bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mathematical Formulation of Relationship between Applied Marketing Effort and Potential Ability of Determining Market Share
Authors: Metwally Mokhtar M.
Published: April 2008

The aim of this paper is to formulate the mathematical relationship between firms potential ability and their applied efforts to attract the body of unattached customers. A method is devised in this paper by which management techniques imposed by a particular firm can evaluate its market share. This paper demonstrates the relationship between the applied marketing effort of management and the potential ability of the firm in determining its market share. This paper also investigates the effect of a number of simultaneous marketing impulses on the movement of the body of unattached customers and hence on the size of the market share.
Reducing CQI Signalling Overhead in HSPA
Authors: Abd El-atty Saied M. , Skoutas Dimitrios N. , Rouskas Angelos N.
Published: April 2008

The efficiency of adaptive modulation and coding (AMC) procedure in high speed Downlink packet access (HSDPA) depends on the frequency of the channel quality information (CQI) reports transmitted by the UE to Node B. The more frequent the reports are the more accurate the link adaptation procedure is. On the other hand, the frequent CQI reports increase uplink interference, reducing thus the signal reception quality at the uplink. In this study, we propose an improved CQI reporting scheme which aims to reduce the required CQI signaling by exploiting a CQI prediction method based on a finite‐state Markov chain (FSMC) model of the wireless channel. The simulation results show that under a high downlink traffic load, the proposed scheme has a near‐to‐optimum performance while produces less interference compared to the respective periodic CQI scheme.
Systematic Review of the Effects of Shared Decision-Making on Patient Satisfaction, Treatment Adherence and Health Status
Authors: Joosten E.A.G. , DeFuentes-Merillas L. , de Weert G.H. , Sensky T. , van der Staak C.P.F. , de Jong C.A.J.
Published: April 2008

Background: In the last decade, the clinician-patient relationship has become more of a partnership. There is growing interest in shared decision-making (SDM) in which the clinician and patient go through all phases of the decision-making process together, share treatment preferences, and reach an agreement on treatment choice. The purpose of this review is to determine the extent, quality, and consistency of the evidence about the effectiveness of SDM. Method: This is a systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing SDM interventions with non-SDM interventions. Eleven RCTs met the required criteria, and were included in this review. Results: The methodological quality of the studies included in this review was high overall. Five RCTs showed no difference between SDM and control, one RCT showed no short-term effects but showed positive longer-term effects, and five RCTs reported a positive effect of SDM on outcome measures. The two studies included of people with mental healthcare problems reported a positive effect of SDM. Conclusions: Despite the considerable interest in applying SDM clinically, little research regarding its effectiveness has been done to date. It has been argued that SDM is particularly suitable for long-term decisions, especially in the context of a chronic illness, and when the intervention contains more than one session. Our results show that under such circumstances, SDM can be an effective method of reaching a treatment agreement. Evidence for the effectiveness of SDM in the context of other types of decisions, or in general, is still inconclusive. Future studies of SDM should probably focus on long-term decisions.
TNFα –308 C→T and –863 C→A Polymorphisms and Spermiogram Characteristics
Authors: Kurz Christine , Bentz Eva-Katrin , Denschlag Dominik , Berner Isabel , Keck Christoph , Tempfer Clemens B. , Pietrowski Detlef
Published: April 2008

Background: Genetic factorsmay play a role in male infertility. Methods: In a prospective case-control study, we assessed the allele and genotype frequencies of the TNFα –308 C→T and –863 C→A polymorphisms, detected by PCR of sperm DNA, of 577 Caucasian men recruited in an infertility clinic. Semen sampling was performed and spermiogram results were correlated to genetic data. Results: The allele frequencies of the TNFα –308 C→T and –863 C→A polymorphisms were not significantly different between non-normozoospermic (n = 447) and normozoospermic (n = 130) men [758/894 (85%) and 134/894 (15%) vs. 213/269 (82%) and 43/260 (18%), p = 0.5, odds ratio (OR) 1.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.74–1.76, and 749/894 (84%) and 145/894 (16%) vs. 212/260 (82%) and 48/260 (18%), p = 0.4, OR 1.2, 95% CI 0.78–1.76, respectively]. The genotype frequencies of the TNFα –308 C→T and –863 C→A polymorphisms were also not significantly different between non-normozoospermic and normozoospermic men. In addition, mutant alleles were not overrepresented in subgroups of men with the oligoasthenoteratozoospermia syndrome and asthenozoospermia. Conclusion: The TNFα –308 C→T and –863 C→A polymorphisms are not associated with spermiogram characteristics and do not represent molecular markers for genetic susceptibility to male infertility.
Assessment of Baseline Clinical Predictive Factors of Response to Cetuximab-Irinotecan in Patients with Irinotecan-Refractory Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Hebbar Mohamed , Di Fioré Frédéric , Conroy Thierry , Giraud Claire , Gasnault Laurent , Fournier Charles , Péreira Renata , Bouché Olivier , Fournier Peggy , Deligny Nathalie , Joly Jean-Paul , Maes Patricia , Rad Emilia , Michel Pierre , Adenis Antoine
Published: April 2008

Objective: To identify easily available predictive factors of response to cetuximab-irinotecan in patients with irinotecan-refractory metastatic colorectal cancer. Methods: Retrospective analysis of patients treated with cetuximab (400 mg/m2 in week 1, 250 mg/m2 in subsequent weeks) plus irinotecan (180 mg/m2 every 2 weeks). We assessed demographic data, prior response to chemotherapy, number of metastatic sites, disease and metastatic disease durations, irinotecan-free interval and tumoral immunohistochemical epidermal growth factor receptor status. Results: We analyzed 311 patients. Objective response rate under cetuximab-irinotecan was 26%. In univariate analysis, prior response to irinotecan, presence of only 1 metastatic site, disease duration, metastatic disease duration and irinotecan-free interval equal or above median (24, 18 and 1.8 months, respectively) were predictive of response to cetuximab-irinotecan. Multivariate analysis confirmed independent predictive value of prior response to irinotecan, number of metastatic sites and disease duration. Conclusion: Prior response to irinotecan, number of metastatic sites and disease duration may contribute to better select patients suitable for cetuximab-irinotecan therapy.
Clinical Outcome of Gastric Cancer Patients with Bone Marrow Metastases
Authors: Kim Hyo Song , Yi Seong Yoon , Jun Hyun Jung , Lee Jeeyun , Park Joon Oh , Park Young Suk , Jang Junho , Kim Hee-Jin , Ko Younghyeh , Lim Ho Yeong , Kang Won Ki
Published: April 2008

Background: Gastric cancer with bone marrow metastases is known to pursue a rapidly deteriorating clinical course. We conducted a retrospective analysis to evaluate clinical manifestations and prognosis of gastric cancer patients with bone marrow metastases. Methods: Between September 1994 and February 2006, 39 gastric cancer patients with pathologically confirmed bone marrow dissemination were selected. Results: The majority of the patients showed younger age, poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma or signet ring cell carcinoma, thrombocytopenia, anemia, elevated lactate dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase. Poor prognostic factors for survival were serum sodium ≤133 mmol/l [relative risk (RR) 4.57; 95% CI 1.99–10.52; p < 0.001], the presence of lung metastasis (RR 3.47; 95% CI 1.48–8.15; p = 0.007) and the presence of peritoneal seeding (RR 2.17; 95% CI 1.06–4.43; p = 0.036). Median survival durations after bone marrow metastases for patients without any adverse factors (n = 19, 48.7%) and those with 1–3 adverse factors (n = 20, 51.3%) were 67 and 23 days, respectively (p = 0.013). Patients without any adverse factors did benefit from palliative chemotherapy (p = 0.048). Conclusion: We suggest that gastric cancer patients with bone marrow metastases should receive more tailored therapies according to different risk factors in order to enhance survival.
Phase II Trial of Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin-Cyclophosphamide Combination as First-Line Chemotherapy in Older Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Kurtz J.E. , Rousseau F. , Meyer N. , Delozier T. , Serin D. , Nabet M. , Djafari L. , Dufour P.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD; Caelyx®)-cyclophosphamide combination in older metastatic breast cancer patients. Methods: A multicenter phase II trial was conducted. Inclusion criteria were age 65–75 years, ECOG 0–1 and left ventricular ejection fraction ≧50%. First-line chemotherapy was given to metastatic breast cancer patients resistant to hormonal therapy. The treatment schedule was PLD 40 mg/m2 and cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m2 on day 1 every 4 weeks. Efficacy was the primary endpoint, while response duration and tolerance were the secondary endpoints. Results: Thirty-five patients (median age 71.3 years) were enrolled. No treatment-related death, no congestive heart failure or decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction and no febrile neutropenia were reported. Toxicity: grade 3 dyspnea was found in 1 patient, neutropenia in 11 patients (7 grade 3, 4 grade 4), grade 3 mucositis in 4 patients, grade 3 hand-foot syndrome in 1 patient and a generalized rash in 1 patient. An objective response (complete and partial response) was achieved in 10 (28.6%) patients and disease control in 24 (69%) with a progression-free survival of 8.8 months and a median overall survival of 20.3 months. Conclusion: The PLD-cyclophosphamide combination is moderately active and safe in elderly metastatic breast cancer patients, but cannot be recommended routinely due to myelotoxicity and mucositis hazards.
Oral Capecitabine in Gemcitabine-Pretreated Patients with Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Boeck Stefan , Wilkowski Ralf , Bruns Christiane J. , Issels Rolf D. , Schulz Christoph , Moosmann Nicolas , Laessig Dorit , Haas Michael , Golf Alexander , Heinemann Volker
Published: April 2008

Objective: To date, no standard regimen for salvage chemotherapy after gemcitabine (Gem) failure has been defined for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer (PC). Oral capecitabine (Cap) has shown promising activity in first-line chemotherapy trials in PC patients. Methods: Within a prospective single-center study, Cap was offered to patients who had already received at least 1 previous treatment regimen containing full-dose Gem (as a single agent, as part of a combination chemotherapy regimen or sequentially within a chemoradiotherapy protocol). Cap was administered orally at a dose of 1,250 mg/m2 twice daily for 14 days followed by 7 days of rest. Study endpoints were objective tumor response rate by imaging criteria (according to RECIST), carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) tumor marker response, time to progression, overall survival and toxicity. Results: A median of 3 treatment cycles (range 1–36) was given to 39 patients. After a median follow-up of 6.6 months, 27 patients were evaluable for response: no complete or partial responses were observed, but 15 patients (39%) had stable disease. A CA19-9 reduction of >20% after 2 cycles of Cap was documented in 6 patients (15%). Median time to progression was 2.3 months (range 0.5–45.1) and median overall survival (since start of Cap treatment) was 7.6 months (range 0.7–45.1). Predominant grade 2 and 3 toxicities (per patient analysis) were hand-foot syndrome 28% (13% grade 3); anemia 23%; leg edema 15%; diarrhea 13%; nausea/vomiting 10%, and leukocytopenia 10%. Conclusion: Single-agent Cap is a safe treatment option for Gem-pretreated patients with advanced PC. Further evaluation of Cap in controlled clinical trials of Gem-pretreated patients with advanced PC is recommended.
Preoperative Paclitaxel/Carboplatin Radiochemotherapy for Stage III/IV Resectable Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancer: Seven-Year Follow-Up of a Phase II Trial
Authors: Eckardt A. , Sinikovic B. , Hofele C. , Bremer M. , Reuter C.
Published: April 2008

Numerous treatment concepts for advanced but resectable oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma exist. In this study, we present the 7-year results of a promising treatment with preoperative simultaneous chemoradiation using paclitaxel and carboplatin within a prospective phase II trial comprising 56 patients. After determination of the local tumor extension, chemoradiation was applied for 4 weeks and up to 40 Gy. Following a recovery period of 3–4 weeks, tumor resection was performed within the initially tattooed resection margins, together with a functional modified neck dissection. The median follow-up time was 44.9 ± 19.6 months (range 0.76–87.9). After 7 years, 35 (63.3%) patients were alive and 20 (36.4%) had died. In 2 patients (3.6%), the cause of death was related to treatment. After 7 years, the overall survival rate declined to 63.6%, whereas the local recurrence-free probability was still 84.2%. These results confirm the excellent local control and high survival rates of preoperative radiochemotherapy with the combination of paclitaxel/carboplatin.
Altered Gene Expression in Rat Colonic Adenocarcinomas Induced in an Azoxymethane plus 2-Amino-1-Methyl-6-Phenylimidazo[4,5-b]- Pyridine Initiation-Promotion Model
Authors: Doi Kenichiro , Hagihara Atsushi , Wei Min , Yunoki Takayuki , Fukushima Shoji , Wanibuchi Hideki
Published: April 2008

2-Amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP), the most abundant food-derived mutagenic/carcinogenic heterocyclic amine (HCA), has attracted particular attention as a probable human colon carcinogen. Some studies have shown that PhIP administered in the post-initiation phase is able to enhance rat colon carcinogenesis remarkably. To determine whether this genotoxicant leaves a DNA footprint in colon carcinogenesis, 6-week-old male F344 rats were first subcutaneously injected with azoxymethane (AOM) and then continuously treated with various doses (0–200 ppm) of PhIP added to their diet. Animals were killed at week 36 for histopathological examination, and colonic adenocarcinomas derived from animals receiving 0, 50 and 200 ppm PhIP were subjected to a novel three-dimensional (3D)-microarray and real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis. A total of five candidate genes were identified in adenocarcinomas following 200 ppm of PhIP and AOM initiation, with a dose-dependent increment. Among them, Stat1 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 1) and VEGFc (vascular endothelial growth factor c) demonstrated statistically significant upregulation by real-time RT-PCR. In addition, HSP90 (heat shock protein 90) and VEGFa showed a non-significant tendency to increase. In summary, overexpression of Stat1, VEGF and other genes could be involved in PhIP-enhanced colon tumorigenesis in the post-initiation phase.
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-Gamma Gene Polymorphism and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Patients with Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Szeto Cheuk-Chun , Chow Kai-Ming , Poon Peter Yam-Kau , Kwan Bonnie Ching-Ha , Li Philip Kam-Tao
Published: April 2008

Background: Peroxisome proliferator-activator receptor-gamma (PPAR-γ) is a nuclear receptor that serves important roles in intermediate metabolism. We examined the relationship between two PPAR-γ gene polymorphisms, namely the P12A and C161T, and cardiovascular disease in patients with diabetic nephropathy. Methods: We studied 170 predialysis and 50 peritoneal dialysis patients with diabetic nephropathy. The PPAR-γ genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism assay. The patients were then followed prospectively for the development of cardiovascular events. Cardiovascular mortality and all-cause mortality were also compared. Results: There were 91 male cases. The mean age was 64.3 ± 10.6 years. The frequencies of Pro/Pro and Pro/Ala genotypes of the P12A polymorphism were 95 and 5%, respectively; CC, CT and TT genotypes of the C161T polymorphism were 55.5, 39.5 and 5.0%, respectively. For the P12A polymorphism, the event-free survival was 56.5 and 9.1% at 60 months for Pro/Pro and Pro/Ala genotypes, respectively (p = 0.0005). For the C161T polymorphism, the event-free survival was 61.5 and 44.9% for CC and CT/TT genotypes, respectively (p = 0.0044). By multivariate analysis with the Cox proportional hazard model to adjust for confounders, the independent factors for event-free survival were P12A and C161T polymorphisms, age and diastolic blood pressure. In this model, the Pro/Ala genotype conferred 7.6-fold (95% CI 2.1- to 28.0-fold, p = 0.002) excess hazard of developing primary cardiovascular end point as compared to the Pro/Pro genotype, while each T allele at the 161 position conferred 83.4% (95% CI 15.2–291.9%, p = 0.011) excess hazard. Conclusions: We conclude that P12A and C161T polymorphisms of the PPAR-γ gene are important predictors of cardiovascular event in patients with diabetic nephropathy. Further studies are needed to examine the interaction of PPAR-γ gene polymorphisms and thiazolidinedione treatment on the cardiovascular risk in this group of patients.
Contesting Global Norms: Politics of Identity in Japanese Pro-Whaling Countermobilization
Authors: Blok Anders
Published: April 2008

Why are anti- and pro-whaling coalitions still engaged in morally heated confrontations over whales tracing back to the 1970s? Revisiting the global whaling controversy, this article applies insights from the political sociology of social movements to highlight the importance of the politics of identity embedded in an elite-driven pro-whaling countermovement in Japan. As is well documented, Japan has proven a most difficult context for the emerging “global” anti-whaling norm. Rather than simply reflecting material interests or cultural values, however, this sustained resistance should be approached from a processual and symbolic interactionist perspective as the construction of a pro-whaling moral universe integrated around strong and inflexible claims of collective identity. Empirically, the article analyzes the major discursive master frames constituting this pro-whaling identity. Arguing for the centrality of symbolic-moral framing, it further suggests three competing normative frameworks for making sense of the controversy in the wider context of global environmental norms-in-the-making.
Transparency for Whom? Information Disclosure and Power in Global Environmental Governance
Authors: Mason Michael
Published: April 2008

Information disclosure is the most obvious manifestation of the transparency turn in global governance, as evident from a growing uptake of environmental disclosure practices by countries, corporations and international organizations. Any analytic examination of environmental disclosure measures needs to grasp their relation to wider configurations of political and economic authority. Highlighting these relations of power reveals that transparency measures do not necessarily overcome asymmetries in information access, and may even exacerbate them.
The First Transition of the Asian Summer Monsoon, Intraseasonal Oscillation, and Taiwan Mei-yu
Authors: Hung Chih-wen , Hsu Huang-Hsiung
Published: April 2008

This study reveals the close relationship between the first transition of the Asian summer monsoon (ASM), the tropical intraseasonal oscillation (TISO), and the mei-yu in Taiwan, which occurs climatologically between mid-May and mid-June. For about half of the years in 1958–2002, the first transition of the Asian summer monsoon can be classified as a sharp onset, which is characterized by an abrupt reversal of the monsoon flow from northeasterly to southwesterly. The evolution of the large-scale monsoon circulation and convection in the sharp-onset years is characterized by an eastward-propagating TISO from eastern Africa and the western Indian Ocean to the Maritime Continent. Upon the arrival of the TISO in the Maritime Continent, a sharp onset of the ASM occurs, and a channel supplying moist air in the lower troposphere is well established across the Indian Ocean to the South China Sea (SCS). This channel consists of the Somali jet, transporting the moisture from the Southern Hemisphere to the Northern Hemisphere, and the southwesterly monsoon, delivering the moisture across the Indian Ocean to the SCS and the western North Pacific. This efficient and persistent transport of moisture to the SCS and surrounding areas presumably provides a favorable condition for the maintenance of the mei-yu front and the development of convective systems. This also marks the onset of the Taiwan mei-yu season. Because a strong TISO signal, which tends to occur concurrently with the sharp onset of the ASM, is often observed prior to the onset of the first transition and Taiwan mei-yu, a close monitoring of the TISO can be informative for the weather forecasters in Taiwan to project the initiation of the Taiwan mei-yu.
Spatiotemporal Characteristics of Snowpack Density in the Mountainous Regions of the Western United States
Authors: Mizukami Naoki , Perica Sanja
Published: April 2008

Snow density is calculated as a ratio of snow water equivalent to snow depth. Until the late 1990s, there were no continuous simultaneous measurements of snow water equivalent and snow depth covering large areas. Because of that, spatiotemporal characteristics of snowpack density could not be well described. Since then, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has been collecting both types of data daily throughout the winter season at snowpack telemetry (SNOTEL) sites located in the mountainous areas of the western United States. This new dataset provided an opportunity to examine the spatiotemporal characteristics of snowpack density.

The analysis of approximately seven years of data showed that at a given location and throughout the winter season, year-to-year snowpack density changes are significantly smaller than corresponding snow depth and snow water equivalent changes. As a result, reliable climatological estimates of snow density could be obtained from relatively short records. Snow density magnitudes and densification rates (i.e., rates at which snow densities change in time) were found to be location dependent. During early and midwinter, the densification rate is correlated with density. Starting in early or mid-March, however, snowpack density increases by approximately 2.0 kg m−3 day−1 regardless of location. Cluster analysis was used to obtain qualitative information on spatial patterns of snowpack density and densification rates. Four clusters were identified, each with a distinct density magnitude and densification rate. The most significant physiographic factor that discriminates between clusters was proximity to a large water body. Within individual mountain ranges, snowpack density characteristics were primarily dependent on elevation.
Efficacy of an Emotion-Focused Treatment for Prolonged Fatigue
Authors: Schutte Nicola S. , Malouff John M. , Brown Rhonda F.
Published: April 2008

Previous research findings have suggested a relationship between less adaptive emotional functioning and fatigue. The present study used a research design involving multiple baselines across participants to evaluate the efficacy of a new emotion-focused treatment for prolonged fatigue delivered in a cognitive behavioral therapy framework. The 13 adults participating in the study met the criteria for prolonged fatigue and provided fatigue baselines of 2, 5, or 8 weeks. The results indicated that the treatment was effective, with fatigue severity levels after the initiation of treatment significantly lower than that predicted by baseline patterns, as determined by the split median method of trend estimation. At 3—4 months after treatment, 8 of 11 clients who completed the treatment no longer met the criteria for prolonged fatigue.
The Pivotal Role of Women in Informal Care
Authors: Bracke Piet , Christiaens Wendy , Wauterickx Naomi
Published: April 2008

Supporting and caring for each other are crucial parts of the social tissue that binds people together. In these networks, men and women hold different positions: Women more often care more for others, listen more to the problems of others, and, as kin keepers, hold families together. Is this true for all life stages? And are social conditions, among other things bound to the organization of work and family, an essential explanation of these differences? Data from the sixth wave (1997) of the Panel Study of Belgian Households allow us to answer these questions. The results show that women are the glue holding social relations together. They play a central role as friends, daughters, sisters, mothers, and grandmothers throughout all stages of the life course. Similar life commitments do not reduce these gender differences but instead emphasize them even further.
Life Course Patterns of Career-Prioritizing Decisions and Occupational Attainment in Dual-Earner Couples
Authors: Pixley Joy E.
Published: April 2008

Couples' long-term pattern of favoring one spouse's career in major decisions is thought to affect occupational trajectories, but current research has looked only at short-term effects of single decisions. This article applies a new technique, the interpolated curves approach, to represent and compare life course patterns of major career-prioritizing decisions, using in-depth data from 51 couples. Five clusters of career hierarchy patterns are identified; the patterns predict income better than summary measures of career hierarchy, including average individual career gains to decisions and self-reported career priority. Findings are significant for wives, and are similar but weaker for husbands.
Sequestering of Suffering
Authors: Cox Robin S. , Long Bonita C. , Jones Megan I. , Handler Risa J.
Published: April 2008

This article is a critical discourse analysis of the local print-news media coverage of the recovery process in two rural communities following a devastating forest fire. Two hundred and fifty fire-related articles from the North Thompson Star Journal (2003) were analyzed. Results revealed a neoliberal discursive framing of recovery, emphasizing the economic-material aspects of the process and a reliance on experts. A sequestering of suffering discourse promoted psychological functionalism and focused attention on a return to normalcy through the compartmentalization of distress. The dominant ' voice' was male, authoritative, and institutionalized. Implications for disaster recovery and potential health consequences are discussed.
How Well Do Women Adapt to Changes in Their Body Size and Shape across the Course of Pregnancy?
Authors: Duncombe Dianne , Wertheim Eleanor H. , Skouteris Helen , Paxton Susan J. , Kelly Leanne
Published: April 2008

This study examined body image across pregnancy. Pregnant women ( N = 158) completed measures of general attractiveness, feeling fat, fitness and strength, salience of weight and shape, and ideal and current body size at pre-pregnancy (retrospective), and in early, middle and late pregnancy. Body image was found to be fairly stable across pregnancy such that women who started with greater body concerns maintained them over time. Although women were least satisfied with their stomach size at late pregnancy, women's ideal body shape increased in parallel with increases in body size. Women with the most body concerns reported more depressive symptoms, tendency towards dieting, and smoking during pregnancy suggesting they were at greater risk in terms of health and well-being during pregnancy.
Patient Care and Management of Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration
Authors: Massimo Lauren , Grossman Murray
Published: April 2008

Frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) is a neurodegenerative disease that affects frontal and temporal regions of the brain. Two proteins indicated in the pathology are tau and the recently discovered TDP-43. Major manifestations include progressive aphasia and a disorder of social comportment. The diagnosis of a patient includes a detailed cognitive exam, clinical testing, and neuroimaging techniques. The current goal of therapy for FTLD is symptomatic management with medications borrowed from other conditions. Nonpharmacologic management such as behavioral interventions and environmental engineering are also efficacious in optimizing quality of life.
Popliteal Artery Aneurysm Surgery: The Role of Emergency Setting
Authors: Lichtenfels Eduardo , Frankini Airton Delduque , Bonamigo Telmo Pedro , Cardozo Marco Aurelio , Schulte Alfredo Augusto
Published: April 2008

The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of emergent surgery caused by acute complications versus elective surgery of popliteal artery aneurysms (PAAs) and to evaluate the advantages of elective repair related to limb salvage and bypass patency rates. Fifty PAAs were operated on in 40 patients from January 2000 to December 2004. Surgery was elective in 34 cases (68%) and emergent in 16 (32%). Emergent repair was performed because of acute complications. All patients were treated surgically. Early results in terms of limb salvage, primary patency, and assisted patency were assessed. Follow-up consisted of clinical and/or ultrasonographic examinations at 10 days and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months and yearly thereafter. Long-term limb salvage and bypass patency rates were analyzed. The mean follow-up was 17 months. The 1-year limb salvage rate in the elective group was 97.1% versus 56.3% in the emergent group ( P = .0007). The bypass patency rate at 1 year was 94.1% in the elective group versus 66.7% in the emergent group ( P = .03). In this study, the outcomes of the PAA repair were significantly better in the group operated electively and without acute symptoms at presentation compared with the group with acute complications, operated on emergently, especially related to limb salvage and bypass patency rates.
Surgical Repair of a Gunshot Injury to the Left Carotid Artery: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Kropman Rogier H. J. , de Vries Jean-Paul P. M. , Segers Michiel J. M.
Published: April 2008

We present a case of a 37-year-old man who sustained a single gunshot wound (penetrating zones I and II) and internal carotid artery injury. Optimal evaluation and management of vascular injury remains controversial. Literature on the operative techniques of carotid artery injuries is reviewed.
The small molecule Mek1/2 inhibitor U0126 disrupts the chordamesoderm to notochord transition in zebrafish
Authors: Hawkins Thomas A , Cavodeassi Florencia , Erdélyi Ferenc , Szabó Gábor , Lele Zsolt
Published: April 2008

Background

Key molecules involved in notochord differentiation and function have been identified through genetic analysis in zebrafish and mice, but MEK1 and 2 have so far not been implicated in this process due to early lethality (Mek1-/-) and functional redundancy (Mek2-/-) in the knockout animals.

Results

Here, we reveal a potential role for Mek1/2 during notochord development by using the small molecule Mek1/2 inhibitor U0126 which blocks phosphorylation of the Mek1/2 target gene Erk1/2 in vivo. Applying the inhibitor from early gastrulation until the 18-somite stage produces a specific and consistent phenotype with lack of dark pigmentation, shorter tail and an abnormal, undulated notochord. Using morphological analysis, in situ hybridization, immunhistochemistry, TUNEL staining and electron microscopy, we demonstrate that in treated embryos the chordamesoderm to notochord transition is disrupted and identify disorganization in the medial layer of the perinotochordal basement mebrane as the probable cause of the undulations and bulges in the notochord. We also examined and excluded FGF as the upstream signal during this process.

Conclusion

Using the small chemical U0126, we have established a novel link between MAPK-signaling and notochord differentiation. Our phenotypic analysis suggests a potential connection between the MAPK-pathway, the COPI-mediated intracellular transport and/or the copper-dependent posttranslational regulatory processes during notochord differentiation.
Vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms and haplotypes and postmenopausal breast cancer risk
Authors: Abbas Sascha , Nieters Alexandra , Linseisen Jakob , Slanger Tracy , Kropp Silke , Mutschelknauss Elke Jonny , Flesch-Janys Dieter , Chang-Claude Jenny
Published: April 2008

Introduction

Vitamin D receptor (VDR) genotypes may influence breast cancer risk by altering potential anticarcinogenic effects of vitamin D, but epidemiological studies have been inconsistent. Effect modification by serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25 [OH]D), the biomarker for vitamin D status in humans, has rarely been examined.

Methods

We assessed the effects of two frequently analyzed polymorphisms (FokI and TaqI) and two potentially functional variants (VDR-5132 and Cdx2) in the VDR gene, which thus far have not been analyzed with respect to breast cancer risk, on postmenopausal breast cancer risk in a population-based, case-control study including 1,408 patients (cases) and 2,612 control individuals (controls) matched for year of birth. Odds ratios (ORs) for breast cancer adjusted for potential confounders were calculated for genotypes and estimated haplotypes.

Results

No differences in serum 25(OD)D concentrations by VDR genotype were observed. None of the analyzed polymorphisms was associated with overall risk for postmenopausal breast cancer. However, the TaqI polymorphism was associated with a significantly increased risk for oestrogen receptor positive tumours (OR = 1.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.00 to 1.38, comparing t allele carriers with noncarriers) but not for oestrogen receptor negative tumours (OR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.69 to 1.13; P for interaction = 0.04). Haplotype analysis revealed the haplotype FtCA (FokI F, TaqI t, VDR-5132 C, Cdx2 A), which contains the TaqI t allele, to be associated with a significantly greater breast cancer risk as compared with the most frequent haplotype FTCG (OR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.00 to 2.05). No significant interaction between VDR genotypes or haplotypes and 25(OH)D was observed.

Conclusion

Our results support potential effects of VDR polymorphisms on postmenopausal breast cancer risk and possible differential effects of receptor status of the tumour. However, further studies focusing on the influence of polymorphisms and haplotypes on VDR functionality, activity and concentration are needed.
Phase II Trial of Lapatinib for Brain Metastases in Patients With Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2–Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Lin Nancy U. , Carey Lisa A. , Liu Minetta C. , Younger Jerry , Come Steven E. , Ewend Matthew , Harris Gordon J. , Bullitt Elizabeth , Van den Abbeele Annick D. , Henson John W. , Li Xiaochun , Gelman Rebecca , Burstein Harold J. , Kasparian Elizabeth , Kirsch David G. , Crawford Ann , Hochberg Fred , Winer Eric P.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

One third of women with advanced human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2)–positive breast cancer develop brain metastases; a subset progress in the CNS despite standard approaches. Medical therapies for refractory brain metastases are neither well-studied nor established. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of lapatinib, an oral inhibitor of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and HER-2, in patients with HER-2–positive brain metastases.

Patients and Methods

Patients had HER-2–positive breast cancer, progressive brain metastases, prior trastuzumab treatment, and at least one measurable metastatic brain lesion. Patients received lapatinib 750 mg orally twice a day. Tumor response was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging every 8 weeks. The primary end point was objective response (complete response [CR] plus partial response [PR]) in the CNS by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST). Secondary end points included objective response in non-CNS sites, time to progression, overall survival, and toxicity.

Results

Thirty-nine patients were enrolled. All patients had developed brain metastases while receiving trastuzumab; 37 had progressed after prior radiation. One patient achieved a PR in the brain by RECIST (objective response rate 2.6%, 95% conditional CI, 0.21% to 26%). Seven patients (18%) were progression free in both CNS and non-CNS sites at 16 weeks. Exploratory analyses identified additional patients with some degree of volumetric reduction in brain tumor burden. The most common adverse events (AEs) were diarrhea (grade 3, 21%) and fatigue (grade 3, 15%).

Conclusion

The study did not meet the predefined criteria for antitumor activity in highly refractory patients with HER-2–positive brain metastases. Because of the volumetric changes observed in our exploratory analysis, further studies are underway utilizing volumetric changes as a primary end point.
Regulation of TGF-β signalling by N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase-like 1
Authors: Herr Patrick , Korniychuk Ganna , Yamamoto Yukiyo , Grubisic Kristina , Oelgeschläger Michael
Published: April 2008

The TGF-β superfamily of secreted signalling molecules plays a pivotal role in the regulation of early embryogenesis, organogenesis and adult tissue homeostasis. Here we report the identification of XenopusN-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase-like 1 (xGalntl-1) as a novel important regulator of TGF-β signalling. N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferases mediate the first step of mucin-type glycosylation, adding N-acetylgalactose to serine or threonine side chains. xGalntl-1 is expressed in the anterior mesoderm and neural crest territory at neurula stage, and in the anterior neural crest,notochord and the mediolateral spinal cord at tailbud stage. Inhibition of endogenous xGalntl-1 protein synthesis, using specific morpholino oligomers,interfered with the formation of anterior neural crest, anterior notochord and the spinal cord. Xenopus and mammalian Galntl-1 inhibited Activin as well as BMP signalling in the early Xenopus embryo and in human HEK 293T cells. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments showed that xGalntl-1 interferes with the activity of the common TGF-β type II receptor ActR-IIB in vivo. In addition, our biochemical data demonstrated that xGalntl-1 specifically interferes with the binding of ActR-IIB to Activin- and BMP-specific type I receptors. This inhibitory activity of xGalntl-1 was dependent on mucin-type glycosylation, as it was sensitive to the chemical inhibitor benzyl-GalNAc. These studies reveal an important role of a N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase in the regulation of TGF-β signalling. This novel regulatory mechanism is evolutionarily conserved and, thus, might provide a new paradigm for the regulation of TGF-β signalling in vertebrates.
Aspirin Responsiveness in Healthy Volunteers Measured with Multiple Assay Platforms
Authors: Karon Brad S , Wockenfus Amy , Scott Renee , Hartman Stacy J , McConnell Joseph P , Santrach Paula J , Jaffe Allan S
Published: April 2008

Background: We evaluated the sensitivity, precision, and concordance of 4 assays designed to detect aspirin responsiveness or resistance.

Methods: Twenty-nine healthy laboratory volunteers took 80 mg aspirin for 7 days, and a subset of volunteers took 325 mg aspirin for an additional 7 days. We measured platelet function by light transmission aggregometry with arachidonic acid, PFA-100, and VerifyNow. PFA-100 and VerifyNow assays were performed in duplicate to assess method imprecision. Some volunteers had samples taken within 2–4 h of the final dose of aspirin and again within 20–24 h of the final dose. We measured urinary 11-dehydro-thromboxane B2 at baseline and after 80 or 325 mg aspirin.

Results: No volunteers were nonresponsive to aspirin therapy as measured by the PFA-100. One of 29 participants demonstrated lack of response to aspirin as measured by VerifyNow and urinary 11-dehydro-thromboxane B2; 2 of 29 demonstrated lack of response as measured by light transmission aggregometry. Imprecision was <10% for the PFA-100 and VerifyNow. Concordance was high (>90%) between all assays. Neither aspirin dose (80 vs 325 mg) nor timing between final dose of aspirin and blood draw (2–4 vs 20–24 h) affected any of the assays.

Conclusions: Light transmission aggregometry, PFA-100, VerifyNow, and urinary 11-dehydro-thromboxane B2 are all sensitive to the effects of aspirin in healthy individuals. Variables such as aspirin dose, timing between final dose of aspirin and blood collection, and imprecision do not affect the ability of the assays to detect aspirin effect on platelet function.
The Effect of Head-Related Transfer Function Measurement Methodology on Localization Performance in Spatial Audio Interfaces
Authors: MacDonald Justin A. , Tran Phuong K.
Published: April 2008

Objective: Four head-related transfer function (HRTF) data sets were compared to determine the effect of HRTF measurement methodology on the localization of spatialized auditory stimuli. Background: Spatial audio interfaces typically require HRTF data sets to generate the spatialized auditory stimuli. HRTF measurement is accomplished using a variety of techniques that can require several nearly arbitrary decisions about methodology. The effects of these choices upon the resulting spatial audio interface are unclear. Method: Sixteen participants completed a sound localization task that included real-world, broadband stimuli spatialized at eight locations on the horizontal plane. Four different HRTF data sets were utilized to spatialize the stimuli: two publicly available HRTF data sets and two data sets obtained using different in-house measurement systems. All HRTFs were obtained from the Knowles Electronics Mannequin for Acoustics Research. Results: Unsigned localization error and proportion of front/back reversals did not differ significantly across HRTF data sets. Poorest accuracy was observed in locations near the medial (front/back) axis of the listener, mainly because of the relatively large proportions of reversals at these locations. Conclusion: This study suggests that the particular generalized HRTF data set chosen for spatialization is of minimal importance to the localizability of the resulting stimuli. Application: This result will inform the design of many spatial audio interfaces that are based upon generalized HRTFs, including wayfaring devices, communication systems, and virtual reality systems.
Effects of Age, Gender, and Target Location on Seated Reach Capacity and Posture
Authors: Chateauroux Elodie , Wang Xuguang
Published: April 2008

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of age, gender, and target location upon arm reach capacity and posture. Background: The older adult population is growing in number. Their specific needs must be better understood to improve the design of work and life spaces. Method: Thirty-eight adults, divided into four groups according to their gender and age, participated in the experiment. They were asked to reach 84 targets located in a large space defined according to their anthropometry and reach capacities. Reach capacities and postures were analyzed. Results: On average, older participants showed shorter maximal reach distances (by 4.8% of upper limb length) as compared with younger participants. No gender difference was found for maximum reach distance. Age also had significant effects on reach posture, especially through its interactions with target azimuth. Older participants tended to use their trunk less whenever possible. Reduced neck and trunk/seat axial rotations were observed for the older participants when the target deviated from the sagittal plane. They compensated by a greater rotation of the pelvis with respect to the seat. Conclusion: Older people's reach capacities should be taken as references, rather than those of younger people, in order to accommodate a wider range of the population. Application: These results can be used to improve the arrangement of living spaces and work spaces for older people.
Motion Sickness and Postural Sway in Console Video Games
Authors: Stoffregen Thomas A. , Faugloire Elise , Yoshida Ken , Flanagan Moira B. , Merhi Omar
Published: April 2008

Objective: We tested the hypotheses that (a) participants might develop motion sickness while playing “off-the-shelf” console video games and (b) postural motion would differ between sick and well participants, prior to the onset of motion sickness. Background: There have been many anecdotal reports of motion sickness among people who play console video games (e.g., Xbox, PlayStation). Method: Participants (40 undergraduate students) played a game continuously for up to 50 min while standing or sitting. We varied the distance to the display screen (and, consequently, the visual angle of the display). Results: Across conditions, the incidence of motion sickness ranged from 42% to 56%; incidence did not differ across conditions. During game play, head and torso motion differed between sick and well participants prior to the onset of subjective symptoms of motion sickness. Conclusion: The results indicate that console video games carry a significant risk of motion sickness. Application: Potential applications of this research include changes in the design of console video games and recommendations for how such systems should be used.
A Queen's Drowning: Material Culture, Drama, and the Performance of a Technological Accident
Authors: Vannini Phillip
Published: April 2008

Drawing on ethnographic data collected among residents of northwest British Columbia's coastal and island residents, I examine a technological accident: the sinking of the M/V Queen of the North. This accident is examined as an instance of social drama, as a succession of what Victor Turner calls breach, crisis, redress, and reintegration and what in this case I call wrecking, coping, inquiring, and mending. Ethnographic description, performative representation, and dramaturgic analysis of the sinking yield the impression that the Queen of the North was a person. Examined throughout this article are the performative processes through which the personhood and agency of this material object is accomplished. In so doing I posit an original dramaturgic approach to technoculture.
Avaliação dos potenciais evocados relacionados a eventos (ERP-P300) em pacientes com cirrose hepática sem encefalopatia
Authors: Teodoro Vinicius , Bragagnolo Jr. Maurício , Lucchesi Lígia , Kondo Mário , Tufik Sérgio
Published: April 2008

RACIONAL: Na cirrose hepática ocorrem alterações na estrutura do fígado, levando à perda das funções do órgão, com conseqüências neuropsiquiátricas, como disfunções cognitivas. Um dos meios mais efetivos para avaliar objetivamente as funções cognitivas é medir a atividade eletrofisiológica do sistema nervoso central através do potencial evocado relacionado a eventos (ERP-P300). OBJETIVO: Estudar a utilidade do potencial evocado relacionado a eventos (ERP), para avaliar distúrbios cognitivos em pacientes com cirrose hepática e como auxiliar no diagnóstico da encefalopatia hepática mínima. MÉTODO: Foram selecionados 50 pacientes, diagnosticados com cirrose hepática sem sinais clínicos de encefalopatia hepática e 35 voluntários saudáveis de idades e sexo semelhantes. Em todos os pacientes foram realizados exames clínico-neurológico e laboratoriais. Para identificação do prejuízo cognitivo foi utilizado o ERP-P300 e obtida a média da latência da onda P300. RESULTADOS: Houve diferença significativa entre as médias da latência do ERP-P300 do grupo cirrótico e controle. CONCLUSÃO: A realização do ERP-P300 é simples, depende de fatores controláveis de variação e tem fácil reprodutibilidade, podendo ser útil para o rastreio de distúrbios cognitivos em pacientes com cirrose e auxiliar no diagnóstico de encefalopatia hepática mínima.