bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival Expectations of Patients Diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2006–2010
Authors: Brenner Hermann , Gondos Adam , Pulte Dianne
Published: August 2009

Available long-term survival figures for patients with Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL) from population-based cancer registries mostly refer to patients diagnosed in the 1980s and 1990s, and do not reflect recent progress in and spread of effective therapy at the population level. Using data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program, we employed a novel model-based projection method to estimate 5- and 10-year relative survival expectations of HL patients in the U.S. diagnosed in 2006–2010. Preliminary empirical evaluation of the method using historical data indicates excellent performance. Projections of 10-year relative survival percentages and their standard errors by age groups are as follows: 15–24 y: 94.7 (1.1), 25–34 years, 89.4 (1.5); 35–44 years, 90.1 (1.6); 45–54 years, 83.6 (2.7); 55–64 years, 70.5 (4.7); 65–74 years, 48.5 (5.9); and 75+ years, 24.0 (5.7). These estimates are 2.5–11.1 percentage points higher than those obtained by standard cohort analysis from the same database (pertaining to patients diagnosed in 1991–1995). Patients diagnosed with HL in 2006–2010 have higher long-term survival expectations than suggested by conventional survival statistics from population-based cancer registries. The 10-year survival expectations are now close to or exceed 90% in all age groups up to age 45, and exceed 80% and 70% in the 45–54 and 55–64 age groups, respectively.
What Is the Role of Cytotoxic T Lymphocyte–Associated Antigen 4 Blockade in Patients with Metastatic Melanoma?
Authors: Robert Caroline , Ghiringhelli Francois
Published: August 2009

With increasing knowledge of the molecular basis of the immune system and mechanisms of tumor tolerance, novel approaches to treating malignant diseases refractory to standard therapies are being investigated. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that bind cytotoxic T lymphocyte–associated antigen (CTLA)-4 can block inhibitory signals normally generated through this receptor, thus prolonging and sustaining T-cell activation and proliferation. These antibodies are being developed and tested in patients with metastatic melanoma. This article reviews data published or presented at scientific congresses describing the clinical safety and antitumor activity of two different anti–CTLA-4 mAbs: tremelimumab (CP-675,206) and ipilimumab (MDX-010). Overall, although the response rate has not been consistently higher than the response rates associated with other treatments, the induction of durable responses and the favorable safety profile observed with anti–CTLA-4 mAbs are encouraging. However, the true advantage of these new drugs may depend largely on the characterization of predictive biomarkers of activity and subsequent targeting of responsive patients.
Sorafenib and Sunitinib
Authors: Kim AeRang , Balis Frank M. , Widemann Brigitte C.
Published: August 2009

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Enumerate the clinical indications for sorafenib and sunitinib therapy.Describe the mechanism of action and the pharmacokinetics of sorafenib and sunitinib.Analyze the toxicity profile and appraise the therapeutic effects associated with sorafenib and sunitinib.

This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com.
Studying Survival in Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: All for One, or One for All? Why Methodology Matters
Authors: Smith Stephen D. , Sweetenham John W.
Published: August 2009

This editorial critically reviews the Brenner et al. manuscript on survival expectations in Hodgkin’s lymphoma patients published in this issue.
Strong humoral response elicited by a DNA vaccine targeting gastrin-releasing peptide with optimized adjuvants inhibits murine prostate carcinoma growth in vivo
Authors: Lu Yong , Mekoo Didier J L , Ouyang Kedong , Hu Xiangbing , Liu Yanhua , Lin Ming , Jin Liang , Cao Rongyue , Li Taiming , Zhang Yankai , Fan Hao , Liu Jingjing
Published: August 2009

Previous studies demonstrated that the elevated expression and receptor binding of gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) in various types of cancer suggest that GRP might be a putative target for immunotherapy in neoplastic diseases. DNA vaccine for hormone/growth factor immune deprivation represents a feasible and attractive approach for cancer treatment; nevertheless, there is still a need to increase the potency of the DNA vaccine. Here, based on six copies of the B cell epitope GRP18–27 in a linear alignment as an immunogen, we designed several anti-GRP DNA vaccines containing different combinations of immunoadjuvants, such as HSP65, tetanus toxoid830–844 (T), pan HLA-DR-binding epitope (PADRE) (P), and mycobacterial HSP70407–426 (M), on a backbone of pCR3.1 plasmid vector with eight 5′-GACGTT-3′ CpG motifs and the VEGF183 signal peptide (VS). The effects of these immunoadjuvants in enhancing GRP-specific humoral immune response were then evaluated by comparing the respective immunogenicity and antitumor effects. Immunization of mice with pCR3.1-VS-HSP65-TP-GRP6-M2 elicited much higher levels of specific anti-GRP antibodies and more effectively inhibited the growth of a GRP-dependent tumor RM-1 in vivo. Interestingly, plasmids encoding for 2HSP70407–426, but not the one with 1 or 3HSP70407–426 showed stronger immune stimulatory potential as well as impressive antitumor activity, suggesting that 2HSP70407–426 is an efficient molecular adjuvant for developing self-epitope vaccines. The highly immunogenic, potent anti-tumorigenic and antiangiogenesis activities of the anti-GRP DNA vaccine offered a novel immunotherapeutic approach in the treatment of GRP-dependent tumors and their complications.
Surface translocation and tri-iodothyronine uptake of mutant MCT8 proteins are cell type-dependent
Authors: Kinne Anita , Roth Stephan , Biebermann Heike , Köhrle Josef , Grüters Annette , Schweizer Ulrich
Published: August 2009

Mutations in the gene encoding the thyroid hormone transporter, monocarboxylate transporter 8 (MCT8), underlie severe mental retardation. We wanted to understand the functional consequences of a series of missense mutations in MCT8 in order to identify therapeutic options for affected patients. We established cell lines stably expressing 12 MCT8 variants in JEG1 and MDCK1 cells. The cell lines were characterized according to MCT8 mRNA and protein expression, tri-iodothyronine (T3) transport activity, substrate KM characteristics, surface expression, and responsiveness to T3 preincubation and chemical chaperones. Functional activities of ins235V and L568P MCT8 mutants depend on the cell type in which they are expressed. These mutants and R271H exhibited considerable transport activity when present at the cell surface as verified by surface biotinylation and kinetic analysis. Most mutants, however, were inactive in T3 transport even when present at the cell surface (e.g. S194F, A224V, ΔF230, L512P). Preincubation of G558D with T3 increased T3 uptake in MDCK1 cells to a small, but significant, extent. Chemical chaperones were ineffective. The finding that the cell type determines surface expression and T3 transport activities of missense mutants in MCT8 may be important to understand phenotypic variability among carriers of different mutations. In particular, the clinical observation that the severity of derangements of thyroid hormone levels does not correlate with mental impairments of the patients may be based on different residual activity of mutant MCT8 in different cell types.
Maternal undernutrition increases pancreatic IGF-2 and partially suppresses the physiological wave of β-cell apoptosis during the neonatal period
Authors: de Miguel-Santos Laura , Fernández-Millán Elisa , Ángeles Martín María , Escrivá Fernando , Álvarez Carmen
Published: August 2009

Replication, neogenesis, and apoptosis play a main role in neonatal endocrine pancreas remodeling. IGFs are major contributors to β-cell growth and function and are highly sensitive to nutritional status. We previously showed that maternal malnutrition caused an increase in β-cell mass in fetuses related to the stimulation of β-cell proliferation due to increased pancreatic IGF-1. At 4 days of life, the β-cell mass was decreased in undernourished neonates and persisted until adult age. To clarify whether undernutrition disrupts islet remodeling, we quantified β-cell mass, neogenesis, replication, and apoptosis on days 4, 14, and 23. To determine the impact of food restriction on IGF ontogeny and the consequences for β-cell growth, we measured IGF-1/-2 protein content in pancreas and liver and pancreatic IGF-1 receptor (IGF-1R)-signaling pathway at the same days. Our results indicate that undernutrition alters the timing and intensity of neonatal β-cell ontogeny. However, although malnutrition causes β-cell deficiency in neonates, an active process of β-cell neogenesis and a lower incidence of β-cell apoptosis maintain the regenerative capacity of the endocrine pancreas. Interestingly, our data provide evidence that local production of IGFs seems to be instrumental in these processes. In particular, increased pancreatic IGF-2 in undernourished rats may contribute to the partial suppression of the developmental wave of β-cell apoptosis probably through the inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase-3. In addition, decreased pancreatic levels of IGFBP-1/-2/-3 in undernourished neonates could enhance IGF availability for interacting with IGF-1R/IR.
Effects of heme oxygenase isozymes on Leydig cells steroidogenesis
Authors: Piotrkowski Barbara , Monzón Casandra M , Pagotto Romina M , Reche Cecilia G , Besio Marcos , Cymeryng Cora B , Pignataro Omar P
Published: August 2009

In the present study, we demonstrate the expression of heme oxygenase (HO) isozymes, HO-1 and HO-2 (listed as HMOX1 and HMOX2 in the MGI Database), in MA-10 Leydig tumor cells and its effect on steroidogenesis. The well-known HO inducer, hemin, increased both HO-1 and HO-2 protein levels and HO-specific activity. Induction of HO by hemin inhibited basal, hCG-, and dibutyryl cAMP (db-cAMP)-induced steroidogenesis in a reversible way. When we studied the effect of HO isozymes along the steroid synthesis, we found that steroidogenic acute regulatory protein levels were decreased, and the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone was inhibited by hemin treatment, with no changes in the content of cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc). hCG and db-cAMP also stimulated the expression of HO-1 and HO-2, and HO enzymatic activity in MA-10 cells. Basal and hCG-stimulated testosterone synthesis was also inhibited by hemin in rat normal Leydig cells. Taken together, these results suggest that: i) at least one of HO products (presumably carbon monoxide) inhibits cholesterol transport to the inner mitochondrial membrane and Leydig cell steroidogenesis by binding to the heme group of the cytochrome P450 enzymes, in a similar way as we described for nitric oxide, and ii) hCG stimulation results in the induction of an antioxidant enzymatic system (HO) acting as a cytoprotective mechanism in Leydig cells, as already demonstrated in the adrenal gland.
Development and Preliminary Validation of a Trait Version of the Toronto Mindfulness Scale
Authors: Davis Karen M. , Lau Mark A. , Cairns David R.
Published: August 2009

After developing a trait version of the Toronto Mindfulness Scale (TMS), we evaluated its reliability, its convergent validity with six other trait mindfulness measures, and its construct validity in relation to prior meditation experience. A sample of nonmeditators (N = 218) and meditators (N = 243) with a wide range of meditation experience completed the Trait TMS and the six other mindfulness measures. Internal consistency reliability of the Trait TMS was comparable to that of the original State TMS. Significant positive correlations were found between both TMS factors and the other mindfulness measures; however, in general, the correlations for TMS Decenter were higher than for TMS Curiosity. Scores for TMS Decenter were shown to increase with meditation experience, but this was not the case for TMS Curiosity. The TMS Curiosity factor may assess a unique aspect of the mindfulness construct. Implications of these findings in relation to future mindfulness research are discussed.
Do Mindfulness Meditation Participants Do Their Homework? And Does It Make a Difference? A Review of the Empirical Evidence
Authors: Vettese Lisa Christine , Toneatto Tony , Stea Jonathan N. , Nguyen Linda , Wang Jenny Jing
Published: August 2009

Mindfulness-based interventions have been shown to alleviate symptoms of a wide range of physical and mental health conditions. Regular between-session practice of mindfulness meditation is among the key factors proposed to produce the therapeutic benefits of mindfulness-based programs. This article reviews the mindfulness intervention literature with a focus on the status of home practice research and the relationship of practice to mindfulness program outcomes. Of 98 studies reviewed, nearly one-quarter (N = 24) evaluated the associations between home practice and measures of clinical functioning, with just over half (N = 13) demonstrating at least partial support for the benefits of practice. These findings indicate a substantial disparity between what is espoused clinically and what is known empirically about the benefits of mindfulness practice. Improved methodologies for tracking and evaluating the effects of home practice are recommended.
Psychological Functioning in a Sample of Long-Term Practitioners of Mindfulness Meditation
Authors: Lykins Emily L. B. , Baer Ruth A.
Published: August 2009

Although mindfulness meditation traditionally is viewed as a lifelong practice, much current knowledge about its effects is based on short-term practitioners who have participated in mindfulness-based treatment. In the current study, long-term meditators and demographically similar nonmeditators completed self-report measures of constructs expected to be related to the practice of mindfulness meditation. Extent of meditation experience was correlated in the expected directions with levels of mindfulness and with many other variables. Mean differences between meditators and nonmeditators were significant in most cases. Mediation analyses were consistent with the hypothesis that practicing meditation is associated with increased mindfulness in daily life, which is related to decreased rumination, decreased fear of emotion, and increased behavioral self-regulation. These mechanisms appear partially responsible for the relationships between mindfulness skills and psychological adjustment. Overall, the current study suggests that the long-term practice of mindfulness meditation may cultivate mindfulness skills and promote adaptive functioning.
Mindfulness Meditation Training and Self-Referential Processing in Social Anxiety Disorder: Behavioral and Neural Effects
Authors: Goldin Philippe , Ramel Wiveka , Gross James
Published: August 2009

This study examined the effects of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) on the brain–behavior mechanisms of self-referential processing in patients with social anxiety disorder (SAD). Sixteen patients underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging while encoding self-referential, valence, and orthographic features of social trait adjectives. Post-MBSR, 14 patients completed neuroimaging. Compared to baseline, MBSR completers showed (a) increased self-esteem and decreased anxiety, (b) increased positive and decreased negative self-endorsement, (c) increased activity in a brain network related to attention regulation, and (d) reduced activity in brain systems implicated in conceptual-linguistic self-view. MBSR-related changes in maladaptive or distorted social self-view in adults diagnosed with SAD may be related to modulation of conceptual self-processing and attention regulation. Self-referential processing may serve as a functional biobehavioral target to measure the effects of mindfulness training.
The Role of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction on Perceived Stress: Preliminary Evidence for the Moderating Role of Attachment Style
Authors: Cordon Shari L. , Brown Kirk Warren , Gibson Pamela R.
Published: August 2009

The current research investigated whether adult attachment style moderated the effect of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) participation on levels of perceived stress. Study completing participants (secure group n = 65; insecure group n = 66) completed pre- and postintervention self-report assessments of perceived stress. The insecure group reported significantly higher stress levels prior to MBSR participation, but both groups showed significant pre–post intervention declines in perceived stress. Compared to the secure group, the insecure group also reported marginally lower perceived stress following MBSR participation. Study findings support the efficacy of MBSR for stress reduction across attachment style. Findings also suggest that MBSR participation may provide slightly greater stress reduction benefits for insecurely attached individuals.
Evolving Conceptions of Mindfulness in Clinical Settings
Authors: Carmody James
Published: August 2009

A number of issues important to the clinical utility of mindfulness require systematic study. These include the most parsimonious definition of mindfulness for clinical purposes, how mindfulness is best described to be most approachable to patients, and the extent to which mindfulness shares common mechanisms with other mind–body programs. The discussion includes a brief review of the transition of mindfulness from traditional into clinical settings as well as the components commonly contained within clinical descriptions of mindfulness. A model based on facility in the use of attention is proposed, and a description of mechanisms by which attentional skill may lead to the recognition of internal associational processes and account for psychological outcomes is given. Using constructs already familiar to patients, an attention-based conception may also be more accessible to patients than more elaborate descriptions and have greater utility in identifying commonalities that mindfulness training may have with other mind–body programs.
A Review of the Resilience Scale
Authors: Wagnild Gail
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this article is to review 12 completed studies that have used the Resilience Scale (Wagnild & Young, 1993). Completed studies were identified through PubMed and CINAHL. Studies that identified Resilience Scale scores, sample descriptions, and tested relationships between the Resilience Scale and study variables were selected for inclusion. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients ranged from .72 to .94 supporting the internal consistency reliability of the Resilience Scale. Hypothesized relationships between the Resilience Scale and study variables (e.g., forgiveness, stress, anxiety, health promoting activities) were supported strengthening the evidence for construct validity of the Resilience Scale. In the studies reported here, the Resilience Scale has been used with a variety of individuals of different ages, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds. The Resilience Scale has performed as a reliable and valid tool to measure resilience and has been used with a wide range of study populations.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Nurse Practitioner Satisfaction Survey (NPSS)
Authors: Agosta Lucie J.
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this study was to identify and define underlying latent constructs within the concept of patient satisfaction with nurse practitioner delivered primary health care. The Nurse Practitioner Satisfaction Survey (NPSS), a 28-item, Likert-type, researcher developed instrument was completed by 300 clients presenting for primary health care visits in a hospital outpatient clinic. Factor analysis with promax rotation resulted in a three factor model explaining 70.77% of the variance. Eighteen items loaded on general satisfaction. Six items loaded on communication, and four items loaded on accessibility and convenience. Cronbach’s alpha internal consistency reliability coefficients were .98, .83, and .76 for the three factors, respectively. The NPSS was found to be reliable and valid for measuring patient satisfaction with nurse practitioner delivered primary health care services.
Modification and Psychometric Testing of the Reminiscence Functions Scale
Authors: Washington Gail
Published: August 2009

This article describes the psychometric evaluation of the Modified Reminiscence Functions Scale (MRFS). The 39-item MRFS was validated on a sample of 271 racially diverse older adults. Psychometric analysis included content validity, item analysis, principal component analysis with varimax rotation, test–retest reliability, and internal consistency reliability using Cronbach’s alpha. The model’s structure supports a seven-factor, 39-item scale. Test–retest and Cronbach’s alpha for the instrument were .82 and .94, respectively. The seven-factor scale: self-regard, death, bitterness, intimacy, teach–inform, boredom, and conversation accounted for 61% of variance. Evidence indicates the self-report Likert instrument is a reliable and valid measure of reminiscence functions. Cross-validation with other populations and further research is needed to identify other reminiscence dimensions–functions.
Refinement and Validation of the Episode-Specific Interpretations of Exercise Inventory
Authors: Schneider Joanne Kraenzle
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this study was to refine an instrument to measure interpretations of exercise, the Episode-Specific Interpretations of Exercise Inventory (ESIE), and further examine its validity. This study was a secondary data analysis using community-dwelling older adults from two larger clinical trials. Fit indices from confirmatory factory analyses were strong. Cronbach’s alphas for internal consistency reliability ranged from .70 to .91. Construct validity of the ESIE was supported by participants’ reports of more sweating during the strength phase of exercise than during the flexibility phase and during the aerobic phase of exercise than during the flexibility and strength phases. In addition, correlations between the ESIE subscales and other feeling-related subscales made sense conceptually. In conclusion, that the ESIE provides a measure that examines older adults’ exercise experience as well as their interpretations of that experience.
Measurement Properties of the Centers for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) in a Sample of African American and Non-Hispanic White Pregnant Women
Authors: Canady Renée B. , Stommel Manfred , Holzman Claudia
Published: August 2009

This study investigated the appropriateness of using the CES-D scale for comparing depressive symptoms among pregnant women of different races. Black and White women were matched on education, age, Medicaid status, and marital status–living arrangements. The matching procedure yielded a study sample of 375 in each ethnic group. Using a confirmatory factor analysis, the fit of several factor models for the CES-D was evaluated. One CES-D item, “everything was an effort,” showed a low item-total correlation (0.04 among blacks, 0.22 among whites) and was excluded from further analysis. After imposing the constraints of equal factor loadings and factor covariance across both groups, a two-factor model with 19 CES-D items provided a good fit. Only the loading for the “was happy” item displayed a small difference between the two groups. Furthermore, the correlations between the original 20-item and the unbiased 18-item scales were r = 0.994 for Whites and r = 0.992 for Blacks. The results suggest that the 20-item CES-D can be used to compare depressive symptoms in White and Black pregnant women without introducing significant ethnic–racial bias in the measurement of these symptoms.
Making Dreams, Not Babies: The Power of Hope in a Teen Family Planning Clinic
Authors: Raines Kimberly
Published: August 2009

Teenage pregnancy is a significant social issue in the United States, resulting in increased levels of poverty. Most public health family planning efforts have traditionally focused on teaching teens the how-to of contraception, with little focus on teaching the why-to. During my time as a nurse practitioner in a public health department family planning clinic, I developed a method to open discussions with patients about the possibilities of a future that includes delayed childbearing. My experience with this strategy taught me that hope may indeed be the most powerful contraceptive of all.
The Case Manager: An Essential Link in Quality Care
Authors: McCullough Lynn
Published: August 2009

The role of case manager is often untapped or underutilized. Nursing case management is recognized by accrediting entities as a unique specialty practice and, when consistently applied, is the holistic implementation of the nursing process focused on an individual's needs, coupled with a commitment to the role of advocate and educator. Case managers on multidisciplinary teams help ensure continuity of care and consistency of communication; they are invaluable advocates for patients navigating the complexities of the current health care system.
A Patient's Experience as a Research Participant
Authors: Tillman Laura
Published: August 2009

The author presents a brief synopsis of an interview with a research participant, highlighting the individual's insights and recommendations both for participants and for researchers.
The HeART of Self-C.A.R.I.N.G.: A Journey to Becoming an Optimal Healing Presence to Ourselves and Our Patients
Authors: Hernandez Grissel
Published: August 2009

Nurses are experts at caring for others but novices at caring for themselves. Self-care is foundational to nursing, and many nurses appreciate that self-care is essential to our practices, but many of us fail to properly care for ourselves. This article will introduce nurses to the principles of self-caring and provide simple strategies for incorporating self-care into our nursing practice.
A Day in a Preemie's Life
Authors: Moore Hannah
Published: August 2009

A former NICU patient, now an RN, describes a preemie's routine care, enriched by the love of her family and her nurses.
The Best Greeting: “We've Been Waiting for You”
Authors: Kinnaird Leah
Published: August 2009

In this essay, Leah Kinnaird describes an experience she had as a breast cancer patient and how a simple greeting can trigger a paradigm shift. The meaning of time to cancer patients is the underlying theme.
Bring Me to Belize: A Timeless Journey
Authors: Gulley Tauna , McNew Leslie Brooke
Published: August 2009

Time is a concept that varies from culture to culture. This article describes differences in time perception of patients in Belize compared to those in the United States. A medical mission team's approach to care with regard to time perception is also provided.
Through the Eyes of the Patient's Nurse Family Member
Authors: Steefel Lorraine
Published: August 2009

An RN–parent describes her angst about the care her daughter received in a hospital and in a rehab facility, and how she came to terms with her nurse and parent identities.
Strengthening the Nurse–Patient Relationship: “What is the Most Important Thing I Can Do for you Today?”
Authors: Cappabianca Agnes , Julliard Kell , Raso Rosanne , Ruggiero Jillian
Published: August 2009

We asked our patients, “What is the most important thing I can do for you today?” and analyzed the self-identified patient needs. Eleven themes emerged; we used these findings to drive a unit-based project and a hospital-based project, hard-wiring strategies into the infrastructure of Relationship-Centered Care to build relationships between patients/families and staff and to establish a healing and caring environment.
Adult PTSD and Its Treatment With EMDR: A Review of Controversies, Evidence, and Theoretical Knowledge
Authors: Schubert Sarah , Lee Christopher W.
Published: August 2009

This article provides an overview of selective issues relating to adult posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and its treatment with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). The article begins by providing a historical overview of PTSD, and debates about the etiology and definition of PTSD are discussed. The most predominant theories of PTSD are summarized by highlighting how they have evolved from traditional behavioral accounts based on the assumption that PTSD is an anxiety disorder to theories that now incorporate information-processing models. This article then examines the development of EMDR and the corresponding body of research that clearly demonstrates its efficacy for the treatment for adult PTSD. The underlying mechanisms of EMDR are discussed, with a focus on the importance of the eye movement component and how the therapeutic processes in EMDR differ from those of traditional exposure therapy. Finally, the adaptive information-processing (AIP) model that underlies EMDR is outlined, and evidence for the model is summarized. The article concludes by suggesting future research based on questions raised about PTSD and its treatment with EMDR when the AIP model is compared to other information-based theories of PTSD.
EMDR and the Anxiety Disorders: Exploring the Current Status
Authors: de Jongh Ad , Broeke Erik ten
Published: August 2009

Based on the assumptions of Shapiro’s adaptive information-processing model, it could be argued that a large proportion of people suffering from an anxiety disorder would benefit from eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). This article provides an overview of the current empirical evidence on the application of EMDR for the anxiety disorders spectrum other than posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Reviewing the existing literature, it is disappointing to find that 20 years after its introduction, support for the efficacy of EMDR for other conditions than PTSD is still scarce. Randomized outcome research is limited to panic disorder with agoraphobia and spider phobia. The results suggest that EMDR is generally more effective than no-treatment control conditions or nonspecific interventions but less effective than existing evidence-based (i.e., exposure-based) interventions. However, since these studies were based on incomplete protocols and limited treatment courses, questions about the relative efficacy of EMDR for the treatment of anxiety disorders remain largely unanswered.
EMDR Treatment of Recent Trauma
Authors: Shapiro Elan
Published: August 2009

Although eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) has demonstrated efficacy in treating chronic posttraumatic stress disorder and old trauma memories, EMDR treatment of recent traumatic events has not received adequate attention from EMDR researchers or clinicians. This article presents current thinking and findings about early psychological intervention following recent traumatic events and examines the status of early EMDR intervention (EEI) concepts and research. It is contended that this area has not developed sufficient awareness and definition among EMDR clinicians. Francine Shapiro’s theoretical adaptive information-processing model predicts that dysfunctionally stored trauma memories underlie many current psychological disorders. Consequently, the assumption that memories of a recent traumatic event and its sequelae are not fully consolidated offers a unique role for EEI not only in reducing acute distress but also in preventing the sensitization and accumulation of trauma memories. A call is made for a more comprehensive approach to the field of EEI to promote interest and awareness among EMDR practitioners and to generate research.
Resources in EMDR and Other Trauma-Focused Psychotherapy: A Review
Authors: Leeds Andrew M.
Published: August 2009

The present review examines how resources have been used in trauma-focused psychotherapy with an emphasis on their use in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Current practices of EMDR-trained clinicians are presented in a historical context and considering a range of contemporary approaches to ego strengthening. This article describes the use of resources as presented in the EMDR literature along with research findings. The review concludes with a call for controlled research on widely used resource-focused procedures and practice guidelines for their use in clinical applications of EMDR.
EMDR Works . . . But How? Recent Progress in the Search for Treatment Mechanisms
Authors: Gunter Raymond W. , Bodner Glen E.
Published: August 2009

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a highly scrutinized but efficacious psychotherapy commonly used in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder. Despite much theorizing and speculation, EMDR’s mechanism of action remains unspecified. This article reviews several accounts of how EMDR works to reduce symptoms and/or aid memory reprocessing, including disruption of a traumatic recollection in working memory, increased psychological distance from the trauma, enhanced communication between brain hemispheres, and psychophysiological changes associated with relaxation or evocation of a rapid-eye-movement–like brain state. Several gaps in knowledge are also identified: The working memory account has received considerable support but has yet to be evaluated using clinical samples. How psychological distancing translates into symptomatic improvement is unclear. Psychophysiological effects of EMDR are well demonstrated but leave open the question of whether they constitute a treatment mechanism or an outcome of memory processing. Multiple mechanisms may work to produce treatment gains in EMDR; hence, an integrative model may be necessary to capture its myriad effects.
Working With EMDR in Chronic Incapacitating Diseases: The Experience of a Neuromuscular Diseases Center
Authors: Gattinara Paola Castelli
Published: August 2009

This article examines the use of EMDR in a rehabilitation center to deal with traumatic experiences associated with serious incapacitating disease. Through clinical examples, the author describes the utility and function of EMDR treatment in helping both patients and their families overcome the frightening events related to the worsening of the illness and in helping them cope with feelings of loss and separation. The usefulness of attachment theory for a better comprehension of the dysfunctional interpersonal patterns that can arise between family members is discussed. In addition, the importance of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is explored in helping to facilitate secure attachment relationships between patients and their caregivers, allowing the families to grow closer and more supportive. EMDR appears to offer specific advantages in treating this especially difficult population, affording patients who live with a chronic condition of extreme physical vulnerability a sense of greater control over their own bodies and therefore over their own lives.
Change in Adult Attachment Status Following Treatment With EMDR: Three Case Studies
Authors: Wesselmann Debra , Potter Ann E.
Published: August 2009

Three case studies illustrate pre– and post–eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) adult attachment status as measured by the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI). Two adult males and one adult female presented for outpatient therapy; all of them were categorized with an insecure or disorganized attachment status at pretreatment. All presented with symptoms of depression and anxiety and complaints regarding problems in their current marital and family relationships. The three patients received 10 to 15 EMDR sessions over the course of approximately 1 year, interspersed with talk therapy sessions for the purpose of debriefing and psychoeducation. The EMDR approach utilized all eight phases of treatment within the three-pronged approach. Following EMDR therapy, all three patients made positive changes in attachment status as measured by the AAI, and all three reported positive changes in emotions and relationships. This article provides an overview of the literature related to adult attachment categories and summarizes the effect of adult attachment status on emotional and social functioning. The rationale and scoring procedures for the AAI are explained.
EMDR Treatment of Past Domestic Violence: A Clinical Vignette
Authors: Phillips Kristin M. , Freund Blanche , Fordiani Joanne , Kuhn Rachel , Ironson Gail
Published: August 2009

This case study describes the use of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for a woman who met criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to past domestic violence. Outcome measures were used to assess the client’s symptoms at intake, after the third and sixth active EMDR sessions, and at 1- and 3-month follow-ups. In addition to the use of outcome measures, at 3-month follow-up the client was evaluated by a therapist who was blind to the type of treatment the client had received. Results indicated that after nine active sessions of EMDR, the client no longer met criteria for PTSD and no longer endorsed symptoms of depression or intrusive thoughts. Thus, EMDR was successful in treating PTSD symptoms associated with past domestic violence, and effects were maintained at 3-month follow-up.
Unusual hepta- and octabrominated diphenyl ethers and nonabrominated diphenyl ether profile in California, USA, peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus): More evidence for brominated diphenyl ether-209 debromination
Authors: Holden Arthur , Park June-Soo , Chu Vivian , Kim Michele , Choi Grace , Shi Yating , Chin Tiffany , Chun Christina , Linthicum Janet , Walton Brian J. , Hooper Kim
Published: August 2009

High (maximum of 4.1 ppm lipid weight) levels of BDE-209 and other higher brominated diphenyl ethers (BDEs) found in California, USA, peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) eggs (n = 95) provided an opportunity to examine homolog profiles of nona-, octa-, and hepta-BDEs as possible evidence for biological debromination of BDE-209. We found two congeners in eggs, an unidentified hepta-BDE (BDE-heptaUNK) and BDE-202 (octa-BDE) that are not present in commercial mixtures. In addition, BDE-208 (nona-BDE) was present at much higher (10-fold) proportions in eggs than in commercial mixtures. To examine whether these unusual homolog patterns arose from assimilation of environmentally degraded BDE commercial mixtures, we compared nona-hepta-BDE homolog profiles of peregrine falcon eggs with those of weathered BDEs present in various abiotic matrices (sludge, sediment, and dusts). We found the profiles differed significantly: BDE-207 was the major nona-BDE in eggs, whereas BDE-206 was the major nona-BDE in abiotic matrices. Thus, the evidence for the biological debromination of BDE-209 in peregrine falcons is twofold: Eggs have two congeners (BDE-202 and −heptaUNK) that are not reported for any commercial mixtures nor in the abiotic matrices examined thus far, and eggs have higher-brominated BDE homolog patterns that are different from those found in commercial mixtures or environmental matrices.
A Combined Well-Completion and Flow-Dynamic Modeling for a Dual-Lateral-Well Loadup Investigation
Authors: Tang Yula , Huang W.S.. S.
Published: August 2009

A dual-lateral well was completed in a Chevron subsea condensate field with high peak rate. Within 1 year, the production declined significantly with high water cut (WC). The well was shut down and then brought back to production, showing much-reduced flow rate for 3 days, and eventually stopped flow.

During the production depletion, shut-in, restart, and (finally) stop-flowing periods, the gas well experienced liquid loadup involving unstable operation conditions and changing reservoir deliverability. The conventional steady-state-based liquid-loadup prediction approach and nodal analysis are insufficient to answer what happens when the well shuts in, restarts, and eventually dies. To address the intrinsically transient multiphase-flow problems, a combined study of completion inflow analysis and wellbore dynamic simulation was performed.

The analysis indicates that the well's productivity had been reduced substantially. Before shut-in, the surface pipeline system induced unstable production conditions because of the low flow rates. After shut-in, the wellbore fluids underwent phase redistribution, and liquid was loaded up in the lower-wellbore/laterals. Wellhead gas lift or changing to smaller tubing would not revive the well. Lack of gas supply was the main reason for the well's inability to flow. Analysis shows that if a coiled-tubing gas lift operation is feasible, the well could be put back on line with an average liquid-flow rate of 8,000 STB/D. Gas lift duration and allowable shut-in time were evaluated to consider the liquid-removal and cleanup effect.

The lesson learned is that shut-in is an irreversible process that causes gas/liquid redistribution in the wellbore. The very important operating principle for these kinds of well conditions is not to shut the welling to avoid unnecessary intervention. A combined study of completion inflow analysis and wellbore dynamic simulation provides a unique approach for solving liquid loadup and for providing mitigation measurements.
Quality, Sunk Costs and Competition
Authors: Crespi John M. , Marette Stephan
Published: August 2009

This paper explores the link between quality, cost and concentration. Using concentration and cost data and product quality indicators for 2,244 products in over eighty industries in 1997 and 2002 in the US, a two-stage, ordered probit, random effects estimation explores the impact of concentration and cost on quality. The results demonstrate that overall market concentration and high fixed costs are both positively correlated with product quality across most industries. Generally, when either industry concentration or industry fixed costs increase, the likelihood of the product being higher quality increases and the likelihood of observing a lower quality decreases. Further, the authors confirm that prices are a good signal of product quality. A theoretical model is also derived.
Private and Competitive Regulation of Medicine
Authors: Avraham Ronen
Published: August 2009

Ronen Avraham proposes a system in which private firms compete to better regulate medical practice (not the government, not health associations, and not courts).
The Long Pedigree of Interventionism
Authors: Delong J. Bradford
Published: August 2009

According to DeLong, government interventionism in times like these has a long history of, if not success, avoiding the worst. However, one does wonder about the discretion that is being exercised in the course of today's interventions.
Drying Kinetics of Lima Bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.) Experimental Determination and Prediction by Diffusion Models
Authors: da Silva Wilton Pereira , Precker Jürgen W. , de Lima Antonio Gilson Barbosa
Published: August 2009

This article aims at determining thin-layer drying curves for grains of lima bean, variety olho-de-peixe and to predict them using diffusion models. Samples of lima bean (110.0 g) with initial moisture content of 66.0% (wet basis, wb) were dried at temperatures of 40.0, 50.0 and 60.0°C. The effective diffusivity of moisture was determined by analytical solutions of the mass diffusion equation (Ficks second law) with prescribed boundary condition for spherical, cylindrical, and infinite slab at each temperature. Comparison with the experimental data showed that the infinite slab with constant diffusivity predicted more accurately, but statistical indicators of the goodness of fit were not completely satisfactory. Thus, a model for the infinite slab with constant volume, moisture-dependent diffusivity and convective boundary condition was numerically integrated. This model was solved by the numerical method of finite volumes with fully implicit formulation. The values obtained for the diffusivity were between 5.58 x 10-9 and 6.39 x 10-8 m2 min-1, being the activation energy 28.4 kJ mol-1. The model satisfactorily describes the drying process of this lima bean cultivar under all conditions investigated.
Modeling of the Soybean Grains Hydration by a Distributed Parameters Approach
Authors: Coutinho Mônica Ronobo , Omoto Edilson Sadayuki , Conceição Wagner André dos Santos , Andrade Cid Marcos Gonçalves , Jorge Luiz Mario de Matos
Published: August 2009

A mathematical model with distributed parameters was proposed to describe the absorption of water by soybeans, in order to evaluate the moisture content variation with time inside the grains. This model was represented by a partial differential equation (second order relative to position and first order relative to time), whose parameters were numerically adjusted using a minimum squares method. For this purpose, available MATLAB® routines were used, together with experimental data obtained from hydration tests where soybeans were immersed in liquid water at temperatures of 10, 20, 30, 42 and 49°C. According to the results, the model was able to represent the main characteristics of the hydration process, with a maximum deviation of 10% in the whole set of experimental conditions.
A New Soft Sensor Based on Recursive Partial Least Squares for Online Melt Index Predictions in Grade-Changing HDPE Operations
Authors: Ahmed Faisal , Nazir Salman , Yeo Yeong Koo Y
Published: August 2009

Soft Sensors have been developed through phenomenological, empirical and hybrid modeling for quality variable predictions in various chemical processes. In this work a soft sensor based on an empirical model has been developed for the successful predictions of melt index (MI) in grade-changing polymerization of High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) processes. In order to capture the nonlinearity and grade-changing characteristics of the polymerization process efficiently, a recursive partial least squares (RPLS) update as well as a model bias update is applied to the process data successfully. Two schemes have been proposed: scheme-I and scheme-II. Scheme-I makes use of an arbitrary threshold value which selects one of the two update strategies according to the process requirement at a certain updating instance so as to minimize the relative root mean square error (RMSE). On the other hand, with the aim of preventing excessive RPLS update, scheme-II minimizes the number of RPLS update runs (NPR) while maintaining, increasing or sometimes reducing the RMSE obtained from scheme-I. Proposed schemes are compared with other strategies to exhibit their superiority.
Supply Theory sans Profit Maximization
Authors: Dasgupta Indraneel
Published: August 2009

We utilize the analytical construct of a stochastic supply function to provide an aggregate representation of a finite collection of standard deterministic supply functions. We introduce a consistency postulate for a stochastic supply function that may be satisfied even if no underlying deterministic supply function is rationalizable in terms of profit maximization. Our consistency postulate is nonetheless equivalent to a stochastic expansion of supply inequality, which summarizes the predictive content of the traditional theory of competitive supply. A number of key results in the deterministic theory follow as special cases from this equivalence. In particular, it yields a probabilistic version of the law of supply, which implies the traditional specification. Our analysis thus provides a necessary and sufficient axiomatic foundation for a de-coupling of the predictive content of the classical theory of competitive firm behavior from its a priori roots in profit maximization, while subsuming the traditional theory as a special case.