bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain and Psyche in Early Christian Asceticism
Authors: Bradford David T.
Published: November 2011

This study is an 11-part investigation of the psychology and neuropsychology of early Christian asceticism as represented by Evagrius Ponticus (AD 345–399), the tradition's first ascetical theologian and possibly its most influential. Evagrius's biography is reviewed in the first section. The living circumstances and perceptual consequences of desert asceticism are considered in the second. Penitence, dispassion, and the mysticism of “pure prayer” are discussed in the third. Austerities are addressed in the fourth section, particularly fasting, prostrations, and prolonged standing. Ascetical perspectives on sleep, dreams, and the hypnogogic state are analyzed in the fifth. The depressive syndrome of acedia is discussed in the sixth. Evagrius's reports of auditory, olfactory, and visual hallucinations are analyzed in the seventh. Multiple complementary interpretations of demonic phenomena are developed in the eighth section. Evagrius's psychotherapy for anger is reviewed in the ninth. Interpersonal relations among ascetics are considered in the tenth section. The study concludes with a summary.
Habitual Emotion Regulation and the Facial Grimace
Authors: Burton Keith W.
Published: November 2011

Images of pleasant scenes usually produce increased activity over the zygomaticus major muscle, as measured by electromyography (EMG), while less activity is elicited by unpleasant images. However, increases in zygomaticus major EMG activity while viewing unpleasant images have occasionally been reported in the literature on affective facial expression (i.e., “grimacing”). To examine the possibility that individual differences in emotion regulation might be responsible for this inconsistently observed phenomenon, the habitual emotion regulation tendencies of 63 participants (32 women) were assessed and categorized according to their regulatory tendencies. Participants viewed emotionally salient images while zygomaticus major EMG activity was recorded. Participants also provided self-report ratings of their experienced emotional valence and arousal while viewing the pictures. Despite demonstrating intact affective ratings, the “grimacing” pattern of zygomaticus major activity was observed in those who were less likely to use the cognitive reappraisal strategy to regulate their emotions.
Contact Avoidance toward People with Stigmatized Attributes: Mate Choice
Authors: Kawano Kazuaki , Hanari Takashi , Ito Kimio
Published: November 2011

If contact avoidance is used to avoid harmful people, then this can play an important role when people choose a spouse, by eliminating undesirable people from the list of candidates. The purpose of this study was to reveal the sex difference in contact avoidance toward people with stigmatic attributes, who are therefore disadvantaged as spouse candidates. A total of 228 university students (101 men, 127 women) participated in the survey. Seven types of men and women with stigmatic characteristics were presented and the respondents asked how much they wanted to avoid contact with each type of person in eight physical contact situations. Female respondents wanted to avoid contact with stigmatized men more than with stigmatized women. On the other hand, male respondents showed comparable responses to both stigmatized men and women. The results were considered from the perspective of mate selection based on evolutionary psychology.
Prejudiced Attitude Measurement Using the Rasch Rating Scale Model
Authors: Tejada Antonio J. Rojas , Luque Marisol Navas , Rojas Oscar M. Lozano , Moreno Pedro J. Pérez
Published: November 2011

There have been two basic approaches for the study of minority group prejudice against the majority: to adapt instruments from the majority group, and to use qualitative techniques by analyzing the content of the discourse of the groups involved. Neither of these procedures solves the problem of measuring intergroup attitudes of majorities and minorities in interaction. This study shows the result of a prejudice scale which was developed to measure the attitude of both the minority and majority groups. Prejudice is conceived as an attitude which requires the beliefs or opinions about the out-group, the emotions it elicits, and the behavior or intentional behavior toward it to be known for its evaluation. The innovation in this work is that the psychometric development of the scale was based on the item response theory, and more specifically, the rating scale model.
Rosmarinic acid content in basil plants grown in vitro and in hydroponics
Authors: Kiferle Claudia , Lucchesini Mariella , Mensuali-Sodi Anna , Maggini Rita , Raffaelli Andrea , Pardossi Alberto
Published: November 2011

The accumulation of selected caffeic acid derivatives (CADs), in particular rosmarinic acid (RA), was investigated in different tissues (leaves, roots and plantlet shoots) of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) plants grown either in vitro or in hydroponic culture (floating system) under greenhouse conditions. Two cultivars with green leaves (Genovese and Superbo) and one with purple leaves (Dark Opal) were tested. The content of CADs in HCl-methanol extracts was determined by HPLC. LC-MS and LC-MS-MS were used to confirm the identification of the metabolites of interest. Apart from rosmarinic acid (RA) and a methylated form of this substance, no other CADs were detected at significant level in any of the analyzed samples. The content of RA ranged approximately from 4 to 63 mg/g DW, depending on the growing system. The highest RA content was found during the in vitro multiplication, in the acclimatized plants and in the roots of hydroponically-grown seedlings at full bloom. In vitro, 6-benzyladenine reduced the accumulation of RA in purple-leaf Dark Opal cultivar, but an opposite effect of this growth regulator was observed in the green-leaf genotypes. Our findings suggest the possibility to scale-up RA production by means of in vitro or hydroponic culture of sweet basil.
Evaluating the Evidence Base of Shared Story Reading to Promote Literacy for Students with Extensive Support Needs
Authors: Hudson Melissa E. , Test David W.
Published: November 2011

This study reviewed published literature to determine the level of evidence for using shared story reading to promote literacy. Shared story reading was defined as a practice used to access age-appropriate literature through reader–listener interaction in which a story is read aloud and student interaction with the reader and the story is supported. Literacy was defined as skills that increased access to age appropriate literature (e.g., listening comprehension) and reading independence (e.g., vocabulary, comprehension), including emergent literary skills. Using a quality indicator checklist to determine research quality and standards to establish level of evidence, results indicated a moderate level of evidence for using shared story reading to promote the literacy of students with extensive support needs. The importance of identifying evidence-based practices, implications for practice, and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Evaluating Evidence-Based Practice in Teaching Science Content to Students with Severe Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Spooner Fred , Knight Vicki , Browder Diane , Jimenez Bree , DiBiase Warren
Published: November 2011

A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted for articles published between 1985 and May 2009 to (a) examine the degree to which science content was taught to students with severe developmental disabilities and (b) and evaluate instructional procedures in science as evidence-based practices. The review was organized by a conceptual model developed for science content. Seventeen experiments were analyzed for research quality where science content was taught to this population; 14 of these studies were viewed to be of high or adequate quality. In general, we found systematic instruction as an overarching instructional package to be an evidence-based practice for teaching science content. Furthermore, components of systematic instruction (i.e., task analytic instruction and time delay) were analyzed. We discuss the outcomes to reflect how to teach science, what science content to teach, why to teach science, and recommendations for future research and practice.
Towards Biologically Active Self-assemblies: Model Nucleotide Chimeras
Authors: Vebert-Nardin Corinne
Published: November 2011

With this article, we wish to give an overview of our main research activities assessing the potential of a suitable polymer modification of DNA fragments to self-assemble biologically active nanostructures. Specifically, the grafting of a hydrophobic polymer segment on DNA fragments
results in amphiphilic nucleotide-based macromolecules, which, owing to both chemical and physical incompatibility, organize in self-assembled structures either on surfaces or in aqueous solution. Through the combination of the existing know-how in polymer chemistry with modern analytical
techniques, we are currently focusing on establishing the mechanism of self-assembly of the polymer-modified nucleotide sequences in solution and on surfaces prior to the assessment of their hybridization capacity once involved in the ensemble. With the evaluation of the potential of the functional
nanostructures to undergo biological-like adhesion through hybridization one can eventually foresee that the optimal functionality of these bio-inspired systems could be fine-tuned for biological applications such as drug delivery, gene therapy, tissue engineering and the design of either
biomedical devices or biosensors.
Probiotics
Authors: Mozumder SM Khorshed Alam
Published: November 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjo.v17i2.8845 BJO 2011; 17(2): 80-81
Concurrent chemotherapy in advanced head and neck carcinoma  A prospective randomized trial
Authors: Mitra Debabrata , Choudhury Kakali , Rashid Md Abdur
Published: November 2011

Purpose: The aim of this study is to compare two different concurrent chemoradiotherapy regimes – weekly cisplatin and three weekly cisplatin along with standard external beam radiotherapy in advanced head and neck cancer. Procedures: 90 untreated patients of advanced squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck were randomized into three arms: Arm A (n=30) patients received inj cisplatin 30mg/m2 weekly along with radiation; Arm B (n=30) patients received inj. cisplatin 100mg/m2 on a three weekly basis with radiation; Arm C (n=30) received only radiation. Radiotherapy was delivered to a dose of 66 Gy to 70 Gy in conventional fractionation in telecobalt machine. Findings: Complete response rate is significantly higher in arm B compared to that of arm A and arm C. Major toxicitities include neutropenia, anaemia and mucositis. Grade 3 neutropenia, anaemia and mucositis were found in arm A and arm B. No grade 3 toxicity was found in arm C. There was no grade 4 toxicity in any arm. Conclusion: We conclude that concurrent chemoradiation produce better response compared to that of radiation only. Toxicities were also increased in concurrent regimes. Out of two concurrent regimes, three weekly regimes showed better response with slightly increased but manageable hematological toxicities. Hence, this regime can be considered as standard of care for advanced head and neck cancer. Key words: Advanced head and neck cancer; Concurrent chemo-radiation; weekly versus three weekly cisplatin. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjo.v17i2.8847 BJO 2011; 17(2): 88-95
Pattern of lymph node metastasis in supraglottic carcinoma
Authors: Quayum MA , Huq AHMZ , Tarafder KH
Published: November 2011

Objectives: To find out the frequency and distribution of lymph node metastasis in supraglottic carcinoma. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Methods: 50 cases are included in this study (male-45 and female-5) between the ages of 40- 80 years who were treated from September 2007 to February 2008. Study based on history, clinical, radiological, laboratory and histopathological examination. Results: Highest number of patients was in the age group 50-60 years. Male and female ratio was 9:1. Commonest occupational group was cultivators and most patients come from poor socio-economic class. Smoking was commonest (70%).Out of 50 patients 20 (40%) had their regional lymph node involved. Level-II lymph nodes were involved in higher number of cases. Nodes in advanced stage of involvement were found in most cases. Homolateral involvement of nodes was in most cases (84.21%). Most of the patients present with more than one symptom and the commonest presenting symptoms of supraglottic carcinoma was cough and irritation (90%) followed by dysphagia (76%) and change of voice (72%). Most of the supraglottic growth was exophytic in appearance. The common site involve (50%) in the study were aryepiglottic fold and arytenoids. 80% of patients were present with T2 tumours. Patients were staged according to the TNM feature. Most of the patients (40%) were in stage-III followed by stage-II (24%). Conclusion: Lymphadenopathy is present much higher frequency in supraglottic carcinoma than glottic carcinoma. Key words: Supraglottic Carcinoma; Lymph node DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjo.v17i2.8850 BJO 2011; 17(2): 110-116
Preparation and Characterization of Mucoadhesive Microcapsules of Gliclazide with Natural Gums
Authors: Mankala Santhosh Kumar , Nagamalli Nishanth Kumar , Raprla Ramakrishna , Kommula Rajyalaxmi
Published: November 2011

Gliclazide is an oral hypoglycemic agent used in management of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Among people who are suffering from long term disorders, the major were categorized under diabetes so, a dosage form is needed to provide continuous therapy with high margin of safety & such dosage form can be achieved by microencapsulation. Gliclazide microspheres with sodium alginate (coat material, gum kondagogu, gum guar and xanthan gum (mucoadhesive agents) were prepared by orifice-ionic gelation and emulsification ionic gelation techniques varying concentrations (1:0.25, 1:0.5, 1:0.75 and 1:1). Formulations were then evaluated for surface morphology, particle shape, Carr’s index, microencapsulation efficiency, drug release, mucoadhesion studies. Compatibility studies were performed by FTIR, DSC, and XRD techniques and no interactions were found between drug and excepients used. The microspheres were found spherical and free flowing with emulsion ionic gelation technique with a size range 400-600μm. % drug content and encapsulation efficiency found in the range of 55%-68% and, 86.23%-94.46% respectively. All microspheres showed good mucoadhesive property in in-vitro wash of test. In vitro drug release studies showed that the guar gum has more potentiality to retard the drug release compared to other gums and concentrations. Drug release from the microspheres was found slow following zero order release kinetics with non-fickian release mechanism stating release depended on the coat: core ratio and the method employed. The concentration of 1:1 of SA: GG (EMG 4) found suitable for preparing the controlled release formulation of gliclazide stating emulsification gelation technique is the best among followed.   Key words: Gliclazide; Natural gums; orifice ionic gelation technique; emulsification ionic gelation technique DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjps.v4i1.8865 SJPS 2011; 4(1): 38-48
Assessment of Analgesic, Cytotoxic and Antioxidant activities of Vallaris solanacea (Roth) Kuntze
Authors: Karmakar Utpal Kumar , Ghosh Dyuti , Sadhu Samir Kumar
Published: November 2011

The ethanolic extract of leaves and stem of Vallaris solanacea (Roth) Kuntze (Family: Apocynaceae) was screened for its analgesic, cytotoxic and antioxidant activities. Phytochemical analysis of the extract indicated the presence of Reducing Sugar, Tannins, Saponins, Gums, Steroids, Alkaloids, and Glycosides. The ethanolic extract showed statistically significant analgesic activity (p<0.005) in acetic acid induced writhing inhibition in mice at the dose of 500mg/kg body weight and also showed mild effect at the doses of 250mg/kg body weight. In the brine shrimp lethality test, the extract showed cytotoxicity with LC50 80 μg/ml and LC90 320 μg/ml. In the qualitative antioxi-dant assay using DPPH (1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl) the extract showed free radical scavenging properties. These primary findings suggest that the extract might possess some chemical constituents that are responsible for analgesic, cytotoxic and antioxidant activities. Key words: Vallaris solanacea (Roth) Kuntze; phytochemical study; analgesic activity; cytotoxic activity; antioxi-dant activity. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjps.v4i1.8869 SJPS 2011; 4(1): 64-68
In vitro release kinetics study of Esomeprazole Magnesium Trihydrate tablet available in Bangladesh and comparison with the originator brand (Nexium®)
Authors: Halder Shimul , Shuma Madhabi Lata , Kabir Abul Kalam Lutful , Rouf Abu Shara Shamsur
Published: November 2011

The main aim of present investigation was to study the dissolution pattern of most commercially available formulations of Esomeprazole in Bangladesh. Commercially available ten national brands and originator brand of esomeprazole magnesium trihydrate tablets were studied in simulated gastric medium (pH 1.2) for first 15 minutes and simulated intestinal medium (pH 6.8) for next 30 minutes time period using USP reference dissolu-tion apparatus (Type II). No brands met the dissolution pattern like the originator brand (E1). But three brands (E3, E6 and E7) were found to be very close to it in terms of dissolution pattern. One brand E11 was found to be sub-standard compared to originator one. Drug release profiles were analyzed for zero order, first order and Higuchi equation to reveal the release kinetics perspective of Esomeprazole magnesium trihydrate enteric coated tablets. It was found that first order kinetics was predominant for E1 (Originator Brand). Zero order and Higuchi release kinetics was predominant release mechanism than first order release kinetics for E2, E4 and E11. First order release kinetics was predominant for rest of the brands (E3, E5, E6, E7, E8, E9 and E10). It was found that drug release of those brands followed moderately diffusion method and concentration dependant from the dosage form. Among all of these locally manufactured Esomeprazole brands E3, E6 and E7 showed compatible dissolution pattern and release kinetics compared with the originator brand. Key words: In vitro dissolution; Market preparations; Kinetics study; Esomeprazole; National brand; Originator brand. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjps.v4i1.8875 SJPS 2011; 4(1): 79-83
Development of an Assay Method for Simultaneous Determination of Ciprofloxacin and Naproxen by UV Spectrophotometric Method
Authors: Nijhu Rajia Sultana , Jhanker Yeakuty Marzan , Sutradhar Kumar Bishwajit
Published: November 2011

The PDF for this article was updated on 18/11/2011.YM Jhanker and KB Sutradhar were added as authors to this paper on 18/11/2011.The Objective of the present study was to develop a simple, reproducible and economical spectrophotometric method for simultaneous determination of Ciprofloxacin and Naproxen. Both Drugs obey Beer's law in the range of 1-5μg/ml concentration. The Standard curve of Ciprofloxacin and Naproxen in the media of 0.1N HCl, Distilled water and Phosphate buffer are obtained by plotting absorbance versus concentration where calibration curve was found to be linear (R2>0.99) with optimum value of standard error for the entire analytical medium used. The plot of the residuals was normally distributed around the regression line, which reflects the accuracy of the method. For simultaneous determination of Ciprofloxacin and Naproxen, the linear plot was found in the media of distilled water and 0.1N HCl acid. The maximum absorbance was found in the media of distilled water for Ciprofloxacin at wavelength 278nm and for Naproxen at 228nm. The calibration curve was to be linear for Ciprofloxacin as R2 >0.99 and for Naproxen as R2 >0.99.The maximum absorbance was found in the media of 0.1N HCl for Ciprofloxacin at wavelength 277nm and for Naproxen at 228nm. The calibration curve was to be linear for Ciprofloxacin as R2 >0.98 and for Naproxen as R2 >0.99. Key words: Ciprofloxacin; Naproxen; Spectrophotometric analysis; Simultaneous equation method. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjps.v4i1.8876 SJPS 2011; 4(1): 84-90
The curatorial consequences of being moved, moveable or portable: the case of carved stones
Authors: Foster Sally M.
Published: November 2011

It matters whether a carved stone is moved, moveable or portable because this influences perceptions of significance and of form and nature. Is it a monument or an artefact? This duality may in turn affect understanding and appreciation of the resource. It has implications for how and if carved stones can be legally protected, who owns them, where and how they are administered, and by whom. The complexities of the legislation mean that all too often this is also a grey area. This paper explores these curatorial issues and their impact.
Finds assemblages from developer-funded archaeological investigations: making the most of our opportunities
Authors: Carter Stephen
Published: November 2011

This paper is based on the experience of the author who has worked since 1996 in a commercial archaeological company, Headland Archaeology. In that time the company has recovered roughly 200 finds assemblages from 500 projects that involved archaeological excavation. A few high-value assemblages have been collected but the majority are of very limited value. How do we make the most of these widely different situations? Our current approach tends to reflect a ‘one size fits all’ philosophy from field recording and excavation techniques right through to allocation and transfer of assemblages to museums. This production-line approach has the benefit of ensuring that certain minimum standards are met but I argue in this paper that we need to discriminate and prioritise if we are to make the most of our opportunities.
New Polyether Triterpenoids from Laurencia viridis and Their Biological Evaluation
Authors: Pacheco Francisco Cen , Villa-Pulgarin Janny A. , Mollinedo Faustino , Martín Manuel Norte , Fernández José Javier , Daranas Antonio Hernández
Published: November 2011

The red seaweed Laurencia viridis is a rich source of secondary metabolites derived from squalene. New polyethers, such as iubol (2), 22-hydroxy-15(28)-dehydrovenustatriol (3), 1,2-dehydropseudodehydrothyrsiferol (4), and secodehydrothyrsiferol (5) have been isolated and characterized from this alga. The structures were determined through the interpretation of NMR spectroscopic data and the relative configuration was proposed on the basis of NOESY spectrum and biogenetic considerations. All new compounds exhibited significant cytotoxic activity against a panel of cancer cell lines.
Consecutive Three-Component Synthesis of 3-(Hetero)Aryl-1H-pyrazoles with Propynal Diethylacetal as a Three-Carbon Building Block
Authors: Levi Lucilla , Boersch Christina , Gers Charlotte F. , Merkul Eugen , Müller Thomas J. J.
Published: November 2011

A novel consecutive three-component synthesis of 3-(hetero)aryl-1H-pyrazoles via room temperature Sonogashira arylation of propynal diethylacetal used as a propargyl aldehyde synthetic equivalent has been disclosed. The final acetal cleavage-cyclocondensation with hydrazine hydrochloride at 80 °C rapidly furnishes the title compounds in a one-pot fashion.
CD34+ Stem Cells from Umbilical Cord Blood
Authors: Pafumi Carlo , Leanza Vito , Carbonaro Antonio , Leanza Gianluca , Iemmola Alessandra , Abate Giusi , Stracquadanio Maria Grazia , D’Agati Alfio
Published: November 2011

We describe the relation between umbilical cord clamping time and two different enrichment system of CD34+ stem cells from umbilical cord blood with the proliferative ability and bone marrow reconstitution of the stem cells obtained. After an obstetrician performed the cord blood collection, the purification of stem cells was performed either with a combination of monoclonal antibodies (negative selections) using the Stem Sep method, or with a positive cells selection based on their surface CD34 antigens using the Mini Macs system. An excellent recovery of haematopoietic progenitors [Burst Forming Unit Erythroids (BFUE); Colony Forming Unit Granulocytes and Macrophages (CFU-GM); and Colony Forming Unit Granulocytes, Erythroids, Monocytes and Macrophages (CFU-GME)], inversely related to the increase in clamping time, was performed with the Mini Macs system (54% of colonies, with 90% purity). With Stem Sep method, haematopoietic progenitor’s recovery was 35% (with 80% purity). By applying early clamping of umbilical cord blood we obtained a greater number of CD34+ cells and their clonogenic activity was increased with enrichment. This is a useful technique considering that the number of CD34+ stem cells usually contained from a unit of placental blood is enough for the transplant to a child, but not for an adult. Thus, using these methods, we can get a larger number of CD34+ stem cells which reduces the risk of Graft versus Host Disease also in adult patients, producing survival rates similar to those obtained with transplantation of bone marrow from unrelated donors.
A pure microcytic bladder carcinoma synchronous to prostatic adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sakalis Vasileios , Gkotsi Anastasia , Mylonaki Efrosyni , Pantzaki Aphroditi , Charalambous Stavros , Rombis Vasileios
Published: November 2011

Small cell carcinoma (SCC) or microcytic carcinoma of the urinary bladder is a rare entity comprising approximately 0.5% of all bladder tumors. Due to its rarity, no prospective studies evaluating the most effective treatment have been published in the medical literature. Several cases of bladder SCC have been presented so far. We describe our case report and we revise the recent literature. Our patient was diagnosed with pure bladder SCC and prostatic adenocarcinoma. After the initial and complete transurethral resection of the bladder tumour (TUR-BT), he underwent a thorax and mediastinum computer tomography (CT) examination to exclude primary pulmonary small cell carcinoma and a bone scan scintigraphy for staging purposes. He received a three 14-day cycles of Cisplatin-containing chemotherapeutic schema and a single dose of Luteinizing-Hormone Releasing hormone (LHRH) analogue injection after 14 days of bicalutamide administration. The patient is followed for 24 months without any signs of bladder SCC recurrence or biochemical or local relapse from prostatic adenocarcinoma.
Burnout amongst urban secondary school teachers in Namibia
Authors: Louw Dap , George Evy , Esterhuyse Karel
Published: November 2011

Orientation: Burnout seems to be particularly common amongst professionals who help and enable people to cope with the demands of their daily lives.Motivation for the study: The study focused on the magnitude and nature of burnout amongst Namibian teachers as well as the influence of biographical factors on their levels of burnout. Another aim was to determine the extent to which the results of this study correlate with research findings in other countries.Research design, approach and method: The researchers used a non-experimental research method. The study involved more than 300 secondary school teachers from the Windhoek region of Namibia. They administered the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and a biographical questionnaire to achieve the goals of the study.Main findings: The main findings of the study were that the participants experienced similar levels of burnout compared to teachers in other countries. This was especially true for emotional exhaustion. Teaching experience was the biographical variable that yielded the most significant positive correlation with burnout.Practical/managerial implications: The education authorities should address the emotional needs of secondary school teachers in Namibia urgently. They should introduce effective burnout intervention and prevention programmes. These programmes could result in higher levels of job satisfaction and educational effectiveness. They could also lead to increased general fulfilment and better teacher retention.
Pharmacotherapy Options in Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma: What Role for Pazopanib?
Authors: Harrison Michael R.
Published: November 2011

Over the last 6 years, the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) has undergone dramatic changes. A better understanding of the pathogenesis and tumor biology of sporadic renal cell carcinoma has led to the approval of 6 drug regimens: 3 oral multi-targeted tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (sorafenib, sunitinib, and pazopanib), 2 inhibitors of the mammalian target of rapamycin (temsirolimus and everolimus), and 1 monoclonal antibody against the vascular endothelial growth factor (bevacizumab). Pazopanib, a multi-targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor that targets VEGFR-1, -2, and-3; PDGFR-α and PDGFR-β, and c-Kit, was approved for the treatment of mRCC in October 2009, several years after the other drugs in its class. The efficacy and safety of pazopanib in Phase I, II, and III trials will be examined and its role in mRCC treatment will be described. Future studies that may clarify pazopanib's role in mRCC will be discussed. Based on pazopanib's demonstrated efficacy in treatment-naïve and cytokine-refractory patients, along with a seemingly favorable toxicity profile compared with other multi-targeted tyrosine-kinase inhibitors, pazopanib may have a unique niche in the armamentarium of treatment options for mRCC. Results from ongoing studies are awaited to confirm pazopanib's favorable efficacy-toxicity ratio, especially in comparison with the previous first-line standard-of-care, sunitinib.
The Relationship between Obesity and Injuries among U.S. Adults
Authors: Finkelstein Eric A. , Chen Hong , Prabhu Malavika , Trogdon Justin G. , Corso Phaedra S.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To quantify the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and rates of medically attended injuries by mechanism (overall, fall, motor vehicle, and sport-related) and by nature (strain/sprain, lower extremity fracture, and dislocations), and between BMI and injury treatment costs.

Design.

Cross-sectional analysis.

Setting.

The noninstitutionalized population of the United States.

Subjects.

The 1999–2000, 2000–2001, and 2001–2002 waves of the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, a large, nationally representative dataset, were combined to create the analysis sample. The final sample included 42,304 adults.

Measures.

Medically attended injury rates by mechanism and nature of injury and related treatment costs.

Analysis.

Logistic regressions were used to separately estimate the odds of sustaining any injury by mechanism or by nature for overweight (25 ≤ BMI ≤ 29.9) and three categories of obese individuals compared with those who were normal weight. A second set of regressions tested whether, given that an injury occurred, obese individuals had greater injury treatment costs.

Results.

Slightly more than one in five adults sustain an injury each year that requires medical treatment. The odds of sustaining an injury are 15% (overweight) to 48% (Class III obesity) greater among those with excess weight. Conditional on sustaining an injury, BMI did not have a significant impact on injury treatment costs.

Conclusion.

Our findings show a clear association between BMI and the probability of sustaining an injury. If increasing BMI is causing the rise in injury rates, then the incidence of injuries, including those related to falls, sprains/strains, lower extremity fractures, and joint dislocations, are likely to increase as the prevalence of obesity increases.
Impact of National ABC Promotion on 1-800-QUIT-NOW
Authors: Hurd Ami L. , Augustson Erik M. , Backinger Cathy L. , Deaton Candace , Bright Mary Anne
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

ABC's World News Tonight (WNT) promotion of 800-QUIT-NOW allowed for a nationwide introduction of the QUIT-NOW number; this study examined the impact on call volume.

Design.

Pre-postassessment.

Setting.

National health promotion campaign.

Subjects.

U.S. population (smokers).

Measures.

Monthly call attempts to the quitline at national and state levels.

Intervention.

During November 2005 ABC's WNT highlighted the National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines' toll-free number, 800-QUIT-NOW, during the month-long series, “Quit to Live: Fighting Lung Cancer.”

Analysis.

We compared changes in call volume prepromotion, during promotion, and postpromotion by percent and regional differences, range, and average number of calls.

Results.

Overall call volume in the United States (49 states and the District of Columbia) increased markedly in November; 37,049 calls compared with 16,145 in October. Although there was large variability across states, there was an average of 317 calls prepromotion, 726 calls during the promotion, and 397 calls postpromotion.

Conclusion.

The promotion highlighted the need for capacity building in terms of both sustained promotion and ability of quitlines to provide service as the number of calls increased, as well as the importance of coordinating efforts so adjustments to individual state quitlines can be made. The series served as the first national promotion and drew attention to the potential impact on the National Network of Tobacco Cessation Quitlines.
A Prospective Study of Physical Activity Intensity and Change in Adiposity in Middle-Aged Women
Authors: Bailey Bruce W. , Tucker Larry A. , Peterson Travis R. , LeCheminant James D.
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To determine the extent to which objectively measured intensity of physical activity (PA) predicts change in body fat (BF%) in women.

Design.

Prospective cohort study of PA intensity and body composition in middle-aged women.

Setting.

The study took place in a metropolitan Mountain West community.

Subjects.

Two hundred and twenty-eight women participated in two assessment periods separated by 20 months.

Measures.

Each assessment period consisted of seven consecutive days of monitoring, followed by body composition testing.

Analysis.

The general linear model using partial correlations and Mantel-Haenszel χ2 tests were performed.

Results.

At baseline and follow-up, women who participated in vigorous PA were leaner than women who participated in moderate or light PA (p < .05). Longitudinal results indicated that a greater proportion of women who decreased PA intensity over the 20 months also increased BF% (66%), compared to participants who increased or maintained PA intensity (47%) (p < .05).

Conclusions.

PA intensity seems to play a role in long-term weight maintenance. Reducing PA intensity increases the risk of BF% gain in women. Efforts to help women maintain PA intensity along with other weight management strategies may prove beneficial in preventing unwanted body fat gain in middle-aged women.
Physicians' Beliefs about Discussing Obesity: Results from Focus Groups
Authors: Alexander Stewart C. , Østbye Truls , Pollak Kathryn I. , Gradison Margaret , Bastian Lori A. , Brouwer Rebecca J. Namenek
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

Physicians are expected to discuss weight loss with overweight and obese patients. Physicians' beliefs, outcome expectancies, and strategies for addressing weight with patients have not been examined.

Design.

Two focus groups of family physicians and internists included questions about obesity and how physicians discuss weight loss with patients.

Setting/Subjects.

Family physicians (n = 11) and internists (n = 6) from Duke University Medical Center's Department of Community and Family Medicine and Department of Medicine.

Analysis.

Qualitative analysis approach using grounded theory methodology.

Results.

Physicians' responses centered on five key themes: (1) responsibility, (2) barriers, (3) target populations, (4) introducing topic, and (5) ways to talk about obesity.

Conclusion.

Physicians have many barriers related to discussing weight loss with patients. Given the obesity epidemic, the need to understand how to have these discussions, when to have these discussions, and with whom to have these discussions becomes paramount to providing effective care for patients with obesity. Limited physician training in weight-loss counseling explains why physicians find it challenging to discuss obesity with patients.
The Efficacy of Stage-Matched and Standard Public Health Materials for Promoting Physical Activity in the Workplace: The Physical Activity Workplace Study (PAWS)
Authors: Plotnikoff Ronald C. , Brunet Stephanie , Courneya Kerry S. , Spence John C. , Birkett Nicholas J. , Marcus Bess , Whiteley Jessica
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

To compare the effects of stage-matched and standard print materials for physical activity (PA) change.

Design.

Participants were randomized into (1) a stage-matched intervention group (n = 165), (2) a standard intervention group (n = 176), or (3) a no-contact control group (n = 166). The stage-matched and standard intervention groups both received materials at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Assessments of all three groups were conducted at baseline, 6, and 12 months.

Setting.

Canadian worksites.

Subjects.

Employees (N = 507).

Interventions.

Five motivationally targeted booklets were developed for the stage-matched group. The standard group received Canada's Physical Activity Guide and handbook.

Measures.

The main dependent variable was PA, expressed as metabolic equivalent (MET) minutes and measured using the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire. Demographic characteristics and stages of change for PA were also assessed.

Results.

At 12 months mean weekly MET minutes for combined moderate and vigorous activity increased from baseline by 223, 67, and 78 for the stage-matched, standard, and control groups, respectively; however, differences were not significant (p > .05). Women in the stage-matched group over the 12-month period significantly increased their activity by 327 weekly MET minutes whereas the standard and control groups declined their activity (F = 3.01, p < .05).

Conclusion.

PA stage-matched materials delivered in the workplace are efficacious for women but not men. Future interventions should explore the use of these intervention materials in conjunction with multilevel strategies, and particular attention should be paid to possible gender differences.
In-situ observation of Asian pollution transported into the Arctic lowermost stratosphere
Authors: Roiger A. , Schlager H. , Schäfler A. , Huntrieser H. , Scheibe M. , Aufmhoff H. , Cooper O. R. , Sodemann H. , Stohl A. , Burkhart J. , Lazzara M. , Schiller C. , Law K. S. , Arnold F.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. On a research flight on 10 July 2008, the German research aircraft Falcon sampled an air mass with unusually high carbon monoxide (CO), peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) and water vapour (H2O) mixing ratios in the Arctic lowermost stratosphere. The air mass was encountered twice at an altitude of 11.3 km, ~800 m above the dynamical tropopause. In-situ measurements of ozone, NO, and NOy indicate that this layer was a mixed air mass containing both air from the troposphere and stratosphere. Backward trajectory and Lagrangian particle dispersion model analysis suggest that the Falcon sampled the top of a polluted air mass originating from the coastal regions of East Asia. The anthropogenic pollution plume experienced strong up-lift in a warm conveyor belt (WCB) located over the Russian east-coast. Subsequently the Asian air mass was transported across the North Pole into the sampling area, elevating the local tropopause by up to ~3 km. Mixing with surrounding Arctic stratospheric air most likely took place during the horizontal transport when the tropospheric streamer was stretched into long and narrow filaments. The mechanism illustrated in this study possibly presents an important pathway to transport pollution into the polar tropopause region.
Inter-annual fluctuations of zooplankton communities in the Bay of Villefranche-sur-mer from 1995 to 2005 (Northern Ligurian Sea, France)
Authors: Vandromme P. , Stemmann L. , Berline L. , Gasparini S. , Mousseau L. , Prejger F. , Passafiume O. , Guarini J.-M. , Gorsky G.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. An integrated analysis of the pelagic ecosystems of the Ligurian Sea is performed combining time series (1995–2005) of several zooplankton groups (one group for copepods smaller than 0.724 mm3 and nine groups for individuals larger than 0.724 mm3, i.e. large copepods, decapod larvæ, other crustaceans, chaetognaths, appendicularians, pteropods, thaliaceans, gelatinous predators and other zooplankton), chlorophyll-a, nutrients, salinity, temperature, density, and local weather at Point B coastal station (Northern Ligurian Sea). From 1995 to 2000 winters were wet and mild resulting in lower winter sea surface density. These years showed lower than average nutrients and zooplankton concentrations while chlorophyll-a biomass was high. After 2000, winters were colder and dryer resulting in higher sea surface density. Nutrients and zooplankton showed higher concentrations while chlorophyll-a was lower than average. The ca. 2000 change was observed for most zooplankton groups with a one-year delay for some groups. Inter-annual variability within each period was also observed. The observed patterns suggest that the pelagic ecosystem trophic state at the studied point is mostly set by the winter forcing on the vertical mixing that upwells nutrients to the surface sustaining primary production. Surprisingly, low chlorophyll-a biomass in high nitrate and zooplankton conditions during the well mixed years suggest that phytoplankton biomass is controlled by grazers. The proposed mechanisms of stronger winter vertical mixing hold for most of the time series, but specific years with contradicting patterns suggest also the possible influence of the summer climate. A review of recent literature suggests that changes in the pelagic ecosystem are not limited to the studied site but concern also the central Ligurian Sea.
Life-cycle evaluation of nitrogen-use in rice-farming systems: implications for economically-optimal nitrogen rates
Authors: Xia Y. , Yan X.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Nitrogen (N) fertilizer plays an important role in agricultural systems in terms of food yield. However, N application rates (NARs) are often overestimated over the rice (Oryza sativa L.) growing season in the Taihu Lake region of China. This is largely because negative externalities are not entirely included when evaluating economically-optimal nitrogen rate (EONR), such as only individual N losses are taken into account, or the inventory flows of reactive N have been limited solely to the farming process when evaluating environmental and economic effects of N fertilizer. This study integrates important material and energy flows resulting from N use into a rice agricultural inventory that constitutes the hub of the life-cycle assessment (LCA) method. An economic evaluation is used to determine an environmental and economic NAR for the Taihu Lake region. The analysis reveals that production and exploitation processes consume the largest proportion of resources, accounting for 77.2 % and 22.3 % of total resources, respectively. Regarding environmental impact, global warming creates the highest cost with contributions stemming mostly from fertilizer production and farming processes. Farming process incurs the biggest environmental impact of the three environmental impact categories considered, whereas transportation has a much smaller effect. When taking account of resource consumption and environmental cost, the marginal benefit of 1 kg rice would decrease from 2.4 to only 1.05 yuan. Accordingly, our current EONR has been evaluated at 187 kg N ha−1 for a single rice-growing season. This could enhance profitability, as well as reduce the N losses associated with rice growing.
Calibration of the modified Bartlett-Lewis model using global optimization techniques and alternative objective functions
Authors: Vanhaute W. J. , Vandenberghe S. , Scheerlinck K. , De Baets B. , Verhoest N. E. C.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. The use of rainfall time series for various applications is widespread. However, in many cases historical rainfall records lack in length or quality for certain practical purposes, resulting in a reliance on rainfall models to supply simulated rainfall time series, e.g., in the design of hydraulic structures. One way to obtain such simulations is by means of stochastic point process rainfall models, such as the Bartlett-Lewis type of model. It is widely acknowledged that the calibration of such models suffers from the presence of multiple local minima which local search algorithms usually fail to avoid. To meet this shortcoming, four relatively new global optimization methods are presented and tested for their abilities to calibrate the Modified Bartlett-Lewis Model (MBL). The list of tested methods consists of: the Downhill Simplex Method (DSM), Simplex-Simulated Annealing (SIMPSA), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Shuffled Complex Evolution (SCE-UA). The parameters of these algorithms are first optimized to ensure optimal performance, after which they are used for calibration of the MBL model. Furthermore, this paper addresses the issue of subjectivity in the choice of weights in the objective function. Three alternative weighing methods are compared to determine whether or not simulation results (obtained after calibration with the best optimization method) are influenced by the choice of weights.
Urban floods: a case study in the Savigliano area (North-Western Italy)
Authors: Audisio C. , Turconi L.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Flood processes and effects are examined, concerning two rivers in an urbanized area in North-Western Italy (Piedmont – Cuneo Plain). In May 2008, some areas in Northern Italy were struck by intense and persistent rainfall. In the Cuneo province (Southern Piedmont), floodplain with some urban areas was inundated over ca. ten square kilometres, and the city of Savigliano (about 21 000 inhabitants) was particularly hit by flood. A purposely-made historical research has evidenced approximately fifty flood events as having occurred since 1350 in the Savigliano area. Based upon historical data, both documents and maps, GIS (Geographical Information System) technique and field surveys were used to quantitatively assess the growing urbanization of the city and to describe flood processes and effects over years. This work aims to describe the dynamic behaviour of the 2008 flood, also comparing it to past events, in particular those that occurred in 1896. It is emphasized how the knowledge of past events can be helpful in reducing urban flooding.