bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost‐Effectiveness of Increasing Access to Mammography Through Mobile Mammography for Older Women
Authors: Naeim Arash , Keeler Emmett , Bassett Lawrence W. , Parikh Jay , Bastani Roshan , Reuben David B.
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVES: To compare the costs of mobile and stationary mammography and examine the incremental cost‐effectiveness of using mobile mammography to increase screening rates.

DESIGN: A cost‐effectiveness analysis was performed using effectiveness data from a randomized clinical trial and modeling of costs associated with the mobile mammography intervention.

SETTING: The trial involved 60 community‐based meal sites, senior centers, and clubs.

PARTICIPANTS: Four hundred ninety‐nine individuals were enrolled in the study, of whom 463 had outcome data available for analysis.

MEASUREMENTS: Costs were calculated for stationary and mobile mammography, as well as costs due to differences in technology and film versus digital. Incremental cost‐effectiveness (cost per additional screen) was modeled, and sensitivity analysis was performed by altering efficiency (throughput) and effectiveness based on subgroup data from the randomized trial.

RESULTS: The estimated annual costs were $435,162 for a stationary unit, $539,052 for a mobile film unit, and $456, 392 for a mobile digital unit. Assuming mobile units are less efficient (50% annual volume), the cost per screen was $41 for a stationary unit, $86 for a mobile film unit, and $102 for a mobile digital unit. The incremental cost per additional screen were $207 for a mobile film unit and $264 for a mobile digital unit over a stationary unit.

CONCLUSION: Although mobile mammography is a more effective way to screen older women, the absolute cost per screen of mobile units is higher, whereas the reimbursement is no different. Financial barriers may impede the widespread use of this approach.
A novel KEL*1,3 allele with weak Kell antigen expression confirming the cis‐modifier effect of KEL3
Authors: Körmöczi Günther F. , Scharberg Erwin A. , Gassner Christoph
Published: December 2008

BACKGROUND: KEL1 (K) is the most immunogenic red blood cell antigen of the Kell blood group system. The frequently occurring anti‐KEL1 alloantibodies may cause hemolytic transfusion reactions as well as severe hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. So far, reports on weak KEL phenotypes are scarce.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Blood samples of two unrelated Central European propositi with faint reactions in routine KEL1 typing were analyzed by extended serologic phenotyping, flow cytometry, genotyping by polymerase chain reaction with sequence‐specific priming, and genomic DNA sequencing of separated parental KEL alleles.

RESULTS: Both propositi exhibited an unusual KEL:1,2,3,4 phenotype: markedly weakened and negative reactions were observed in serologic KEL1 typing in gel and tube technique, respectively. No KEL1 epitope loss was detected using five different monoclonal anti‐KEL1 reagents. KEL genotyping confirmed KEL*1/2 and KEL*3/4 (Kpa/Kpb) heterozygosity of both individuals. Importantly, DNA sequencing of the two separated parental alleles of both propositi revealed a KEL*1‐specific coding nucleotide T578 and a KEL*3‐specific T841 on the same allele. This novel KEL*1,3 (KKpa) allele was associated with an approximately 80 percent reduction in KEL1 expression, compared to KEL:1,2, –3,4 controls. The low KEL1 density was attributed to a cis‐modifier effect of KEL3, so far only reported in association with weakened expression of KEL2 (k).

CONCLUSION: This is the first description of the KEL*1,3 allele encoding KEL1 and KEL3 on the same molecule. In individuals with weakened KEL1 because of KEL3 in cis, very sensitive serologic or molecular genetic techniques may be required for reliable Kell typing.
How Today's Consumers Perceive Tomorrow's Smart Products*
Authors: Rijsdijk Serge A. , Hultink Erik Jan
Published: December 2008

This paper investigates consumer responses to new smart products. Due to the application of information technology, smart products are able to collect, process, and produce information and can be described as “thinking” for themselves. In this study, 184 consumers respond to smart products that are characterized by two different combinations of smartness dimensions. One group of products shows the smartness dimensions of autonomy, adaptability, and reactivity. Another group of smart products are multifunctional and able to cooperate with other products. Consumer responses to these smart products are measured in terms of the innovation attributes of relative advantage, compatibility, observability, complexity, and perceived risk. The study shows that products with higher levels of smartness are perceived to have both advantages and disadvantages. Higher levels of product smartness are mainly associated with higher levels of observability and perceived risk. The effects of product smartness on relative advantage, compatibility, and complexity vary across product smartness dimensions and across product categories. For example, higher levels of product autonomy are perceived as increasingly advantageous whereas a high level of multifunctionality is perceived disadvantageous. The paper discusses the advantages and pitfalls for each of the five product smartness dimensions and their implications for new product development and concludes with a discussion of the limitations of the study and suggestions for further research.
The Role of Suppliers in Market Intelligence Gathering for Radical and Incremental Innovation*
Authors: Song Michael , Thieme Jeff
Published: December 2008

Drawing on transaction cost economics theory, this study addresses the following research questions: (1) Does supplier involvement in market intelligence gathering activities have a greater impact on innovation success in predesign or commercialization activities? and (2) Does supplier involvement in market intelligence gathering activities have a greater impact on success in radical or incremental product innovation? Hypotheses are tested using both subjective and objective measures of success from a study of 205 incremental and 110 radical new product development projects. Results from the estimation of a two‐group path model suggest that this theoretical framework is useful in providing guidance as to when product developers should emphasize the gathering of market intelligence through suppliers. Consistent with conventional wisdom, the findings suggest that supplier involvement in market intelligence gathering activities are positively related to success in incremental innovations across predesign and commercialization activities. However, supplier involvement in market intelligence gathering activities is found to have no significant impact on market share and is negatively associated with perceived product performance in radical innovations in predesign tasks. Also, while there was no significant difference in market share for supplier involvement in market intelligence gathering activities between radical and incremental innovation in commercialization activities, supplier involvement in these activities did have a greater impact on perceived product performance in radical innovation than it did in incremental innovation. Although current practice suggests that teams allocate fewer resources to the gathering of market intelligence through their suppliers during predesign activities in incremental innovation projects compared with radical innovation projects, the findings in this study suggest that they should do the opposite. Shifting resources allocated for engaging suppliers in market information gathering activities in predesign activities from radical innovation projects to incremental innovation projects could increase the return on these investments. Alternatively, these resources currently allocated to the gathering of market intelligence through suppliers in predesign activities of radical innovation projects could also provide greater benefits if allocated to commercialization activities of radical innovation projects, where they have the greatest positive impact.
X‐Teams: How To Build Teams That Lead, Innovate, and Succeed by Deborah Ancona and Henrik Bresman
Authors: Castellion George
Published: December 2008

I am retiring from the profession and from this position as your book review editor; the very capable Donovan Hardenbrook will be your next editor. I think we have worked out a seamless transition, but Donovan will doubtless bring his energy and innovation to the position.

These nearly five years as editor have been a lot of work but a great deal of satisfaction too. This position is the best one in the world for keeping on top of the newest thinking in product development, for being able to see the latest books as—or even before—they are published, and for learning by editing the work of knowledgeable reviewers critically.

Some statistics: In nearly five years, we received 560 books for review, reviewed 144 of them, processed 659 review drafts, and discarded about 430 books (mostly to The Prisoners Literature Project). A more modern metric: I received 3,372 e‐mails about book reviews (and probably sent a similar number).

Of course, I've had much help, which I would like to acknowledge. Tony Di Benedetto, the journal editor, was a constant source of encouragement and support, and Beebe Nelson, the former book review editor, backed me up. Our 41 active reviewers did the real work, and some of them are prolific reviewers: Mark Hart, George Castellion, Ruediger Klein, and Gerald Mulenburg each reviewed 10 or more books. Kristi Bennett, our copyeditor, has done a wonderful job of ensuring the consistency of these offerings. Finally, we are indebted to about 70 book publishers (technically, imprints) that supplied the review copies gratis.

Books reviewed in this issue:

X‐Teams: How To Build Teams That Lead, Innovate, and Succeed

Edison on Innovation: 102 Lessons in Creativity for Business and Beyond

Something Really New: Three Simple Steps to Creating Truly Innovative Products

Smart Isn't Enough: Lessons from a Work Performance Coach

The Power of Mobility: How Your Business Can Compete and Win in the Next Technology Revolution
Measurement Equivalence Using Generalizability Theory: An Examination of Manufacturing Flexibility Dimensions
Authors: Malhotra Manoj K. , Sharma Subhash
Published: December 2008

As the field of decision sciences in general and operations management in particular has matured from theory building to theory testing over the past two decades, it has witnessed an explosion in empirical research. Much of this work is anchored in survey‐based methodologies in which data are collected from the field in the form of scale items that are then analyzed to measure latent unobservable constructs. It is important to assess the invariance of scales across groups in order to reach valid, scientifically sound conclusions. Because studies have often been conducted in the field of decision sciences with small sample sizes, it further exacerbates the problem of reaching incorrect conclusions. Generalizability theory can more effectively test for measurement equivalence in the presence of small sample sizes than the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) tests that have been conventionally used for assessing measurement equivalency across groups. Consequently, we introduce and explain the generalizability theory (G‐theory) in this article to examine measurement equivalence of 24 manufacturing flexibility dimension scales that have been published in prior literature and also compare and contrast G‐theory with CFA. We show that all the manufacturing flexibility scales tested in this study were invariant across the three industry SIC groups from which data were collected. We strongly recommend that G‐theory should always be used for determining measurement equivalence in empirical survey‐based studies. In addition, because using G‐theory alone does not always reveal the complete picture, CFA techniques for establishing measurement equivalence should also be invoked when sample sizes are large enough to do so. Implications of G‐theory for practice and its future use in operations management and decision sciences research are also presented.
Information Technology and Process Performance: An Empirical Investigation of the Interaction Between IT and Non‐IT Resources*
Authors: Jeffers Patrick I. , Muhanna Waleed A. , Nault Barrie R.
Published: December 2008

Drawing on the resource‐based view, we propose a configurational perspective of how information technology (IT) assets and capabilities affect firm performance. Our premise is that IT assets and IT managerial capabilities are components in organizational design, and as such, their impact can only be understood by taking into consideration the interactions between those IT assets and capabilities and other non‐IT components. We develop and test a model that assesses the impact of explicit and tacit IT resources by examining their interactions with two non‐IT resources (open communication and business work practices). Our analysis of data collected from a sample of firms in the third‐party logistics industry supports the proposed configurational perspective, showing that IT resources can either enhance (complement) or suppress (by substituting for) the effects of non‐IT resources on process performance. More specifically, we find evidence of complementarities between shared business–IT knowledge and business work practice and between the scope of IT applications and an open communication culture in affecting the performance of the customer‐service process; but there is evidence of substitutability between shared knowledge and open communications. For decision making, our results reinforce the need to account for all dimensions of possible interaction between IT and non‐IT resources when evaluating IT investments.
RFID as an Enabler of Improved Manufacturing Performance*
Authors: Hozak Kurt , Collier David A.
Published: December 2008

The use of radio frequency identification (RFID) versus bar coding has been debated with little quantitative research about how to best use RFID's capabilities and when RFID is more advantageous. This article responds to that need by qualitatively and quantitatively analyzing how RFID facilitates increased traceability and control in manufacturing, which in turn enables the use of more lot splitting and smaller lot sizes. We develop insights about operating policies (RFID vs. bar‐code tracking mechanisms, extent of lot splitting, and dispatching rules) and an operating condition (setup to processing time ratio) that affect the mean flow time and proportion of jobs tardy in a job shop. A simulation model is used to control factors in the experimental design and the output is evaluated using analysis of variance. The results show the following: (i) performance worsens when bar coding is used with extensive lot splitting, (ii) process changes such as extensive lot splitting may be required to justify RFID use instead of bar coding, (iii) the earliest operation due date dispatching rule offers an attractive alternative to other rules studied in previous lot splitting research, and (iv) the performance improvements with RFID and increased lot splitting are larger when the setup to processing time ratio is smaller. In a broader context, we fill a research void by quantitatively showing how RFID can be used as an advanced manufacturing technology that enables more factory automation and better performance along several dimensions. The article concludes by summarizing the results and identifying ideas for future research.
Influence of microgroove dimension on cell behavior of human gingival fibroblasts cultured on titanium substrata
Authors: Lee Suk‐Won , Kim Su‐Yeon , Rhyu In‐Chul , Chung Won‐Yoon , Leesungbok Richard , Lee Keun‐Woo
Published: December 2008

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the dimension of surface microgrooves on titanium (Ti) substrata that shows the greatest positive influence on characterizing specific cell behavior of cultured human gingival fibroblasts.

Material and methods: Commercially pure Ti disks with surface microgrooves of monotonous 3.5 μm in depth and respective 15, 30, and 60 μm in width were fabricated using photolithography and used as the culture substrata in the three experimental groups in this study (TiD15, TiD30, and TiD60 groups), whereas the smooth Ti disk was used as the control substrata (smooth Ti group). Human gingival fibroblasts were cultured on the four groups of Ti substrata on successive timelines. Cell behaviors, such as adhesion, morphology, viability and proliferation, and gene expression were analyzed and compared between all groups using crystal violet stain, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), XTT assay, and reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction, respectively.

Results: SEM demonstrated that cells were able to readily descend into the microgrooves of TiD30 at the early phase of culture. Cells on the ridge edges or in groove corners were spindle shaped with abundant filopodia formation toward the acid‐etched surface inside the microgrooves, thus mimicked the cell shape in three‐dimensional (3D) nanoenvironment. TiD15 significantly increased the cell viability and proliferation compared with the smooth Ti substrata after 72 h of culture. Up‐regulation of fibronectin (FN) and α5 integrin genes was noted in cells cultured on TiD15 and TiD30. Gene expression pattern specific to the cells in 3D‐matrix culture, such as down‐regulation of α‐smooth muscle actin gene along with up‐regulation of FN and p21 genes, was pronounced in cells cultured on TiD30.

Conclusion: This study indicates that surface microgrooves of both 15 and 30 μm in width and a monotonous 3.5 μm in depth on Ti substrata increase various cell behaviors of cultured human gingival fibroblasts.
Bone formation with various bone graft substitutes in critical‐sized rat calvarial defect
Authors: Park Jin‐Woo , Jang Je‐Hee , Bae Sang‐Ryul , An Chang‐Hyeon , Suh Jo‐Young
Published: December 2008

Objective: This histomorphometric study compared the efficacy of a new bone graft substitute (N‐HA) derived from hen eggshell, consisted of submicron scale porous hydroxyapatite structure, in the healing of 8 mm diameter critical size defects in rat calvaria. We compared N‐HA alone or in combination with calcium sulfate (CS), with a commercial bone substitute, anorganic bovine bone (Bio‐Oss, BO).

Material and methods: Critical size defects were created in calvaria of 56 adult Sprague–Dawley rats. Animals were divided into four groups and treated with (1) unfilled defects, (2) N‐HA grafts, (3) BO grafts and (4) N‐HA/CS grafts. The percentage of new bone formed (NB%) was evaluated histomorphometrically after 6 and 12 weeks.

Results: The N‐HA group exhibited more new bone formation compared with other groups at 6 and 12 weeks. Histomorphometric analysis showed greater NB% in N‐HA group (11.2% at 4 weeks and 19.2% at 12 weeks) compared with those in unfilled (3.9% at 6 weeks and 6.4% at 12 weeks), BO‐treated (6.4% at 6 weeks and 8.2% at 12 weeks) and N‐HA/CS‐treated (6.3% at 6 weeks and 12.6% at 12 weeks) groups. The N‐HA group showed significant differences in NB% compared with unfilled group at 6 weeks (P=0.016), unfilled and BO‐treated groups at 12 weeks (P=0.001). The addition of CS did not enhance the NB% compared with defects grafted with N‐HA alone.

Conclusion: N‐HA was an osteoconductive bone substitute for treating osseous defects in critical size defects of rat calvaria.
Systemic tetracycline delays degradation of three different collagen membranes in rat calvaria
Authors: Moses Ofer , Shemesh Avi , Aboodi Guy , Tal Haim , Weinreb Miron , Nemcovsky Carlos E.
Published: December 2008

Objectives: The aim of this study was to quantitatively evaluate the effect of systemic tetracycline (TTC) on the degradation of three different collagen membranes.

Materials and methods: Collagen membranes were cut into 5 mm diameter membrane discs and labeled with aminohexanoyl‐biotin‐N‐hydroxy‐succinimide ester. One membrane disc each of a non‐cross‐linked [BioGide® (BG)], glutaraldehyde cross‐linked [BioMend Extend® (BM)], and ribose cross‐linked [Ossix™ (OS)] was implanted on the calvaria of 40 Wistar rats. Another 10 biotinylated collagen membrane discs from each membrane type were processed for histologic observation and served as baseline; half of them (five from each group) were also treated with formic acid to inspect possible interference with biotinilazation of collagen by formic acid used during the decalcification process. A 10 mg/kg dose of TTC (50% of the minimal recommended antibacterial dose) to the experimental (20 animals) and saline to the control (20 animals) group was administered intramuscularly every 3 days. From each group, block sections were retrieved in half of the animals after 14 days and in the remaining after 28 days. Decalcified tissue histology was stained with streptavidin horseradish peroxidase. A computer‐assisted program measured the membranes' collagen contents. Statistical analysis consisted of analysis of variance (ANOVA) with repeated measures.

Results: No statistically significant differences in collagen contents were appreciated between biotinylated non‐implanted membranes treated or not treated by formic acid. Systemic TTC had a different effect on the bio‐degradation of the membranes: while it significantly decreased the resorption of two of the membranes (BG and BM), it had minimal influence on the ribose cross‐linked membrane (OS). ANOVA with repeated measures, tests of within‐subjects effects, showed a statistically significant difference between the membranes (P<0.001), within the membranes at the different time‐points (P<0.001), a significant interaction between membranes and time and between the membranes and administered TTC (P<0.001). Test of between‐subject effects revealed a statistically significant interaction with time and with TTC (P<0.001).

Conclusions: Systemically administered TTC in sub‐antibacterial doses may offer a possible treatment alternative to reduce bio‐degradation and enhance bio‐durability of certain collagen membranes. The findings of the present study could have clinical application in large non‐self‐contained bone defects, where prolonged membrane barrier functions are desirable.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Genistein Reverses Diminished T‐Cell Signal Transduction, Induced by Post‐Menopausal Estrogen Levels
Authors: Parry J. Preston , Taylor Douglas D. , Nakajima Steven T. , Gercel‐Taylor Cicek
Published: December 2008

Problem  This study addressed the ability of genistein to reverse the loss of T‐cell signaling components, induced by estrogen deficiency associated with aging.

Method of study  Using Jurkat 6.1 T cells, genistein regulation of CD3ζ, JAK3, and NFκB was analysed by Western immunoblotting at 4 or 40 pg/mL (post‐ and pre‐menopausal levels, respectively) estradiol (E2). Corresponding gene expressions were quantified by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). For functionality, levels of IL‐2 were correlated with its transcription by RT‐PCR.

Results  At 4 pg/mL E2, signaling proteins were decreased compared with 40 pg/mL: CD3ζ, 1.58‐fold; JAK3, 1.75‐fold; and NFκB, 1.73‐fold (P < 0.001). Genistein, at 0.5 and 5.0 μm, added to 4 pg/mL E2 induced their expression to 40 pg/mL levels. While significantly diminished IL‐2 mRNA levels were observed at 4 pg/mL E2, genistein induced IL‐2 mRNA to 40 pg/mL levels.

Conclusion  Genistein restores CD3ζ, NFκB and JAK3 proteins and mRNAs at post‐meonopausal estrogen levels, in vitro, with no significant effect at pre‐menopausal estrogen levels.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Mifepristone as an Anti‐Implantation Contraceptive Drug: Roles in Regulation of Uterine Natural Killer Cells during Implantation Phase
Authors: Zhu Hong‐Xia , Zhang Wu‐Wen , Zhuang Ya‐Ling , Huang Li‐Li
Published: December 2008

Problem  To investigate the immunological mechanism of low‐dose mifepristone acting as a contraceptive at the level of the endometrium.

Method of study  Endometrial explants were cultured in vitro with or without mifepristone treatment for 24 hr. Some tissues were fixed and immunostained for CD56, while other tissues were dissociated and cells analysed by three colour flow cytometry for CD3, CD56 and CD16.

Results and conclusion  Results showed a significant increase in the number of CD56+ natural killer (NK) cells and the percentages of CD3− CD56+ CD16− NK cell subset in the tissue treated with mifepristone, while the percentage of CD3− CD56+ CD16+ NK cell subset remained unaffected. It shows that low‐dose mifepristone increases the number of CD56+ NK cells and the percentage of CD3− CD56+ CD16− NK subset in receptive endometrium and provides new insights into the immunological mechanism of low‐dose mifepristone as an anti‐implantation contraceptive drug.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Cell‐Surface CD200 May Predict Efficacy of Paternal Mononuclear Leukocyte Immunotherapy in Treatment of Human Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Clark David A.
Published: December 2008

Problem  The allogeneic leukocytes in transfused blood can modulate the recipient’s immune system so as to induce TGF‐β‐producing suppressor cells, and the cell‐surface CD200 tolerance‐signaling molecule on mononuclear dendritic cells is required for this effect. A subset of couples with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss appears to benefit from transfusion of allogeneic paternal blood leukocytes (LIT), and considerable effort has been devoted to characterizing those who may benefit. Some data has been accumulated for LIT as sole therapy in patients with classical spontaneous abortions with respect to dose–response, duration of protection, need for boosting, excluding patients with autoimmunity, and inefficacy of paternal mononuclear cells stored at 4°C overnight before use which causes loss of cell‐surface CD200. Recent data emphasize an important role of expression of the CD200 tolerance‐signaling molecule on cells used to prevent abortions both in mice and humans.

Method of study  An observational study of outcome as a function of the number of CD200+ paternal mononuclear cells was performed. Fourteen patients constituted the pilot group. Patients with autoimmunity who had failed inspite of treatment with IVIG + Heparin + Aspirin ± Prednisone were allowed to have paternal mononuclear cells added to their therapy. CD200 on purified paternal blood mononuclear cells was measured by flow cytometry.

Results  The number of CD200+ cells administered was significantly greater in women achieving pregnancy (39.2 × 106 versus 20.8 × 106, P < 0.025) and in those who achieved a live birth (50.2 × 106 versus 20.8 × 106, P < 0.005) compared to those who did not achieve pregnancy, and % of paternal cells that were CD200+ was greater (11–12.5% versus 5.6%, P < 0.01). Amongst those achieving pregnancy which failed, the CD200+ cell dose was not significantly different from the non‐pregnant group (30.5 × 106 versus 20.8 × 106).

Conclusion  The number of CD200+ paternal mononuclear leukocytes may be an important determinant of subsequent reproductive outcome in a subset of patients. A lower % CD200+ cell number may also reflect hitherto unappreciated paternal factors bearing on reproductive success. It is feasible to recruit women to enter observational studies and to obtain useful data as a foundation for further studies. More complete patient characterization in a larger study is needed.
Variation in the dysbindin gene and normal cognitive function in three independent population samples
Authors: Luciano M. , Miyajima F. , Lind P. A. , Bates T. C. , Horan M. , Harris S. E. , Wright M. J. , Ollier W. E. , Hayward C. , Pendleton N. , Gow A. J. , Visscher P. M. , Starr J. M. , Deary I. J. , Martin N. G. , Payton A.
Published: December 2008

The association between DTNBP1 genotype and cognitive abilities was investigated in three population samples (1054 Scottish, 1806 Australian and 745 English) of varying age. There was evidence in each of the cohorts for association (P < 0.05) to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and haplotypes previously shown to relate to cognition. By comparison with previous findings, these associations included measures of memory, and there was at best equivocal evidence of association with general cognitive ability. Of the SNPs typed in all three cohorts, rs2619528 and rs1011313 showed significant association with measures of executive function in two cohorts, rs1018381 showed significant association with verbal ability in one cohort and rs2619522 showed significance/marginal significance with tests of memory, speed and executive function in two cohorts. For all these SNPs, the direction and magnitude of the allelic effects were consistent between cohorts and with previous findings. In the English cohort, a previously untested SNP (rs742105) located in a distinct haplotype block upstream of the other SNPs showed the strongest significance (P < 0.01) for measures of memory but weaker significance for general cognitive ability. Our results therefore support involvement of the dysbindin gene in cognitive function, but further work is needed to clarify the specific functional variants involved and the cognitive abilities with which they are associated.
Endocannabinoids mediate acute fear adaptation via glutamatergic neurons independently of corticotropin‐releasing hormone signaling
Authors: Kamprath K. , Plendl W. , Marsicano G. , Deussing J. M. , Wurst W. , Lutz B. , Wotjak C. T.
Published: December 2008

Recent evidence showed that the endocannabinoid system plays an important role in the behavioral adaptation of stress and fear responses. In this study, we chose a behavioral paradigm that includes criteria of both fear and stress responses to assess whether the involvement of endocannabinoids in these two processes rely on common mechanisms. To this end, we delivered a footshock and measured the fear response to a subsequently presented novel tone stimulus. First, we exposed different groups of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1)‐deficient mice (CB1−/−) and their wild‐type littermates (CB1+/+) to footshocks of different intensities. Only application of an intense footshock resulted in a sustained fear response to the tone in CB1−/−. Using the intense protocol, we next investigated whether endocannabinoids mediate their effects via an interplay with corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH) signaling. Pharmacological blockade of CB1 receptors by rimonabant in mice deficient for the CRH receptor type 1 (CRHR1−/−) or type 2 (CRHR2−/−), and in respective wild‐type littermates, resulted in a sustained fear response in all genotypes. This suggests that CRH is not involved in the fear‐alleviating effects of CB1. As CRHR1−/− are known to be severely impaired in stress‐induced corticosterone secretion, our observation also implicates that corticosterone is dispensable for CB1‐mediated acute fear adaptation. Instead, conditional mutants with a specific deletion of CB1 in principal neurons of the forebrain (CaMK‐CB1−/−), or in cortical glutamatergic neurons (Glu‐CB1−/−), showed a similar phenotype as CB1−/−, thus indicating that endocannabinoid‐controlled glutamatergic transmission plays an essential role in acute fear adaptation.
Genetic variants in COMT and neurocognitive impairment in families of patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Liao S.‐Y. , Lin S.‐H. , Liu C.‐M. , Hsieh M. H. , Hwang T. J. , Liu S. K. , Guo S.‐C. , Hwu H.‐G. , Chen W. J.
Published: December 2008

This study examined the relations of genetic variants in catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) gene, including rs737865 in intron 1, rs4680 in exon 4 (Val158Met) and downstream rs165599, to schizophrenia and its related neurocognitive functions in families of patients with schizophrenia. Totally, 680 individuals from 166 simplex (166 affected members and 354 nonpsychotic first‐degree relatives) and 46 multiplex families (85 affected members and 75 nonpsychotic first‐degree relatives) were interviewed using Diagnostic Interview for Genetic Studies, administered Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) and Continuous Performance Test (CPT), and drawn for venous blood. Both categorical (dichotomizing families on affected members’ neurocognitive performance) and quantitative approaches toward the WCST and CPT performance scores were employed using the family‐based association test and the variance components framework, respectively. Both false discovery rate and permutations were used to adjust for multiple testing. The genotypes of rs4680 were associated with both the WCST and CPT performance scores in these families, but not with schizophrenia per se in either whole sample or subgroup analyses. Meanwhile, the other two single nucleotide polymorphisms were differentially associated with the two tasks. For WCST indexes, regardless of subgroup analyses or quantitative approach, only rs737865 exhibited moderate associations. For CPT indexes, rs737865 exhibited association for the subgroup with deficit on CPT reaction time, whereas rs165599 exhibited association for the subgroup with deficit on CPT d′ as well as quantitative undegraded d′. Our results indicate that the genetic variants in COMT might be involved in modulation of neurocognitive functions and hence conferring increased risk to schizophrenia.
Genotype differences in cognitive functioning in Noonan syndrome
Authors: Pierpont E. I. , Pierpont M. E. , Mendelsohn N. J. , Roberts A. E. , Tworog‐Dube E. , Seidenberg M. S.
Published: December 2008

Noonan syndrome (NS) is an autosomal‐dominant genetic disorder associated with highly variable features, including heart disease, short stature, minor facial anomalies and learning disabilities. Recent gene discoveries have laid the groundwork for exploring whether variability in the NS phenotype is related to differences at the genetic level. In this study, we examine the influence of both genotype and nongenotypic factors on cognitive functioning. Data are presented from 65 individuals with NS (ages 4–18) who were evaluated using standardized measures of intellectual functioning. The cohort included 33 individuals with PTPN11 mutations, 6 individuals with SOS1 mutations, 1 individual with a BRAF mutation and 25 participants with negative, incomplete or no genetic testing. Results indicate that genotype differences may account for some of the variation in cognitive ability in NS. Whereas cognitive impairments were common among individuals with PTPN11 mutations and those with unknown mutations, all of the individuals with SOS1 mutations exhibited verbal and nonverbal cognitive skills in the average range or higher. Participants with N308D and N308S mutations in PTPN11 also showed no (or mild) cognitive delays. Additional influences such as hearing loss, motor dexterity and parental education levels accounted for significant variability in cognitive outcomes. Severity of cardiac disease was not related to cognitive functioning. Our results suggest that some NS‐causing mutations have a more marked impact on cognitive skills than others.
Replication study of candidate genes for cognitive abilities: the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936
Authors: Houlihan L. M. , Harris S. E. , Luciano M. , Gow A. J. , Starr J. M. , Visscher P. M. , Deary I. J.
Published: December 2008

As the proportion of older people in societies has increased, research into the determinants of cognitive ageing has risen in importance. Genetic influences account for over 50% of the variance in adult cognitive abilities. Previous studies on cognition and illnesses with cognitive impairments have identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within candidate genes that might influence cognition or age‐related cognitive change. This study investigated 10 candidate genes in over 1000 Scots: the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936 (LBC1936). These participants were tested on general cognitive ability (Scottish Mental Survey 1947) at age 11. At mean age 70, they completed the same general cognitive ability test and a battery of diverse cognitive tests. Nineteen SNPs in 10 genes previously associated with cognition, Alzheimer’s disease or autism were genotyped in 1063 individuals. The genes include BDNF, COMT, DISC1, KL, NCSTN, PPP1R1B, PRNP, SHANK3, SORL1 and WRN. Linear regression analysis investigated the additive effect of each SNP on the cognitive variables, covarying for gender and age. Childhood cognitive ability was also included as a covariate to identify associations specifically with cognitive ageing. Certain SNPs reached the conventional significance threshold for association with cognitive traits or cognitive ageing in LBC1936 (P < 0.05). No SNPs reached the Bonferroni‐level of significance (all P > 0.0015). Of the 10 genes, we discuss that COMT, KL, PRNP, PPP1R1B, SORL1 and WRN especially merit further attention for association with cognitive ability and/or age‐related cognitive change. All results are also presented so that they are valuable for future meta‐analyses of candidate genes for cognition.
Parental feeding practices and children's weight
Authors: Wardle Jane , Carnell Susan
Published: December 2008

Global increases in childhood obesity rates demand that we tackle the problem from many directions. One promising avenue is to explore the impact of parental feeding practices, particularly those related to parental control over children's intake. In this paper, we review studies of parent feeding and child adiposity covering a range of research methodologies (case‐control studies, high risk studies, cross‐sectional community studies and longitudinal cohort studies). We also present results from a cross‐sectional community study of pre‐schoolers (n = 439) and a longitudinal study of twins from ages of 4 to 7 years (n = 3175 pairs). We conclude that parents are more likely to encourage leaner than heavier children to eat, but relationships between adiposity and other parental feeding strategies are unclear. We suggest that future research should: (i) explore the impact of a comprehensive range of authoritative and authoritarian parental feeding behaviours, preferably using the same validated scales consistently across studies; (ii) test the generalisation of existing findings to diverse socio‐economic and ethnic groups and (iii) utilise experimental, prospective and genetic methodologies to explore the causal relationships between parental feeding and child weight. We describe current projects in our own group that are designed to take forward these recommendations.
Prevention of overweight in the school arena
Authors: Lissau Inge
Published: December 2008

This paper gives an overview of studies with the main purpose to intervene against obesity in children at the school arena. Through databases and Cochrane reviews, 14 studies fulfilled the criteria for inclusion. Most of the studies are American and none were performed in Scandinavia. The European studies were performed in Germany and in the United Kingdom. The studies, which had a significant effect on overweight were ‘Dance for Health’, ‘Planet Health’, ‘San Jose Study’, ‘Kiel Obesity Prevention Study’, ‘Healthy Schools’ programme, ‘El Paso Catch’, and ‘Medical College of Georgia FitKid Project’. The studies differ greatly in regards to age group, type of and length of intervention and type and amount of actions. Furthermore, the measures used to evaluate the effect differed. It seems to be important to use several measures of obesity in order to accurately detect a possible effect.

In conclusion, half of the studies were successful and had an effect on either overweight or obesity. Much more research is needed in order to effectively prevent paediatric obesity.
An Australian Community Study of Parkinson's Disease: 1. Disease Severity and Functional Disability.
Authors: Katsikitis M. , Davis A. , Burrow D.
Published: December 2008

Demographic, clinical and physical information was obtained from 200 volunteers who had Parkinson's disease (PD). The clinical history revealed minimal social and psychological impairment. Physical difficulties such as mobility and restless legs were reported as the most troublesome symptoms of PD. A disease severity score was calculated by the addition of the ratings from the physical examination to a scaled score obtained from afoot tapping exercise. Over half of the sample had disease severity scores which were less than or equal to the mean of the entire sample. Functional disability was measured by the Sickness Impact Profile (SIP) and the highest dysfunction scores were in the areas of recreation and pastimes, alertness behaviour, communication and home management. Functional disability was significantly positively correlated with age and duration of illness.
The Effect of Levodopa on Swallowing in Parkinson's Disease: are There Benefits in Administration Before Meals?
Authors: Bird M.R , Woodward M.C. , Gibson E.M. , Phyland D.J. , Fonda D.
Published: December 2008

Parkinson's disease is frequently associated with overt and subclinical swallowing disorders. It is not clear whether these are responsive to levodopa therapy. As levodopa is usually prescribed to be taken after meals, we hypothesised that swallowing at meal time would improve by administration of levodopa one hour prior to meals. Twenty‐one subjects with idiopathic Parkinson's disease treated with levodopa were randomised to receive their levodopa for one week at the same time as their meals (A) or one hour before (B). A modified barium swallow (MBS) was then performed at the usual meal time to assess swallowing function. Subjects were crossed over to the other treatment arm and the study repeated a week later. Subjects were then crossed back to the original randomisation and a third study performed. There were improvements in oropharyngeal transit time when subjects were given levodopa one hour prior to meals. This was particularly pronounced with solid food consistencies (mean time for B‐12.31 sees, for A = 16.39 sees, P = 0.026 using ANOVA). Aspiration, number of swallows to clear bolus, number of tongue elevations per swallow, place of bolus at initiation of swallow and degree of vallecular pooling were not significantly affected. Some evidence of improved swallowing when levodopa is taken one hour prior to meals was demonstrated.
Unrecognised Hepatitis: Cause and Caution
Authors: Katz I. , Ogle S. , Wyndham L.
Published: December 2008

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to acute severe hepatitis than younger patients (Woodhouse and James 1990: Wynne, Cope and James 1989).

aAPPT: activated partial thromboplastin time
Outcome of Attendance by an Elderly Population to an Emergency Department as Measured by a Behavioural Model
Authors: Stathers G.M. , Gonski P.N.
Published: December 2008

This study addresses the question of factors associated with admission of persons 70 years and over from the Emergency Department of a 374 bed community based general hospital 530 consecutive persons were assessed Factors associated with admission or discharge, were defined within the behavioural model as described by Anderson (1968). Seventy‐three percent of persons were admitted. Outcome, defined as decision to admit or discharge, in this age cohort was not influenced by predisposing or enabling factors as defined by the model Medical need in terms of diagnostic label was the predominant factor in decision making. ADL function, but not cognitive state, was an additional factor in outcome. Equity of access to hospital was demonstrated for this population sample. Elderly patients who present to the Emergency Department were found to do so because they predominantly have acute illness. This cohort of persons is heterogeneous in character and their needs require individual assessment For Emergency Department outcomes to change it is suggested that the pivotal factors relate to the clinical evaluation of perceived and evaluated aspects of client illness and the technological response to them.
Effects of the antioxidant Pycnogenol® on cellular redox systems in U1285 human lung carcinoma cells
Authors: Gandin Valentina , Nyström Christina , Rundlöf Anna‐Klara , Jönsson‐Videsäter Kerstin , Schönlau Frank , Hörkkö Jarmo , Björnstedt Mikael , Fernandes Aristi P.
Published: December 2008

Pycnogenol®, which is extracted from the bark of French maritime pine, has been shown to have antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities. Thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GR) are three central redox enzymes that are active in endogenous defence against oxidative stress in the cell. Treatment of cells with Pycnogenol® decreased the activity of both TrxR and GPx in cells by more than 50%, but GR was not affected. As previously reported, both enzymes were induced after treatment with hydrogen peroxide and selenite. The presence of Pycnogenol® efficiently decreased selenite‐mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Addition of Pycnogenol® after selenite treatment reduced the mRNA expression and activity of TrxR to basal levels. In contrast, the GPx activity was completely unaffected. The discrepancy between TrxR and GPx regulation may indicate that transcription of TrxR is induced primarily by oxidative stress. As TrxR is induced in various pathological conditions, including tumours and inflammatory conditions, decreased activity mediated by a non‐toxic agent such as Pycnogenol® may be of great value.
Factors related to sexual health in Chinese women with breast cancer in Hong Kong
Authors: ZEE Benny , HUANG Chuwen , MAK Suzanne , WONG Jonathan , CHAN Eunice , YEO Winnie
Published: December 2008

Aim:  To examine the association between a broad array of characteristics and sexuality in breast cancer patients in Hong Kong.

Method:  We collected data on demographic and clinical factors, psychosocial well‐being, quality of life (QOL), body image and sexual health of breast cancer patients presented to the Department of Clinical Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital from November 2005 to February 2006.

Results:  More than 40% of Chinese breast cancer patients experienced moderate problems in sexual health. Their medical treatment had a greater influence on their sexual functioning in a change in their social activities, whereas more support from their partner predicted less influence. The presence of a child and more support from their partner predicted greater sexual satisfaction. Undergoing the menopause related to a longer time to resume sexual activity after cancer treatment. A change of relationship with their partner and a loss of self‐confidence were strong predictors of sexual problems influencing their QOL. Patients who had experienced a change in their relationship with their partner or had greater sexual problems were more likely to perceive greater benefit from professional intervention on sexual problem.

Conclusion:  An improvement in their intimate relationships and enhanced psychosocial functioning should improve the sexual health of Chinese women with breast cancer.
Hypofractionated versus standard fractionation radiotherapy in early glottic cancer: A retrospective review
Authors: GUPTA Sanjiv A , WRATTEN Chris R , LUDBROOK Jane J , O'BRIEN Peter C , KUMAR Mahesh B , DENHAM James W
Published: December 2008

Aim:  This retrospective review was conducted to compare outcomes using different fractionation schedules for early stage glottic cancer treated with radiotherapy between 1991 and 2003.

Methods:  The records of 87 patients with either T1 or T2 squamous cell carcinomas of the glottic larynx were analysed, dividing the patients into those treated with a hypofractionated schedule, mostly 51 Gy/16# (<53 Gy) and standard fractionation, minimum 60 Gy/30# in 2 Gy fractions. The median follow up was 4 years and 7 months.

Results:  Local control at 5 years was 81% with standard fractionation vs 93% in the hypofractionated group (P = 0.1). Laryngectomy free survival at 5 years was 78% with standard fractionation versus 95% in the hypofractionated arm (P = 0.017). Overall survival at 5 years was 65%with standard fractionation versus 74% in the hypofractionated arm (P = 0.55).

Conclusion:  In early stage glottic cancer, a hypofractionated course of radiotherapy has been shown to be a safe and possibly more effective treatment compared with standard fractionation.