bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (
ECOG
)
Authors: Gray Robert J.
Published: June 2008

Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group ECOG) is an NCI‐funded cooperative group that conducts clinical trials in oncology. Over many years, ECOG has developed efficient systems for conducting high‐quality clinical trials with limited funding. Because ECOG runs many studies in the same network of institutions, a key factor is that quality control procedures focus on the performance of the sites across studies rather than on the individual study. ECOG has also achieved efficiencies through standardization of data elements and evaluation criteria and through use of a single data monitoring committee for the Group's entire portfolio of Phase III trials, while ensuring patient safety through an aggressive program of adverse‐event monitoring. These procedures have enabled ECOG to make major contributions advancing the treatment of cancer patients within the funding constraints of the NCI's Cooperative Group program.
Institutional and Independent Review Boards
Authors: Fish Susan S.
Published: June 2008

Institutional Review Boards (IRBs), or Independent Ethics Committees (IECs) as they are known around the world, are a cornerstone of the system of protections human research subjects. An IRB is a committee that functions as a regulatory and ethics review board for research that involves human subjects. In countries that regulate research in humans, IRBs/IECs are required to approve research studies prior to performing any research intervention, which includes screening, on any subject. In countries without research regulations, IRBs/IECs may also review research. This article focuses mainly on IRBs that are regulated by U.S. agencies.
Central Nervous System (CNS)
Authors: Sommer David B. , Goldstein Larry B.
Published: June 2008

Modern clinical trials have revolutionized the practice of neurology. This introduction examines some of the issues and challenges involved in therapeutic trials for six common conditions that affect the central nervous system (ischemic stroke, Alzheimer's disease, migraine headache, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis) and explores how trials in these areas influence clinical practice. Examples of ongoing trials in each of these areas are also identified.
Proportional Odds Model
Authors: Liu Ivy , Mukherjee Bhramar
Published: June 2008

Outcomes recorded on an ordinal scale, such as severity of migraine, stages of progression of disease, or degree of relief caused by treatment, occur commonly in clinical trials. Questionnaire data, which are often collected at each visit to gauge patient condition, routinely contain responses on an ordinal scale. Naïve dichotomization of the full ordinal scale leads to loss of information and efficiency while analyzing such outcomes. The proportional odds model is a popular choice for analyzing such ordinal outcomes. The current article provides a concise introduction to the proportional odds model and proceeds to review some more recent work related to this model. Specifically, we discuss the problem of analyzing stratified ordinal data in which observations from the same strata are correlated. Such correlated ordinal data may develop in multicenter clinical trials or with ordinal responses measured repeatedly on the same subject in longitudinal studies. Certain computing tools for fitting such models are discussed.
Open‐Labeled Trial
Authors: Day Simon
Published: June 2008

This article discusses open‐labeled studies; that is, studies that are not blinded. It is usually assumed that lack of blinding is “total,” not just single‐blinded (either patient‐ or investigator‐blinded). Different levels and aspects of blinding can often be achieved so that trials may be only partially open label. In some cases, open‐label trials might be practically more acceptable, and in some studies, they may even be preferred to blinded studies.
Coronary Drug Project
Authors: Canner Paul L.
Published: June 2008

The Coronary Drug Project, which was conducted during 1966 to 1974, was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of five lipid‐modifying agents—estrogens at two dosage levels, dextrothyroxine, clofibrate, and niacin—in 8341 men with previous myocardial infarction. The primary efficacy outcome was all‐cause mortality for the entire follow‐up period. The first three named regimens were terminated early because of adverse effects. Only niacin significantly reduced the risk of (
1
) cardiovascular events during a mean follow‐up of 6.2 years and (
2
) all‐cause mortality during 6.2 years with study treatment plus an additional 9 years of post‐trial follow‐up. Analyses of treatment–placebo differences with respect to all‐cause mortality, subdivided by level of adherence to the study prescription and by amount of change in serum cholesterol level, could not be properly interpreted because reasons for good/poor adherence and for cholesterol changes in the placebo group were not well defined.
National Cooperative Gallstone Study
Authors: Lachin John M.
Published: June 2008

The National Cooperative Gallstone Study (NCGS), funded by the National Institute of Arthritis, Metabolism and Digestive Diseases of the National Institutes of Health, evaluated dietary supplementation with a natural bile acid (chenodiol) for the dissolution of cholesterol gallstones. Since the compound occurred naturally, there was no industrial sponsor. Thus, the study group also conducted preliminary studies of animal toxicology and hepatic morphology, among others, in addition to a randomized, double‐masked, long‐term, multiple‐dose, Phase III clinical trial. The study employed central units for the evaluation of all outcomes with rigorous quality assurance procedures. The study results, study issues, and statistical considerations are described.
Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial
Authors: Weizer Alon Z. , Hussain Maha H.
Published: June 2008

Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy diagnosed and the second most common cause of cancer death in American men. Although effective treatment strategies exist, the prolonged natural history of the disease makes prevention attractive. Androgens are involved in the development and progression of prostate cancer. Finasteride (a 5‐alpha‐reductase inhibitor) prevents the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone within the prostate decreasing prostate growth. The Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial randomized 18,882 men 55 years or older to finasteride versus placebo in order to assess the medication's ability to decrease the prevalence of prostate cancer over a seven‐year period. Finasteride resulted in a 24.8% reduction in the prevalence of prostate cancer; however, men diagnosed with prostate cancer in the treatment arm were found to have higher grade prostate cancer. Secondary data analyses have sought explanations for this finding as well as provided additional insight into the use of prostate‐specific antigen in clinical practice.
On the impact of uncorrelated variation in regression mathematics
Authors: Gottfries Johan , Johansson Erik , Trygg Johan
Published: July 2008

The objective of the present study is to investigate if, and if so, how uncorrelated variation relates to regression mathematics as exemplified by partial least squares (PLS) methodology. In contrast to previous methods, orthogonal partial least squares (OPLS) method requires a multi‐focus, in the sense that in parallel to calculation of correlation it requires an analysis of orthogonal variation, i.e. the uncorrelated structure in a comprehensive way. Subsequent to the estimation of the correlation is the remaining orthogonal variation, i.e. uncorrelated data, divided into uncorrelated structure and stochastic noise by the ‘OPLS component’. Thus, it appears obvious that it is of interest to understand how the uncorrelated variation can influence the interpretation of the regression model. We have scrutinized three examples that pinpoint additional value from OPLS regarding the modelling of the orthogonal, i.e. uncorrelated, variation in regression mathematics. In agreement with the results, we conclude that uncorrelated variations do impact interpretations of regression analyses output and provides not only opportunities by OPLS but also an obligation for the user to maximize benefit from OPLS. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Variational‐based finite element method for inverse shape design of heat conduction
Authors: Wu Zhao‐Chun
Published: June 2008

An inverse shape design of heat conduction is considered for optimizing the geometrical shape from prescribed temperature distribution and heat flux distribution on the unknown surface. A variational theory is established by the semi‐inverse method suggested by Ji‐Huan He for the problem discussed; we make the obtained variational principle stationary with moving boundaries until the natural boundary conditions on the unknown shape meet the prescribed condition on the unknown boundary, making the problem well‐posed and easy to incorporate with the finite element simulation. Numerical results show that the present technique is robust and convenient. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Myoedema in anorexia nervosa: A useful clinical Sign
Authors: Morgan H. Gethin , Barry Ralph , Morgan M. Hilary
Published: July 2008

When significant weight loss occurs in anorexia nervosa, routine physical examination may reveal the striking phenomenon of myoedema or muscle mounding. This refers to the way in which a localised short‐lasting swelling may be induced in a voluntary muscle as a result of tactile percussion, ideally with a patellar hammer. The present case report describes this finding in a patient with anorexia nervosa and discusses its physiological and clinical significance. It is suggested that as a clinical sign myoedema may be of value in the management of anorexia nervosa by challenging the denial of illness which is so characteristic of it. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Alzheimer's disease progression in the oldest old compared to younger elderly patient: data from the REAL.FR study
Authors: Nourhashémi Fati , Gillette‐Guyonnet Sophie , Rolland Yves , Cantet Christel , Hein Christophe , Vellas Bruno
Published: July 2008

Objective

Although population‐based studies have revealed marked increases in the prevalence and incidence of dementia, particularly in older age groups, longitudinal studies of cognitive change have been less frequently conducted. The aim of this study is to describe the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in the oldest old (≥85 years) and to compare it with the younger elderly.

Methods

A cohort of 114 AD patients ≥85 years old and 572 AD patients <85 years living in the community at inclusion were monitored over 2 years in 16 centers of the French AD network (REAL.FR study). Each subject underwent extensive medical examination including functional (Activities of Daily Living or ADL) and neuropsychological evaluations (including Mini Mental Status Evaluation or MMSE) every 6 months.

Results

The observed decrease in MMSE performance in patients ≥85 was −4.18 ± 0.63 points during the 2‐year follow‐up (vs −4.62 ± 0.25 in the younger group) with no statistically significant differences between the two groups. After adjusting for confounding factors, ADL score declined faster in the oldest old than in individuals <85 years old during the 2‐year follow‐up: −1.73 ± 0.19 vs −1.27 ± 0.08 (p = 0.0309).

Conclusions

Our study showed, that while the progression of cognitive impairment was identical in both groups, after adjustment for variables related both to age and dependency, the progression of dependency was more rapid in those over 85 years old. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in the treatment of war veterans
Authors: Silver Steven M. , Rogers Susan , Russell Mark
Published: July 2008

Recent practice guidelines and meta‐analyses have designated eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) as a first‐line treatment for trauma. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is an eight‐phase therapeutic approach guided by an information‐processing model that addresses the combat veteran's critical incidents, current triggers, and behaviors likely to prove useful in his or her future. Two case examples of combat veterans illustrate the ability of EMDR to achieve symptom reduction in a variety of clinical domains (e.g., anxiety, depression, anger, physical pain) simultaneously without requiring the patient to carry out homework assignments or discuss the details of the event. The treatment of phantom limb pain and other somatic presentations is also reviewed. The ability of EMDR to achieve positive effects without homework indicates that it can be effectively employed on consecutive days, making it especially useful during combat situations. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol: In Session 64:1–11, 2008.
Virtual reality exposure therapy for active duty soldiers
Authors: Reger Greg M. , Gahm Gregory A.
Published: July 2008

Virtual reality exposure (VRE) therapy is a promising treatment for a variety of anxiety disorders and has recently been extended to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In this article, the authors briefly review the rationale for VRE and its key processes. They illustrate the treatment with an active‐duty Army soldier diagnosed with combat‐related PTSD. Six sessions of VRE were provided using an immersive simulation of a military convoy in Iraq. Self‐reported PTSD symptoms and psychological distress were reduced at posttreatment relative to pretreatment reports, as assessed by the PTSD Checklist–Military Version and the Behavior and Symptom Identification Scale–24. The case outcomes parallel those reported in the research with other disorders and suggest the applicability of VRE in treating active duty soldiers with combat‐related PTSD. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol: In Session 64:1–7, 2008.
Finite elements in space and time for dynamic contact problems
Authors: Blum H. , Jansen T. , Rademacher A. , Weinert K.
Published: June 2008

Dynamic obstacle and Signorini problems are discretized by continuous and discontinuous finite elements in space and time. The resulting discrete problems are attributed to a standard implicit time‐stepping scheme through relaxation of impact phenomena and suitable numerical integration. The method can cope with dynamic contact problems, which is shown by an analysis of a model problem. Moreover, numerical examples demonstrate that it is actually able to approximate the solution of dynamic contact problems, which are not fully covered by the theory. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigating the optical properties of dislocations by scanning transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Pennycook S.J.
Published: July 2008

The scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) allows collection of a number of simultaneous signals, such as cathodoluminescence (CL), transmitted electron intensity and spectroscopic information from individual localized defects. This review traces the development of CL and atomic resolution imaging from their early inception through to the possibilities that exist today for achieving a true atomic‐scale understanding of the optical properties of individual dislocations cores. This review is dedicated to Professor David Holt, a pioneer in this field. SCANNING 30: 287–298, 2008. Published 2008 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Contribution of lignan analogues to antioxidative activity of refined unroasted sesame seed oil
Authors: Fukuda Y. , Nagata M. , Osawa T. , Namiki M.
Published: June 2008

A lignan compound, P3, having strong antioxidative activity was found to be formed in high concentration during the industrial bleaching process of unroasted sesame seed oil. P3 (named sesaminol) was identical to a minor constituent previously isolated from acetone extract of sesame seed. It was shown that sesamolin in unprocessed sesame oil is the source of seaseminol, and the formation of seasaminol was confirmed by the model experiment with corn oil to which sesamolin had been added. Sesaminol was not so greatly removed by the deodorization process that follows bleaching as was sesamol, and it was shown to be at a concentration of ca. 100 mg/100g in commercial refined unroasted seed oil. The antioxidative activity of sesaminol was foughly equal to those of sesamol and γ‐tocopherol by the thiocyanate method. Therefore, it seems that the antionxidative activity of refined unroasted seed oil is mainly attributed to sesaminol.
Comparision of acidic and basic volatile compounds of cocoa butters from roasted and unroasted cocoa beans
Authors: Carlin James T. , Lee Ken N. , Hsieh Oliver A. ‐L. , Hwang Lucy Sun , Ho Chi‐Tang , Chang Stephen S.
Published: June 2008

A total of nine acidic and 83 basic compounds was identified in the roasted and unroasted cocoa butter samples. Forty seven of the compounds identified are being reported for the first time in cocoa. The higher concentration of short chain fatty acids in the unroasted cocoa butter is responsible for its acidic aroma characteristics. The roasted cocoa butter generally contained greater numbers and higher concentrations of compounds whose formations would be favored by thermal processing. These compounds included pyrazines, thiazoles, oxazoles and pyridines. The aromas of many of these compounds are characteristic of the aroma differences between the two cocoa butters and contribute to the cocoa aroma of roasted cocoa butter.
Rapid analysis of dimer acid by HPLC/FID
Authors: Veazey Robert L.
Published: June 2008

A method was developed for the rapid analysis of polymerized fatty acids (dimer acid) using normal phase HPLC with a flame ionization detector (FID). The use of analytical scale HPLC with the FID is a significant limprovement over existing methodology for dimer analysis. The HPLC analysis takes only 25 min per sample, with no derivatization required. The FID response is linear for dimer samples from 10% to 90% monomer content. Absolute measurement precision is typically less than 0.5 area percent. Recovery of synthetic dimer blends averaged 102%. Results for the analysis of commercial dimer acid are comparable to those obtained using an HPLC/gravimetric method. The HPLC/FID method is applicable to the analysis of crude dimer as well as the finished dimer product.
Polymorphism and intersolubility of some palmitic, stearic and oleic triglycerides: PPP, PSP and POP
Authors: Gibon V. , Durant F. , Deroanne Cl.
Published: June 2008

The polymorphism and intersolubility of a series of palmitic, stearic and oleic triglycerides have been investigated in order to understand the thermal properties of fractions of natural fats. Results are shown for tripalmitin (PPP), 2‐stearo‐dipalmitin, (PSP) and 2‐oleo‐dipalmitin (POP); these molecules differ essentially in the number of carbons (P→S) and the degree of unsaturation of chains (S→O). The different polymorphic forms have been verified by variable temperature X‐ray powder diffraction. The organization of the fatty acid carbon chains in the most stable polymorphic form(β′ or β) has been studied by variable temperature NMR spectroscopy by means of the protons relaxation times T1, T2 and T1ϱ. The construction of binary phase diagrams (PPP‐PSP and PPP‐POP), from the data obtained by differential scanning calorimetry and X‐ray powder diffraction, shows the formation of solid solutions or monotectic interactions, according to the nature and the polymorphic form of the triglycerides. The kinetic of the very importantβ′→β transition has been analyzed by variable temperature powder X‐ray diffraction for PPP, and [PPP‐PSP] or [PPP‐POP] blends. The molecular interactions occurring between the mixed crystals have been explained, by applying the model of Avrami and by an empirical isolation method.
The effect of hydrogen content on estimation of seed oil by pulsed nuclear magnetic resonance
Authors: Srinivasan V. T. , Singh B. B. , Chidambareswaran P. K. , Sundaram V.
Published: June 2008

In the nondestructive estimation of seed oil by pulsed nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), an assumption generally is made that the hydrogen content of the oil in the seed sample under investigation is the same as that of the oil standard or that of the oil in the standard seed samples. The hydrogen content is defined as the number of hydrogen atoms per unit mass of oil. The validity of this assumption has been investigated by; (i) calculating the Hydrogen contents of various oils on the basis, of their reported fatty acid composition, and (ii) experimentally determining the hydrogen contents of cotton and mustard oils obtained from different varieties of seeds. The FID method was used to monitor the NMR signal intensities. Both calculated and experimental values show that that hydrogen contents can be different not only for different oils but also for the same oil extracted from different varieties of the seeds. This variation in hydrogen contents is shown to introduce an error in the oil content values as estimated by NMR methods. The magnitude of this error increases with oil content, and also with the difference in the hydrogen contents.
High oleic sunflower: Physical and chemical characteristics
Authors: Purdy Richard H.
Published: June 2008

Treatment of normal varieties of sunflowerseed with chemical mutagens and development of their progenies have resulted in hydrids bearing oil with oleic acid contents in excess of 80% and linoleic acid contents less than 10%. Fatty acids compositions are unaffected by climatic conditions. Analyses of the seed, oil and meal produced from the first commercial U.S. production show values not to differ significantly from normal high linoleic sunflower, except where anticipated on the basis of fatty acid composition.
Analytical methods for alpha sulfo methyl tallowate
Authors: Battaglini George T. , Larsen‐Zobus Jaanette L. , Baker Thomas G.
Published: June 2008

Recent economic trends have made sulfo methyl tallowates viable alternatives to oil‐based synthetic detergents in certain applications. Currently available analytical methods to monitor and control product quality are rather limited and sketchy, however, meaning that a substantial amount of methods development has been required. This includes methodology for resolving the three types of sulfonates present, and for the determination of sodium methyl sulfate.

This paper describes new methods developed for making these determinations. They include a new two‐phase dye transfer titration and a potentiometric ion‐selective electrode titration for the resolution of sodium alpha sulfo tallowate and sodium alpha sulfo tallow acid. In addition, a new method involving saponification and two‐phase dye transfer or potentiometric ion‐selective electrode titrations for the determination of sodium methyl sulfate is described.
Anionic hydrotropes for industrial and institutional rinse aids
Authors: Otten Jay G. , Nestor Christine L.
Published: June 2008

The effectiveness of eight commercial hydrotropes having differing structures (sodium xylenesulfonate, sodium‐2‐ethyl hexysulfate, phosphate ester of oxyethylated phenol, amine alkylaryl sulfonate, linear alkyl naphthalene sulfonate, TEA salt of DDBS, sodium dihexyl sulfosuccinate, and sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate) was evaluated with seven commercial rinse aid surfactants of the following structural types: block copolymers and alcohol oxyalkylates with high and low levels of ethylene oxide. Two hydrotrope levels (3 and 6 wt %) were evaluated at two surfactant levels (20 and 40 wt %). Dispersibility, compatibility index, and blender foam heights were measured; the test methods are described.
Keeping the Spirit of Community Partnerships Alive in the Scale Up of HIV/AIDS Prevention: Critical Reflections on the Roll Out of DEBI (Diffusion of Effective Behavioral Interventions)
Authors: Dworkin Shari L. , Pinto Rogério M. , Hunter Joyce , Rapkin Bruce , Remien Robert H.
Published: July 2008

DEBI, or the Diffusion of Effective Behavioral Interventions is the largest centralized effort to diffuse evidence‐based prevention science to fight HIV/AIDS in the United States. DEBI seeks to ensure that the most effective science‐based prevention interventions are widely implemented across the country in community‐based organizations. Thus, this is a particularly timely juncture in which to critically reflect on the extent to which known principles of community collaboration have guided key processes associated with the DEBI rollout. We review the available evidence on how the dissemination of packaged interventions is necessary but not sufficient for ensuring the success of technology transfer. We consider additional principles that are vital for successful technology transfer, which were not central considerations in the rollout of the DEBI initiative. These issues are: (1) community perceptions of a top‐down mode of dissemination; (2) the extent to which local innovations are being embraced, bolstered, or eliminated; and (3) contextual and methodological considerations that shape community preparedness. Consideration of these additional factors is necessary in order to effectively document, manage, and advance the science of dissemination and technology transfer in centralized prevention efforts within and outside of HIV/AIDS.
Facioscapulohumeral Dystrophy: Case Report and Discussion
Authors: Castellano Vincenzo , Feinberg Joseph , Michaels Jennifer
Published: June 2008

Facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (FSHD) is often cited as the third most common form of muscular dystrophy. Therefore, it should be considered in patients with complaints of progressive weakness. We present the case of a man with facial, truncal, and leg weakness that initially sought medical attention for lower back pain. Electrodiagnostic testing revealed findings in the trapezius, serratus anterior, biceps, triceps, pectoralis major, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius muscles consistent with a myopathic disorder. Subsequent genetic testing identified a FSHD allele size consistent with a FSHD deletion mutation. Therefore, confirming the diagnosis of FSHD. Unfortunately, no effective treatments currently exist for FSHD. However, supportive measures involving physical therapy and the use of orthotics may aid in improving function and mobility.
Von Willebrand Factor, Red Cell Fragmentation, and Disease Activity in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Curiel Rodolfo V. , Bhagati Rajkumari , Basavaraju Lakshmi , Norton Delona , Katz James , Haile Elizabeth , Weinstein Arthur
Published: June 2008

This study sought to determine whether the plasma levels of Von Willebrand factor (vWf) and the degree of red blood cell (RBC) fragmentation on peripheral smear correlate with disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Forty consecutive patients who fulfilled the criteria for SLE were studied prospectively for 1 year. Patients were categorized according to the SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) as either active (>2) or inactive disease and followed up monthly (active) or quarterly (inactive). At each visit, patients were examined fully and had complete blood count, tests on antibodies to double-stranded DNA, C3, and C4 levels, and urinalysis. Citrated plasma was analyzed for vWf antigen by standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A Wright's stained blood smear was obtained and schistocytes were quantitated on blood smear. The number of schistocytes per 500 RBCs was determined and a schistocyte index (SI) was calculated. At baseline, vWf correlated with SLEDAI ( r = 0.64, p < 0.01), SI correlated with SLEDAI ( r = 0.62, p < 0.01), and vWf and SI correlated with each other ( r = 0.41, p = 0.01). There was an inverse correlation between baseline C3 levels and vWf ( r = 0.49, p = 0.0013) and C3 levels and SI ( r = 0.40, p = 0.01). Over time, there was also a correlation of SLEDAI with vWf ( r = 0.53, p = 0.002) and SI ( r = 0.57; p = 0.002). The relation of vWf with SI approached but did not reach statistical significance ( r = 0.37, p = 0.06). We found that the plasma levels of vWf and the degree of RBC fragmentation correlate with lupus disease activity over time. Therefore, inflammation in SLE may be associated with endothelial injury.
“The Central Kingdom” and “the realm under heaven” coming to mean the same: The process of the formation of territory in ancient China
Authors: Dalong LI
Published: June 2008

“The Central Kingdom” is pregnant of political implications as well as of geographical and cultural significance. It was believed that whoever controlled Zhongguo (the Central Kingdom or China) would be the legitimate ruler over Tianxia (the realm under heaven or all under heaven). It was the contention for “the Central Kingdom” among the varieties of dynasties, notably those established by the Han-Chinese and the various ethnic groups in the northern borderland, that lead to the alternation of disintegration and unification of the territory. It was not until the Qing Dynasty that the unified “Central Kingdom” composed of a variety of ethnic groups turned into the ideal “realm under heaven” with “the Central Kingdom” at its core, which naturally put an end to the formation of territory in ancient China.
China’s geographical position in Europeans’ hierarchical imagination: A study on maps of Europeans from the perspective of intellectual history
Authors: Liwei WU
Published: June 2008

Maps act not only as the carrier of the geographical information but also as the symbolic expression of particular cultural and political concepts, by which we can understand those people’s knowledge about themselves as well as about others. The maps drawn by the Europeans from the 16thto the 18thcenturies vividly express the self-centeredness of the Europeans influenced by both the Christian and modern civilization concepts, and the maps also expressed their comments on the other parts of the world in such a mentality. Some characteristic maps and illustrations in the atlas of European history demonstrated how the Europeans formed and expressed their hierarchical perspective of the world geography. The position of China in the hierarchical world is one of the most important expressions of the European concept of China, and well served the purpose of our reflection on the cultural intercommunion.
Adopting an heir: Widows’ heir adoption and related legal and social issues in the Qing Dynasty
Authors: Kuanqing LÜ
Published: June 2008

In the Qing Dynasty, widows who did not remarry could become the right subject of adopting an heir. There were two main types, adoption by order and adoption by affection. Sometimes an heir with a different surname could also be adopted. Some relatively economic compensation actions were taken in the adoption. The widows’ right of adoption was restricted by such factors as patriarchy, clan, feudal ethical codes and conventions. However, the widows could appropriately use law to protect their rights and interests. Meanwhile, when the magistrates judged cases about adoption, they were usually apt to support the widows’ requests so as to protect the rights and interests of social vulnerable group with fully applying the right of discretion.
Sichuan’s promotion of education and activities of felling temple trees in the late Qing Dynasty
Authors: Yue XU
Published: June 2008

During Sichuan’s promotion of education in the late Qing Dynasty, trees in the domain of Buddhist or Daoist temples, which were part of temples’ property, had been felled across the province. The profits gained were used to repair or build schools as well as to fund their management. In different regions, the characteristics and intentions of the felling activities differed. Meanwhile, such fever gave rise to corrupt practices of deceitfully seeking profits which in turn caused numerous disputes and lawsuits, reflecting the confrontation provoked between the state and the people as well as different communities over tradition, ritual, and belief. The investigations of felling temple trees could enrich the understanding of provincial promotion for education in the late Qing period, and that of the social and cultural changes taking place in rural communities in modern times.
Structural Characterization of α,β‐Unsaturated Aldehydes by GC/MS is Dependent upon Ionization Method
Authors: Long Eric K. , Smoliakova Irina , Honzatko Ales , Picklo Matthew J.
Published: June 2008

α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes are toxic products of lipid peroxidation. Detection and characterization of these aldehydes is important in many human disease states as well as in the food industry. Our study shows that electron ionization‐mass spectrometry (EI‐MS) and positive‐ion chemical ionization‐mass spectrometry (PICI‐MS), but not electron capture negative ionization‐mass spectrometry (ECNI‐MS), can be used to detect the C4‐hydroxylation state of α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes derivatized with pentafluorobenzyl hydroxylamine alone. EI‐MS and PICI‐MS spectra of 4‐hydroxy‐2‐alkenals contained a fragment with m/z 252, whereas spectra of 2‐alkenals contained a fragment with m/z 250. These fragments are consistent with fragmentation between C3 and C4 with transfer of two hydrogens from C4 and the C4 hydroxyl group in the case of 4‐hydroxy‐2‐alkenals. In addition, EI‐MS and PICI‐MS were able to distinguish 4‐hydroxy‐2‐alkenals and 2‐alkenals from 4‐keto‐2‐alkenals and 4‐hydroxyalkanals. On the other hand, ECNI‐MS provided complex spectra regarding C4‐hydroxylation state. Furthermore, the syn‐ and anti‐configurations of PFB‐oximes had different resultant spectra using ECNI‐MS, but not with EI‐MS or PICI‐MS. These data indicate that EI‐MS and PICI‐MS are more amenable for structural analysis of α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes than ECNI‐MS.
Hepatic Lipase Gene −514C/T Polymorphism in the Guangxi Hei Yi Zhuang and Han Populations
Authors: Wu Jinzhen , Yin Ruixing , Lin Weixiong , Pan Shangling , Yang Dezhai
Published: June 2008

Hei Yi Zhuang is an isolated subgroup of the Zhuang minority in China. This study was designed to compare the difference in the hepatic lipase gene (LIPC) −514C/T polymorphism and its association with lipid profiles between the Guangxi Hei Yi Zhuang and Han populations. Genotyping of the LIPC −514C/T was performed in 873 subjects of Hei Yi Zhuang and 867 participants of Han Chinese. The frequency of −514T allele was 43.47% in Hei Yi Zhuang, and 36.10% in Han (P < 0.001). The frequencies of CC, CT and TT genotypes were 30.01, 53.04 and 16.95% in Hei Yi Zhuang, and 40.95, 45.91 and 13.14% in Han (P < 0.001); respectively. Serum high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) and apolipoprotein B levels in both ethnic groups were higher in LIPC −514T carriers than in C carriers. In addition, serum triglyceride levels in Han were higher in TT genotype individuals than in CC genotype subjects (P < 0.05). Serum HDL‐C levels were positively correlated with age, alcohol consumption and LIPC −514C/T genotypes, and negatively associated with hypertension and cigarette smoking in Hei Yi Zhuang (P < 0.05–0.01), whereas HDL‐C levels were positively correlated with age, alcohol consumption and LIPC −514C/T genotypes, and negatively associated with body mass index and cigarette smoking in Han (P < 0.05–0.001). The differences in serum HDL‐C levels between the two ethnic groups might partially attribute to the differences in the LIPC −514C/T polymorphism.
Comparison of oral naproxen and intrauterine lignocaine instillation for pain relief during hysterosalpingography
Authors: Gupta Nupur , Ghosh Bhaswati , Mittal Suneeta
Published: July 2008

Objectives:

To compare the efficacy of oral naproxen with intrauterine instillation of 1% lignocaine for pain relief in women undergoing hysterosalpingography (HSG) as an infertility investigation.

Methods:

One hundred women undergoing HSG were randomly allocated into 2 groups. Group A (n = 50) underwent intrauterine instillation of 5 mL of 1% lignocaine 2 minutes prior to the procedure, while the women in group B (n = 50) were instructed to self‐administer a single oral dose of 375 mg of naproxen 1 hour prior to HSG. Pain scores immediately after the procedure (0 minutes) and delayed pain scores (30 minutes) were recorded and compared.

Results:

Women in both groups were comparable in age and parity. The mean ± SD pain scores in group A and group B at 0 minutes and 30 minutes were not significantly different (P = 0.12 and P = 0.07).

Conclusion:

Intrauterine lignocaine was no more effective than oral naproxen for pain relief during HSG.
Empire's Law: Alexis de Tocqueville on Colonialism and the State of Exception
Authors: Kohn Margaret
Published: June 2008

Abstract.In recent years there has been a debate about how to evaluate Alexis de Tocqueville's defense of colonialism. Some scholars have argued that there is a tension between the key doctrines of Tocqueville's political theory and his enthusiastic promotion of the French conquest and colonization of Algeria. Others have concluded that the apparent contradiction can be explained by paying careful attention to the nuances of his work or the logic of liberalism. This article advances this debate by reconstructing Tocqueville's theory of martial law, a dimension of his work that has been frequently overlooked. In a series of letters, notes and parliamentary reports on Algeria, Tocqueville criticized of the use of martial law in governing French citizens and defended its use against native Algerians. Tocqueville's writings on Algeria make it clear that he treated the rule of law not as a natural right held by all people but rather as a technique of government that was appropriate in communities already united by social ties.

Résumé.Récemment, l'interprétation de la défense du colonialisme par Alexis de Tocqueville est devenue l'objet d'un débat important. Certains auteurs discernent une tension entre les principes centraux de la philosophie politique de Tocqueville et sa promotion enthousiaste de la conquête et la colonisation de l'Algérie par la France. D'autres ont conclu que la contradiction apparente s'explique lorsqu'on regarde de près les nuances de ses écrits sur la logique interne du libéralisme. Cet article contribue à ce débat en reconstruisant la théorie de la loi martiale de Tocqueville – une dimension de son oeuvre trop souvent négligée. Dans une série de lettres, notes et rapports parlementaires sur l'Algérie, Tocqueville a critiqué l'usage de la loi martiale dans le gouvernement des citoyens français, mais l'a défendu contre les indigènes. Ses écrits sur l'Algérie démontrent que Tocqueville considérait l'État de droit non comme un droit naturel inhérent à la personne, mais plutôt comme une technique de gouvernement s'appliquant principalement aux communautés déjà unies par des liens sociaux.
Economic Voting, Multilevel Governance and Information in Canada
Authors: Anderson Cameron D.
Published: June 2008

Abstract.While an important component of incumbent support, the effect of economic conditions on vote choice (economic voting) can be undermined by the presence of multilevel institutions; voters are faced with the prospect of evaluating economic conditions and governments at different levels simultaneously. This paper tests the applicability of a model which seeks to account for how and how well voters cope with the complexity of multilevel governance. The accountability-centred model suggests that federal and provincial governments should only be evaluated for those actions and outcomes that they can reasonably be seen to have influence over. Additionally, it is asked whether high information respondents are better able to navigate some of the complexities of Canada's multilevel system. Analyses are conducted using data from the 1993 and 1997 Canadian Election Studies.

Résumé.Les conditions économiques constituent un facteur d'appui électoral important pour les dirigeants politiques. Il semble, toutefois, que l'impact de ce facteur soit amoindri dans les États présentant plusieurs niveaux de gouvernement. Dans les sociétés ayant des institutions multi-paliers, les électeurs ont en effet le défi d'attribuer les performances économiques aux divers paliers de gouvernement. Cet article teste un modèle théorique qui tente d'expliquer comment les électeurs se comportent face à la complexité de la gouvernance multi-paliers au Canada. Le modèle, centré sur la responsabilité des dirigeants, suggère que les gouvernements fédéral et provinciaux devraient uniquement être jugés pour les décisions et résultats politiques sur lesquels ils exercent manifestement une influence. Cet article examine, en outre, la question de savoir si les électeurs bien informés saisissent mieux la complexité de la gouvernance multi-paliers lorsqu'ils évaluent la performance des dirigeants. L'analyse se fonde sur les données de l'Étude électorale canadienne de 1993 et de 1997.
Lobbying et patronage : modes de médiation en contexte démocratique*
Authors: Hudon Raymond , Yates Stéphanie
Published: June 2008

Résumé.L'imprécision couramment observée dans les discours sur les pratiques du patronage et du lobbying, respectivement, tient en très grande partie à un flou conceptuel auquel cet article propose précisément de remédier au moyen d'une comparaison de la fonctionnalité de ces deux formes de médiation entre la société et les institutions politiques. Adoptant une perspective proprement politique, tout en tenant compte du statut normatif différencié qui marque chacune des deux pratiques, nous présentons d'abord en parallèle leurs traits distinctifs pour ensuite, quasi paradoxalement, mieux saisir leurs similarités. Les dynamiques que traduisent les échanges au cœur d'une relation patron-client, dans le cas du patronage, et d'une relation lobby-titulaire de charge publique, dans le cas du lobbying, ont pour effet de transformer les rapports de force qui structurent les relations du patron et du lobby avec leurs rivaux-concurrents. Par ailleurs, à l'encontre de présupposés largement répandus qui associent ces pratiques à des stades différents du développement des sociétés, nous montrons leur coexistence possible dans les pratiques politiques contemporaines. Notre exercice, principalement conceptuel, peut par ailleurs se révéler utile pour poser des diagnostics adéquats sur la vie démocratique … dont certains dysfonctionnements ne peuvent être corrigés qu'au moyen d'interventions appropriées.

Abstract. Patronage and lobbying are currently discussed with vague concepts. This article suggests a comparison of the two phenomena by pointing to their respective roles in the conduct of relations between the society and the political institutions. In a properly political perspective, we consider their own status in normative terms and then present both their differences and similarities. The exchanges between a patron and a client and between a lobby and a public office holder result in transforming the power balance in the relations of a patron with rivals and of a lobby with competitors. Contrary to common assumptions which relate patronage and lobbying to societies at different stages of their development, we also show that they can coexist in contemporary political practices. We claim that our exercise, mainly conceptual in its nature, could serve to diagnose more adequately democratic malfunctioning and, consequently, to define more appropriate correctives.
Terms of Entitlement: Is there a Distinctly Canadian “Rights Talk”?
Authors: Macfarlane Emmett
Published: June 2008

Abstract.One of the most frequently mentioned, yet seriously understudied, changes brought to Canadian society by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms is its influence on political debate and how citizens understand and treat rights. This empirical lacuna is significant because several scholars of Canadian politics have suggested that “rights talk” can have negative implications for political discourse, given that rights are too often presented in absolute, uncompromising terms. This article represents a first attempt to investigate this phenomenon. It presents a content analysis of the media's presentation of rights issues, and evaluates how rights are portrayed during coverage of Supreme Court Charter decisions.

Résumé.L'un des changements les plus notables apportés à la société canadienne par l'adoption de la Charte des droits et libertés est son influence sur les débats politiques et, plus particulièrement, sur la manière dont les citoyens interprètent leurs droits. Ce changement important est toutefois très peu étudié. Cette lacune empirique est significative puisque plusieurs politologues canadiens ont suggéré que le «langage des droits» a des répercussions négatives sur les débats politiques, étant donné que les droits sont souvent décrits en termes absolus et définitifs. Cet article représente une première tentative d'exploration de ce phénomène. Il présente une analyse du contenu médiatique et évalue comment les médias dépeignent les droits dans leur couverture des décisions de la Cour suprême portant sur la Charte.
Life Cycle, Generational and Period Effects on Protest Potential in Yeltsin's Russia
Authors: Nikolayenko Olena
Published: June 2008

Abstract.Regime change in Eastern Europe affords an excellent opportunity for investigating linkages between age and politics in times of social turmoil. Using data from three waves of the World Values Survey, this paper explores life cycle, generational and period effects on protest potential in Yeltsin's Russia. The study finds that an individual's position in the life cycle is the strongest predictor of protest potential in the post-communist state. Furthermore, the analysis suggests that citizens socialized during periods of relative socioeconomic stability exhibit the highest protest potential under conditions of uncertainty characteristic of the transition period.

Résumé.Les changements de régime en Europe de l'Est permettent d'examiner la relation complexe entre l'âge et la politique pendant les périodes d'instabilité sociale. S'appuyant sur les données de trois vagues du World Values Survey (sondage mondial sur les valeurs), cet article explore l'incidence du cycle de vie, de la génération et de la période sur le potentiel protestataire dans la Russie d'Eltsine. L'étude démontre que la position de l'individu dans le cycle de vie est le plus puissant facteur de prédiction du potentiel protestataire dans la société postcommuniste. En outre, les citoyens socialisés pendant des périodes de relative stabilité socio-économique présentent le potentiel protestataire le plus élevé dans des conditions d'incertitude caractéristiques de la période de transition.
Strategic Debt
Authors: Norrlöf Carla
Published: June 2008

Abstract. Accumulating debt is usually harmful for states, but a cyclical deficit policy and large-scale borrowing have been beneficial for the United States. While structural changes in the international political economy may cap America's future ability to process debt, an empirical analysis of the economic dimensions of hegemony over the last quarter century shows unambiguously that the hegemon reaps disproportionate gains in the area of trade and investment. This finding provides new insight on whether it is advantageous to be a hegemon.

Résumé. Les États pâtissent généralement de l'accumulation des dettes, mais une politique de déficit cyclique et le recours à de larges emprunts ont pourtant été bénéfiques aux États-Unis. La capacité future de la puissance américaine à gérer sa dette sera peut-être entamée par les changements structurels subis par l'économie politique mondiale. Toutefois, l'analyse empirique des dimensions économiques de la situation d'hégémonie durant les vingt-cinq dernières années met à jour, et sans ambiguïté aucune, les gains disproportionnés générés par l'hégémon dans les domaines du commerce et de l'investissement. Cette recherche apporte un éclairage nouveau au débat sur les avantages liés à la position d'hégémon.