bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-quality thin-film passivation by catalyzer-enhanced chemical vapor deposition for organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Kim Han-Ki , Kim Myung Soo , Kang Jae-Wook , Kim Jang-Joo , Yi Min-Su
Published: January 2007

The thin-film passivation of organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) by a SiNx film grown by catalyzer-enhanced chemical vapor deposition was investigated. Using a tungsten catalyzer connected in series, a high-density SiNx passivation layer was deposited on OLEDs and bare polycarbonate (PC) substrates at a substrate temperature of 50°C. Despite the low substrate temperature, the single SiNx passivation layer, grown on the PC substrate, exhibited a low water vapor transmission rate of (2–6)×10−2g∕m2∕day and a high transmittance of 87%. In addition, current-voltage-luminescence results of an OLED passivated with a 150-nm-thick SiNx film compared to nonpassivated sample were identical indicating that the performance of an OLED is not critically affected by radiation from tungsten catalyzer during the SiNx deposition. Moreover, the lifetime to half initial luminance of an OLED passivated with the single 150-nm-thick SiNx layer was 2.5 times longer than that of a nonpassivated sample.
Scanning tunneling microscopy investigations of hydrogen plasma-induced electron scattering centers on single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Buchs G. , Ruffieux P. , Gröning P. , Gröning O.
Published: January 2007

The authors report on the generation of localized defects on single-walled carbon nanotubes by means of a hydrogen electron cyclotron resonance plasma. The defects have been investigated using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and show an apparent topographic height in the STM of 1–3Å. In the vicinity of defects, characteristic superstructures could be observed and the patterns could be simulated using a simple model based on large momentum scattering of the valence electrons. The combination of low structural damage and high electronic activity opens the possibility to tune the electronic transport properties using such defects.
Lymphopenic mice reconstituted with limited repertoire T cells develop severe, multiorgan, Th2-associated inflammatory disease
Authors: Milner Joshua D. , Ward Jerrold M. , Keane-Myers Andrea , Paul William E.
Published: January 2007

Lymphopenia and restricted T cell repertoires in humans are often associated with severe eosinophilic disease and a T cell Th2 bias. To examine the pathogenesis of this phenomenon, C57BL/6Rag2−/− mice received limited (3 × 104) or large (2 × 106) numbers of CD4 T cells. Three to 5 months after transfer, mice that had received 3 × 104T cells, but not those that received 2 × 106, developed fulminant macrophage pneumonia with eosinophilia, Ym1 deposition, and methacholine-induced airway hyperresponsiveness, as well as eosinophilic gastritis; esophagitis and other organ damage occurred in some cases. Donor cells were enriched for IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 producers. When 3 × 104cells were transferred intoCD3ε−/− hosts, the mice developed strikingly elevated serum IgE. Prior transfer of 3 × 105CD25+ CD4 T cells into Rag2−/− recipients prevented disease upon subsequent transfer of CD25− CD4 T cells, whereas 3 × 104regulatory T cells (Tregs) did not, despite the fact that there were equal total numbers of Tregs in the host at the time of transfer of CD25− CD4 T cells. Limited repertoire complexity of Tregs may lead to a failure to control induction of immunopathologic responses, and limitation in repertoire complexity of conventional cells may be responsible for the Th2 phenotype.
Effect of Education on Hand Hygiene Beliefs and Practices A 5-Year Program
Authors: Wisniewski Mary F. , Kim Seijeoung , Trick William E. , Welbel Sharon F. , Weinstein Robert A. ,   Chicago Antimicrobial Resistance Project
Published: January 2007

To evaluate infection control and hand hygiene understanding at 3 public hospitals, we surveyed 4,345 healthcare workers (HCWs) 3 times during a 5-year infection control intervention. The preference for the use of alcohol hand rub for hand hygiene increased dramatically; in nurses, it increased from 14% to 34%; in physicians, 4.3% to 51%; and in allied HCWs, 12% to 44%. Study year, infection control interactive education-session attendance, infection control knowledge, and being a physician or allied HCW independently predicted a preference for alcohol hand rub.
Induction of oral cavity cancer by 3-diazotyramine, a nitrosated product of tyramine present in foods
Authors: Fujita Yuki , Wakabayashi Keiji , Takayama Shozo , Nagao Minako , Sugimura Takashi
Published: January 2007

A mutagenic nitrosation product of tyramine, 4-(2-amino-ethyl)-6-diazo-2,4-cydobexadienone (3-diazotyramine, 3-DT) preferentially induced tumors of the oral cavity. Squamous-cell carcinomas of the mucosa of the oral cavity floor developed in 19 out of 28 male F344 rats administered 0.1% 3-DT in their drinking water. Tyramine and nitrite are found at fairly high concentrations in various foods. This demonstration of the carcinogenicity of 3-DT indicates that although the implications of 3-DT for human cancer are not clear, other nitrosable mutagen precursors need to be tested as possible risk factors in human cancer.
Base excision repair of DNA in γ-irradiated human cells
Authors: Moran Michael F. , Ebisuzaki Kaney
Published: January 2007

Escherichia coli endonuclease IV was used to incise cellular DNA specifically at apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) sites prior to alkaline elution to measure the resulting DNA strand breaks. γ-Irradiated HeLa cells initially contained DNA strand breaks and no AP sites. Upon incubation at 37°C the strand breaks were rapidly repaired and AP sites were generated and subsequently repaired. The transient nature of the AP sites indicates the in vivo operation of a base excision repair pathway whereby damaged bases are removed from DNA by DNA glycosylases to produce AP intermediates that are then substrates for AP endonucleases.
Conversion of diets at tumor induction shows the pattern of tumor growth and metastasis of the first given diet
Authors: Kort Will J. , Weijma Ineke M. , Vergroesen Antoine J. , Westbroek Dick L.
Published: January 2007

In a previous study, significant differences in the growth rate of a transplantable mammary adenocarcinoma were observed between rats receiving a diet rich in saturated fatty acids (lard, diet A), and rats on a diet in which the saturated fat was partly replaced by polyunsaturated fatty acid of the ω-3 type (Menhaden oil, diet B). In the present investigation, it was our aim to study tumor growth in rats on diet A and B, as well as in rats that had, at tumor inoculation, a change of diets, from diet A to diet B. Tumor growth of rats receiving diet A throughout the whole experiment was the same as in those rats that had a conversion of diets. The data shows that the observed inhibiting effect of diet B on tumor growth could not be obtained when this diet was given exclusively after tumor inoculation.
Back to Basics: Necessity, Proportionality, and the Right of Self-Defence Against Non-State Terrorist Actors
Authors: Trapp Kimberley N
Published: January 2007

The International Court of Justice's decision inDRCvUgandatouches on, but fails to address, the circumstances under which a State has a right to use force in self-defence against non-State actors.1In particular, the Court holds that, because the attacks carried out by anti-Ugandan rebels operating from the Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) territory are not attributable to the DRC, Uganda has no right to use force in self-defenceagainst theDRC.2The separate opinions inDRC v Ugandalament the Court's failure to take the opportunity to address the right to act in self-defence against non-State actors3–an issue of such obvious importance to the international community in an age of terrorism. As will be examined below, there are arguably good reasons–on the facts of the case–for the Court's refusal to pronounce itself on the matter. Furthermore, its decision need not be read as absolutely precluding a use of force in foreign territory in response to armed attacks by non-State actors.
Effects of 532 nm Pulsed‐KTP Laser Parameters on Vessel Ablation in the Avian Chorioallantoic Membrane: Implications for Vocal Fold Mucosa
Authors: Broadhurst Matthew S. , Akst Lee M. , Burns James A. , Kobler James B. , Heaton James T. , Anderson R. Rox , Zeitels Steven M.
Published: January 2007

Objectives: Selective vascular ablation (photoangiolysis) using pulsed lasers that target hemoglobin is an effective treatment strategy for many vocal fold lesions. However, vessel rupture with extravasation of blood reduces selectivity for vessels, which is frequently observed with the 0.45‐ms, 585‐nm pulsed dye laser. Previous studies have shown that vessel rupture is the result of vaporization of blood, an event that varies with laser pulse width and pulse fluence (energy per unit area). Clinical observations using a 532‐nm wavelength pulsed potassium‐titanyl‐phosphate (KTP) laser revealed less laser‐induced hemorrhage than the pulsed dye laser. This study investigated settings for the pulsed KTP laser to achieve selective vessel destruction without rupture using the avian chorioallantoic membrane under conditions similar to flexible laryngoscopic delivery of the laser in clinical practice.

Study Design: The chick chorioallantoic membrane offers convenient access to many small blood vessels similar in size to those targeted in human vocal fold. Using a 532‐nm pulsed KTP laser, pulse width, pulse energy, and working distance from the optical delivery fiber were varied to assess influence on the ability to achieve vessel coagulation without vessel wall rupture.

Methods: Third‐order vessels (n = 135) were irradiated: Energy (471–550 mJ), pulse width (10, 15, 30 ms), and fiber‐to‐tissue distance (1 mm, 3 mm) were varied systematically.

Results: Selective vessel destruction without vessel wall rupture was more often achieved by increasing pulse width, increasing the fiber‐to‐tissue distance, and decreasing energy. Vessel destruction without rupture was consistently achieved using 15‐ or 30‐ms pulses with a fiber‐to‐tissue distance of 3 mm (pulse fluence of 13–16 J/cm2).

Conclusions: This study substantiates our clinical observation that a 532‐nm pulsed KTP laser was effective for ablating microcirculation while minimizing vessel wall rupture and hemorrhage.
Interstitial cells of Cajal in health and disease. Part I: Normal ICC structure and function with associated motility disorders
Authors: Streutker C J , Huizinga J D , Driman D K , Riddell R H
Published: January 2007

Ramon y Cajal (1852–1934) is considered to be one of the founders of the field of neuroscience. In 1911, he described interstitial neurons in the gut, noting that they were primitive accessory components that perhaps modify smooth muscle contraction, themselves subject to regulation from principle neurons. The accuracy of his description of their appearance and activities has led to these cells now being called the interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC). Thuneberg and Faussone‐Pellegrini were instrumental in bringing these cells to the attention of gastroenterologists and pathologists in the early 1980s. Subsequently, the development of antibodies to c‐kit has allowed routine identification of the ICC in pathology specimens. c‐Kit is a transmembrane protein kinase which has as ligand stem cell factor and is involved in cell development in a variety of cell lineages. In the gut musculature, ICC and mast cells are the only cells that have prominent c‐kit expression. The ICC are now known to play an important role in gut motility and absent or disordered ICC networks have been identified in a variety of motility disorders.
Immunohistochemical variability of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in liver metastases from colonic carcinomas
Authors: Bralet M‐P , Paule B , Falissard B , Adam R , Guettier C
Published: January 2007

Aims:  To follow and compare immunohistochemical expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in tumour cells during the entire natural history of colonic carcinoma, from primary tumour to paired lymph node and sequentially resected liver metastases; and to test interobserver reproducibility of EGFR analysis.

Methods and results:  Forty patients had resection of colonic adenocarcinoma (27 with metastatic lymph nodes) and at least one partial hepatectomy (PH) for liver metastases; a second and a third PH were performed, respectively, in 14 and three patients; seven patients had tumour liver biopsy. EGFR immunohistochemistry (n = 130) was analysed independently by two pathologists. EGFR expression (membranous staining detected in ≥ 1% of tumour cells) was detected in 38/40 colonic carcinomas, 23/26 lymph nodes and 51/64 liver metastases. Both primary tumours and related metastases were EGFR+ in 28 patients (73%). Discrepancies were found in EGFR status between liver and lymph node (23%) and among the different liver samples (31%). Interobserver agreement was very good (intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.81, 0.91 and 0.85, respectively, for interpretation of staining in colon, lymph node and liver metastases).

Conclusions:  Since immunohistochemical detection of EGFR remains a prerequisite for EGFR‐targeted therapy eligibility, different tumour samples should be tested to allow every patient a chance to take advantage of this treatment.
Cytogenetic abnormalities in MALT lymphomas and their precursor lesions from different organs. A fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) study
Authors: João C , Farinha P , Da Silva M G , Martins C , Crespo M , Cabeçadas J
Published: January 2007

Aims:  To analyse the possible activation of distinct molecular pathways in mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, we determined the prevalence of trisomies 3, 12, 18 in MALT lymphomas from different organs, as well as the prevalence of translocations of the MALT1 gene in a subset of primary breast MALT lymphomas. We compared the numerical cytogenetic alterations in lymphomas, precursor lesions and in normal non‐haematolymphoid tissue from the same organs.

Methods and results:  Forty‐two samples of paraffin‐embedded tissue (29 MALT lymphomas from stomach, breast, parotid and thyroid; two Sjögren's syndrome; two Hashimoto's thyroiditis and nine reactive samples) were studied by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Analysed together, the cases of gastric, parotid and thyroid MALT lymphomas presented trisomy 3 in 46%, trisomy 12 in 28% and trisomy 18 in 21% of the cases. In contrast to other locations, trisomy 3 was not present in the majority of the cases of primary breast MALT lymphomas. None of the nine breast cases presented MALT1 gene rearrangements. Half of the cases of preneoplastic lesions exhibited trisomy 3 and trisomy 12; none exhibited trisomy 18.

Conclusions:  Trisomy 3 is the most frequent numerical abnormality in gastric, parotid and thyroid but not in primary breast MALT lymphomas. MALT1 gene rearrangements are also rare in this location, suggesting that distinct molecular pathways may be activated in breast cases.
Leukaemic infiltration of the mandible in a young girl
Authors: BENSON RACHAEL E. , RODD HELEN D. , NORTH SARAH , LOESCHER ALISON R. , FARTHING PAULA M. , PAYNE MARTIN
Published: January 2007

Background.  This report presents a case of leukaemic infiltration of the mandible in a 10‐year‐old female of Sudanese extraction.

Case report.  The patient was in remission from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia when she presented with pain localized to the alveolar ridge overlying the unerupted lower right second permanent molar. Two days later, she developed right inferior alveolar nerve paraesthesia. Radiographic imaging demonstrated cortical line absence around the developing lower right second and third permanent molars, and distal displacement of the lower right third molar. In addition, the cortical outline of the right inferior dental canal lacked clarity. Biopsy confirmed leukaemia recurrence demonstrating the Philadelphia chromosome. Tailored chemotherapy was commenced, and a bone marrow transplant was carried out 12 weeks later. At 6‐month dental review, the patient remained exceptionally well with no bone pain and normal sensation in the right lower lip.

Conclusion.  The importance of regular and long‐term dental examination of patients with leukaemia is discussed.
Active sugar transport in health and disease
Authors: Wright E. M. , Hirayama B. A. , Loo D. F.
Published: January 2007

Secondary active glucose transport occurs by at least four members of the SLC5 gene family. This review considers the structure and function of two premier members, SGLT1 and SGLT2, and their role in intestinal glucose absorption and renal glucose reabsorption. Genetics disorders of SGLTs include Glucose‐Galactose Malabsorption, and Familial Renal Glucosuria. SGLT1 plays a central role in Oral Rehydration Therapy used so effectively to treat secretory diarrhoea such as cholera. Increasing attention is being focused on SGLTs as drug targets for the therapy of diabetes.
Respiratory syncytial virus infection and recurrent wheeze/asthma in children under five years: An epidemiological survey
Authors: Lazzaro Teresa , Hogg Geoff , Barnett Peter
Published: January 2007

Aim:  To determine the rates of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in children under 5 years of age with recurrent wheeze or asthma and compare their clinical presentation, course and outcome with asthmatic children of the same age who did not have RSV.

Methods:  Children were recruited prospectively from the emergency department of the Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne during peak RSV season in 1998. Information was collected regarding past and current asthma presentations, a nasopharyngeal asprirate was taken for viral isolation and all children were reviewed by telephone 1 week following presentation.

Results:  73 children were included with a median age of 28 months. RSV was isolated from 33 (45%) of children, one child had adenovirus and in the remainder no virus was isolated. Children less than 12 months were more likely to have RSV (70%). RSV‐positive children had a longer duration of illness prior to hospital presentation than RSV‐negative children but were not more likely to be admitted or to have a longer duration of ongoing symptoms.

Conclusion:  A high rate of RSV infection was demonstrated in young children with recurrent wheeze or asthma during the RSV season. This information has important implications for the control of nosocomial infection with RSV (i.e. isolation of patients) and in targeting another group to be included for RSV vaccine development.
Spontaneous pneumoperitoneum after pneumonia in a child
Authors: Chan Daniel Tl , Wong Kenneth KY , Tam Paul KH
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  Pneumoperitoneum is considered to be a surgical emergency as it nearly always indicates a perforated abdominal viscus. However, in rare cases, the presence of ‘free gas under diaphragm’ may not imply the need for emergent laparotomy, as pneumoperitoneum can occur without any gastrointestinal leakage. Here we report a rare case of a previously healthy boy with pneumoperitoneum associated with pneumonia and perform a review of the literature to explore the etiological mechanisms and the pathophysiology of non‐surgical pneumoperitoneum.
Acute encephalopathy and rhabdomyolysis following rotavirus gastroenteritis
Authors: Minami Koichi , Tamura Akira , Komori Yuki , Yanagawa Toshihiko , Izumi Genkichi , Kioka Naomi , Yoshikawa Norishige
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  Rotavirus is a common cause of severe gastroenteritis in children, and other unusual extraintestinal manifestations have also been attributed to the virus. We report a case of acute encephalopathy and rhabdomyolysis following rotavirus gastroenteritis in a 6‐month‐old infant.
Retrospective analysis of long‐term defunctioning stoma complications after colorectal surgery
Authors: Caricato M. , Ausania F. , Ripetti V. , Bartolozzi F. , Campoli G. , Coppola R.
Published: January 2007

Objective  Defunctioning stoma is a common surgical procedure, but the choice of stoma remains controversial. The preference for colostomy or ileostomy depends on the type of surgery and on the surgeon who performs the procedure. Stoma reversal is often performed a few weeks after colorectal resection but few studies have analysed the long‐term complications of different types of stoma. This study aims to determine which type of stoma is associated with a lower rate of long‐term complications.

Method  A retrospective study of patients undergoing colorectal surgery from 1998 to 2004 with stoma creation after was conducted. Only patients followed up by our enterostomal therapist for a minimum of 3 months were included. Both emergency and elective procedures were considered. All stoma‐related complications were recorded. Kruskal–Wallis and Mann‐Whitney U‐test were used for statistical analysis (Reviewer 2, n. 5).

Results  132 patients were considered suitable for the analysis. Patients were divided into loop ileostomy (44), loop colostomy (77) and end colostomy (11) group. Mean age was 68 years. Mean follow up was 4 months (range: 3–23). The overall complication rate was 60%. The most common complication included dermatitis, parastomal hernia, leakage and stenosis. The stoma with the lowest complications rate was end colostomy (P = 0.026). Age <68 years was significantly associated with less complications (P = 0.01). Indication for surgery, emergency procedure, gender, morbidity and preoperative site were not significant factors.

Conclusion  In this long term follow‐up study, end colostomy and younger patients had a lower incidence of complications. A large prospective trial is needed to confirm our results.
ILLNESS, SUFFERING AND VOLUNTARY EUTHANASIA
Authors: VARELIUS JUKKA
Published: January 2007

It is often accepted that we may legitimately speak about voluntary euthanasia only in cases of persons who are suffering because they are incurably injured or have an incurable disease. This article argues that when we consider the moral acceptability of voluntary euthanasia, we have no good reason to concentrate only on persons who are ill or injured and suffering.
AN IRONIC REDUCTIO FOR A ‘PRO‐LIFE’ ARGUMENT:1 HURLBUT'S PROPOSAL FOR STEM CELL RESEARCH
Authors: ELLIOTT KEVIN
Published: January 2007

William Hurlbut, a Stanford University bioethicist and member of the President's Council on Bioethics, recently proposed a solution to the current impasse over human embryonic stem cell research in the United States. He suggested that researchers could use genetic engineering and somatic cell nuclear transfer (i.e. cloning) to develop human ‘pseudo‐embryos’ that have no potential to develop fully into human persons. According to Hurlbut, even thinkers who typically ascribe high moral status to human embryos could approve of destroying these ‘pseudo‐embryos’ for the sake of harvesting human embryonic stem cells. This essay argues, first, that an argument based on the ‘paradox of the heap’ (an argument that many ‘pro‐life’ thinkers employ in order to defend the notion that human embryos have high moral value from the moment of conception) challenges the ethical legitimacy of Hurlbut's proposal. Second, the paper argues that this conflict may illustrate a reductio ad absurdum for this ‘pro‐life’ argument itself rather than being a problem for Hurlbut's proposal. As a result, the paper challenges the ‘pro‐life’ strategy of arguing that one should respond to uncertainty about the moral status of developing embryos by being morally ‘cautious’ and granting all human embryos full moral status from the moment of conception. It appears that one is faced with a complex series of choices (about where to draw the moral line between entities that are human persons and entities that are not), and a strict moral ‘cautiousness’ about this series of choices may ultimately lead to absurdity.
Setting Choices, Controlling Outcomes: The Operation of Prime Ministerial Influence and the UK's Decision to Invade Iraq
Authors: O'Malley Eoin
Published: January 2007

The prime minister's role in policy-making is paradoxical in that, although seemingly very powerful, prime ministers in fact have few rights to set policy unilaterally. It is then important to discover how prime ministers exercise influence over policy. Some studies suggest that it is through using resources within policy networks. From agenda-setting theory, this article proposes that prime ministers influence other actors by structuring the choices they face. This is illustrated using an example of a highly contested policy: the decision in the UK to support the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. It is shown that to influence two crucial actors, parliament and the cabinet, the prime minister, Tony Blair, and his office selectively released and withheld information in order to structure the choice facing these actors.
Interaction effects in software piracy
Authors: Kin‐wai Lau Eric
Published: January 2007

The paper presents an exploratory attempt to analyse self‐reported leniency toward software piracy systematically, using an approach based on empirical factors, rather than ethical factors. The empirical factors studied were: (i) social acceptance of software piracy; (ii) the cost of original software; (iii) urgency of the subject's need for software; (iv) availability of original software; (v) knowledge of computer software copyright law; (vi) gender; (vii) monthly household income; and (viii) education level. It provides new insights to software companies and government officials who are developing programmes to promote the concept of anti‐piracy among software consumers. This is also the first exploratory research to study the interaction effects among factors influencing the reported leniency towards software piracy, at the individual level.
A Simple Model of Inefficient Institutions
Authors: Acemoglu Daron
Published: January 2007

This paper develops a simple model of economic and political institutions that lead to poor aggregate economic performance. In the model economy, groups with political power, the elite, choose policies to increase their income and to directly or indirectly transfer resources from the rest of society to themselves. The resulting equilibrium is generally inefficient because of three distinct mechanisms: (1) revenue extraction, (2) factor price manipulation and (3) political consolidation. In particular, the elite may pursue inefficient policies to extract revenue from other groups. They may do so to reduce the demand for factors coming from other groups in the economy, thus indirectly benefiting from changes in factor prices. Finally, they may try to impoverish other groups competing for political power. The elite's preferences over inefficient policies translate into inefficient economic institutions. The notable exception to this general picture emerges when long‐term investments are important, thus creating a commitment (holdup) problem, whereby equilibrium taxes and regulations are worse than the elite would like them to be from an ex ante point of view. In this case, economic institutions that provide additional security of property rights to other groups can be useful.
Work, Wages and Gender in Export‐Oriented Cities: Global Assembly versus International Tourism in Mexico
Authors: TAMBORINI CHRISTOPHER R.
Published: January 2007

Drawing on a rich source of urban labour market data, the Mexican National Urban Employment Survey of 1998, this article addresses the question of how dissimilar export‐oriented industries shape urban labour markets, particularly with respect to women workers. It compares Ciudad Juárez, which has an economy based on global assembly production, and Cancún, whose economy is based on international tourism. Employing economic base theory and location quotients, the analysis isolates the impact of the export sectors on the local labour markets.

Results show that global assembly and international tourism encourage a mix of occupational and income prospects for both men and women in each of these Mexican cities. Female employment tends to be concentrated in the export‐oriented sector in both cases, but the types of occupational and income opportunities therein vary. Overall, the analysis challenges common exploitation arguments that tend to stress the universally shared deleterious working conditions and low wages that result from global integration and export‐led industrialisation in contemporary Latin America. It suggests that we pay closer attention to the diverse nature of outward oriented industries, which will tend to differentiate the labour market implications of increasing economic globalisation.
Tumor necrosis factor alpha stimulates NMDA receptor activity in mouse cortical neurons resulting in ERK‐dependent death
Authors: Jara Javier H. , Singh Brij B. , Floden Angela M. , Combs Colin K.
Published: January 2007

Multiple cytokines are secreted in the brain during pro‐inflammatory conditions and likely affect neuron survival. Previously, we demonstrated that glutamate and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) kill neurons via activation of the N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) and TNFα receptors, respectively. This report continues characterizing the signaling cross‐talk pathway initiated during this inflammation‐related mechanism of death. Stimulation of mouse cortical neuron cultures with TNFα results in a transient increase in NMDA receptor‐dependent calcium influx that is additive with NMDA stimulation and inhibited by pre‐treatment with the NMDA receptor antagonist, dl‐2‐amino‐5‐phosphonovaleric acid, or the α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methylisoxazole‐4‐propionate/kainate receptor antagonist, 6,7‐dinitroquinoxaline‐2,3‐dione. Pre‐treatment with N‐type calcium channel antagonist, ω‐conotoxin, or the voltage‐gated sodium channel antagonist, tetrodotoxin, also prevents the TNFα‐stimulated calcium influx. Combined TNFα and NMDA stimulation results in a transient increase in activity of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases (ERKs) and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinases (JNKs). Specific inhibition of ERKs but not JNKs is protective against TNFα and NMDA‐dependent death. Death is mediated via the low‐affinity TNFα receptor, TNFRII, as agonist antibodies for TNFRII but not TNFRI stimulate NMDA receptor‐dependent calcium influx and death. These data demonstrate how microglial pro‐inflammatory secretions including TNFα can acutely facilitate glutamate‐dependent neuron death.
An institutional explanation of party system congruence: Evidence from six federations
Authors: THORLAKSON LORI
Published: January 2007

Abstract.  The allocation of resources between the federal and state levels of government is a key institutional variable explaining the congruence or similarity of party systems. It affects the incentives voters and parties face, and opportunities for cleavage mobilization. This article pioneers measures for comparing congruence across federations. Evidence from state and federal elections in six federations produces clear evidence that party systems are least congruent in decentralized federations and most congruent in centralized federations. Voter behaviour, indicated by the variation of electoral support for parties across units of the federation and the similarity of swings in support between the state and federal levels, is most responsive to the allocation of resources. Party system structure is less responsive to this variable.
Industry Response to SARA Title III: Pollution Prevention, Risk Reduction, and Risk Communication
Authors: Santos Susan L. , Covello Vincent T. , McCallum David B.
Published: January 2007

This paper reports results from a survey designed to: (1) evaluate changes in industrial pollution prevention practices since the passage of the landmark environmental legislation, the Emergency Planning and Community Right‐to‐Know Act of 1986, also known as SARA Title III, and (2) identify those factors that may contribute to an industrial facility engaging in pollution prevention and risk communication activities. The survey was conducted under a Cooperative Agreement between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Columbia University Center for Risk Communication. Evidence from the survey indicates that a wide variety of waste and pollution reduction activities have been undertaken since passage of the Act. Virtually all facilities surveyed in the pulp and paper, chemical, and petroleum and refining industries reported that they had reduced pollutants or wastes on at least one often measures, including reducing toxic air emissions. Most facilities indicated paying more attention to pollution prevention activities as a result of SARA Title III and half reported that their communication activities have also increased.
Using Time Intervals Between Expected Events to Communicate Risk Magnitudes
Authors: Weinstein Neil D. , Kolb Kathryn , Goldstein Bernard D.
Published: January 2007

Because members of the public have difficulty understanding risk presented in terms of odds ratios (e.g., 1 in 1000) and in comparing odds ratios from different hazards, we examined the use of time intervals between expected harmful events to communicate risk. Perceptions of the risk from a hypothetical instance of naturally‐occurring, cancer‐causing arsenic in drinking water supplies was examined with a sample of 705 homeowners. The risk was described as either 1 in 1000 or 1 in 100,000 and as present in a town of 2000 people or a city of 200,000 people. With these parameters, the time intervals ranged from 1 expected death in 3500 years (1 in 100,000 risk, small town) to 1 death every 4 months (1 in 1000 risk, city). The addition of time intervals to the odds ratios significantly decreased perceived threat and perceived need for action in the small town but did not affect response for the city. These framing effects were nearly as large as a 100‐fold difference in actual risk. Instances when this communication approach may be useful are discussed.
Uncertainties in the Link Between Global Climate Change and Predicted Health Risks from Pollution: Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) Case Study Using a Fugacity Model
Authors: McKone T. E. , Daniels J. I. , Goldman M.
Published: January 2007

Industrial societies have altered the earth's environment in ways that could have important, long‐term ecological, economic, and health implications. In this paper, we examine the extent to which uncertainty about global climate change could impact the precision of predictions of secondary outcomes such as health impacts of pollution. Using a model that links global climate change with predictions of chemical exposure and human health risk in the Western region of the United States of America (U.S.), we define parameter variabilities and uncertainties and we characterize the resulting outcome variance. As a case study, we consider the public health consequences from releases of hexachlorobenzene (HCB), a ubiquitous multimedia pollutant. By constructing a matrix that links global environmental change both directly and indirectly to potential human‐health effects attributable to HCB released into air, soil, and water, we define critical parameter variances in the health risk estimation process. We employ a combined uncertainty/sensitivity analysis to investigate how HCB releases are affected by increasing atmospheric temperature and the accompanying climate alterations that are anticipated. We examine how such uncertainty impacts both the expected magnitude and calculational precision of potential human exposures and health effects. This assessment reveals that uncertain temperature increases of up to 5°C have little impact on either the magnitude or precision of the public‐health consequences estimated under existing climate variations for HCB released into air and water in the Western region of the U.S.
An Effective Statistical Approach for Comparative Risk Assessment1
Authors: Ding Cherng G. , Woo York Y. , Sheu Her‐Jiun , Chien Hui‐Chen , Shen Shu‐Fen
Published: January 2007

Comparative risk assessment is an evaluation process designed to rank environmental problems based on the severity of potential hazards. The purpose of this paper is to provide an effective statistical approach to analyze perceived environmental risks. Environmental problems, evaluative criteria, and other potential moderator variables need to be determined first, and then the risk perception data collected. Repeated measures analysis is used to first test for interactions between environmental problems and potential moderator variables. If there are no significant interactions, then the risk difference among environmental problems is tested unconditionally; otherwise the risk difference is tested conditionally. Cluster analysis for environmental problems is performed only when the risk difference is significant. The clustering results can be objectively determined by using the simultaneous T2 confidence intervals. Risk‐based priority setting is made according to the clusters obtained. To illustrate this approach, an empirical study of comparative socioeconomic risks in Taiwan was conducted. Socioeconomic impacts areas including social security, quality of life, production cost, investment willingness, and economic resources are used as evaluative criteria. Results indicate that selected impact areas do affect relative risk differences among 24 environmental problems, and the difference is significant for each area. Therefore, cluster analysis is conducted separately for each impact area. Risk‐based priority settings for clusters of environmental problems are reported.
Comparison of DOE and Army Advisory Boards: Application of a Conceptual Framework for Evaluating Public Participation in Environmental Risk Decision Making
Authors: Branch Kristi M. , Bradbury Judith A.
Published: January 2007

This article is part of a growing body of literature evaluating public participation approaches and implementation efforts. It compares the characteristics and performance of citizen advisory boards established by the U.S. Department of Energy's Environmental Restoration and Waste Management Program (DOE/EM) and by the U.S. Department of Defense's Army (DoD/Army) as a major part of the public participation programs that were undertaken to help the agencies plan and implement the cleanup of their contaminated installations. We first present the elements of the Acceptability Diamond, an evaluative framework developed by the authors through extensive fieldwork on public‐federal agency interactions that identify five objectives of agency–public interactions and public participation programs, and link them to existing literature. We then use the Acceptability Diamond as a basis for comparing the performance of the DOE/EM and DoD/Army advisory boards. In the early 1990s, both DOE and DoD participated in the Federal Facilities Environmental Restoration Dialogue Committee (known as the FFER Dialogue Committee) and were influenced by the Committee's recommendations on public participation. However, the Site Specific Advisory Boards (SSABs) subsequently established by DOE/EM and the Restoration Advisory Boards (RABs) subsequently established by DoD and the Army were governed by significantly different policies and management. We describe some of these key differences and compare the performance of the SSABs and RABs. The article draws on a series of research studies conducted by the authors on the DOE/EM public participation program from its inception in the early 1990s through its transition to accelerated cleanup in 2002 and also on a recently completed study of seven Army RABs.
An aggregation attractant for the sugar‐beet weevil, Bothynoderes punctiventris
Authors: Tóth Miklós , Ujváry István , Sivcev Ivan , Imrei Zoltán , Szarukán István , Farkas Orsolya , Gömöry Ágnes , Gács‐Baitz Eszter , Francke Wittko
Published: January 2007

During our screening studies, attractiveness of a ternary mixture of synthetic Grandlure I [racemic cis‐1‐methyl‐2‐(1‐methylenethenyl)‐cyclobutane ethanol], Grandlure II [(Z)‐2‐(3,3‐dimethyl)cyclohexylidene ethanol], and Grandlure III–IV [(Z)‐ and (E)‐2‐ochtodenal; (Z)‐ and (E)‐(3,3‐dimethyl)cyclohexylidene acetaldehyde] for the sugar‐beet weevil, Bothynoderes punctiventris Germar (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), was observed in field‐trapping tests at several sites in Hungary and Serbia. The mixture attracted both males and females. Later tests revealed that of the components in the ternary mixture, only Grandlure III–IV were responsible for attraction, and the addition of Grandlures I or II in varying percentages had no influence on trap captures. Traps baited with 50–50 000 µg of Grandlure III–IV on rubber or polyethylene dispensers yielded high catches of weevils. When testing synthetic samples enriched in the respective geometrical isomer, Grandlure IV had a tendency of catching more weevils, but differences were not significant from lower catches by a 1:1 Z:E blend or Grandlure III. In gas chromatography–flame ionization detection/electroantennographic detection studies, antennae of both female and male weevils were more responsive to the (E)‐ than to the (Z)‐isomer suggesting a more important role for Grandlure IV. Efforts to verify the presence of Grandlure III or IV in volatiles collected from either sex of live sugar‐beet weevils or body washings with pentane remained inconclusive. Traps baited with Grandlure III–IV can now be used as sensitive and powerful trapping tools in the control of the sugar‐beet weevil.
PPAR‐gamma agonist, ciglitazone, increases pigmentation and migration of human melanocytes
Authors: Lee Joong Sun , Choi You Mi , Kang Hee Young
Published: January 2007

Abstract:  Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs) play an important role in cellular responses. It was reported that three subtypes of PPAR are expressed in human melanocytes. In this study, we investigated the effects of the PPAR‐γ agonist, ciglitazone, on pigmentation and migration of human melanocytes. Ciglitazone stimulated the melanin content of cells and cultured skin. This increase in pigmentation was due to the stimulation of tyrosinase activity and expression of tyrosinase and microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor protein of the melanocytes. Migration was increased after ciglitazone treatment, which was observed by the Boyden chamber checkerboard analysis and a scratch motility assay. These results suggest the regulatory role of PPAR‐γ in pigmentation and migration of human melanocytes.
Severity of ED: Relationship to Treatment-Seeking and Satisfaction with Treatment Using PDE5 Inhibitors
Authors: McCabe Marita , Matic Hayley
Published: January 2007

Introduction

Research in the past 20 years has demonstrated that erectile dysfunction (ED) is an area of concern for men and their partners.

Aim

The current study was designed to evaluate the impact of the perceived severity of ED on treatment-seeking behavior and satisfaction with treatment among men with ED.

Main Outcome Measures

Participants completed a questionnaire to assess the above variables, as well as the duration of ED.

Methods

Participants were 410 men with ED who were primarily recruited over the Internet via men’s health websites.

Results

The results demonstrated that men with more severe ED compared with men with milder ED were more likely to have discussed their ED with their partner and doctor, have sought assistance for their ED problem, but they were also less satisfied with the effectiveness of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, and said they were less likely to use them in the future. Men with more severe ED were also less likely to want ED medication to last for 24 hours.

Conclusion

Implications of these findings for the treatment of men with different levels of ED are discussed.
Comparison of the Epson Expression 1680 flatbed and the Vidar VXR‐16 Dosimetry PRO™ film scanners for use in IMRT dosimetry using Gafchromic and radiographic film
Authors: Wilcox Ellen , Daskalov George , Nedialkova Lucy
Published: January 2007

Intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) treatment plan verification is often done using Kodak EDR2 film and a Vidar Dosimetry PRO™ film digitizer. However, since many hospitals are moving towards a filmless environment, access to a film processor may not be available. Therefore, we have investigated a newly available EBT film for IMRT dosimetry. Planar IMRT dose distributions are delivered to both EBT and EDR2 film and scanned with the Vidar VXR‐16 as well as an Epson Expression 1680 flatbed scanner. The measured dose distributions are then compared to those calculated with a Pinnacle treatment planning system. The IMRT treatments consisted of 7–9 beams for treatment of prostate, head and neck, and a few other sites. The films were analyzed using FilmQA™ (3cognition LLC) software. Comparisons between measured and calculated dose distributions are reported as dose difference (DD) (pixels within ), distance to agreement (DTA) , as well as gamma values (, ). Using EDR2 with the Vidar scanner is an established technique and agreement between calculated and measured dose distributions was better than 90% in all indices (DD, DTA, and ). However, agreement with calculations deteriorated reaching the lower 80% for EBT film scans with the Vidar scanner in logarithmic mode. The EBT Vidar scans obtained in linear mode showed an improved agreement to the upper 80% range, but artifacts were still observed across the scan. These artifacts were very distinct in all EBT scans and can be attributed to the way the film is transported through the scanner. In the Epson scanner both films are rigidly immobilized and the light source scans over the film. It was found that the Epson scanner performed equally well with both types of film giving agreement to better than 90% in all indices.
Automated matching and segmentation of lymphoma on serial CT examinations
Authors: Yan Jiayong , Zhao Binsheng , Curran Sean , Zelenetz Andrew , Schwartz Lawrence H.
Published: January 2007

In patients with lymphoma, identification and quantification of the tumor extent on serial CT examinations is critical for assessing tumor response to therapy. In this paper, we present a computer method to automatically match and segment lymphomas in follow‐up CT images. The method requires that target lymph nodes in baseline CT images be known. A fast, approximate alignment technique along the , , and axial directions is developed to provide a good initial condition for the subsequent fast free form deformation (FFD) registration of the baseline and the follow‐up images. As a result of the registration, the deformed lymph node contours from the baseline images are used to automatically determine internal and external markers for the marker‐controlled watershed segmentation performed in the follow‐up images. We applied this automated registration and segmentation method retrospectively to 29 lymph nodes in 9 lymphoma patients treated in a clinical trial at our cancer center. A radiologist independently delineated all lymph nodes on all slices in the follow‐up images and his manual contours served as the “gold standard” for evaluation of the method. Preliminary results showed that (89.7%) lymph nodes were correctly matched; i.e., there was a geometrical overlap between the deformed lymph node from the baseline and its corresponding mass in the follow‐up images. Of the matched 26 lymph nodes, 22 (84.6%) were successfully segmented; for these 22 lymph nodes, several metrics were calculated to quantify the method's performance. Among them, the average distance and the Hausdorff distance between the contours generated by the computer and those generated by the radiologist were (stdev. ) and (stdev. ), respectively.