bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lead time associated with screening for prostate cancer
Authors: Törnblom Magnus , Eriksson Henry , Franzén Stefan , Gustafsson Ove , Lilja Hans , Norming Ulf , Hugosson Jonas
Published: November 2003

Screening serum levels of prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) is now a major strategy for early detection of prostate cancer (PC). Quantification of the lead time thus obtained is important both for understanding the development of PC and for evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of widespread screening. In our study, 1,233 randomly selected men living in Stockholm in 1988 were invited to participate in an early detection (ED) program, in which suspicious findings provided by digital rectal examination (DRE), transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) and/or a PSA value ≥10.0 ng/mL were followed up by biopsy. The cumulative incidence (Kaplan‐Meier) of PC in the 946 participants (ED) during 12 years of follow‐up was compared to that of an age‐matched, randomly selected reference population (RP) of 657 men for whom PSA values (from frozen serum samples) could also be obtained. The PC incidence in men in the RP with PSA values ≥3.0 ng/mL reached the corresponding level for the ED group after 10.6 years (the “catch‐up” point). After 12 years of follow‐up, the estimated median lead time for men with PSA values in this interval was 4.5 years in the ED population, compared to 7.8 years in the RP. With 20 years of follow‐up, the estimated median lead time of the RP was enhanced to 10.7 years. The lead time in connection with PC was influenced by the initial PSA level (although with large variations), length of follow‐up and sensitivity of the ED procedure employed. The ED program described here was not associated with major overdetection. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Altered conjugate formation and altered apoptosis of multidrug‐resistant human leukemia cell line affects susceptibility to killing by activated natural killer (NK) cells
Authors: Treichel Robin S. , Bunuan Michael , Hahn Nancy , Wee Kathleen
Published: November 2003

Most leukemias that exhibit P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp)‐associated multidrug resistance (MDR) exhibit reduced susceptibility to immune cytotoxicity mediated by natural killer (NK) cells. To explore this phenomenon we investigated N6/ADR, a doxorubicin‐selected, P‐gp‐positive variant of the human acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cell line NALM6. Each stage of the NK cytolytic pathway, (binding, activation and killing) was evaluated to identify the alterations responsible for the reduced cytotoxicity of the variant relative to its drug‐sensitive parental line. The major cause of the decreased susceptibility to NK cytolysis was found to be reduced conjugate formation by the MDR variant. Activation of NK effectors by parental and MDR cells with concomitant release of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) correlated with conjugate formation. N6/ADR was also more resistant than NALM6 to antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity and to cytotoxic factors released from NK cells as measured both by 51Cr‐release and by DNA fragmentation. This is the first report of a P‐gp‐positive leukemic line that exhibits reduced conjugate formation as well as increased resistance to NK‐mediated killing mechanisms. Our results suggest caution in the use of NK‐based immunotherapy as an alternative treatment for multidrug‐resistant leukemias. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nitric oxide‐mediated regulation of hypoxia‐induced B16F10 melanoma metastasis
Authors: Postovit Lynne‐Marie , Adams Michael A. , Lash Gendie E. , Heaton Jeremy P.W. , Graham Charles H.
Published: November 2003

Tumour hypoxia is associated with resistance to therapy and with increased invasion and metastatic potential. Recent studies in our laboratory have shown that the hypoxic up‐regulation of tumour cell invasiveness and chemoresistance is in part due to reduced nitric oxide (NO) signaling. Using B16F10 murine melanoma cells, we demonstrate here that the increased metastatic potential associated with exposure to hypoxia is mediated by a reduction in cGMP‐dependent NO‐signaling. Pre‐incubation of B16F10 cells in hypoxia (1% vs. 20% O2) for 12 hr increased lung colonization ability by over 4‐fold. This effect of hypoxia on metastasis was inhibited by co‐incubation with low concentrations of the NO‐mimetic drugs glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) and diethylenetriamine NO adduct (DETA/NO). In a manner similar to hypoxia, pharmacological inhibition of NO synthesis resulted in a significant increase in lung nodule formation, an effect that was prevented by co‐incubation with GTN. An important NO‐signaling pathway involves the activation of soluble guanylyl cyclase and the consequential generation of cGMP. Culture in the presence of a non‐hydrolysable cGMP analogue (8‐Br‐cGMP) abrogated the hypoxia‐induced lung nodule formation, suggesting that the effects of NO on metastasis are mediated via a cGMP‐dependent pathway. These findings suggest that a novel mechanism whereby hypoxia regulates metastatic potential involves a downstream inhibition of cGMP‐dependent NO signaling. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dissecting karyotypic patterns in malignant melanomas: Temporal clustering of losses and gains in melanoma karyotypic evolution
Authors: Höglund Mattias , Gisselsson David , Hansen Gunnar B. , White Valerie A. , Säll Torbjörn , Mitelman Felix , Horsman Douglas
Published: November 2003

Malignant melanomas can be divided into two major subtypes, involving either the skin or eye melanomas. Both tumor forms exhibit highly complex karyotypes with nonrandom recurrent chromosomal imbalances. Loss of chromosome 3, the short arm of chromosome 1, and gain of 8q have been suggested to be associated with eye melanomas, whereas gain of 6p and loss of 6q have been more often seen in skin melanomas. Imbalances implicated in tumor progression include among others, −10 and +7. In spite of the abundance of cytogenetic information, with more than 300 published karyotypes, very little is known about the mode of karyotypic evolution or of the presence of possible cytogenetic pathways. In our investigation, we have used 362 melanoma karyotypes, including both the skin and eye subtypes, to identify the most frequently occurring imbalances. Tumor cases were then classified with respect to the presence or absence of these imbalances and statistically analyzed in order to assess the order of appearance of chromosomal imbalances, the presence of karyotypic pathways, as well as possible cytogenetic subtypes. We show that the melanomas develop through one mode of karyotypic evolution, common to both low and high complexity karyotypes, and we establish the temporal order by which the different imbalances occur. By applying several statistical methods, we show that at least two cytogenetic pathways of clonal evolution exist in malignant melanomas, one initiated with −3 and one with +6p, and that these pathways operate in both skin and eye melanomas. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Growth arrest by troglitazone is mediated by p27Kip1 accumulation, which results from dual inhibition of proteasome activity and Skp2 expression in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Motomura Wataru , Takahashi Nobuhiko , Nagamine Miho , Sawamukai Mitsuko , Tanno Satoshi , Kohgo Yutaka , Okumura Toshikatsu
Published: November 2003

In our study, we examined whether human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) expresses peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and the effects of PPAR γ activation by its selective ligands on cell growth and cell invasion in HCC cells. RT‐PCR and Western blot analysis revealed that HCC‐derived cell lines, HepG2 and HLF, express PPARγ mRNA and protein. Luciferase assay in HLF cells showed that troglitazone, a selective ligand for PPAR γ, transactivated the transcription of a peroxisome proliferator response element‐driven promoter in a dose‐dependent manner, suggesting that the expressed PPARγ functions as a transcriptional factor. Not only troglitazone but pioglitazone dose‐dependently inhibited cell growth in HepG2 and HLF cells. Invasion assay using a transwell chamber demonstrated that troglitazone also inhibited cell invasion in HCC cells. To examine the mechanism of the troglitazone‐induced growth inhibition, we determined p27Kip1, a cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor, expression by Western blot analysis in troglitazone‐treated HLF cells. Troglitazone increased p27Kip1 in time‐ and dose‐dependent manners, suggesting that p27Kip1 may be involved in the growth inhibition by troglitazone in HLF cells. To further examine the mechanism of the troglitazone‐induced p27Kip1 protein accumulation, 2 major systems for regulation of p27Kip1 protein, proteasome activity and Skp2, an F‐box protein that targets p27Kip1 for degradation, were evaluated. Troglitazone potently inhibited proteasome activity and decreased Skp2 protein levels. All these results suggest that human HCC cells express functional PPAR γ and PPARγ activation resulted in growth inhibition. The growth inhibition was mediated by p27Kip1 accumulation, which is induced by both inhibition of ubiquitylation of p27Kip1 and reduction of degradation activity of p27Kip1 by proteasome. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A‐kinase anchoring protein 3 messenger RNA expression in ovarian cancer and its implication on prognosis
Authors: Hasegawa Kosei , Ono Toshiro , Matsushita Hirokazu , Shimono Michihide , Noguchi Yuji , Mizutani Yasushi , Kodama Junichi , Kudo Takafumi , Nakayama Eiichi
Published: November 2003

A‐kinase anchoring protein 3 (AKAP3) is a sperm protein and its expression appears to be restricted to the testis in normal adult tissues. We investigated AKAP3 mRNA expression in 20 normal ovaries and 54 ovarian cancers of different histological types, grades and stages by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). The PCR products were analyzed by conventional agarose gel electrophoresis and capillary electrophoresis on a microtip device to determine the expression semiquantitatively. Little or no expression was observed in the 20 normal ovarian specimens. High AKAP3 mRNA expression was observed in 15 ovarian cancer specimens (28 %). The expression was correlated with the histological grade and clinical stage. AKAP3 mRNA was observed at a significantly higher frequency in poorly differentiated (p = 0.009) and advanced stage (III and IV, p = 0.014) tumors. No correlation was found between AKAP3 mRNA expression and other variables. In Cox multivariate analysis, AKAP3 mRNA expression was found to be a significant predictor of both overall and progression‐free survival in patients with poorly differentiated tumors. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The Coping Resources Inventory for Stress: A measure of perceived resourcefulness*
Authors: Matheny Kenneth B. , Aycock David W. , Curlette William L. , Junker Gary N.
Published: November 2003

This article reviews previous studies with the Coping Resources Inventory for Stress (CRIS) and reports the results of a recent convergent/divergent study on six CRIS scales. CRIS scales have high internal consistency and test‐retest reliabilities and appear to be useful in predicting illness, emotional distress, personality type, drug dependency, occupational choice, and life satisfaction. The convergent/divergent sample consisted of 68 graduate student volunteers in a southeastern urban university. Each of the CRIS scales converged with its validating test and diverged from a test that measures a different construct. Results offer considerable support for the construct validity of CRIS scales and suggest that it may be a promising research and clinical instrument for the study of stress coping. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
Personality style codetype concordance between the MCMI and MBHI*
Authors: Wise Edward A.
Published: November 2003

Personality scale profiles of Millon's Clinical Multiaxial Inventory and Behavioral Health Inventory were analyzed for codetype concordance using a sample of psychiatric patients with medical symptoms (N = 91). Results indicated that at least half of the sample would be diagnosed with a personality disorder by each instrument. Approximately 95% of the sample produced at least one elevated scale. The tests were not significantly different with respect to their classification rates of pathology or number of scales elevated and demonstrated significant and positive correlations between complementary scales. Nonetheless, codetype correspondence was found to be 29.67% for single scales and 20.88% for two‐point codetypes. Correlational data, factor analysis, and paired mean score comparisons were used to analyze these findings. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
Relationship of NEO‐PI to personality styles and severity of trauma in chronic PTSD victims*
Authors: Hyer Lee , Braswell Lorraine , Albrecht Bill , Boyd Stephanie , Boudewyns Patrick , Talbert Suzanne
Published: November 2003

The relationship of the NEO‐PI to personality disorders was evaluated in a clinical population. Eighty subjects with post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were given this measure, along with the MCMI‐II and PTSD and combat scales. Two questions were addressed: (1) What is the relationship of NEO‐PI domains and facets to personality disorders?; and (2) What is this scale's relationship to PTSD problems? Results support previous studies that employed a clinical population, but with lower correlation coefficients. For the most part, then, the NEO‐PI domains and facets correlated in expected ways with the MCMI‐II. On PTSD measures, N accounted for the majority of the variance, but other domains were entered when independent regression equations were calculated to account for different personality disorders. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
Coping and MCMI‐II symptom scales1
Authors: Vollrath Margarete , Alnæs Randolf , Torgersen Svenn
Published: November 2003

The associations of the MCMI‐II symptom scales with dispositional coping strategies were studied among 239 psychiatric outpatients. A similar core‐pattern of emotion‐focused coping was associated with all symptom scales except the bipolar scale. High scores on the MCMI‐II symptom scales were associated with low use of adaptive emotion‐focused coping (e.g., seeking social support) and high use of maladaptive emotion‐focused coping (e.g., disengagement). Thought disorder, drug dependence, and delusional disorder also were associated with reduced use of problem‐focused coping. The findings support the theoretical distinction between adaptive and maladaptive emotion‐focused coping. The potential negative impacts of this coping pattern in terms of mental health and life adaptation are discussed. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
Couple functioning in depression: The roles of sociotropy and autonomy1
Authors: Lynch Thomas R. , Robins Clive J. , Morse Jennifer Q.
Published: November 2003

We evaluated the hypothesis that interpersonal relationships of depressed persons would vary as a function of the personality variables sociotropy and autonomy. Depressed psychiatric patients who reported being in a current intimate relationship for at least six months were administered measures of sociotropy, autonomy, and several aspects of relationship functioning. Results indicated that sociotropy was related significantly to patients' reporting their own behavior as demanding and their partners' behavior as withdrawing, whereas autonomy was related to patients' reporting their partners' behavior as demanding and their own behavior as withdrawing. Autonomy also was related to greater relationship dissatisfaction, and there was a trend for autonomy to be related to greater criticism of the partner. The results are consistent with a model in which sociotropy and autonomy increase vulnerability to depression, in part, through their effects on interpersonal relationships. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
Coping and catastrophizing in chronic pain: A psychometric analysis and comparison of two measures1
Authors: Stewart Malcolm W. , Harvey Shane T. , Evans Ian M.
Published: November 2003

We analyzed and compared the psychometric properties of two measures of strategies for coping with pain: The Coping Strategies Questionnaire (CSQ) and the Cognitive Coping Strategies Inventory (CCSI). The CSQ and CCSI were repeatedly administered to 30 chronic pain patients. Several subscales of both measures showed inadequate internal consistency, and test‐retest (one week interval) reliability lower than 0.7. For each inventory, moderate to strong intercorrelations between several subscales were observed. The Catastrophizing subscale was the only subscale for which there was clear evidence of construct validity. Results indicated that both measures showed similar psychometric difficulties, and question the construct validity of subscales other than Catastrophizing. Catastrophizing, however, more closely reflects appraisal processes than a coping strategy per se. We suggest that measures that use more parsimonious and empirically derived coping strategy subscales and that also assess appraisal factors would assist in advancing our understanding of coping with chronic pain. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
Dispositional and contextual perspectives on coping: Toward an integrative framework
Authors: Moos Rudolf H. , Holahan Charles J.
Published: November 2003

The clinical disciplines have witnessed a rapidly growing literature on the conceptualization and measurement of coping and on the role of coping in confronting stressful life circumstances and maintaining adaptive functioning. This literature has spawned a diversity of concepts and contrasting perspectives on the determinants and effects of coping. To address this complexity, we comment on dispositional and contextual perspectives on the coping process, describe the domains of coping styles and coping skills, and review some measures of these constructs. Next, we present a conceptual framework that integrates key aspects of these constructs and use the framework to guide a selective review of the linkages between personal and social resources, coping skills, and adaptive functioning. We then consider applications of the framework to clinical practice. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol.
Light subgraphs in planar graphs of minimum degree 4 and edge‐degree 9
Authors: Mohar B. , Škrekovski R. , Voss H.‐J.
Published: November 2003

A graph H is light in a given class of graphs if there is a constant w such that every graph of the class which has a subgraph isomorphic to H also has a subgraph isomorphic to H whose sum of degrees in G is ≤ w. Let $\cal G$ be the class of simple planar graphs of minimum degree ≥ 4 in which no two vertices of degree 4 are adjacent. We denote the minimum such w by w(H). It is proved that the cycle Cs is light if and only if 3 ≤ s ≤ 6, where w(C3) = 21 and w(C4) ≤ 35. The 4‐cycle with one diagonal is not light in $\cal G$, but it is light in the subclass ${\cal G}^T$ consisting of all triangulations. The star K1,s is light if and only if s ≤ 4. In particular, w(K1,3) = 23. The paths Ps are light for 1 ≤ s ≤ 6, and heavy for s ≥ 8. Moreover, w(P3) = 17 and w(P4) = 23. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 44: 261–295, 2003
All cycle‐complete graph Ramsey numbers r(Cm, K6)
Authors: Schiermeyer Ingo
Published: November 2003

The cycle‐complete graph Ramsey number r(Cm, Kn) is the smallest integer N such that every graph G of order N contains a cycle Cm on m vertices or has independence number α(G) ≥ n. It has been conjectured by Erdős, Faudree, Rousseau and Schelp that r(Cm, Kn) = (m − 1) (n − 1) + 1 for all m ≥ n ≥ 3 (except r(C3, K3) = 6). This conjecture holds for 3 ≤ n ≤ 5. In this paper we will present a proof for n = 6 and for all n ≥ 7 with m ≥ n2 − 2n. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 44: 251–260, 2003
Functions and line digraphs
Authors: El Sahili Amine
Published: November 2003

Consider two maps f and g from a set E into a set F such that f(x) ≠ g(x) for every x in E. Suppose that there exists a positive integer n such that for any element z in F either f−1(z) or g−1(z) has at most n elements. Then, E can be partitioned into 2n + 1 subsets E1, E2,…,E2n + 1 such that f(Ei)∩ g(Ei) = ϕ, 1 ≤ i ≤ 2n + 1. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 44: 296–303, 2003
4‐regular graphs without cut‐vertices having the same path layer matrix
Authors: Yuansheng Yang , Xiaohui Lin , Zhiqiang Chen , Weiming Lu
Published: November 2003

The path layer matrix of a graph G contains quantitative information about all possible paths in G. The entry (i,j) of this matrix is the number of paths in G having initial vertex i and length j. It is known that there are 4‐regular graphs on 44 vertices having the same path layer matrix [Y. Yuansheng, L. Jianhua, and W. Chunli, J Graph Theory 39(2002) 219–221] graphs with cut‐vertices on 14 vertices having the same path layer matrix [A. A. Dobrynin, Vyčisl. sistemy, Novosibirsk 119(1987) 13–33] and graphs without cut‐vertices on 31 vertices having the same path layer matrix [A. A. Dobrynin, J Graph Theory 38(2001) 177–182]. In this article, a pair of 4‐regular graphs without cut‐vertices on 18 vertices having the same path layer matrix are constructed, improving the upper bound for the least order of 4‐regular graphs having the same path layer matrix from 44 to 18 and the upper bound for the least order of graphs without cut‐vertices having the same path layer matrix from 31 to 18. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 44: 304–311, 2003
A‐scalability and an integrated computational technology and framework for non‐linear structural dynamics. Part 1: Theoretical developments and parallel formulations
Authors: Kanapady R. , Tamma K. K.
Published: November 2003

For large‐scale problems and large processor counts, the accuracy and efficiency with reduced solution times and attaining optimal parallel scalability of the entire transient duration of the simulation for general non‐linear structural dynamics problems poses many computational challenges. For transient analysis, explicit time operators readily inherit algorithmic scalability and consequently enable parallel scalability. However, the key issues concerning parallel simulations via implicit time operators within the framework and encompassing the class of linear multistep methods include the totality of the following considerations to foster the proposed notion of A‐scalability: (a) selection of robust scalable optimal time discretized operators that foster stabilized non‐linear dynamic implicit computations both in terms of convergence and the number of non‐linear iterations for completion of large‐scale analysis of the highly non‐linear dynamic responses, (b) selecting an appropriate scalable spatial domain decomposition method for solving the resulting linearized system of equations during the implicit phase of the non‐linear computations, (c) scalable implementation models and solver technology for the interface and coarse problems for attaining parallel scalability of the computations, and (d) scalable parallel graph partitioning techniques. These latter issues related to parallel implicit formulations are of interest and focus in this paper. The former involving parallel explicit formulations are also a natural subset of the present framework and have been addressed previously in Reference 1 (Advances in Engineering Software 2000; 31: 639–647). In the present context, of the key issues, although a particular aspect or a solver as related to the spatial domain decomposition may be designed to be numerically scalable, the totality of the aforementioned issues simultaneously play an important and integral role to attain A‐scalability of the parallel formulations for the entire transient duration of the simulation and is desirable for transient problems. As such, the theoretical developments of the parallel formulations are first detailed in Part 1 of this paper, and the subsequent practical applications and performance results of general non‐linear structural dynamics problems are described in Part 2 of this paper to foster the proposed notion of A‐scalability. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A‐scalability and an integrated computational technology and framework for non‐linear structural dynamics. Part 2: Implementation aspects and parallel performance results
Authors: Kanapady R. , Tamma K. K.
Published: November 2003

An integrated framework and computational technology is described that addresses the issues to foster absolute scalability (A‐scalability) of the entire transient duration of the simulations of implicit non‐linear structural dynamics of large scale practical applications on a large number of parallel processors. Whereas the theoretical developments and parallel formulations were presented in Part 1, the implementation, validation and parallel performance assessments and results are presented here in Part 2 of the paper. Relatively simple numerical examples involving large deformation and elastic and elastoplastic non‐linear dynamic behaviour are first presented via the proposed framework for demonstrating the comparative accuracy of methods in comparison to available experimental results and/or results available in the literature. For practical geometrically complex meshes, the A‐scalability of non‐linear implicit dynamic computations is then illustrated by employing scalable optimal dissipative zero‐order displacement and velocity overshoot behaviour time operators which are a subset of the generalized framework in conjunction with numerically scalable spatial domain decomposition methods and scalable graph partitioning techniques. The constant run times of the entire simulation of ‘fixed‐memory‐use‐per‐processor’ scaling of complex finite element mesh geometries is demonstrated for large scale problems and large processor counts on at least 1024 processors. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Broadband model order reduction of polynomial matrix equations using single‐point well‐conditioned asymptotic waveform evaluation: derivations and theory
Authors: Slone Rodney D. , Lee Robert , Lee Jin‐Fa
Published: November 2003

To effect a model order reduction (MORe) process on a system which has a polynomial matrix equation dependence on the MORe parameter, researchers generally take one of two approaches. The first is to linearize the system by introducing extra degrees of freedom and then to solve the resulting expanded, linear system with a method such as Lanczos or Arnoldi. The second approach is to work directly with the polynomial system and use a technique such as asymptotic waveform evaluation (AWE). Of course, each approach has advantages and disadvantages. In this paper, a new technique will be presented which has some desirable characteristics from both approaches and which is able to circumvent simultaneously some of their disadvantages. It can be shown that both the Arnoldi and the AWE methods are special cases of this new technique. Finally, numerical results will show the viability of the new method, which will be called the well‐conditioned asymptotic waveform evaluation (WCAWE) method. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Iterative LCP solvers for non‐local loading–unloading conditions
Authors: Benvenuti E. , Tralli A.
Published: November 2003

This paper deals with the finite element analysis of a certain class of non‐local dissipative constitutive models, where the canonical pointwise backward‐Euler scheme cannot be employed for satisfying the loading–unloading conditions. In the presence of a non‐local dissipation, the admissibility conditions in a point depend on the inelastic strain increment of the surrounding points and can be cast as a linear complementarity problem (LCP) involving all Gauss points of the process zone. In order to actually solve the LCP, the use of iterative algorithms that can be easily embodied into existing FE codes is discussed. The performance of the proposed algorithms is tested in 1D and 2D examples for both elastoplastic and damaging materials. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Choice of insulins, pen devices and blood glucose meters: factors influencing decision making by DSNs in the UK
Authors: Thynne AD , Higgins B , Cummings MH
Published: November 2003

Choices of insulin type and associated equipment largely result from discussions between patients and diabetes specialist nurses (DSNs), although we clearly do not fully understand the process leading to decision making. To establish a greater understanding of prescribing issues, we developed a UK questionnaire designed to identify factors influencing choice and the importance of the DSN's role. Furthermore, trends in responses according to experience of the DSN and geographical location of the practice were also examined. A Likert scale was employed where 1 = strongly disagree, 2 = disagree, 3 = agree and 4 = strongly agree.

Insulin therapy was independently initiated by 96 per cent of DSNs. DSNs were likely to choose the insulin type (mean score 2.84) whereas patients were likely to choose pen devices (mean score 2.81). The DSN and patient were equally involved in choosing blood glucose meters (BGMs) (mean scores both 2.41). Key influential factors (mean score >3) when choosing insulin types were previous experience of the DSN and literature product availability. Influential factors when choosing pen devices (mean score >3) were accuracy, cartridge loading and reliability (pen features) and poor learning ability, poor memory and impaired sight (patient characteristics). Principle factors influencing choice of BGMs (mean score >3) were display size, accuracy and reliability (meter features) and impaired sight, poor dexterity and poor memory (patient characteristics).

We conclude that both DSN and patient were integrally involved in decision making and there are heterogeneous complex factors influencing these choices. There were no trends in choice with regard to geographical location of the diabetes service or duration of DSN experience. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Advanced glycosylated end products derived from external sources contribute to diabetic complications
Authors: Kisch ES , Ayalon D
Published: November 2003

Advanced glycosylated end products (AGEs) are implicated in the pathogenesis of damaging complications seen in diabetes. They are formed by non‐enzymatic glycosylation, have cross‐linking properties with amino acids and interfere with normal functioning of vascular and other tissues. AGEs arise mostly in the hyperglycaemic milieu of diabetes. Little attention has been devoted to major extraneous sources of AGEs, such as cooked food and other more unexpected products such as cola drinks and instant coffee. Also, tobacco and tobacco smoke give rise to enhanced AGE formation. Most diabetologists and dietitians are unaware of this unwanted contribution to diabetic complications. AGEs formed in heated foods containing protein and fructose are absorbed with a bioavailability of about 10%, and their excretion is increasingly impaired as kidney function decreases. The contribution of exogenous AGEs may be greater than those formed endogenously. New avenues are being developed to reduce the burden of AGEs. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Glycaemic behaviour during lactation: postpartum practical guidelines for women with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Saez‐de‐Ibarra L , Gaspar R , Obesso A , Herranz L
Published: November 2003

The aim of the study was to examine the pattern of glycaemic behaviour and insulin requirements over two months postpartum in women with type 1 diabetes, to analyse differences between breastfeeding and non‐breastfeeding mothers and to assess the relationship between hypoglycaemic episodes and nursing sessions.

Blood glucose records (six glucose readings per day), HbA1c and insulin requirements for the last month preconception, the first week postpartum, the first month postpartum and the second month postpartum were analysed in 36 women with type 1 diabetes. Women were asked to keep a daily record of breastfeeding hours during the first month postpartum.

The number of glucose readings did not differ during the four periods. Mean glucose values were only significantly lower during the first week postpartum. HbA1c values at the end of the first and second postpartum months did not differ from preconception values. Insulin requirements were significantly lower over the first postpartum week than during the preconception period, and remained significantly lower over the two postpartum months. Comparison of glycaemic control and insulin requirements between lactating and non‐lactating mothers revealed no statistically significant differences. The 13 women who kept a record of breastfeeding hours had fewer hypoglycaemic episodes related to nursing sessions than episodes unrelated to nursing sessions.

Both lactating and non‐lactating mothers with type 1 diabetes will have lower glucose levels in the first week following delivery, and insulin requirements will remain lower than before pregnancy throughout the first two months postpartum. Hypoglycaemic episodes do not occur more frequently during or immediately after nursing sessions. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Blood pressure control in diabetes: are we achieving the guideline targets?
Authors: Joseph F , Younis N , Sowery J , Soran H , Stanaway S , Bowen‐Jones D
Published: November 2003

Clinical trials have demonstrated that treatment of hypertension in patients with diabetes can reduce microvascular and macrovascular complications. The aim of this study was to measure the prevalence of normotension, untreated and treated hypertension and to assess whether targets based on current recommended guidelines had been achieved.

We undertook a cross‐sectional, analytic prospective study of consecutive patients attending a diabetes clinic in a district general hospital in the UK (n =1631; 86% participation). Blood pressure (BP) was measured using the average of two clinic readings and the type and frequency of use of antihypertensive agents were recorded using a questionnaire. In 220 patients with type 1 diabetes, the mean BP was 129/77mmHg. Twenty‐six per cent were hypertensive, with BP greater than 140/90mmHg, 95% of the hypertensive patients were prescribed treatment and 76% had reached a target BP of 140/80mmHg. In 1411 patients with type 2 diabetes, the mean BP was 147/82mmHg, 51% were hypertensive with 90% prescribed treatment but only 52% reaching target BP recommendations.

The results of the study show that hypertensive diabetic patients are being identified and the majority are being prescribed treatment, but in patients with type 2 diabetes, the target BP recommendations are not being achieved. The study underlines the need for more aggressive antihypertensive therapy in hypertensive patients with diabetes. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diabetes control in pregnancy: who takes responsibility for what?
Authors: Josse J , James J , Roland J
Published: November 2003

At our diabetes team meetings in Peterborough, which included a psychotherapist, the issues involved in who takes responsibility for the birth of a healthy baby from a diabetic mother were explored. Traditional prescriptive approaches were compared with the empowerment model in the specific instance of pregnancy, when the needs of the fetus have to be considered as well as those of the mother. Clinical examples are given to illustrate the dilemmas over who takes responsibility with different models, and questions are raised for debate. The empowerment model of diabetes care may not be entirely applicable to the pregnant diabetic woman. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Deficiencies in foot care of diabetic patients on renal replacement therapy
Authors: Mark P , McNally M , Jones GC
Published: November 2003

Diabetic patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT) are known to be at very high risk of foot ulceration causing significant morbidity and mortality. We surveyed the foot care of all diabetic patients in our area having RRT for ESRD over a three‐month period. Of the 55 patients included, 36 (65.5%) had not been seen in a diabetes clinic and 32 (58.2%) had not been seen by a podiatrist in the preceding year. Of all patients, 36 had previous documented evidence of high‐risk feet yet only 21 (58.3%) of this group had been seen by a podiatrist in the year before. Active ulceration was known to be present in seven patients. Ulcer duration was between 16 and 66 (mean 33) weeks. Three patients with active ulceration had not been seen by a podiatrist and four had not been seen in diabetes clinic in the previous year. In view of the worrying deficiencies in foot care in this group, we suggest increasing podiatry and diabetes team access for RRT patients at the site of their dialysis and advocate early multidisciplinary foot clinic referral for patients with ulceration. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Unsaturated alkoxy‐substituted poly(p‐phenylene 1,3,4‐oxadiazole)s: Synthesis and chemical–physical characterization
Authors: Capitani Donatella , Laurienzo Paola , Malinconico Mario , Proietti Noemi , Roviello Antonio
Published: November 2003

A new series of alkoxy‐substituted poly(p‐phenylene 1,3,4‐oxadiazole)s modified by the insertion of small percentages of various comonomers were synthesized through the precursor polyhydrazides. The comonomers used contained trans double bonds or meta‐alkoxy‐substituted aromatic rings to improve the solubility of the final polymers. The synthesized copolymers were chemically characterized by 1H NMR and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In some cases, the copolymers really showed improved solubility in organic solvents. The 15N solid‐state NMR technique was applied to examine the degree of conversion from the precursor polyhydrazides to the final polymers, which determined the effective conjugated length in the target polyoxadiazoles. Thermal stability and structural characteristics of all the polymers as well as a preliminary investigation on the optical properties of polyoxadiazoles are also reported. The copolymers retained high absorbance in the UV region and high transmission in the whole telecommunication range. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 41: 3916–3928, 2003
Preparation and photoinduced isomerization study of a homopolymer and a copolymer based on 4′‐(6‐acryloxy)hexyloxy‐4‐methoxyazobenzene and acrylic acid
Authors: Kasemjit Pattrawin , Srikhirin Toemsak , Sutapun Boonsong , Bualek‐Limcharoen Sauvarop
Published: November 2003

The synthesis and characterization of a copolymer based on 4′‐(6‐acryloxy)hexyloxy‐4‐methoxyazobenzene (MAB6) and acrylic acid (AA) are reported. A reaction was carried out by free‐radical polymerization, yielding an MAB6 homopolymer and an AA–MAB6 copolymer with an MAB6 concentration of 16–80%. A nematic phase was observed in the copolymer when the MAB6 content was 44% or higher. Both nematic and smectic phases were observed in the MAB6 homopolymer. All of the polymers were investigated for trans–cis–trans isomerization in a solid film. The samples were irradiated with nonpolarized ultraviolet light (385 nm) before absorption measurements were taken with an ultraviolet–visible spectrometer. The copolymer and homopolymer exhibited a thermal cis–trans isomerization, which could be described by a double‐exponential relaxation process (fast and slow). The relaxation experiment suggested that the hydrogen bonding may have hindered the slow process but had no effect on the fast process. A film of a copolymer sample with a high MAB6 content could be optically aligned by the exposure of the sample to polarized light (385 nm). © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 41: 4017–4024, 2003
New soluble functional polymers by free‐radical copolymerization of methacrylates and bipyridine ruthenium complexes
Authors: Holder Elisabeth , Meier Michael A. R. , Marin Veronica , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: November 2003

The luminescent complex [4‐(3‐hydroxypropyl)‐4′‐methyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine]‐bis(2,2′‐bipyridine)‐ruthenium(II)‐bis(hexafluoroantimonate) and its methacrylate derivative were successfully synthesized and fully characterized by two‐dimensional 1H and 13C{1H} NMR techniques [correlation spectroscopy (COSY) and heteronuclear multiple‐quantum coherence experiment (HMQC)], as well as matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. The respective labeled methyl methacrylate‐ruthenium(polypyridyl) copolymers were obtained by free‐radical copolymerization with methyl methacrylate and were characterized utilizing NMR, IR, and UV–visible spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 41: 3954–3964, 2003
Chemical amplification resists: Inception, implementation in device manufacture, and new developments
Authors: Ito Hiroshi
Published: November 2003

The chemical amplification concept aimed at dramatically boosting the resist sensitivity was invented at IBM Research in San Jose, CA, in 1980. The sensitivity enhancement is achieved by generating acid by irradiation, which induces a cascade of chemical transformations in a resist film. A chemically amplified resist based on acid‐catalyzed deprotection was quickly employed in the mid‐80s in manufacture of 1 megabit (Mbit) dynamic random access memory (DRAM) devices by deep ultraviolet (UV) (∼250 nm) lithography in IBM. The unexpectedly high‐resolution capability of chemical amplification resists promoted their acceptance in the resist community and the microelectronics industry. All the advanced lithographic technologies (current workhorse 248 nm, maturing 193 nm, and emerging 157 nm, extreme UV, and projection electron beam) depend on chemical amplification resists. This article describes the invention, implementation in device manufacturing, current status, and future perspective of chemical amplification resists. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 41: 3863–3870, 2003
Manipulation of the molecular weight and branching structure of hyperbranched poly(arylene ether phosphine oxide)s prepared via an A2 + B3 approach
Authors: Czupik Michaela , Fossum Eric
Published: November 2003

A series of hyperbranched poly(arylene ether phosphine oxide)s (HB PAEPOs) were prepared via an A2 + B3 polymerization scheme with tris(4‐fluorophenyl)phosphine oxide as B3, and a variety of bisphenols as A2. The effects of the reactivity of the A2 monomer, the A:B ratio, the addition mode, the solvent, and the concentration on the final molecular weight, polydispersity index (PDI), and degree of branching (DB) were studied. Soluble HB PAEPOs with weight‐average molecular weights of up to 299,000 Da were achieved. Reactions in which the A2 component was added slowly resulted in lower DBs (0.2–0.5), whereas the slow addition of the B3 component provided samples with DBs of approximately 0.75. Reactions performed under high‐dilution conditions afforded completely soluble materials with weight‐average molecular weights of 9000–12,100 Da and PDI values as low as 2.20. The molecular weights achieved under high‐dilution conditions were independent of the mode of monomer addition. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 41: 3871–3881, 2003
Random copolycondensation of isophthalic acid/terephthalic acid with bisphenols by tosyl chloride/dimethylformamide/pyridine in terms of the monomer reactivity ratios of bisphenols
Authors: Higashi Fukuji , Mizutani Naoko
Published: November 2003

The random copolycondensation of isophthalic acid/terephthalic acid with various combinations of bisphenols (M1 and M2) with a tosyl chloride/dimethylformamide/pyridine condensing agent was carried out to investigate the effects of the monomer reactivity ratios, r1′ and r2′, on the reaction, like r1 and r2 in radical copolymerization. The ratios were calculated from the probabilities of finding an M2 unit next to an M1 unit and of finding an M1 unit next to an M2 unit, which were determined by an NMR analysis of the resultant copolymers. They were discussed with respect to the inherent viscosities (molecular weights) of the resultant copolymers. There was a fairly good relationship between r1′ and r2′ and the inherent viscosity values of the copolymers, indicating that copolycondensation could be facilitated by a combination of bisphenols; the lowering of r1′ and r2′ was indicative of random distributions in the copolymers. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 41: 3908–3915, 2003
Synthesis and morphology of polyethylene‐block‐poly(methyl methacrylate) through the combination of metallocene catalysis with living radical polymerization
Authors: Matsugi Tomoaki , Kojoh Shin‐Ichi , Kawahara Nobuo , Matsuo Shingo , Kaneko Hideyuki , Kashiwa Norio
Published: November 2003

Polyethylene‐block‐poly(methyl methacrylate) (PE‐b‐PMMA) was successfully synthesized through the combination of metallocene catalysis with living radical polymerization. Terminally hydroxylated polyethylene, prepared by ethylene/allyl alcohol copolymerization with a specific zirconium metallocene/methylaluminoxane/triethylaluminum catalyst system, was treated with 2‐bromoisobutyryl bromide to produce terminally esterified polyethylene (PE‐Br). With the resulting PE‐Br as an initiator for transition‐metal‐mediated living radical polymerization, methyl methacrylate polymerization was subsequently performed with CuBr or RuCl2(PPh3)3 as a catalyst. Then, PE‐b‐PMMA block copolymers of different poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) contents were prepared. Transmission electron microscopy of the obtained block copolymers revealed unique morphological features that depended on the content of the PMMA segment. The block copolymer possessing 75 wt % PMMA contained 50–100‐nm spherical polyethylene lamellae uniformly dispersed in the PMMA matrix. Moreover, the PE‐b‐PMMA block copolymers effectively compatibilized homopolyethylene and homo‐PMMA at a nanometer level. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 41: 3965–3973, 2003
Synthesis and characterization of novel, optically active poly(amide‐imide)s from N,N′‐(4,4′‐sulfonediphthaloyl)‐bis‐L‐phenylalanine diacid chloride and aromatic diamines under microwave irradiation
Authors: Mallakpour Shadpour , Kowsari Elaheh
Published: November 2003

3,3′,4,4′‐Diphenylsulfonetetracarboxylic dianhydride was reacted with L‐phenylalanine in acetic acid, and the resulting imide acid (3) was obtained in high yield. The diacid chloride (4) was obtained from its diacid derivative (3) by reaction with thionyl chloride. The polycondensation reaction of 4 with several aromatic diamines such as 4,4′‐sulfonyldianiline, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl methane, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylether, p‐phenylenediamine, m‐phenylenediamine, 2,4‐diaminotoluene, and 1,5‐diaminonaphthalene was developed with a domestic microwave oven in the presence of trimethylsilyl chloride and a small amount of a polar organic medium such as o‐cresol. The polymerization reactions were also performed with two other methods: low‐temperature solution polycondensation in the presence of trimethylsilyl chloride and reflux conditions. A series of optically active poly(amide‐imide)s with moderate inherent viscosities of 0.21–0.42 dL/g were obtained in high yield. All of the aforementioned polymers were fully characterized by IR, 1H NMR elemental analyses, and specific rotation techniques. Some structural characterizations and physical properties of these optically active poly(amide‐imide) s are reported. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 41: 3974–3988, 2003