bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Fair Trade Deliver on Its Core Value Proposition? Effects on Income, Educational Attainment, and Health in Three Countries
Authors: Arnould Eric J. , Plastina Alejandro , Ball Dwayne
Published: November 2009

Alternative trade organizations (ATOs) based on philosophies of social justice and/or environmental well-being are establishing new channels of trade and marketing. Partisans promote ATOs as systems to transfer benefits from consumers in the wealthy northern hemisphere to producers in the poor southern hemisphere. The central public policy question is whether the well-being of poor agricultural producers in the southern hemisphere is actually being improved by fair-trade practices, or are consumers who buy products on this premise deceived? The research reported here partially answers the question whether participation in a fair-trade coffee marketing channel delivers benefits to small-scale producers in Latin America. The authors employ a survey methodology to compare TransFair USA (TF) cooperative participants and nonparticipating farmers in three countries on socioeconomic indicators of well-being. According to the analysis, the economic effects of fair-trade participation are unassailable; the effects on educational and health outcomes are uneven. However, TF cooperative participation positively affects educational attainment and the likelihood that a child is currently studying. The authors find positive health-related consequences of TF cooperative participation.
End-User License Agreements: A New Era of Intellectual Property Control
Authors: Langenderfer Jeff
Published: November 2009

This article analyzes the growing use of end-user license agreements in connection with the sale and licensing of patented and copyrighted products. It explores the limits and enforceability of such agreements through the analysis of relevant case law, including the decision in Lexmark v. Static Control Components. The article assesses the public policy implications of broadened enforceability of product licenses and makes recommendations for change.
The American Marketing Association's New Definition of Marketing: Perspective and Commentary on the 2007 Revision
Authors: Gundlach Gregory T. , Wilkie William L.
Published: November 2009

In a follow-up to the fall 2007 special section of Journal of Public Policy & Marketing that examined implications of the American Marketing Association's (AMA's) 2004 definition of marketing, the authors examine the AMA's revision of its definition—the new 2007 definition of marketing. The article first describes the concerns about the 2004 offering and then traces the process taken by the AMA to consider these issues and revise the definition. The authors conclude that the new definition addresses many of the major issues with the 2004 definition that had been identified by scholars contributing to the special section. They highlight several positive qualities of the new definition and describe how these attributes have the capacity to enhance marketing scholarship and practice into the future.
Breastfeed at your Own Risk
Authors: Artis Julie E.
Published: November 2009

For nearly two years, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services spent $2 million on an ad campaign to promote breastfeeding by educating mothers about the risks of not doing so. Those risks were often communicated in provocative ways. One television ad, for example, showed a pregnant African American woman riding a mechanical bull, and then the message appears on the screen, “You wouldn't take risks before your baby is born. Why start after?”
The Moynihan Report, a Retrospective
Authors: Ledger Kate
Published: November 2009

It doesn't take a sociologist to know that American society has long been plagued by problems of race and inequality. But knowing race is a problem and knowing how to think about that problem (much less what to do about it) are two very different things.
Framing Race and Poverty
Authors: Wilson William Julius
Published: November 2009

One thing I know is that it's extremely important to discuss how race and poverty are framed in public policy discussions. How we situate social issues in the larger context of society says a lot about our commitment to change.
Cultural Determinants of Help Seeking: A Model for Research and Practice
Authors: Arnault Denise Saint
Published: November 2009

Increasing access to and use of health promotion strategies and health care services for diverse cultural groups is a national priority. While theories about the structural determinants of help seeking have received empirical testing, studies about cultural determinants have been primarily descriptive, making theoretical and empirical analysis difficult. This article synthesizes concepts and research by the author and others from diverse disciplines to develop the midrange theoretical model called the Cultural Determinants of Help Seeking (CDHS). The multidimensional construct of culture, which defines the iterative dimensions of ideology, political economy, practice, and the body, is outlined. The notion of cultural models of wellness and illness as cognitive guides for perception, emotion and behavior as well as the synthesized concept of idioms of wellness and distress are introduced. Next, the CDHS theory proposes that sign and symptom perception, the interpretation of their meaning, and the dynamics of the social distribution of resources are all shaped by cultural models. Then the CDHS model is applied to practice using research with Asians. Finally, implications for research and practice are discussed.
A Treatment Protocol for Restoring Occlusal Vertical Dimension Using an Overlay Removable Partial Denture as an Alternative to Extensive Fixed Restorations: A Clinical Report
Authors: Patel Mit B , Bencharit Sompop
Published: November 2009

Treatment options for patients with severe attrition resulting in reduced occlusal vertical dimension are often limited to fixed prosthesis to reestablish proper occlusal vertical dimension and functional occlusion. In some cases such as when there are limited finances, minimal esthetic concerns, and medical considerations fixed prosthesis may not be the ideal treatment option. Overlay removable partial dentures (ORPDs) can be used as a provisional or interim prosthesis as well as permanent prosthesis in these cases. While ORPDs can provide a reversible and relatively inexpensive treatment for patients with a significantly compromised dental status, there is not much scientific evidence in the literature on ORPDs. Most studies published on ORPDs to date are primarily reviews and clinical reports. In this article, literatures on ORPDs are summarized and a patient treated with interim and permanent ORPDs is presented. This article reviews previously published literatures on the use of ORPDs. Indications, advantages and disadvantages are discussed. Treatment protocol with an example of the prosthodontic treatment of a patient with severely worn dentition with an interim ORPD and later a permanent ORPD are discussed in details.
Using Three-Dimensional Gait Data for Foot/Ankle Orthopaedic Surgery
Authors: de Vries Gwyneth , Roy Kevin , Chester Victoria
Published: November 2009

We present the case of a forty year old male who sustained a torn carotid during strenuous physical activity. This was followed by a right hemispheric stroke due to a clot associated with the carotid. Upon recovery, the patient’s gait was characterized as hemiparetic with a stiff-knee pattern, a fixed flexion deformity of the toe flexors, and a hindfoot varus. Based on clinical exams and radiographs, the surgical treatment plan was established and consisted of correction of the forefoot deformities, possible hamstrings lengthening, and tendon transfer of the posterior tibial tendon to the dorsolateral foot. To aid in surgical planning, a three-dimensional gait analysis was conducted using a state-of-the-art motion capture system. Data from this analysis provided insight into the pathomechanics of the patient’s gait pattern. A forefoot driven hindfoot varus was evident from the presurgical data and the tendon transfer procedure was deemed unnecessary. A computer was used in the OR to provide surgeons with animations of the patient’s gait and graphical results as needed. A second gait analysis was conducted 6 weeks post surgery, shortly after cast removal. Post-surgical gait data showed improved foot segment orientation and position. Motion capture data provides clinicians with detailed information on the multisegment kinematics of foot motion during gait, before and during surgery. Further, treatment effectiveness can be evaluated by repeating gait analyses after recovery.
Is there a Consensus in the Management of Distal Radial Fractures?
Authors: Nazar M.A. , Mansingh R. , Bassi R.S. , Waseem M.
Published: November 2009

This unique postal survey was setup to assess the agreement on treatment options in displaced distal radius fractures and whether or not there existed a consensus amongst the surgeons contacted. With this in view we contacted 244 surgeons and 166 completed answers were received.

We chose two common examples of displaced distal radius fractures. Case one was a 38 year old teacher with a closed, displaced extra-articular fracture (Frykman type II) of her left non-dominant hand and case two was a 42 year old carer, with a closed, displaced intra-articular fracture (Frykman type VII) of her right dominant wrist. There was a questionnaire included with these radiographs.

In the first case, 82 (49%) surgeons favoured MUA + K-wiring, 47 (28%) favoured volar plating and 14 (8%) an external fixator. In the second case, 28 (17%) surgeons favoured MUA + K-wiring, 53 (32%) advocated volar plating and 33 (20%) an external fixator. Furthermore surgeons with specialist Upper limb interest were more likely to apply a volar plate (63% in either case) whilst the surgeons with general or other areas of expertise (18% in first case and 23% for second case).

In conclusion there is no consensus among the Orthopaedic surgeons in treating displaced distal radial fractures. A multicentered randomized clinical trial would help elucidate the best treatment options.
Tobacco Smoking Can Potentiate C-fiber Evoked Potentials in Human Brain
Authors: Miyazaki Takahiro , Wang Xiaohong , Inui Koji , F. Domino Edward , Kakigi Ryusuke
Published: November 2009

The effects of smoking and nicotine on ultralate laser evoked potentials (LEPs), the EEG responses to C-fiber stimulation by a laser beam, were investigated in humans. Ultralate LEPs were repeatedly measured in two sessions, one after smoking, and the other in abstinence from smoking. The dominant frequency of the background EEG alpha activity, heart rate and venous plasma nicotine concentration were also measured. The peak-to-peak amplitude of the two major components (N2 and P2) of ultralate LEPs was significantly correlated both with the plasma nicotine concentration and with the background alpha frequency. The results suggest an arousal effect of nicotine on C-fiber mediated pain. The effect of nicotine on C-fiber LEPs was in the opposite direction of that on Aδ fiber LEPs. The difference between C and Aδ fibers might indicate a difference in effects of nicotine on first and second pain responses.
Regularisation
Authors: Kowalenko Victor
Published: November 2009

Ch. 4 considers the regularisation of some basic divergent series. The first is the
geometric series, which is shown to be conditionally convergent outside the unit circle of absolute
convergence for Rz<1 and divergent elsewhere. Nevertheless, the regularised value is found to
be identical to the limit of 1/(1−z)when the series is convergent. Then the regularisation of the
binomial series is considered, where again, the regularised value is found to equal the limit when
the series is convergent. Next the series denoted by
2F1
(a+1,b+1;a+b+2−x; 1), which is
divergent for Rx>0, is analysed. Here the regularised value is found to be different from the
limit when the series is convergent or for Rx<0. Finally, the harmonic series is studied, whose
regularised value equals Euler’s constant. Unlike the previous examples, the last example involves
logarithmic regularisation.
Numerics of MB-Regularised Forms
Authors: Kowalenko Victor
Published: November 2009

This chapter is concerned with the numerics of MB-regularised forms for the regu-larised value of a divergent series using the Mathematica software package. To accomplish this,
the remainders in the asymptotic forms for u(a)given in Ch. 2 are first MB-regularised. Then an
explanation of how to evaluate the resulting MB integrals follows. It is shown that when the values
for the MB integrals are added to the truncated asymptotic series and the appropriate Stokes dis-continuous terms, they yield exact values ofu(a)over the principal branch. Because the domains
of convergence for the MB integrals extend beyond the Stokes sectors, the two different forms for
the regularised value also give exact values of u(a)over their common region of(−π/4,π/4). A
similar analysis is then undertaken for the error function erf(z), whose Stokes sectors are shifted
compared with those foru(a). A major problem arises when Mathematica attempts to evaluate
the MB-regularised values for |argz|>π/2 because the factor ofz
−2s
in the MB integrals lies
outside the principal branch. However, with the introduction of the seemingly innocuous factor of
exp(2πi jk)into the asymptotic series, different MB-regularised forms are obtained with domains
of convergence that encompass the previously inaccessible sectors of the principal branch. Con-sequently, the Stokes multiplier equals -1/2 for j=±1, while it equals 1/2 forj=0 as in Ch. 5.
When a numerical analysis is undertaken for|argz|>π/2 with the new forms for the regularised
value, exact values of the error function are obtained irrespective of the magnitude ofz.
Generalised Terminants
Authors: Kowalenko Victor
Published: November 2009

Generalised terminants are produced when the coefficients of the two types of series
considered in Ch. 7 are set equal toΓ(pk+q), where pandqare both real and positive and the
variablez is altered to z
β
, where βcan be much greater than unity. Ch. 9 is concerned with the
derivation of the MB-regularised forms for the regularised values of both types of generalised
terminants over the entire complex plane, which are presented in Propositions 4 and 5. These
results are then simplified by considering special cases of p, the first where it is the reciprocal of a
natural natural number and the second, where it equals 2. The chapter concludes by evaluating the
regularised value of a Type II generalised terminant withβ=6,p=1 andq=1/5 using the various
MB-regularised forms that apply over the principal branch forz. Because there is no known special
function equivalent for this asymptotic series, the results from this study serve as a test-bed for the
results in the following chapter. Nevertheless, it is found that the regularised values obtained from
the two MB-regularised forms for each of the six common regions of the overlapping domains of
convergence equal one another for both small and large values of|z|.
Borel Summation of Generalised Termi-nants
Authors: Kowalenko Victor
Published: November 2009

In this chapter general Borel-summed forms for the regularised values of the two
types of generalised terminants introduced in the previous chapter are derived for the entire com-plex plane. This is done by expressing both asymptotic series in terms of Cauchy integrals and
analysing the singular behaviour as the variablez moves across Stokes sectors. For both types
of generalised terminants the Stokes lines represent the complex branches of the singularities in
the Cauchy integrals, the difference being that the singularity in the Type I case occurs at −z
−β
,
while for the Type II case it occurs atz
−β
. Consequently, for a Type I generalised terminant the
Cauchy integral represents the regularised value over a primary Stokes sector, whereas for the
Type II case, it is the regularised value for a primary Stokes line provided the Cauchy principal
value is evaluated. For the other Stokes sectors and lines, the regularised values acquire extra
contributions due to the residues of the Cauchy integrals, which emerge each timez
−β
undergoes
a complete revolution. In the case of the Type II generalised terminant, it also acquires an equal
and opposite semi-residue contribution oncez
−β
moves off the primary Stokes line in either di-rection. Hence, the results for the regularised values of both types of generalised terminants are
treated separately depending upon whether the singularity undergoes clockwise or anti-clockwise
rotations continuously. By referring to the special cases of pstudied in the previous chapter, we
find that the Borel-summed forms for the regularised values seldom conform to the conventional
view of the Stokes phenomenon. The chapter concludes with the numerical evaluation of the
Borel-summed forms for the regularised value of the same Type II generalised terminant at the
end of Ch. 9. Though there are more Borel-summed forms to evaluate, in all cases the regularised
value obtained from the Borel-summed forms agrees with that obtained from the corresponding
MB-regularised forms.
Author Index
Authors: Kowalenko Victor
Published: November 2009

Full Text Available.
List of Contributors
Authors: Hata Toshiyuki , Kurjak Asim , Kozuma Shiro
Published: November 2009

Full text available
A Brief Introduction to Evolutionary Algorithms and the Genetic Doping Algorithm
Authors: Buscema Massimo , Capriotti Massimiliano
Published: November 2009

This chapter describes the Evolutionary Algorithms that indicates a range of systems of the problems’
resolution based on the use of computer, similar to the evolutionary processes. They include, Genetic
Algorithms, Evolutionary Programming, Evolutionary Strategies, Classifying Systems, Genetic Programming,
and Genetic Doping Algorithm (GenD), an evolutionary algorithm, conceived by Buscema in 1998, at
the Semeion Research Centre in Rome, where it is still successfully used and has been further developed.
Unlike classic genetic algorithms, the GenD system maintains an inner instability during evolution, presenting
a continuous evolution and a natural increase in biodiversity during the progress of the algorithm. The
theory, which leads to defining the GenD system is outlined. Specific characteristics of GenD, such as the
definition of a species-health aware evolutionary law, the use of genetic operators and the adoption of a structured
organisation of individuals (tribes), are described. In order to measure GenD capabilities, we investigated
also different problems, such as that known as the travelling sales person problem, which belongs to the
class of full NP problems.
Auto Contractive Maps, H Function and Maximally Regular Graph - Application
Authors: Helgason Cathy , Buscema Massimo , Grossi Enzo
Published: November 2009

In this chapter we describe a new mapping method able to find out connectivity traces among variables
thanks to an artificial adaptive system, the Auto-Contractive Map (Auto-CM), able to define the
strength of the associations of each variable with all the others in a dataset. After the training phase, the
weights matrix of the Auto-CM represents the map of the main connections between the variables. We apply
this new approach to explore the possible association of multiple variables within two different clinical studies:
the African American Antiplatelet Stroke Study (AAASPS), a large clinical trial comparing the preventive
effect of two different anti platelet agents for recurrent stroke, myocardial infarction and death, and a
smaller study, the Aspirin Response Study (ARS), wherein the genetic predisposition to aspirin response as
measured by inhibition of platelet aggregation measured ex vivo was determined in patients taking aspirin for
the prevention of thrombotic vascular occlusion.
J-Net System: A New Paradigm for Artificial Neural Networks Applied to Diagnostic Imaging - Theory
Authors: Buscema Massimo
Published: November 2009

In this chapter we present a new unsupervised artificial adaptive system, able to extract features of
interest in digital imaging, to reduce image noise maintaining the spatial resolution of high contrast structures
and the expression of hidden morphological features. The new system, named J-Net, belongs to the family of
ACM systems developed by Semeion Research Center. J-Net is able to isolate in an almost geological way
different brightness layers in the same image. These layers seem to be invisible to the human eye and for the
other mathematical imaging system. This ability of the J-Net can have important medical applications.
The Topological Weighted Centroid, and the Semantic of the Physical Space - Theory
Authors: Buscema Massimo , Breda Marco , Catzola Luigi
Published: November 2009

In this chapter new mathematical objects, aimed to describe semantic aspects of set of non random
points, are described together with their theoretical background. They are: Topological Weighted Centroid
(TWC); Self Topological Weighted Centroid (STWC); Proximity Scalar Field; Gradient of the Scalar Field
Relative Topological Weighted Centroid (TWCi); Paths form Arithmetic Centroid to entities; Paths between
entities; Scalar Field of the trajectories. These new mathematical quantities are able to describe some important,
semantic aspect of a set of points defined in a bi-dimensional or tri-dimensional space. These quantities
can also be used also to analyze the semantic of a set of points defined in a higher dimensional space. All the
proposed quantities will be defined considering a set of N points, called entities, in a two-dimensional space,
the extension to three dimensions being elementary. As we will see, the proposed mathematical quantities are
points, curves or scalar fields.
The Topological Weighted Centroid and the Semantic of the Physical Space - Application
Authors: Grossi Enzo , Buscema Massimo , Jefferson Tom
Published: November 2009

In this chapter several application examples derived from the literature and from the real world
show how new elementary mathematics like: Topological Weighted Centroid (TWC); Self Topological
Weighted Centroid (STWC); Proximity Scalar Field; Gradient of the Scalar Field Relative Topological
Weighted Centroid (TWCi); Paths from Arithmetic Centroid to entities; Paths between entities; Scalar Field
of the trajectories, may help decision makers in situations characterized by limited amount of information,
and how mathematics of complex system can improve the level of accuracy obtained with classical statistics.
In particular the TWC proposes itself as a powerful method to identify the source of epidemic spread. The
impressive results obtained in the example of Russian influenza spreading in Sweden in 1889 and in the colera
spreading in London in 1854 are consistent with the idea that the spread of infectious disease is not random
but follows a progression which is based on inherent but as yet undiscovered mathematical laws based on
probabilistic density function.
These methods, which require further for field evaluation and validation, could provide an additional powerful
tool for the investigation of the early stages of an epidemic, and constitute the basis of new simulation methods
to understand the process through which a disease is spread.
Brief History of Experimental Liver Microsurgery
Authors: Aller Maria-Angeles , Arias Jaime
Published: November 2009

The use of an operating microscope in rat and mouse liver surgery makes it possible to
obtain new experimental models and improve the already existing macrosurgical models. From
the pioneer works of Sun Lee in the early 1960s through today, microsurgery has gained
acceptance as an integral component of liver research. Portosystemic anastomosis, partial portal
vein ligation, cholestasis, hepatectomies and liver transplantation stand out among the most
frequently used liver microsurgical techniques in the rat and mouse. In essence, the experimental
model resulting from these microsurgical techniques are the most used today in liver research.
Laboratory Rat Management
Authors: Aller Maria-Angeles , Nava Maria Paz , Mendez Marta , Vergara Patri , Arias Jorge-Luis
Published: November 2009

Experiments on animals are the key to Surgical Clinical Research; its objective is to
solve the unsolved problems in the clinical area. This chapter covers the ethical principles and
investigator responsibilities. The principal environmental conditions, such as housing, husbandry
and nutrition, are also described. Current studies indicate that rats and mice value opportunities to
take cover, build nests, explore, gain social contact, and exercise some control over their social
milieu; the inability to satisfy these needs is physically and psychologically detrimental, leading
to impaired brain development and behavioral anomalies.
Anesthesia, Analgesia and Postoperative Care
Authors: Angeles Aller Maria , Paz Nava Maria
Published: November 2009

Due to current attitudes to the use of animals in biomedical research any pain or distress caused to animals should be minimized. This can be achieved by the use of appropriate anesthetic and analgesic regimens. There are both sound ethical and scientific reasons for controlling pain in animals and can also make a substantial contribution to refinement of animal experiments. In this chapter recent trends in the administration of anesthetics and analgesics to laboratory rats and mice undergoing surgical procedures are assessed.
Extraction Techniques of Blood, Bile and Lymph Samples
Authors: Aller Maria-Angeles , Nava Maria-Paz , Mendez Marta , Arias Jaime
Published: November 2009

The extraction of multiple body fluids samples is frequently necessary when research
studies involving laboratory rodents are developed. Thus, in the current chapter different
techniques for collecting blood, bile and lymph samples are described. Methods for obtaining
blood without anesthesia of the rat, as well as methods requiring anesthesia are explained. In
addition, blood withdrawal by using long-term catheterization of blood vessels is described.
Techniques of bile sample collection include catheterization of the common bile duct. Finally,
techniques of lymph sample collection through catheterization of the thoracic lymph duct and
mesenteric lymph duct are explained.
Laparotomies
Authors: Aller Maria-Angeles , Losada Manuel , Mendez Marta , Arias Jaime
Published: November 2009

The types of laparotomy most frequently used in rodents are described. Usually, longitudinal or
vertical abdominal incisions are preferred rather than transverse or horizontal ones.
Vascular Microanastomoses
Authors: Aller Maria-Angeles , Sanchez-Patan Fernando , Arias Jaime
Published: November 2009

There is a widespread consensus that training in microvascular surgery has to start with
non-living models. Harvested latex sheets and arteries are an example of excellent models for
teaching basic microvascular techniques. Vascular microanastomoses could be performed by
suture and non-suture methods. Microvascular suture techniques could be made interrupted or
continuous. Alternatively, end-to-side microanastomoses could be performed by intussusception
using only one or two stitches. Non-suture microvascular techniques include cuff-ligature, rings,
clips, stents, adhesives and thermal or laser welding.
Extrahepatic Cholestasis
Authors: Angeles Aller Maria , Prieto Isabel , Cruz Arturo , Losada Manuel , Arias Jose-Ignacio , Garcia-Dominguez Jose , Argudo Salvador , Arias Jorge-Luis , Arias Jaime
Published: November 2009

The serious repercussions of cholestasis on the liver and on the systemic level have led
to the creation of many experimental models so as to better understand its pathogenesis,
prophylaxis and treatment. Among the surgical techniques for developing extrahepatic
cholestasis, the resection of the bile ducts that drain the lobes of the liver by means of a
microsurgical technique stands out. In the long-term evolution, microsurgical extrahepatic
cholestatic rats develop hepatic fibrosis with marked ductular proliferation and portal
hypertension with collateral portosystemic circulation, hepatic encephalopathy and ascytes.
Orthotopic and Heterotopic Liver Transplantation
Authors: Lorente Lorente , Angeles Aller Maria , Arias Jaime
Published: November 2009

The different methods to achieve an effective liver preservation by simple cold storage
are described in this chapter. Furthermore, the most used techniques of orthotopic and heterotopic
liver transplantation as well as the postoperative complications, among which ischemiareperfusion
injury and rejection stand out, are explained as well.
Visible Light Enabled V and Cr Doped Titania-Silica Aerogel Photocatalyst
Authors: Hamdan Halimaton , Mohd Muhid Mohd Nazlan , Lee Siew Ling , Tan Yin Yin
Published: November 2009

A series of high surface area (~700 m2/g) nanostructured coupled semiconductor photocatalysts (NCSP) based on transition metals (M = Cr, V) doped titania-silica aerogel of various molar ratios of Ti:Si (1:25, 1:33 and 1:50) were synthesized via direct synthesis and wet impregnation methods. All samples reveal well-dispersed TiO2 with three different types of Ti coordination namely isolated Ti, non-isolated Ti and octahedrally coordinated Ti species. Cr and V (5 wt%)-titania silica aerogel under visible light irradiation reduced the bandgap energy of T25 to 2.9 eV. The photocatalytic activity of NCSP is 3 fold more active than photocatalyst supported on amorphous silica. Cr (5 wt%)-titania silica aerogel photocatalyst gives the highest conversion of styrene under both UV and visible light irradiation (55% and 47% respectively).
Tobacco Use as Response to Economic Insecurity: Evidence from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth
Authors: Barnes Michael G , Smith Trenton G.
Published: November 2009

Emerging evidence from neuroscience and clinical research suggests a novel hypothesis about tobacco use: consumers may choose to smoke, in part, as a "self-medicating" response to the presence of economic insecurity. To test this hypothesis, we examine the effect of economic insecurity (roughly, the risk of catastrophic income loss) on the smoking behavior of a sample of male working-age smokers from the 1979 National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY79). Using instrumental variables to control for unobserved heterogeneity, we find that economic insecurity has a large and statistically significant positive effect on the decision to continue or resume smoking. Our results indicate, for example, that a 1 percent increase in the probability of becoming unemployed causes an individual to be 2.4 percent more likely to continue smoking. We find that the explanatory power of economic insecurity in predicting tobacco use is comparable to (but distinct from) household income, a more commonly used metric.
Residual Luminescence in Quartz from Slack Water Deposits in Kaveri Basin, South India: A Single Aliquot Approach
Authors: Jaiswal Manoj , Chen Yue , Kale Vishwas , Achyuthan Hema
Published: November 2009

Optical bleaching of quartz may be incomplete due to decreased daylight intensity and narrower wavelength spectrum in water column, leading to age overestimation in young fluvial sediments. This hypothesis was tested on a low energy slack water deposits from Kaveri Basin in south India using the SAR protocol. Various tests suggest successful application of SAR on quartz from the study area despite low sensitivity and few numbers of bright grains. Partial bleaching can be ruled out if using SAR on small aliquots. The results suggest a uniform residual luminescence and a common sedimentary condition in this area. Due to partial bleaching, the lowest values of palaeodoses should be considered in preference to the average values.
Urinary Proteome Analysis using Capillary Electrophoresis Coupled to Mass Spectrometry: A Powerful Tool in Clinical Diagnosis, Prognosis and Therapy Evaluation
Authors: Mischak Harald , Schiffer Eric , Zürbig Petra , Dakna Mohammed , Metzger Jochen
Published: November 2009

Urinary Proteome Analysis using Capillary Electrophoresis Coupled to Mass Spectrometry: A Powerful Tool in Clinical Diagnosis, Prognosis and Therapy Evaluation

Proteome analysis has emerged as a powerful tool to decipher (patho) physiological processes, resulting in the establishment of the field of clinical proteomics. One of the main goals is to discover biomarkers for diseases from tissues and body fluids. Due to the enormous complexity of the proteome, a separation step is required for mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteome analysis. In this review, the advantages and limitations of protein separation by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, liquid chromatography, surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization and capillary electrophoresis (CE) for proteomic analysis are described, focusing on CE-MS. CE-MS enables separation and detection of the small molecular weight proteome in biological fluids with high reproducibility and accuracy in one single processing step and in a short time. As sensitive and specific single biomarkers generally may not exist, a strategy to overcome this diagnostic void is shifting from single analyte detection to simultaneous analysis of multiple analytes that together form a disease-specific pattern. Such approaches, however, are accompanied with additional challenges, which we will outline in this review. Besides the choice of adequate technological platforms, a high level of standardization of proteomic measurements and data processing is also necessary to establish proteomic profiling. In this regard, demands concerning study design, choice of specimens, sample preparation, proteomic data mining, and clinical evaluation should be considered before performing a proteomic study.
Glucocorticoid Receptor in Health and Disease
Authors: Dunđerski Jadranka , Matić Gordana
Published: November 2009

Glucocorticoid Receptor in Health and Disease

Glucocorticoid hormones are essential for life, have a vital place in the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases and are increasingly implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of common disorders. Their action is mediated by an intracellular receptor protein, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), functioning as a ligand-inducible transcription factor. Multiple synthetic glucocorticoids are used as potent antiinflammatory and immunosuppressive agents, but their therapeutic usefulness is limited by a wide range and severity of side-effects. One of the most important pharmaceutical goals has been to design steroidal and non-steroidal GR ligands with profound therapeutic efficacy and reduced unwanted effects. The therapeutic benefit of glucocorticoid agonists is frequently compromised by resistance to glucocorticoids, which may depend on: access of the hormones to target cells, steroid metabolism, expression level and isoform composition of the GR protein, mutations and polymorphisms in the GR gene and association of the receptor with chaperone proteins. The major breakthrough into the critical role of glucocorticoid signaling in the maintenance of homeostasis and pathogenesis of diseases, as well as into the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic usefulness of antiinflammatory drugs acting through the GR is expected to result from the current progress in large-scale gene expression profiling technologies and computational biology.
From Research to Clinical Application Multi-Parameter Testing: Marker Panels for the Early Detection of Complex Diseases
Authors: Wild Norbert , Karl Johann , Risse Bernhard
Published: November 2009

From Research to Clinical Application Multi-Parameter Testing: Marker Panels for the Early Detection of Complex Diseases

Multi Parameter Analysis can open novel diagnostic opportunities for the early diagnosis and screening of multimodal diseases like cancer. Single proteins have so far failed to describe such complex diseases. Being able to screen with a set of analytes is one promising way to overcome the present limitations. Various marker identification tools including proteomics approaches have been successfully applied to identify new screening markers for early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC). CRC is one of the most incident cancers worldwide and early detection is clearly a key factor in reducing mortality from CRC. Several screening methods are recommended, including colonoscopy, fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) and fecal DNA analysis. Of these annual stool testing with the guaiac based FOBT is most often applied, in spite of limitations such as low sensitivity and dietary influences. Though proce dures with improved performance eg. immunolo gical FOBT are available, a screening assay for CRC in serum that could easily be integrated in any health check-up would be highly welcome. A positive result of such a test would trigger a follow-up colonoscopy for an exact diagnosis. In this review we will cover aspects of marker identification strategies and describe a well structured marker validation process that is based on clinically characterized sample materials. Finally the value of analytical multi-parameter platforms enabling the combination of multi markers in routine diagnostics settings is outlined. An appropriate multi-parameter immunochemistry platform concept, currently developed under the working name »IMPACT« will be introduced.
The Use of Biochip Cardiac Array Technology for Early Diagnosis of Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Sypniewska Grazyna , Sawicki Marcin , Krintus Magdalena , Kozinski Marek , Kubica Jacek
Published: November 2009

The Use of Biochip Cardiac Array Technology for Early Diagnosis of Acute Coronary Syndromes

Serum troponin is the best biomarker for the diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome, but it takes considerable time before a definitive diagnosis is available. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether a multimarker approach, using the biochip cardiac array, would facilitate the early diagnosis. Serum biomarkers were determined on admission (≤6 hrs) and after 6 hours in 42 patients suspected for ACS. Cardiac troponin I was measured by a sensitive assay (STATcTnI) and cardiac markers (H-FABP, myoglobin, cTnI, CK-MB mass, carbonic anhydrase III) were assayed with the use of Biochip Array Technology.STATcTnI concentrations, within the first 6 hours, were elevated >99thpercentile for the reference population in 83.3% of subjects, but none reached the cut-off for AMI. On admission H-FABP was the only marker with 90.5% sensitivity in all ACS cases and 100% sensitivity in STEMI/NSTEMI patients. The sensitivity of myoglobin at presentation was 71.4% in ACS, however, combined sensitivity of myoglobin and H-FABP reached 95.2%. Lowering the cut-off for cTnI allowed early diagnosis (≤6 hrs) in only 26.2% of ACS patients and 95.2% after the next 6 hours. In unstable angina the cardiac panel was not sufficiently accurate for early risk stratification. In conclusion, testing for both markers, H-FABP and sensitive cardiac troponin, available with the cardiac array may facilitate the early detection of myocardial injury in clinical practice.
Advanced Techniques in Clinical Practice: Use of Lab-on-a-Chip Electrophoresis and Other Methods in Protein Profiling
Authors: Trenčevska Olgica , Aleksovski Vasko , Stojanoski Kiro
Published: November 2009

Advanced Techniques in Clinical Practice: Use of Lab-on-a-Chip Electrophoresis and Other Methods in Protein Profiling

Proteins in clinical practice are analyzed as important parameters in the determination and treatment of different diseases. The scopes of the analyses are mainly concentrated in two levels - analyses of the complete protein profile, or determination of an isolated protein. In this work, despite of the use of conventional methods, mainly electrophoresis, new techniques have been implemented in protein analyses. Lab-on-a-chip is an electrophoretic technique that, when optimized, provides analyses of the total protein profile. When normal samples are compared to samples obtained from patients with different neurological diseases, characteristic patterns can be noted. Also, correlation and comparison can be made between the newly developed microchip electrophoresis method and the results obtained using the conventional techniques. When an analysis of a specific protein is necessary, mass spectrometry has proven to give best results, in both the se lectivity and specificity of analyses. It is believed that cystatin C is a potential biomarker in neurological diseases; therefore, the mass spectrometry method has been developed in order to obtain qualitative and quantitative analyses of biological fluids. Using the developed method of mass spectrometry immunoassay (MSIA), cystatin C was easily isolated and analyzed, obtaining complete analysis within minutes. The resulting mass spectra revealed various levels of cystatin C isoforms in serum and CSF samples.
Application of Preparative Electrophoresis for Clinical Proteomics in Urine: Is it Feasible?
Authors: Zoidakis Jérôme , Dimitraki Ploumisti , Zerefos Panagiotis , Vlahou Antonia
Published: November 2009

Application of Preparative Electrophoresis for Clinical Proteomics in Urine: Is it Feasible?

Urine samples are easily attainable which makes them ideal substrates for biomarker research. Various techniques have been employed to unravel the urine proteome and identify disease biomarkers. Even though the presence of high abundance proteins in urine is not so pronounced as in the case of plasma, the presence of proteolytic products, many of which at low abundance, along with numerous frequently random chemical modifications, makes the analysis of urinary proteins challenging. To facilitate the detection of low abundance urinary proteins, in the study presented herein we applied two different electrophoretic techniques, preparative Lithium Dodecyl Sulfate (LDS)-PAGE in combination with 2-DE for urinary protein separation and enrichment. Our results indicate the effectiveness of this approach for the enrichment of low abundance and low molecular weight proteins and peptides in urine, and contribute towards the establishment of a urinary proteomic database. The application of this technique as a biomarker discovery tool faces several challenges: these include down-scaling of the technique, possible recompensation for the consequent expected decrease in protein resolution, by optimizing steps of the experimental workflow as well as getting a good understanding of the technical variability of the technique. Under these conditions, preparative electrophoresis can become an effective tool for clinical proteomics applications.
Simultaneous Detection of Colorectal Cancer Mutations in Stool Samples with Biochip Arrays
Authors: Murray Helena , Latten Mark , Cartwright Andrew , McAleer Damien , Fitzgerald Stephen
Published: November 2009

Simultaneous Detection of Colorectal Cancer Mutations in Stool Samples with Biochip Arrays

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second main cause of cancer-related death in the Western world and like many other tumours is curable if detected at an early stage. Current detection options include faecal occult blood testing and invasive direct visualisation techniques such as flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy and barium enema. The availability of a more simple, non-invasive test that detects tumour specific products with optimal analytical performance might overcome barriers among patients who are not willing to undergo more sensitive but invasive tests. One such emerging technology, which has shown promise in recent years, is the analysis of DNA alterations exfoliated from tumour cells into stool. Here we report an analytical platform for non-invasive detection of 28 common mutations within CRC-related genesAPC, TP53, K-rasandBRAFin stool samples based on biochip array technology and applied to the semi-automated Evidence Investigator analyser. Mutation detection was possible in 1000-fold excess of wildtype DNA and analysis of 10 CRC-positive patient samples showed presence of targeted mutations with equivalent mutations also identified by an alternative method. This application represents an excellent tool for the multiplex detection of CRC-specific mutations using a single platform.
Madge - Microplate Array Diagonal Gel Electrophoresis
Authors: Stanković Sanja , Alavantić Dragan , Majkić-Singh Nada
Published: November 2009

Madge - Microplate Array Diagonal Gel Electrophoresis

Microplate array diagonal gel electrophoresis (MADGE) was invented for molecular genetic epidemio-logical studies. MADGE is a highly flexible, cost effective, microplate compatible solution to high throughput electrophoresis needs. It enables several thousands to million gel lines per day for direct assay of single-base variation in different capacity laboratories. Variants of the standard 96-well MADGE include: 96-well stretch-MADGE, 192-well MADGE, 384-well MADGE, and 768-well MADGE. Melt-MADGE combines the temporal thermal ramp apparatus to achieve similar throughput for de novo mutation scanning. Basic MADGE principles and procedures, preparation of MADGE gels, electrophoresis, visualization and analysis of these gels, as well as modifications of the basic 96-well MADGE will be discussed in detail. For the first time in our country, this revolutionary polyacrylamid electrophoresis was done in 1998. We shortly review our studies which used MADGE for high throughput genotyping of the apolipoprotein E. MADGE and melt-MADGE will have an important role in the future genetic research of complex diseases and especially in pharmacogenomics.
Long-Term Quality Control of the Cytokine & Growth Factors and Cell Adhesion Molecule Arrays at the Randox Evidence Investigator
Authors: van Pelt Johannes , Romijn Fred
Published: November 2009

Long-Term Quality Control of the Cytokine & Growth Factors and Cell Adhesion Molecule Arrays at the Randox Evidence Investigator

Multi component assays are a promising development in laboratory medicine. Reproducibility and standardization of the used technology is crucial for the quality of the results. In our laboratory several studies were carried out in a period of more than two years using the Randox Evidence Investigator. We applied the Cytokine & Growth Factors and Cell Adhesion Molecule Array from which reference values could be obtained. Cytokines are not useful in low grade inflammation or in normal persons as the levels are too low to detect. However growth factors and cell adhesion molecules could be determined in those studies. Outcomes with the arrays were compared with conventional assays such as ELISA. The correlations of IL-6 and IL-10 were very good and that of s-ICAM acceptable. Inter-assay coefficients of variation could be calculated by using the same control level material during those years. The system turned out to be easy to handle and very stable over a long period of time with CV's of about 8-12%. The results obtained are not dependent of the lot number of the arrays or apparatus as two different apparatus gave same outcomes.
Proteins: from electrophoresis to proteomics 5th EFCC Symposium for Balkan Region
Authors: Majkić-Singh Nada
Published: November 2009

Proteins: from electrophoresis to proteomics 5th EFCC Symposium for Balkan Region
Men's Friendships: Performances of Masculinity
Authors: Migliaccio Todd
Published: November 2009

A man's friendship is more than simply a product of being a man. It is a performance of masculinity that is influenced by gendered expectations. Using structural equation modeling to analyze 98 men's friendships, this study shows how two masculine expectations: one behavioral (stoic), the other attitudinal (anti-feminine) influence different forms of intimacy between friends (instrumental, expressive). Analyzing the relationship between these variables across two occupations, one male-traditional (military) and the other female-traditional (teacher), further display how friendship is part of a masculine performance, as the relationship between masculine expectations and interactions with friends are stronger for teachers than military personnel because teachers are counteracting their feminine performance as a result of their jobs. Overall, “doing friendship” is “doing gender.”