bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A randomized phase 2 study of docetaxel and S‐1 versus docetaxel and cisplatin in advanced gastric cancer with an evaluation of SPARC expression for personalized therapy
Authors: Jeung Hei‐Cheul , Rha Sun Young , Im Chong Kun , Shin Sang Joon , Ahn Joong Bae , Yang Woo Ick , Roh Jae Kyung , Noh Sung Hoon , Chung Hyun Cheol
Published: November 2010

BACKGROUND:

The purpose of this study was to compare 2 weekly docetaxel‐based regimens as first‐line treatments for advanced gastric cancer and to investigate the expression of secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) and its abilities to predict treatment‐related clinical outcomes.

METHODS:

Patients were randomly selected to receive 3 weekly cycles of docetaxel (35 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8) plus S‐1 (35 mg/m2 each twice daily on days 1‐14) (DS), or docetaxel plus cisplatin (35 mg/m2 each on days 1 and 8) (DC). Endpoints included overall response rate (primary), survival, toxicity, and quality of life (secondary). SPARC expression in prechemotherapy specimens of primary gastric tumors was evaluated via immunohistochemical analysis.

RESULTS:

Eighty patients were enrolled in the study. Confirmed overall response rates were 46% (95% confidence interval, 30%‐62%) for DS and 24% (95% confidence interval, 11%‐38%) for DC via intent‐to‐treat analysis. Median progression‐free survival was 7.3 and 4.9 months and overall survival was 16.0 and 8.3 months for DS and DC, respectively. The most common grade ≥3 toxicity was neutropenia. Grade ≥3 mucositis (18%) and hand‐foot syndrome (8%) were the toxicities most associated with DS, whereas anorexia (20%) and lethargy (20%) were more common with DC. High SPARC expression was related to early progression (hazard ratio, 3.67; P = .042) and poor overall survival (hazard ratio, 2.01; P = .010) in docetaxel chemotherapy on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS:

The outcomes in this study favored DS over DC for further phase 3 study. The findings suggest that split‐dose weekly docetaxel alleviates hematological toxicity without compromising efficacy, and that SPARC expression may help individualize therapy in advanced gastric cancer. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
B‐cell receptor epitope recognition correlates with the clinical course of chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Binder Mascha , Müller Fabian , Jackst Antje , Léchenne Barbara , Pantic Milena , Bacher Ulrike , zu Eulenburg Christine , Veelken Hendrik , Mertelsmann Roland , Pasqualini Renata , Arap Wadih , Trepel Martin
Published: November 2010

BACKGROUND:

B‐cell receptors (BCRs) and their recognition of specific epitopes may play a pivotal role in the development and progression of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). In this study, the authors set up a model system to explore epitope reactivity and its clinical relevance in CLL.

METHODS:

Epitope‐mimicking peptides were selected from phage display libraries on 6 CLL BCRs from randomly chosen patients. The binding of the 6 index epitope mimics was evaluated in a set of 100 unrelated CLL samples. Epitope recognition patterns were correlated with the clinical course of the disease.

RESULTS:

Surprisingly, all CLL samples recognized 1 or several index epitopes, and some revealed marked polyreactivity. Patients with CLL who expressed BCRs that reacted with ≥5 epitope mimics had a significantly worse clinical course than less polyreactive patients (median time to first treatment, 24 months vs 102 months). This effect was independent of otherwise known prognostic markers.

CONCLUSIONS:

The authors introduced a system with which to model epitope reactivity of CLL BCRs without previous knowledge of potential antigens. The findings indicated that a polyreactive epitope recognition pattern may be a determinant of an aggressive clinical course in this disease. This further emphasizes the functional and prognostic relevance of BCR epitope recognition in CLL. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Patterns and outcome of relapse after autologous stem cell transplantation for mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Dietrich Sascha , Tielesch Blanca , Rieger Michael , Nickelsen Maike , Pott Christiane , Witzens‐Harig Mathias , Kneba Michael , Schmitz Norbert , Ho Antony D. , Dreger Peter
Published: November 2010

BACKGROUND:

Autologous stem cell transplantation (autoSCT) has improved the outcome of patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) considerably. However, little is known about the patterns and outcome of MCL recurrence after autoSCT.

METHODS:

The authors conducted a retrospective study of 118 patients with MCL who underwent autoSCT from August 1992 to August 2008 at 3 different referral centers in Germany.

RESULTS:

Fifty‐two relapses occurred for a cumulative incidence of 46% after 5 years. Only 3 patients relapsed after 5 years (at 90 months, 91 months, and 171 months) after undergoing autoSCT. A Cox regression analysis of the incidence of relapse identified not receiving rituximab before autoSCT and undergoing salvage autoSCT as predictive factors for relapse, whereas cytosine arabinoside intensification; a total body irradiation‐based, high‐dose regimen; patient age; and year of transplantation had no influence. The median overall survival (OS) after relapse was 23 months. Twenty patients (39%) underwent allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) for relapse, and 11 of those patients remained in ongoing complete remission at the time of the current report. It is noteworthy that there were 4 long‐term survivors who lived for >5 years after relapse even without undergoing alloSCT. A Cox regression analysis of OS after relapse revealed that the response duration after autoSCT was an adverse predictor of OS, whereas alloSCT was associated with a significantly longer OS after relapse.

CONCLUSIONS:

The current results indicated that autoSCT was capable of inducing long‐term remission up to 16 years after treatment, but the outcome of patients with MCL who relapsed after autoSCT was poor, especially if their response duration after autoSCT was short. However, for a subset of patients with relapsed MCL, alloSCT may offer the possibility of durable survival, and individual patients can enjoy long‐term survival after relapse even without undergoing alloSCT. Cancer 2011. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Oxidative stability of oils containing olive leaf extracts obtained by pressure, supercritical and solvent‐extraction
Authors: Jimenez Paula , Masson Lilia , Barriga Andrés , Chávez Jorge , Robert Paz
Published: November 2010

The effect of the addition of olive leaf (Olea europaea, cv. Arbequina) extracts, i.e. hydroalcoholic (ethanol–water 1:1; OHE), juice (OJ) and supercritical fluid‐CO2 (OSFE) on the oxidative stability of vegetable oils with different unsaturation, such as soybean oil (SBO), canola oil (CO) and high oleic sunflower oil (HOSO), were studied at two concentrations (250 and 630 mg/kg oil, expressed as caffeic acid equivalent (CAE)). The extracts were characterized by the total phenolic content (Folin–Ciocalteau method), phenol chromatographic profiles (LC‐MS) and antioxidant activity (DPPH). OHE showed the highest phenol content (7.7 mg CAE/mL) while OJ and OSFE showed values of 5.4 and 2.2 mg CAE/mL, respectively. Oleuropein and its derivatives were the major phenolic compounds identified in OHE. The addition of 630 mg CAE/kg oil of OHE and OSFE to HOSO, SBO and CO showed an antioxidant effect, increasing significantly the induction time (IT) (p<0.05). That effect was highest when the system was more monounsaturated. In contrast, OJ showed a pro‐oxidant effect for all oils systems for both concentration studied. This behaviour could be attributed to the diphenol oxidase (PPO) activity.
Evaluation of well‐differentiated/de‐differentiated liposarcomas by high‐resolution oligonucleotide array‐based comparative genomic hybridization
Authors: Tap William D. , Eilber Fritz C. , Ginther Charles , Dry Sarah M. , Reese Nicholas , Barzan‐Smith Kate , Chen Hsiao‐Wang , Wu Hong , Eilber Frederick R. , Slamon Dennis J. , Anderson Lee
Published: November 2010

Well‐differentiated/de‐differentiated liposarcomas (WDLS/DDLS) encompass an intriguing disease model in which a temporal intersection occurs between the malignant transformation of mesenchymal cells and the process of adipogenesis. Deciphering the molecular events that trigger and are characteristic of the intersection of these oncogenic and normal processes is critical to affect the often morbid and lethal consequences of malignant tumors of fat. High‐resolution genome‐wide oligonucleotide array‐based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) with matched gene expression analyses was performed on seven lipomas, one hibernoma, and 38 WD and DDLS to define and compare the genomic events associated with these tumors. WD and DDLS had complex karyotypes. On average, WDLS had 11.1 and DDLS had 22.7 chromosomal copy number aberrations. All of the liposarcomas had 12q13‐q15 amplifications with varying peaks at CDK4 (12q14.1), HMGA2 (12q14.3), and MDM2 (12q15); 24% of the DDLS and no WDLS had 1p32.2 (JUN) amplifications; 33% WDLS and 35% DDLS had 1q24.3 amplifications involving DNM3 and miR‐214/miR‐199a2; 24% of the liposarcomas had 6q23‐q24 amplifications (including MAP3K5). Amplifications in GLI1 (12q13.3), JUN, and MAP3K5 (6q23.3) were mutually exclusive and occurred predominately in the DDLS. 6q amplifications occurred primarily in retroperitoneal tumors and females represented the majority of those patients who developed fatty tumors prior to the age of 50 years old. This detailed genetic mapping provides insight into the heterogeneity of WD and DDLS and the chromosomal and genetic abnormalities that are present in and distinguish these mesenchymal malignancies. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss,Inc.
Application of radially varying magnetic field on a peristaltic flow of non‐Newtonian fluid in the presence of heat and mass transfer
Authors: Nadeem S. , Akbar Noreen Sher
Published: November 2010

This article deals with the variable MHD effects on the peristaltic flow of a non‐Newtonian fluid in the presence of heat and mass transfer. The walls of annulus are maintained at different temperatures. Continuity, momentum concentration, and energy equations are utilized in the mathematical analysis. Two types of solutions, namely, the exact and numerical, are derived. These solutions are compared and discussed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/htj.20314
Biamphiphilic triblock copolymer micelles as a multifunctional platform for anticancer drug delivery
Authors: Zhu Wen , Li YanLi , Liu LiXin , Zhang WenLong , Chen YongMing , Xi Fu
Published: November 2010

Novel micelles from biamphiphilic triblock copolymer poly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(ε‐caprolactone)‐b‐poly(acrylic acid) (PEG‐b‐PCL‐b‐PAA) as new multifunctional nanocarriers to delivery anticancer drugs were evaluated. The well‐defined triblock copolymers prepared by controlled polymerizations self‐assembled into micelles in aqueous solution with a hydrodynamic radius of 13 nm as obtained by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and a low critical micellization concentration of 2.9 × 10−4 g/L. The hydrophobic PCL cores of micelles were applied to load hydrophobic drug doxorubicin and the functional PAA subcoronas clung to the micellar core were used to carry cisplatin through covalent interaction. The results indicated that two anticancer drugs had been loaded by different mechanism either separately or simultaneously. Drug loading content and efficiency as well as release profiles were evaluated. Furthermore, internalization and cytotoxicity of the anticancer nanoparticles against human bladder carcinoma EJ cells were studied. The biamphiphilic triblock copolymer micelles provided not only biocompatibility and biodegradability, but also abilities for loading single and dual anticancer drugs, indicating that this was a useful multifunctional platform for anticancer drug delivery. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A:, 2011.
Feasibility of using a liver infected with Clonorchis sinensis for liver transplantation: Fourteen cases
Authors: Zhu Zhi-Jun , Shen Zhong-Yang , Gao Wei , Zheng Hong , Deng Yong-Lin , Pan Cheng , Sun Li-Ying , Zeng Zhi-Gui , Sun Ji-San
Published: November 2010

Use of livers infected with Clonorchis sinensis as donor organs for transplantation is controversial because of the potential associated risks. The low availability of donor livers at Tianjin First Center Hospital since 2003 prompted us to undertake cadaveric liver transplantation in 14 patients using donor livers infected with C. sinensis. None of the donors had been diagnosed with liver fluke infection before organ procurement, and in none of them was there laboratory evidence of abnormal liver function. After livers had been harvested and preserved, dead liver flukes were found in the bile of each donor; subsequent pathological examination of the flukes confirmed the diagnosis of clonorchiasis. Conventional orthotopic liver transplantation, with insertion of a T- tube, was undertaken in all 14 patients. Praziquantel, 25 mg/kg three times daily for two days, was administrated to the recipients starting on postoperative day 2. Results of tests of liver function improved rapidly after the operation in all of the patients. The median duration of follow-up was 31 months. The 1- and 3-year survival rates of the grafts were 85.7% and 78.6%, respectively. Postoperative biliary complications occurred in 2 patients (14.3%). No ova were detected in the bile or feces of any of the patients postoperatively. These findings suggest that livers infested with C. sinensis can be used as donor organs for liver transplantation. Further studies are required to establish definitive criteria for determining whether such donor organs may be used in a liver transplantation program. Liver Transpl 16:1440–1442, 2010. © 2010 AASLD.
Studies on the Cure Reaction and Relationship between Network Structure/Thermal Properties of Styrene Copolymers Based on Adypic/Sebacic Acid Modified Unsaturated (Epoxy) Polyesters
Authors: Worzakowska Marta
Published: November 2010

The studies on the relationship between network structure/thermal properties of styrene copolymers based on adypic/sebacic acid modified unsaturated (epoxy) polyesters cured using different hardeners as well as the course of the cure reaction of polyesters with styrene have been presented. The adypic/sebacic acid modified unsaturated polyesters (UP) prepared from 4‐cyclohexene‐1,2‐dicarboxylic anhydride (THPA), maleic anhydride (MA), adypic acid (AA) or sebacic acid (SA) and ethylene glycol (EG) and their epoxy derivatives: adypic/sebacic acid modified unsaturated epoxy polyesters (UEP) were subjected to the cure process with styrene using diacyl peroxide: benzoyl peroxide (BPO) or the mixture of BPO/suitable acid anhydride: 4‐cyclohexene‐1,2‐dicarboxylic anhydride (THPA) or glutaric anhydride (GA). Thermal properties were evaluated by means of DSC, TG and DMA analyses. It was proved that studied properties were significantly depended on polyester's structure and the type of applied curing system. Generally, higher values of E'20°C, tgδmax,E”, νe, IDT, Tkfor styrene copolymers based on UEP were obtained. It was connected with more cross‐linked polymer network structure due to the possible copolymerization reaction of carbon‐carbon double bonds of polyester with styrene and additional polyaddition of epoxy to anhydride groups or thermal curing of epoxy groups. The additional connections between polyester's chains led to obtain more stiff and thermal stable polymeric materials. Moreover, the increase of saturated aliphatic acid's chain length in polyester backbone caused the decrease of E'20°C, tgδmax,E”, νe, IDT, Tkvalues of styrene copolymers. It suggested that copolymers based on polyesters prepared from acid containing more methylene groups in their structure were characterized by more flexible polymer network due to the “laxity” effect of aliphatic chains.
Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophen)/Poly(4‐styrenesul‐fonate): Thin Films and Microfibers
Authors: Yan Hu , Okuzaki Hidenori
Published: November 2010

This Feature Article describes our recent researches on processing poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene /poly(4‐styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT/PSS) colloidal dispersion into thin films which exhibit high conductivity and high transparency, and into microfibers which exhibit high conductivity and high mechanical strength. The state‐of‐the‐art thin films and microfibers are expected to utilize to sophisticated touch screens and wearable electronic devices as organic transparent electrodes and woven electric circuits, respectively.
Extrusion cooking properties of white and coloured rice varieties with different amylose content
Authors: Sompong Rutrada , Siebenhandl‐Ehn Susanne , Berghofer Emmerich , Schoenlechner Regine
Published: November 2010

Five white and coloured rice varieties with different AM contents (long grain rice: 34%, Thai Jasmine rice: 15%, glutinous rice: 7%, red rice: 18% and black rice: 5%) were pregelatinised using a twin‐screw extruder at a barrel temperature of 150°C and two levels of feed moisture (12 and 16%). The correlation of AM content to water absorption index (WAI), water solubility index (WSI), starting viscosity, hot viscosity and final viscosity of the five rice extrudates were determined. Total anthocyanin content (TAC), total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity of extrudates were analysed by spectrophotometric methods. AM content was positively correlated to WAI and final viscosity. High AM content of the rice varieties resulted in high WAI and high final viscosity of extrudates. In addition, higher feed moisture content (16%) increased WAI and pasting properties of rice extrudates, but decreased WSI. Extrusion cooking reduced TAC, TPC and antioxidant properties, but the remaining values were high enough to suggest a further use for (functional) food production.
Statistical analysis on the effect of capacitance mismatch in a high‐resolution successive‐approximation ADC
Authors: Wakimoto Tsutomu , Li Hongxing , Murase Keita
Published: November 2010

This paper describes the statistical analysis of the effect of capacitance mismatch on the accuracy of a high‐resolution successive‐approximation analog‐to‐digital converter (ADC), which employs a split capacitor array to achieve high resolution. An analysis has been made for the following two types of capacitor digital‐to‐analog converters (DACs). One is the capacitor DAC with binary‐weighted capacitor array. The other is that which uses the segmented capacitor array for the upper bits to relax the matching requirement. The analysis was verified using the Monte‐Carlo simulation with capacitance mismatch. This analysis clarifies the required capacitance matching for a given ADC resolution and provides with a guideline for the optimum design. © 2010 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Application of Kelvin technique in a gas‐sensor read‐out circuit
Authors: Choji Hiroaki , Matsuoka Toshimasa , Im Jongpil , Wang Jun , Taniguchi Kenji
Published: November 2010

This letter proposes the design of a read‐out circuit for a carbon nanotube gas‐sensor array. The designed circuit relaxes the on‐resistance restrictions of the sensor selection switches with the Kelvin technique. Experimental results reveal the effectiveness of the Kelvin technique in the fabricated read‐out circuit. © 2010 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Individual and family environment correlates differ for consumption of core and non-core foods in children
Authors: Johnson Laura , van Jaarsveld Cornelia H. M. , Wardle Jane
Published: November 2010

Children's diets contain too few fruits and vegetables and too many foods high in saturated fat. Food intake is affected by multiple individual and family factors, which may differ for core foods (that are important to a healthy diet) and non-core foods (that are eaten more for pleasure than health). Data came from a sample of twins aged 11 years (n 342) and their parents from the Twins Early Development Study. Foods were categorised into two types: core (e.g. cereals, vegetables and dairy) and non-core (e.g. fats, crisps and biscuits). Parents' and children's intake was assessed by an FFQ. Mothers' and children's preference ratings and home availability were assessed for each food type. Parental feeding practices were assessed with the child feeding questionnaire and child television (TV) watching was maternally reported. Physical activity was measured using accelerometers. Correlates of the child's consumption of each food type were examined using a complex samples general linear model adjusted for potential confounders. Children's non-core food intake was associated with more TV watching, higher availability and greater maternal intake of non-core foods. Children's core food intake was associated with higher preferences for core foods and greater maternal intake of core foods. These results suggest that maternal intake influences both food types, while preferences affect intake of core foods but not of non-core foods, and availability and TV exposure were only important for non-core food intake. Cross-sectional studies cannot determine causality, but the present results suggest that different approaches may be needed to change the balance of core and non-core foods in children's diets.
Captured by the camera's eye: Guantánamo and the shifting frame of the Global War on Terror
Authors: VEEREN ELSPETH VAN
Published: November 2010

In January 2002, images of the detention of prisoners held at US Naval Station Guantanamo Bay as part of the Global War on Terrorism were released by the US Department of Defense, a public relations move that Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld later referred to as ‘probably unfortunate’. These images, widely reproduced in the media, quickly came to symbolise the facility and the practices at work there. Nine years on, the images of orange-clad ‘detainees’ – the ‘orange series’ – remain a powerful symbol of US military practices and play a significant role in the resistance to the site. However, as the site has evolved, so too has its visual representation. Official images of these new facilities not only document this evolution but work to constitute, through a careful (re)framing (literal and figurative), a new (re)presentation of the site, and therefore the identities of those involved. The new series of images not only (re)inscribes the identities of detainees as dangerous but, more importantly, work to constitute the US State as humane and modern. These images are part of a broader effort by the US administration to resituate its image, and remind us, as IR scholars, to look at the diverse set of practices (beyond simply spoken language) to understand the complexity of international politics.
Predisposing and Facilitating Factors of Severe Psychological Distress among Frail Elderly Adults
Authors: Préville Michel , Hébert Réjean , Bravo Gina , Boyer Richard
Published: November 2010

A sample of frail older adults (65 years and over) living at home or institutionalized (n = 664) with a significant functional limitation was used to document predisposing and facilitating factors of severe psychological distress among frail elderly adults. Our results indicated that 48.2 per cent of the older adults living at home presented severe psychological distress symptoms, compared to 34.3 per cent of elderly adults living in institutions. The probability of reporting a severe level of psychological distress was associated with the respondents' social support, cognitive and functional status. When the respondents' cognitive and functional status were controlled, no evidence of a significant association was found between the respondents' age, gender, marital status, education or income and the level of their psychological distress symptoms. Our results showed that 77.9 per cent of the respondents with severe psychological distress symptoms were still severely distressed 12 months after their first interview. Findings suggest that severe psychological distress represents an important challenge for practitioners in gerontology and geriatrics. It is suggested that other studies focusing on the consequences of psychological distress on older adults' quality of life, functional decline, institutionalization and mortality may help document the gravity of this symptomatology in the elderly population.
Targeting Social Support: A Network Assessment of the Convoy Model of Social Support
Authors: Haines Valerie A. , Henderson Linda J.
Published: November 2010

One of the most influential applications of the concepts, methods and measures of social network analysis to the study of the social support transactions of older adults is the convoy model of social support. We draw on recent debates in network methodology to provide an assessment of the convoy model that explores the role of weak ties in the support networks of older adults. The social networks generated by the target diagram which operationalizes the convoy model display the structural and functional characteristics set out in its theoretical arguments. But not all of the ties constituting these networks are conduits of social support and, more importantly, these social networks do not include all supporting and supported others. The target diagram identifies core support networks; therefore, support flowing through weak ties is missed when it is used to set the boundaries of support networks. Expanding our picture of the support networks of older adults to take systematic account of weak ties and the emotional aid, instrumental assistance, and companionship that flow through them will enhance the effectiveness of support interventions that target older adults.
Barriers to Residential Planning: Perspectives from Selected Older Parents Caring for Adult Offspring with Lifelong Disabilities
Authors: Joffres Christine
Published: November 2010

This paper presents a typology of older parents caring for adult offspring with lifelong disabilities, as well as barriers to residential planning from the perspectives of older parents caring for adult offspring with lifelong disabilities. Project participants included 54 older parents and one grandparent (all aged 60+). Information was collected via focus groups in six provinces across Canada. Transcripts were analysed using different analytical procedures, including pattern identification, clustering of conceptual groupings, identification of relationships between variables, constant comparisons, and theoretical memos. Older parents' reluctance to engage in the planning of future living options was found to be multi-factorial and linked to the macro- and micro-systems within which these families were embedded.
Some Demographic Consequences of Revising the Definition of “Old Age” to Reflect Future Changes in Life Table Probabilities
Authors: Denton Frank T. , Spencer Byron G.
Published: November 2010

Sixty-five has long been used to define the beginning of “old age”. Yet it is clear that the definition is arbitrary, and with continuing reductions in mortality and morbidity rates it will become increasingly inappropriate as time passes. We consider how the definition might be modified to reflect changes in life table probabilities, and how the future numbers and proportions in “old age” would be affected. In a similar manner, we consider also the redefinition of the “oldest old” from a current definition of 85 and over.
Perceived Control, Coping, and Expressed Burden among Spouses of Suspected Dementia Patients: Analysis of the Goodness-of-Fit Hypothesis
Authors: O'Rourke Norm , Cappeliez Philippe
Published: November 2010

The goodness-of-fit hypothesis contends that distress results due to incongruence between choice of coping strategies and perceived ability to change stressful stimuli. Goal-directed or active coping responses are believed to be most efficacious when the individual believes s/he can change or control perceived threats (i.e., problem-focused coping). Instances in which stressors must be accepted, however, would dictate reliance upon strategies to regulate distress (i.e., emotion-focused coping). Inconsistent support for this facet of Lazarus and Folkman's cognitive phenomenological model was obtained in this study of spouses of suspected dementia patients. The distinction between emotion- and problem-focused coping appears less germane than overall coping efforts relative to perceived control and caregiver burden. In addition, perceived ability to control dementia-related stressors appears to be somewhat independent of coping by caregivers. These findings are discussed in terms of the unique and chronic demands faced by spouses of persons with dementia.
A Study of a Secure Garden in the Care of People with Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Lovering M.J. , Cott C.A. , Wells D.L. , Taylor J. Schleifer , Wells L.M.
Published: November 2010

Specially designed outdoor spaces (SDOS) have been developed to improve the quality of life of people with dementia. However, few follow-up studies have been done to examine their use once implemented. The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of how SDOS are used and the objectives of their design fulfilled. A qualitative descriptive study was conducted of a SDOS 3 years after it was built to answer the following questions: How has the garden changed from the original design? What are the current patterns of use of the garden? What factors facilitate use of the garden? What are the barriers to use of the garden? Four main sources of data were used: landscape architectural drawings, non-participant observation, focus groups, and in-depth interviews. The results lend support to the theoretical principles of garden design in the literature. The garden was considered an important part of the service program. However, factors such as garden maintenance, organizational support, staff training, and accessibility may limit its impact.
Old Enough to Know Better, dir. Ron Levaco, 2000. Available from First Run / Icarus Films, 32 Court Street, 21st Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11201. Videotape.
Authors: Cusack Sandra
Published: November 2010

L'institut Fromm, situé à l'université de San Francisco, est un programme d'éducation des aîné(e)s remarquable comme le montre clairement la cassette vidéo Old Enough to Know Better. Lancé en 1976 à titre d'expérience d'une durée d'un an, ce programme, dont on célèbre aujourd'hui le cinquantième anniversaire, représente une union idéale entre un corps professoral en retraite et des personnes âgées qui désirent continuer à apprendre simplement pour le plaisir. La vidéo est un hommage au succès du programme comme l'illustre la série d'entrevues et de scènes prises dans la salle de classe. Cette étude se penche sur le modèle du programme, la pédagogie, les besoins des apprenants et des enseignants, ainsi que sur les bienfaits de l'éducation. Le but n'est pas, toutefois, de critiquer ce programme exceptionnel, mais de l'utiliser comme point de départ pour amorcer une réflexion critique sur le rôle vital que joue l'éducation dans la promotion d'une société qui vieillit sainement.
The Economic Well-Being of Older Women Who Become Divorced or Separated in Mid- or Later Life
Authors: Davies Sharon , Denton Margaret
Published: November 2010

This paper examines the economic well-being of women who become divorced or separated in mid- or later life, using 1994 data from Statistics Canada's Survey of Labour and Income Dynamics. Economic well-being is measured by adjusted economic family total money income, before-tax low-income cut-offs, and ownership of dwelling. Women and men aged 65 and over still in their first marriages are compared with women and men, aged 65 and over, who were divorced or separated at age 45 or older. Results show that women who become divorced or separated in mid- or later life are more likely to have low income than married persons and men who become divorced or separated in mid- or later life. Persons who divorce or separate in mid- or later life are less likely than married persons to live in a dwelling that is owned by a member of the household. Regression analyses show that receiving pension income and receiving earnings are positively associated with income for women who become divorced or separated in mid- or later life. Implications for the Canadian legal and retirement income systems are discussed.
The Chronic Illness Context and Change in Exercise Self-Care Among Older Adults: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Wister Andrew , Romeder Zan
Published: November 2010

This study examines the stages of change in exercise as a form of coping with chronic illness, among a panel of older adults managing arthritis, cardiovascular disease, or hypertension. Hypotheses connected to socio-demographic, exercise-history, cognitive, and illness contexts are explored in order to advance applications of the Transtheoretical Model for exercise self-care. A random sample of 735 individuals aged 51 to 95, who completed interviews at time 1 (1995–96) and time 2 (1996–97), were drawn from the Vancouver North Shore Self Care Study. Bivariate and hierarchical logistic regression analyses were performed on the data. The descriptive analyses supported two patterns: first, older persons with a chronic illness exhibited a propensity either to remain in or move into the extreme exercise stages (pre-contemplation or maintenance) in a non-sequential manner; second, elements of the illness context were primary determinants of stage of exercise change. Illness type, illness duration, activity restriction, and co-morbidity exhibited associations with exercise-stage change in the multivariate analysis. The findings have a number of direct implications for tailoring health promotion programs targetting older adults, especially those who use exercise as a form of self-care.
Validation of the RIS Eldercare Self-Efficacy Scale
Authors: Gottlieb Benjamin H. , Rooney Jennifer A.
Published: November 2010

This paper presents psychometric data on a new, three-dimensional measure of self-efficacy for caregivers of older adults. Based on a sample of family caregivers of persons with dementia and a longitudinal study design (Time 1: N = 134; Time 2: N = 103), the RIS Eldercare Self-Efficacy Scale assesses relational self-efficacy, instrumental self-efficacy, and self-soothing efficacy. These three dimensions show strong internal consistency and moderate test-retest reliability. Their construct validity is demonstrated by their zero-order correlations with a set of standardized indicators of the caregivers' health and morale, personality characteristics, and personal resources. Multivariate analyses suggest that the three dimensions are more strongly trait- than state-linked. Use of this measure as a clinical screening tool and in intervention research is discussed.
Divorce and Union Dissolution: Reverberations over Three Generations
Authors: Connidis Ingrid Arnet
Published: November 2010

High divorce rates over the past 40 years have affected multiple generations and have long-term consequences for family relationships. This article applies a life course perspective as it explores the reverberation of relationship dissolution beyond the nuclear family. Qualitative data from a study involving 86 adults from 10 three-generation families illustrate the extensive reach of divorce across time and generations. An intensive analysis of two families reveals six key areas of negotiation following divorce: relationship dissolution itself; balancing work and family obligations; inlaw ties; parent-child ties; sibling ties; and intimate relationships. Multiple voices from three generations demonstrate the complexity of family relationships over time and the reverberation of individual life course transitions throughout family networks. Applying the concept of ambivalence highlights variations among social groups in the ongoing renegotiation of relationships and situations that follows the dissolution of long-term unions.
L'appropriation territoriale de la chambre: un outil d'évaluation de l'adaptation de la personne âgée en maison de retraite?
Authors: Rioux Liliane
Published: November 2010

The research presented here argues for the development of an evaluation tool for elderly persons' adjustment to a retirement home that more specifically measures the psychospatial adjustment of home residents. Elderly persons who enter a retirement home must undergo a process that requires them to first disappropriate their old objects and then reappropriate the new ones that furnish their rooms. The order in which this process occurs is as follows: first, objects from their former residence; second, objects acquired after entry into a home; and, third, objects belonging to the retirement home. After the existence of this process had been verified in a sample of 130 residents aged 67 to 98 years, it was demonstrated that the evaluation tool used in this study significantly correlates with the scale developed by Castonguay and Ferron (1999) that measures elderly persons' adjustment to their environments (EAPAR), as well as with the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), which evaluates levels of depression. In this study, this latter is an indicator of adjustment.
Activity and Independence: Issues in the Implementation of Activity Programs for Institutionalized Elders
Authors: Cape Elizabeth
Published: November 2010

In spite of overall approval by residents and staff, a program of recreational exercise in a home for the aged had little impact. The findings suggest that (1) sponsorship and vested interest on the part of health professionals are crucial factors in program implementation, and (2) underlying optimal care of the institutionalized elderly are certain empirical and ethical issues which need to be addressed.
Socioeconomic Determinants of Early Retirement in Canada
Authors: McDonald P. Lynn , Wanner Richard A.
Published: November 2010

In view of the trend toward increasing early retirement observed in Canada since the 1960's, this study attempts to determine the main socioeconomic factors influencing the decision to retire before age 65 among Canadian men and women. Using data from the 1973 Canadian Mobility Study, we estimate a series of models in which retirement is measured as both the degree of involvement in the labour force and a subjective declaration of retirement status. We conclude that those Canadians who retire early tend to be single men and married women employed by others who are better educated and whose nonearned income is higher than those who retire at a later age. As anticipated, early retirement experiences are different for men and women, reflecting the more precarious position of women in the labour market.
Evaluating Physical Capabilities in the Elderly: The Relationship Between ADL Self-Assessments and Basic Abilities
Authors: Myers A.M. , Huddy L.
Published: November 2010

The relationship between ADL self-assessments and physical ability was investigated using data compiled on 128 exercise class participants. Compared with community dwelling respondents, institutionalized seniors were not only less accurate in their subjective ADL estimates, but consistently underestimated their capabilities over comparable ranges of the objective physical scale. Seniors appear to make errors estimating their functional capabilities with respect to daily activities they no longer perform and that may be restricted for reasons of institutional convenience.
Health and Social Support of Older Adults in the Community
Authors: Black M.
Published: November 2010

Structured interviews were conducted with forty-eight older clients discharged from a public health nursing service in order to: (1) describe their social support network and (2) identify specific components of social support related to physical, social and emotional health. The sample was comprised primarily of older widows living alone to whom family and relatives contributed the largest amount of support. Correlation analyses revealed that: (1) age, emotional support given by older persons to their supporters and aid given and received by older persons were related to physical functioning; (2) emotional, decisional and aid support given by older persons to their supports (total reciprocity) and femaleness were related to emotional functioning and; (3) emotional and aid support received by older persons and reciprocity were related to social functioning.
Elderly Women in Nursing Home and Independent Residence: Health, Body Attitudes, Self-Esteem and Life Satisfaction
Authors: Loomis Rhonda A. , Thomas Cheryl D.
Published: November 2010

Des problèmes de santé, des attitudes corporelles, le degré d'estime de soi et la satisfaction de vivre ont fait l'objet d'une évaluation portant sur 53 femmes âgées vivant deux situations différentes. Outre le fait que les 25 résidentes d'un foyer de personnes âgées (moyenne d'âge de 79,8 ans) étaient plus âgées, elles ont signalé davantage de problèmes de santé ainsi qu'une perception plus négative de leur corps que les 28 femmes demeurant à domicile (moyenne d'âge de 68,9 ans). Les différences observées, concernant les attitudes vis-à-vis le corps et la satisfaction de vivre, sont à attribuer davantage aux nombreux problèmes de santé signalés par les résidents des foyers de vieillards qu'aux différences d'âges et de conditions de vie. Cependant, et de façon très significative, les résidents des foyers de personnes âgées étaient beaucoup moins satisfaits de leur condition physique (entre autre l'agilité, la force, la coordination) que ceux demeurant chez eux, même si l'on tient compte des correctifs apportés au chapitre de l'âge et des problèmes de santé. Les résultats montrent également que chez les femmes âgées, les attitudes vis-à-vis leur corps sont reliés à l'âge, à la santé et à la satisfaction de vivre. En outre, ces résultats sont analysés sous l'angle de la nécessité d'assurer aux résidents des centres d'accueil l'occasion de pouvoir participer à des activités physiques et à des exercices.
Using Existing Data Sets to Study Aging and the Elderly: An Introduction
Authors: Black Charlyn
Published: November 2010

Le dévéloppement des systèmes d'information a permis la création de vastes banques de données informatisées détaillées, dont bon nombre contiennent des renseignements pertinents à la recherche sur les personnes âgées et le vieillissement. Cet article cite plusieurs types de banques de données exhaustives et fournit des exemples de chacun. Il présente ensuite les points forts et les points faibles des études menées à l'aide de données déjà existantes, puis souligne des stratégies pour l'analyse de données secondaires. Les banques de données déjà en place exigent beaucoup d'efforts dans la compilation de données individuelles et offrent d'immenses possibilités pour répondre aux questions importantes en matière de recherche sur le vieillissement.
Caught in the Triangle: The Influence of Home, Work and Elder Location on Work-Family Balance
Authors: Joseph Alun E. , Hallman Bonnie C.
Published: November 2010

Cet article étudie le contexte géographique dans lequel évoluent les soignants ayant un emploi et s'occupant d'un membre âgé de leur famille. Plus particulièrement, on y examine l'effet de la disposition spatiale du domicile du soignant, de son lieu de travail et du domicile du soigné (d'où «le triangle géographique» auquel le titre fait allusion) sur l'équilibre travail-famille. Une analyse de données tirées d'une recherche nationale sur le travail et la famille effectuée par le Réseau canadien de recherche sur le vieillissement (CARNET) indique que les paramètres du triangle géographique ont un impact certain sur le niveau de stress et d'entrave ressentis ainsi que sur le travail et le comportement d'adaptation. L'effet de déplacements plus longs au travail et de distances accrues depuis le domicile du parent âgé sur les niveaux de stress et d'entrave s'avère relié à la nature des responsabilités familiales. On a relevé des comportements d'adaptation géographique (envisagés ou mis en place dans les six mois de l'etude) chez 18 pour cent de l'échantillonnage de 595 soignants possédant un emploi; ils sont essentiellement centrés sur le point du triangle du parent aîné. Nos résultats nous amènent à prôner une attention spéciale au contexte spatial de l'équilibre famille-travail.
Working Conditions in Home Care: Comparing Three Groups of Workers
Authors: Neysmith Sheila M. , Nichols Barbara
Published: November 2010

Cette étude porte sur les similitudes et les différences entre les méthodes de soins utilisées par trois groupes de prestateurs de soins, soit les proches parents, les femmes au foyer et les bénévoles. Dans le contexte des conditions de travail, des questions ayant trait au milieu de travail, à l'isolement, à la communication, aux réactions, à l'autonomie, à la motivation et au choix font l'objet d'une comparaison au sein de ces trois groupes. Même si les capacités fonctionnelles des personnes âgées bénéficiant des soins étaient semblables, les circonstances touchant la prestation de soins variaient beaucoup. L'étude démontre que le contexte au sein duquel les soins sont prodigués représente un élément clé dans le cadre de discussions futures en matière d'établissement de politiques. Elle suggère que les tâches particulières relatives à la prestation de soins ne sont qu'un élément secondaire servant à comprendre le contexte dans lequel chaque prestateur de soins accomplit son travail.
The Statistical Analysis of Event Histories in Longitudinal Studies of Aging
Authors: Hirdes John P. , Brown K. Stephen
Published: November 2010

Les données tirées d'études longitudinales possèdent un certain nombre d'avantages pour les recherches en gérontologie; toutefois, les effets de l'attrition et la complexité accrue des structures de données avec de multiples observations peuvent poser certains problèmes pour les analyses statistiques. Les modèles de risques proportionnels permettent un examen de l'histoire d'un événement par l'utilisation de toutes les observations d'une variable dépendante. Ces modèles peuvent comprendre des covariables afin d'accroître leur capacité d'explication. Des hypothèses et des applications de l'analyse de l'histoire d'un événement utilisant des risques proportionnels sont décrits. L'analyse des données sur la mortalité tirées de l'étude longitudinale du vieillissement menée en Ontario en constitue un exemple pertinent. Les extensions du modèle de risques proportionnels et les logiciels disponibles sur le marché sont également traités.
Predictors of Reminiscence: A Lifespan Perspective
Authors: Webster Jeffrey Dean
Published: November 2010

Age (18–81 years), sex, and personality (Extraversion, Neuroticism, Openness to Experience) variables were used as predictors of four dimensions of reminiscence behaviour. Contrary to theoretical assumptions, age did not predict reminiscence frequency. Neither were there age differences in terms of emotional tone or philosophical content of reminiscence. Memory remoteness, however, was predicted by age. Personality traits, in contrast, were significant predictors for all four reminiscence dimensions. Finally, sex predicted reminiscence frequency. The results are discussed from a lifespan perspective.