E.
Published: July 2009

This paper presents a method for determining the conditions under which large solids (i.e., solids with a vertical dimension greater than the depth of water) are able to move in a pipe. Depending on the value of a dimensionless number [s(d/ y) − 1], where s = specific gravity of the solids, d = water depth, and y = height of solids, motion will occur if a sufficient velocity (also reported as a Froude number or modified “solids” Froude number) is exceeded. Flume experiments were used to determine the coefficients to be used in the design. The velocity required to reach fluid movement was approximately 0.6 to 1.0 m/s (2 to 3 ft/s), which is consistent, although slightly higher than values generally used in conventional sewer design practice. However, it was demonstrated that increasing the pipe slope to achieve a higher velocity does not ensure that the solid will move.
A Methodology for Controlling Slopping in Copper Converters by Using Lateral and Bottom Gas Injection
Authors: Rosales Marco , Valencia Alvaro , Fuentes Ramón
Published: July 2009

We investigated, experimentally and theoretically, the formation of slopping in a 1:5 scaled water model of a copper converter. The gas injected through submerged tuyeres in the copper converters results in slopping; the formation of standing waves. The high amplitude of the standing waves contributes to the premature wearing down of the converter's refractory lining. We present a methodology for controlling slopping by using two submerged tuyere lines. The combined lateral and bottom gas injection reduces the amplitude of the slopping by interfering with the oscillation modes of the surface wave. For a Froude number of 10 for both sets of tuyeres, the experimental results showed a 50% reduction in the amplitude of the surface wave in the water model.
Analyses of the results in the treatment of locally advanced hypopharyngeal carcinoma with different therapeutic approach
Authors: Mikic A. , Pendjer I. , Dudvarski Z. , Trivic A. , Kreacic M.
Published: July 2009

Introduction: treatment of locoregional advanced hypopharyngeal cancers of grades III and IV would be surgery and/or radiotherapy. An increasing number of authors has emphasized favorable effects of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy with potentiation. The aim: the authors presented therapeutical results of three-year survived patients with squamocellular cancers of the hypopharynx (SCC Hy), grades III and IV, in relation to specific modalities of therapeutical approach. Methods: a series of 207 patients with grades III and IV of SCC Hy, treated in the period 1982 to 2002, was analyzed. Group I consisted of 131 patients who had surgery and postoperative radiotherapy (SUR-RT). Group II included 16 patients who underwent induction chemotherapy, surgery and postoperative radiotherapy (IC-SURRT). Group III consisted of 60 patients, who had primary radiotherapy (RT). Group IV involved 29 patients who were treated, in the period 2003-2006, by neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy with potentiation (CHT-RT). Results: three-year survival in Group I was 67.94%, Group II - 50%, Group III - 30%, and in Group IV was 51.72%. Five-year survival was analyzed only in group IIII. The longest survival was observed in Group I - 33.59%. Conclusion: the best therapeutical results were achieved in patient group that was primarily operated on and then had postoperative radiotherapy, while the worst survival was recorded in patients who had primary radiotherapy.
Deep pelvic endometriosis (Adamyan IV stage): Multidisciplinary laparoscopic treatments
Authors: Bracale U. , Azioni G. , Rosati M. , Barone M. , Pignata G.
Published: July 2009

Background: Few small studies have confirmed the feasibility of laparoscopic colorectal resection for Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis (DIE), albeit with a wide range of complications. Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate retrospectively the feasibility and clinical outcome of laparoscopic segmental bowel resection for DIE. Methods: We have retrospectively reviewed the data of patients undergoing laparoscopic rectosigmoidal resection for bowel endometriosis from January 2000 and June 2008. Data analysis included age, preoperative symptoms, operative procedure, operating room time, intraoperative and postoperative complication, length of stay and Quality of life. Results: 56 colorectal laparoscopic resection for DIE were performed. No conversion occurred. There were no intraoperative complication; 35 patients had a temporary ileostomy and 15 required reoperation for major complication. Conclusion: DIE should be managed in specialised centers with a multidisciplinary equipe; it represents a difficult surgery which require a high surgeon skill and it must be practiced considering both the risks and the benefits.
Morphometric parameters of the intercondylar notch: Gender and age differences
Authors: Stijak L. , Nikolic V. , Blagojevic Z. , Radonjic V. , Malobabic S.
Published: July 2009

Introduction: Narrow intercondylar notch of femur can lead to lean anterior cruciate ligament on femur's condyle, constraint and rupture. Purpose: Purpose of this study is description and comparasion gender and oldage differences of morphometric factors of intercondylar notch important for rupture LCA. Method: The measurements were taken on 50 cadaverous knees (32 male and 18 female) with intact anterior cruciate ligament, aged from 15 to 53 years. We measured intercondilar height and epicondylar width, intercondylar width, width of lateral and medial condyle in level of popliteal sulcus and on the widest place of the distal part of femur. We calculated notch width (NWI) and notch shape (NSI) indices from absolute measurements. Results: Notch width and epicondylar width have larger values (p<0.01) on the male (22.3 i 79.6 mm) than the female (18.2 i 68.7 mm). There is no statistical significant differences (p<0.05) about notch width and notch shape indices between male (NWI: 0.28; NSI: 0.77) and female (NWI: 0.27; NSI: 0.68). Aging epicondylar width rise.
A look into the larynx: Two centuries along the path of laryngoscopy
Authors: Vlajkovic G. , Sindjelic R. , Markovic D. , Terzic M.
Published: July 2009

Both the design and purpose of the laryngoscope have been changed significantly since Alfred Kirstein invented his own 'laryngeal mirror' - the autoscope. An initially straight, rigid oesophageal tube has been reshaped into a number of laryngeal blade modifications, suitable for use in various patient subpopulations. A tool initially intended to help otorhynolaryngologists diagnose and treat laryngeal diseases has been transformed into an instrument intended to help anesthesiologists intubate the trachea for the purpose of either anesthesia administration or airway maintenance. As direct laryngoscopy depends greatly upon individual manual skills, there has been almost no beginner who feels no proud of his first successful intubation. Thus, we should never forget the pioneers of laryngoscopy whose curiosity, creativity, and enthusiasm enabled us to give a clear and safe look into the larynx.
Uretharal syndrome in men-chronic pelvic pain syndrome
Authors: Cvetkovic B.R. , Cvetkovic Z.P. , Milenkovic D. , Adamovic A.
Published: July 2009

Introduction: Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) is defined as pelvis minor pain of nonmalignant nature repeating in different time intervals. Urethral syndrome (US) represents a most poorly defined entity within CPPS. Objective: The estimation of US influence on quality of-life as well as the determination of the way of treatment and therapy optimal length. Material and methods: A prospective one-year study included 166 men with CPPS, median age of 54 years; they were monitored clinically. During the patient monitoring the NIH-CPSI questionnaire (National Institute of Health- Chronic Prostatis Symptom Index) was used. US was diagnosed in 79 patients (47%), and according to the most intensive pain localization they were divided into three groups. All the patients were treated with alpha adrenergic blockers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and the treatment of the patients with positive urethral smear also included antibiotherapy. The values of total NIHCPSI, as well as of its individual components were analyzed after three and six months of treatment. Results and discussion: The therapy application had a significant influence on the decrease of total NIH-CPSI - 23.3% (p<0,01), pain symptoms (p<0.0) and urinary difficulties (p<0.01), and the point values of quality-of-life score were diminished by 0.7 to 1.9 points depending on the group of those monitored (p<0.01). Conclusion: Our study indicated a significant influence of CPPS on quality-of-life and a necessity of a serious approach to patients and their treatment.
Sila potrebna za mobilizaciju rekonstruisane fleksorne tetive prednje sape psa
Authors: Jeremic P.D. , Colic M.M. , Lazovic G.D.
Published: July 2009

Adhesions of tendons with surrounding tissue, especially in zone II, are frequent complication at the reconstruction of flexor tendons of the hand. Through knowing of biomechanical incidents between the reconstructed flexor tendon and the surrounding tissue we get significant data for post-operative procedures, and that improves the opportunity for obtaining good functional results. By successive loading of operated flexor digitorum profundus in the experimental animals - dogs, medium values of force necessary for mobilization of tendons obtained on 3. post-operative day are 0=+3,36 N, 5. day 0=+6,85 N, 10. day 0=+9,58 N and 15. day 0=+10,19 N. It can be concluded that peritendon adhesions occur between 3. and 5. post-operative day. In time, the adhesions get stronger and block the movements of the tendon, and growing force is necessary for their mobilization.