bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of cyclosporin A on alveolar bone homeostasis in a rat periodontitis model
Authors: Nassar C. A. , Nassar P. O. , Abi Rached R. S. G. , Holzhausen M. , Marcantonio E. , Spolidorio L. C.
Published: April 2004

Objectives:  The administration of cyclosporin A has been associated with significant bone loss and increased bone remodeling. The present investigation was designed to evaluate the effects of cyclosporin A on alveolar bone of rats subjected to experimental periodontitis, using serum, stereometric and radiographic analysis.

Methods:  Twenty‐four rats were divided into one of the following groups with six animals each: group I, control rats; group II, in which the animals received a cotton ligature around the lower first molars; group III, in which the rats received a cotton ligature around the lower first molars and were treated with 10 mg/(kg body weight day) of cyclosporin A; group IV, in which the rats were treated with 10 mg/(kg body weight day) of cyclosporin A. At the end of experimental period, at 30 days, animals were killed and the serum calcium and alkaline phosphatase levels were measured in all groups. The distance from the alveolar bone crest to the cemento–enamel junction was measured radiographically for each mesial surface of the lower first molars of each rat. After histological processing, the stereological parameters: volume densities of multinucleated osteoclasts (Vo), alveolar bone (Vb), marrow (Vm), and relation of eroded surface/bone surface (Es/Bs) were assessed at the mesial region of the alveolar bone.

Results:  Significant decreases in serum calcium were observed in those groups that received cyclosporin A therapy. No significant changes in serum alkaline phosphatase were observed. The therapy with cyclosporin A combined with the ligature placement decreased the Vb and increased the Vo, Vm and Es/Bs at the mesial surface of lower first molars. On the other hand, the radiographic data showed that cyclosporin A therapy diminished the alveolar bone loss at the mesial surface of the lower first molars.

Conclusions:  Therefore, within the limits of this study, we suggest that cyclosporin A at immunosuppressive levels can bring about an imbalance in the alveolar bone homeostasis in rats. However, in the presence of inflammatory stimulation, the inhibition of the immune system by cyclosporin A may decrease the initial periodontal breakdown.
Research Note: Perceptions Are Reality: How Family Meetings Lead to Collective Action
Authors: Habbershon Timothy G. , Astrachan Joseph H.
Published: April 2004

Family meetings develop family unity through the creation of perceived shared beliefs. The article presents a model with strategic implications showing how shared beliefs lead to collective action, which leads to outcomes and then the reassessment of the shared beliefs. Finally, the article reports on initial research on the reliability of instruments developed to explore one aspect of this model: The creation of shared beliefs through family meetings. The initial results suggest that perceptions of shared beliefs may be an important stimulant of collective family activity.
The Role of Wives in Family Businesses: The Paid and Unpaid Work of Women
Authors: Rowe Barbara R. , Hong Gong-Soog
Published: April 2004

This study used data from the 1989 Survey of Consumer Finance to examine wives' economic contributions to family businesses. Wives' contributions to family businesses take several forms: managing the household, working in the business, being employed by others, working in the business and holding outside employment at the same time, and simultaneously holding two jobs. Wives' employment in the business was significantly related to the size of the family business, their market employment, the husbands' self-reported health status, and the origin and type of business enterprise.
The Contribution of Leadership Style and Practices to Family and Business Success
Authors: Sorenson Ritch L.
Published: April 2004

Based on Dyer's (1986) study of family business cultures, this study derives five approaches to leadership: participative, autocratic, laissez-faireqmission, expert, and referent. It argues that participative, expert, and referent leadership should produce positive outcomes for the business and the family, and high levels of employee satisfaction and commitment. It also argues that autocratic and laissez-faireqmission leadership should be associated with relatively negative outcomes for the business and the family and produce low levels of employee satisfaction and commitment. A study of 59 small family businesses produced the following significant results: participative leadership is positively related to both family and business outcomes as well as to employee satisfaction and commitment; referent leadership is positively related to family outcomes and employee satisfaction; and, unexpectedly, laissez-faireqmission leadership is positively related to employee commitment. Using correlational data as the basis, the paper discusses practices that might promote participative, referent, and laissez-faireqmission leadership.
Doing Business in India: A Minnesota Entrepreneur's Experience
Authors: Salyards Donald M.
Published: April 2004

This paper describes the author's attempts to develop business with Indian family firms during the last three years. Specific features of the Indian business environment are discussed, along with information for those who desire to export Indian products to the United States. The paper also reviews experiences of large American firms that have joint ventures in India as an indication of what small joint-venture firms might expect in India. The author concludes that import-based activity is high risk and that joint-venture activity for small American firms cannot be recommended in India at this time. The paper explores some possible solutions to business risk that may increase business activity between small American firms and Indian family firms.
Spousal Leadership and Continuity in the Family Firm
Authors: Poza Ernesto J. , Messer Tracey
Published: April 2004

CEO spouses play a key, even if often invisible, role in most family-controlled corporations. This is particularly true when the special challenges of succession and continuity become evident. This paper proposes a typology of spouse styles and their possible influence on succession and continuity.
Patterns of Succession and Continuity in Family-Owned Businesses: Study of an Ethnic Community
Authors: Perricone Philip J. , Earle John R. , Taplin Ian M.
Published: April 2004

This paper examines ways in which patriarchalqfamilistic cultural systems condition responses to the kinds of social and economic changes that challenge family-owned businesses. Using a case study of an ethnic enclave in the southeastern United States, the paper looks at intergenerational succession, paying particular attention to how small firms manage to transfer control within the family. Key to successful transfer is the presence of trust and the utilization of social capital as well as the ability of successive generations to acquire skills that enable them to identify new market niches. The manuscript also discusses how firms manage conflict between old and new ideas, develop informal mechanisms for incorporating new ideas, and maintain the flexibility necessary for market survival.
Entrepreneurship in China: Characteristics, Attributes, and Family Forces Shaping the Emerging Private Sector
Authors: Pistrui David , Huang Wilfred , Oksoy Dolun , Zhao Jing  , Welsch Harold
Published: April 2004

This study profiles new Mainland Chinese entrepreneurs and their enterprises as well as explores the cultural and family forces shaping small- and medium-size enterprise development. The study uncovers entrepreneurial motives, demographic attributes, and the type of businesses being established. Family and enterprise relationships relating to financial investment and employment are also presented. The majority of enterprises were found to be closely held small businesses focused on the retail and technology sectors. The findings suggest that entrepreneurs are motivated by the need for independent-based achievement and continuous learning around a family focus. Family played an active role in enterprise formation and development in China. Entrepreneurs were found to rely on family members both to establish and develop their enterprises. The majority of the entrepreneurs surveyed employed at least one family member on a full-time basis. Entrepreneurs were also found to use family finances as the primary source of start-up capital.
EGOROFF'S THEOREM ON MONOTONE NON-ADDITIVE MEASURE SPACES
Authors: LI JUN , YASUDA MASAMI
Published: April 2004

In this paper, the well-known Egoroff's theorem in classical measure theory is established on monotone non-additive measure spaces. Taylor's theorem, which concerns almost everywhere convergence of measurable function sequence in classical measure theory, is also generalized. The converse problem of the theorems are discussed, and a necessary and sufficient condition for the Egoroff's theorem is obtained on semicontinuous fuzzy measure space with S-compactness.
CHOQUET AGGREGATION USING ORDER INDUCING VARIABLES
Authors: YAGER RONALD R.
Published: April 2004

We discuss the OWA and Choquet integral aggregation operators and point out the central role the ordering operation plays in these operators. We extend the capabilities of the Choquet integral aggregation by allowing the ordering to be induced by some values other then those being aggregated. This allows us to consider an induced Choquet Choquet integral aggregation operator. We look at the properties of this operator. We then look at its applications. Among the applications considered are aggregations guided by linguistic and other ordinal structures. We look at the use of induced aggregation in nearest neighbor methods. We also consider the Choquet aggregation of complex objects such as matrices and vectors.
INTERVAL METHODS IN KNOWLEDGE REPRESENTATION
Authors: KREINOVICH VLADIK
Published: April 2004

This section is maintained by Vladik Kreinovich. Please send your abstracts (or copies of papers that you want to see reviewed here) to vladik@cs.utep.edu, or by regular mail to: Vladik Kreinovich, Department of Computer Science, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, USA.
Mitochondrial requirement for endothelial responses to cyclic strain: implications for mechanotransduction
Authors: Ali Mir H. , Pearlstein Daryl P. , Mathieu Carol E. , Schumacker Paul T.
Published: April 2004

Mechanical strain triggers a variety of cellular responses, but the underlying mechanotransduction process has not been established. Endothelial cells (EC) respond to mechanical strain by upregulating adhesion molecule expression through a signaling process involving reactive oxygen species (ROS), but the site of their generation is unknown. Mitochondria anchor to the cytoskeleton and could function as mechanotransducers by releasing ROS during cytoskeletal strain. In human umbilical vein EC (HUVEC), ROS production increased 221 ± 17% during 6 h of cyclic strain vs. unstrained controls. Mitochondrial inhibitors diphenylene iodonium or rotenone abrogated this response, whereas inhibitors of nitric oxide (NO) synthase (l-nitroarginine), xanthine oxidase (allopurinol), or NAD(P)H oxidase (apocynin) had no effect. The antioxidants ebselen and diethyldithiocarbamate inhibited the increase in ROS, but the NO scavenger Hb had no effect. Thus strain induces ROS release from mitochondria. In other studies, HUVEC were rendered mitochondria deficient (ρ0EC) to determine the requirement for electron transport in the response to strain. Strain-induced 2′7′-dichlorofluorescein fluorescence was attenuated by >80% in ρ0EC compared with HUVEC (43 ± 7 vs. 221 ± 17%). Treatment with cytochalasin D abrogated strain-induced ROS production, indicating a requirement for the actin cytoskeleton. Cyclic strain (6 h) increased VCAM-1 expression in wild-type but not ρ0EC. Increases in NF-κB activation and VCAM-1 mRNA expression during strain were prevented by antioxidants. These findings demonstrate that mitochondria function as mechanotransducers in endothelium by increasing ROS signaling, which is required for strain-induced increase in VCAM-1 expression via NF-κB.
Platelet-activating factor receptor modulates respiratory adaptation to long-term intermittent hypoxia in mice
Authors: Reeves Stephen R. , Gozal David
Published: April 2004

During hypoxia, release of platelet-activating factor (PAF) and activation of its cognate receptor (PAFR) regulate neural transmission and are required for full expression of peak hypoxic ventilatory response (pHVR) but not hypercapnic ventilatory response. However, it is unclear whether PAFR underlie components of long-term ventilatory adaptations to hypoxia. To examine this issue, adult male PAFR(+/+) and PAFR(−/−) mice were exposed to intermittent hypoxia (IH) consisting of 90 s 21% O2and 90 s 10% O2for 30 days, and normoxic and hypoxic ventilatory patterns were assessed using whole body plethysmography. Starting at day 14 of IH, normoxic ventilation in PAFR(−/−) was reduced significantly compared with PAFR(+/+) mice ( P < 0.001), the latter exhibiting a prominent long-term ventilatory facilitation (LTVF). However, IH-exposed PAFR(−/−) mice had markedly enhanced pHVR and hypoxic ventilatory decline that became similar to those of IH-exposed PAFR(+/+) mice. Thus we postulate that PAFR expression and/or function underlies critical components of IH-induced LTVF but does not play a role in the potentiation of the hypoxic ventilatory response after IH exposures.
Intermuscular adipose tissue-free skeletal muscle mass: estimation by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in adults
Authors: Kim Jaehee , Heshka Stanley , Gallagher Dympna , Kotler Donald P. , Mayer Laurel , Albu Jeanine , Shen Wei , Freda Pamela U. , Heymsfield Steven B.
Published: April 2004

Skeletal muscle (SM) is a large and physiologically important compartment. Adipose tissue is found interspersed between and within SM groups and is referred to as intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT). The study objective was to develop prediction models linking appendicular lean soft tissue (ALST) estimates by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) with whole body IMAT-free SM quantified by magnetic resonance imaging. ALST and total-body IMAT-free SM were evaluated in 270 healthy adults [body mass index (BMI) of <35 kg/m2]. The SM prediction models were then validated by the leave-one-out method and by application in a new group of subjects who varied in SM mass [anorexia nervosa (AN), n = 23; recreational athletes, n = 16; patients with acromegaly, n = 7]. ALST alone was highly correlated with whole body IMAT-free SM [ model 1: R2 = 0.96, standard error (SE) = 1.46 kg, P < 0.001]; age ( model 2: R2 = 0.97, SE = 1.38 kg, P < 0.001) and sex and race ( model 3: R2 = 0.97, SE = 1.06 kg, both P < 0.001) added significantly to the prediction models. All three models validated in the athletes and patients with acromegaly but significantly ( P < 0.01–0.001) over-predicted SM in the AN group as a whole. However, model 1 was validated in AN patients with BMIs in the model-development group range ( n = 11; BMI of >16 kg/m2) but not in those with a BMI of <16 kg/m2 ( n = 12). The DXA-based models are accurate for predicting IMAT-free SM in selected populations and thus provide a new opportunity for quantifying SM in physiological and epidemiological investigations.
Effect of 60° head-down tilt on peripheral gas mixing in the human lung
Authors: Olfert I. Mark , Prisk G. Kim
Published: April 2004

The phase III slope of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) in a single-breath washout (SBW) is greater than that of helium (He) under normal gravity (i.e., 1G), thus resulting in a positive SF6-He slope difference. In microgravity (μG), SF6-He slope difference is smaller because of a greater fall in the phase III slope of SF6than He. We sought to determine whether increasing thoracic fluid volume using 60° head-down tilt (HDT) in 1G would produce a similar effect to μG on phase III slopes of SF6and He. Single-breath vital capacity (SBW) and multiple-breath washout (MBW) tests were performed before, during, and 60 min after 1 h of HDT. Compared with baseline (SF61.050 ± 0.182%/l, He 0.670 ± 0.172%/l), the SBW phase III slopes for both SF6and He tended to decrease during HDT, reaching nadir at 30 min (SF60.609 ± 0.211%/l, He 0.248 ± 0.138%/l; P = 0.08 and P = 0.06, respectively). In contrast to μG, the magnitude of the phase III slope decrease was similar for both SF6and He; therefore, no change in SF6-He slope difference was observed. MBW analysis revealed a decrease in normalized phase III slopes at all time points during HDT, for both SF6( P < 0.01) and He ( P < 0.01). This decrease was due to changes in the acinar, and not the conductive, component of the normalized phase III slope. These findings support the notion that changes in thoracic fluid volume alter ventilation distribution in the lung periphery but also demonstrate that the effect during HDT does not wholly mimic that observed in μG.
John Ford's My Darling Clementine (1946)
Authors: HUTSON RICHARD
Published: April 2004

ABSTRACT In 1946, John Ford made a film about a legend of law and order in the American West as a validation of the American past for the immediate post–World War II era. In an age of doubt and uncertainty, the serene but resolute figure of Wyatt Earp was designed to alleviate anxiety about the irrelevance of the past for the new era.
Mr. Capra Goes to Washington
Authors: ROGIN MICHAEL P. , MORAN KATHLEEN
Published: April 2004

ABSTRACT Frank Capra's 1939 film, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, is often described as a paean to the American populist hero, the patriotic little man who stands up to corruption. But Capra's so-called little-man trilogy, which includes Mr. Smith, Mr. Deeds Goes to Town (1936), and Meet John Doe (1941), document Capra's deeply ambivalent viewof the people and his investment in the personal power of the media manipulator.
Erectile Dysfunction in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Cummings Michael H.
Published: April 2004

Erectile dysfunction is extremely common and observed in 30 to 50% of diabetic men. Diabetes represents the major cause of erectile dysfunction worldwide. There have been considerable advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of this condition. Neurovascular factors have been further implicated as key components in its development. In particular, however, there is greater insight into the biochemical mediators of smooth muscle relaxation and constriction within the corpus cavernosum and abnormalities of these processes in diabetic men with erectile dysfunction. Nitric oxide, for example, has been identified as an essential substance involved in penile smooth muscle relaxation and is implicated in the development of erectile dysfunction. This observation has been exploited in the production of new therapeutic approaches such as oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. This class of agents has revolutionized the management of erectile dysfunction in diabetic men although for the nonresponder or in whom it is contraindicated, there are many other successful alternative treatment options that may be considered.
Submicrometer Scroll/Tubular Lamellar Crystals of Nylon 6,6
Authors: Cai W. , Li C. Y. , Li L. , Lotz B. , Keating M. , Marks D.
Published: April 2004

Nylon 6,6 single‐crystal scrolls and tubes (see Figure) have been created through self‐seeding solution crystallization. The tube diameter is ∼ 350 nm with a ∼ 10 nm thin wall. The tubular/scroll single crystal form is presumably due to the asymmetric folding of Nylon 6,6, which can be turned on and off by controlling the self‐seeding temperature.
Large‐Area Electric‐Field‐Induced Colloidal Single Crystals for Photonic Applications
Authors: Yethiraj A. , Thijssen J. H. J. , Wouterse A. , van Blaaderen A.
Published: April 2004

A technique to grow millimeter‐scale (3 mm × 0.5 mm) electric‐field‐induced colloidal single crystals and a polymerization process that immobilizes them, allowing drying and reversal of the refractive‐index contrast, is presented. The Figure shows a 2D diffraction pattern under white‐light illumination from a crystal; the hexagonal symmetry pattern is characteristic of a close‐packed lattice.
Cooperativity in a Chemomechanical Polymer: A Chemically Induced Macroscopic Logic Gate
Authors: Schneider H.‐J. , Tianjun L. , Lomadze N. , Palm B.
Published: April 2004

Incorporating supramolecular binding sites into flexible polymers allows the translation of selective molecular recognition into large macroscopic motions. The macroscopic dimension changes depend dramatically on the presence of two effector compounds in the surrounding medium, with either negative or with positive cooperativity. A macroscopic dimension change occurs if two different effectors are present within a narrow concentration range, thus providing, for the first time, chemically induced macroscopic XOR or AND logic gates.
Ultra‐Thin Trigonal Selenium Nanoribbons Developed from Series‐Wound Beads
Authors: Cao X. B. , Xie Y. , Zhang S. Y. , Li F. Q.
Published: April 2004

Ultra‐thin t‐Se nanoribbons are produced simply and conveniently via a vapor–liquid–solid (VLS) mechanism. The nanoribbons are highly crystalline and grow preferentially along the c‐axis, with an average thickness of 15 nm (see Figure) and lengths up to several hundreds of micrometers. The intermediates in the formation are series‐wound beads, which develop into 1D nanostructures confined by the anisotropic crystal structure of t‐Se during cooling.
Nanoscale Surface Patterning of Enzyme‐Catalyzed Polymeric Conducting Wires
Authors: Xu P. , Kaplan D. L.
Published: April 2004

Nanoscale surface patterning of 4‐aminothiophenol was achieved by dip‐pen nanolithography via horseradish‐peroxidase‐catalyzed polymerization (see Figure) at ambient conditions to form conducting wires.
Semiconductive Polymer Blends: Correlating Structure with Transport Properties at the Nanoscale (Adv. Mater. 2004, 16, 385.)
Authors: Ionescu‐Zanetti C. , Mechler A. , Carter S. A. , Lal R.
Published: April 2004

To view the original paper click http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/adma.200305747
Methylomics in psychiatry: Modulation of gene–environment interactions may be through DNA methylation
Authors: Abdolmaleky Hamid Mostafavi , Smith Cassandra L. , Faraone Stephen V. , Shafa Rahim , Stone William , Glatt Stephen J. , Tsuang Ming T.
Published: April 2004

Fine‐tuning of neuronal connections during development is regulated through environmental interactions. Some fine‐tuning occurs through changes in gene expression and/or epigenetic gene‐specific DNA methylation states. DNA methylation occurs by transfer of a methyl group from S‐adenosyl methionine to cytosine residues in the dinucleotide sequence CpG. Although CpG sequences spread throughout the genome are usually heavily methylated, those occurring in CpG islands in the promoter regions of genes are less methylated. In most cases, the extent of DNA methylation correlates with the extent of gene inactivation. Other known epigenetic mechanisms include histone deacetylation and chromatin remodeling, RNA inhibition, RNA modification, and DNA rearrangement. Exposure memory expressed as epigenetic DNA modifications allows genomic plasticity and short‐term adaptation of each generation to their environment. Environmental factors that affect DNA methylation include diet, proteins, drugs, and hormones. Induced methylation changes may produce altered gene response upon subsequent hormonal stimulation. The gene‐specific DNA methylation state may be preserved upon transmission through mitosis and meiosis. An increasing amount of data implicates a role for DNA methylation in multi‐factorial psychiatric disorders. For example, l‐methionine treatment can exacerbate psychosis; while valproate, a drug producing hypomethylated DNA, reduces such symptoms. Hypermethylation of the promoter region of the RELN gene correlates with reduced gene expression. This gene's protein Reelin, which is necessary for neuronal migration and synaptogenesis, is reduced in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, suggesting hypermethylation of the promoter region in these disorders. Some evidence implicates methylation of the promoter regions of the DRD2 and HTR2A genes in schizophrenia and mood disorders as well. DNA methylation usually increases with age, although hypomethylation of the promoter region of the amyloid A4 precursor gene during aging may play a role in Alzheimer's disease. More studies are needed to define the role of methylomics and other epigenetic phenomena in the nervous system. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dental microwear in anubis and hybrid baboons (Papio hamadryas, sensu lato) living in Awash National Park, Ethiopia
Authors: Nystrom Pia , Phillips‐Conroy Jane E. , Jolly Clifford J.
Published: April 2004

We describe dental microwear in baboons (Papio hamadryas sensu lato) from the anubis‐hamadryas hybrid zone of Awash National Park, Ethiopia, outline its variation with sex and age, and attempt to relate the observed microwear pattern to environment and diet. Casts of the maxillary second molar of 52 adult and subadult individuals of both sexes were examined with a scanning electron microscope at ×500. Digitized micrographs were taken at a consistent location on facet 9, and microwear was recorded with an image analysis software package. Univariate and multivariate statistics were used to investigate the shape, size, and density of microwear features. The overall pattern of microwear exhibits an unusual combination of high feature density, with numerous small pits and relatively wide striations, and a high correlation between width of pits and striations across individuals. We interpret this pattern as predominantly the consequence of abrasion by relatively small‐caliber environmental grit when accidentally ingested with tough foods such as dried seeds and fruits, as expected in a terrestrial omnivore living in a dusty habitat. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between groups defined by sex, age, or troop membership, a result consistent with qualitative observations of feeding habits in this population, and which lends no support to the hypothesis that the longer jaws of adult males should result in longer striations. A trend towards greater feature density in females, however, might be due to limited sexual dinichism, and merits further investigation. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Different preparative modes for the incorporation of additives in NR/SBR blends
Authors: Visconte Leila L. Y. , Martins Agnes F. , Suarez João C. M. , Nunes Regina C. R.
Published: April 2004

Rubber goods usually require a combination of properties that cannot be provided by one elastomer only and then two or more polymer components have to be mixed to meet specific requirements. In such cases, the additives normally employed in rubber formulations are unevenly distributed, depending on the affinity of each compound to each polymeric phase. Thus, the dispersion of each one of these ingredients in the different rubbers will influence the rate and degree of vulcanization and, in consequence, the performance of the final composite. In this work, natural rubber (NR) and styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) were mixed in a 1 : 1 ratio. The compositions were obtained according to ASTM D 3182, by using four different preparative modes for the incorporation of the additives. After vulcanization, morphological, and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, tensile strength, hardness, and tear resistance of each composition were investigated. The results show that the best properties were found when the NR/SBR mixture was prepared in such a way as to favor the vulcanization of the SBR phase while preserving the NR phase from excessive vulcanization. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 93: 483–489, 2004
Number and size of motor units in thenar muscles
Authors: Neto Humberto Santo , Filho José Meciano , Passini Renato , Marques Maria Julia
Published: April 2004

The number and size of motor units (MUs) in the thenar muscles of 10 fresh adult cadavers (33–74 years old) were estimated by histological methods. The average number of MUs was 161 ± 26 and the MU size was 93 ± 11.5. Adductor pollicis showed a significantly greater MU size. The number of MUs in our histological study was in agreement with the number reported in previous studies using multiple point stimulation, the method currently used in the clinical investigation of neuromuscular disorders. Clin. Anat. 17:308–311, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improved dissection efficiency in the human gross anatomy laboratory by the integration of computers and modern technology
Authors: Reeves Rustin E. , Aschenbrenner John E. , Wordinger Robert J. , Roque Rouel S. , Sheedlo Harold J.
Published: April 2004

The need to increase the efficiency of dissection in the gross anatomy laboratory has been the driving force behind the technologic changes we have recently implemented. With the introduction of an integrated systems‐based medical curriculum and a reduction in laboratory teaching hours, anatomy faculty at the University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC) developed a computer‐based dissection manual to adjust to these curricular changes and time constraints. At each cadaver workstation, Apple iMac computers were added and a new dissection manual, running in a browser‐based format, was installed. Within the text of the manual, anatomical structures required for dissection were linked to digital images from prosected materials; in addition, for each body system, the dissection manual included images from cross sections, radiographs, CT scans, and histology. Although we have placed a high priority on computerization of the anatomy laboratory, we remain strong advocates of the importance of cadaver dissection. It is our belief that the utilization of computers for dissection is a natural evolution of technology and fosters creative teaching strategies adapted for anatomy laboratories in the 21st century. Our strategy has significantly enhanced the independence and proficiency of our students, the efficiency of their dissection time, and the quality of laboratory instruction by the faculty. Clin. Anat. 17:337–344, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cardiac profiles of liposomal anthracyclines
Authors: Theodoulou Maria , Hudis Clifford
Published: April 2004

Although conventional doxorubicin is associated with favorable clinical outcomes in patients with a variety of tumor types, it long has been associated with the risk of development of cardiotoxicity. Therefore, researchers have focused their efforts on the development of new formulations to improve efficacy while minimizing associated toxicities. The most successful strategy reported to date has been liposomal encapsulation, which alters the pharmacokinetics of the drug, with the goal of maintaining efficacy and improving the therapeutic index. The cardiac profiles of three liposomal anthracyclines, liposomal daunorubicin, nonpegylated liposomal doxorubicin, and pegylated liposomal doxorubicin, were reviewed. More studies will be needed to determine the cardiac safety of liposomal daunorubicin. Although nonpegylated liposomal doxorubicin demonstrated more favorable cardiac safety compared with conventional doxorubicin, its cardiac safety appeared to be mitigated when high bolus doses were administered. Of the liposomal formulations, the strongest evidence of cardiac safety was observed with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin. Compared with conventional doxorubicin, pegylated liposomal doxorubicin was associated with a significantly lower risk of development of cardiac events (P < 0.001). Moreover, the risk of cardiotoxicity was not increased in patients who were treated with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin at cumulative doses > 450 mg/m2 or in patients at increased risk for cardiotoxicity, such as those with prior adjuvant doxorubicin use. Liposomal doxorubicin formulations provided a favorable advantage over conventional doxorubicin in terms of cardiac safety. Recent evidence also suggests that the improved cardiac safety of liposomal doxorubicin formulations is reflected by their successful use in combination with trastuzumab and other chemotherapy agents. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
High‐dose thiotepa and etoposide in children with poor‐prognosis brain tumors
Authors: Fagioli Franca , Biasin Eleonora , Mastrodicasa Luana , Sandri Alessandro , Ferrero Ivana , Berger Massimo , Vassallo Elena , Madon Enrico
Published: April 2004

BACKGROUND

Outcome data were analyzed for 27 patients who were affected with recurrent or newly diagnosed high‐risk brain tumors and who underwent high‐dose chemotherapy with triethylenethiophosphoramide (thiotepa) and etoposide in addition to autologous stem cell transplantation between May 1992 and September 2002.

METHODS

Fifteen males and 12 females (median age, 11 years) were included in the study. Twelve patients had newly diagnosed high‐risk brain tumors, and 15 patients had recurrent brain tumors. The conditioning regimen consisted of thiotepa 900 mg/m2 and etoposide 1500 mg/m2 over 3 days starting on Day −5. Stem cell rescue was performed using bone marrow (BM) in 8 patients, peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) in 18 patients, and BM and PBSCs in 1 patient.

RESULTS

For the BM group, neutrophil (PMN) engraftment was achieved on Day +14 (median value), whereas platelet (PLT) engraftment was achieved on Day +68 (median value). One patient did not achieve PLT engraftment. For the PBSC group, the PMN engraftment was achieved on Day +10.0 (median value), and the PLT engraftment was achieved on Day +15.5 (median value). Transplantation‐related toxicity (evaluated using the Bearman score) included Grade 2–3 mucositis in 16 patients, Grade 1 kidney toxicity in 6 patients, Grade 1 liver toxicity in 6 patients, and Grade 2 liver toxicity in 1 patient. Transplantation‐related mortality was observed in 1 patient (3.6%), who died of Candida pneumonia. The 3‐year overall survival (OS) rate was 44.6%, and the 3‐year event‐free survival (EFS) rate was 31%. There was a statistically significant difference in OS and EFS rates for patients who underwent ASCT and achieved complete remission compared with patients who had measurable disease.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the current study suggest that high‐dose chemotherapy followed by ASCT may be beneficial for patients who achieve complete remission before ASCT, whereas for other patients, new strategies are required. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Fludarabine and cyclophosphamide using an attenuated dose schedule is a highly effective regimen for patients with indolent lymphoid malignancies
Authors: Tam Constantine S. , Wolf Max M. , Januszewicz E. Henry , Prince H. Miles , Westerman David , Seymour John F.
Published: April 2004

BACKGROUND

Preclinical data have supported the use of fludarabine and cyclophosphamide (FC) in combination for the treatment of indolent lymphoid malignancies. Previously reported schedules were highly effective, but were complicated by significant myelotoxicity and infectious complications. In the current study, the authors analyzed their experience with an attenuated dose regimen to determine whether equivalent efficacy could be achieved with reduced toxicity.

METHODS

Sixty‐four patients with indolent lymphoid malignancies were treated with intravenous fludarabine at a dose of 25 mg/m2 and cyclophosphamide at a dose of 250 mg/m2, each given on Days 1–3 for a median of 4 cycles. The median age of the patients was 60 years. Nineteen percent of the patients were previously untreated, and 45% had refractory disease; the patients had received a median of 2 prior therapies. With regard to histology, 41% of the patients had chronic lymphocytic leukemia or its variants, whereas the remainder of patients had low‐grade non‐Hodgkin lymphoma, predominantly follicule center cell lymphoma.

RESULTS

A total of 237 cycles were delivered. The principal toxicities reported were neutropenia (NCI CTC Grade 4 in 17% of cycles) and infection (Grade ≥ 3 in 6% of cycles). The overall response rate and complete response rate were 86% and 29%, respectively. No significant difference could be discerned with regard to response rates for patients with untreated, recurrent, or refractory disease.

CONCLUSIONS

The FC schedule used in the current study was found to be highly effective in patients with indolent lymphoid malignancies. Toxicity was lower compared with higher dose schedules, whereas efficacy appeared to be equivalent. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Urinary bladder biopsy with denuded mucosa: Denuding cystitis—Cytopathologic correlates
Authors: Parwani Anil V. , Levi Angelique W. , Epstein Jonathan I. , Ali Syed Z.
Published: April 2004

Denuding cystitis is often encountered in tissue biopsies of bladder mucosa performed by either cold‐cup forceps or wire loop electrocautery to evaluate hematuria or to rule out recurrent urothelial carcinoma. Lack of urothelium in these biopsies is often a frustrating experience, leading to a nonspecific interpretation. In this study, 151 cases of denuding cystitis were retrieved from the surgical pathology files of The Johns Hopkins Hospital over a 4‐year period (1996–1999). Patients under the age of 40 years and outside consultation material were excluded. Of the 151 cases of denuding cystitis, 48 patients were identified who had concurrent urinary cytologic studies. Of these patients, 35 were male (73%) and 13 were female (27%). Patient ages ranged from 43 to 85 years (mean, 67). Twenty‐six of these 48 patients (54%) had at least one concurrently positive urinary cytology, which was histologically confirmed. All except three cases were high‐grade urothelial carcinoma with the following histologic subtypes: flat carcinoma in situ (n = 11), noninvasive papillary (n = 9), and invasive urothelial carcinoma (n = 3). We conclude that urinary cytology is a sensitive modality that detects exfoliated carcinoma cells in patients with a histologic diagnosis of denuding cystitis. An inconclusive diagnosis of denuding cystitis on tissue might be related to biopsy method and technique, small sample size, or biopsy of cystoscopically abnormal urothelium that is denuded. A cytologic diagnosis of high‐grade urothelial carcinoma in these cases leads to a timely clinical intervention for optimal patient management. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2004;30:297–300. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Amelioration of the β‐cell dysfunction in diabetic APA hamsters by antioxidants and AGE inhibitor treatments
Authors: Takatori Atsushi , Ishii Yoshiyuki , Itagaki Shin‐ichi , Kyuwa Shigeru , Yoshikawa Yasuhiro
Published: April 2004

Background

In our recent report, probucol treatment ameliorated glucose intolerance and increased the insulin‐positive area in the pancreas of streptozotocin (SZ)‐induced diabetic APA hamsters. The data suggested that the beneficial effects of probucol treatment on β‐cell function might result from its additive effect as an antioxidant. Here, we examined the antioxidant effects on the β‐cell function in SZ‐induced diabetic APA hamsters treated with three different agents, N‐acetyl‐L‐cysteine (NAC), aminoguanidine (AG) and pyridoxamine (PM).

Methods

The control (CB group) and diabetic (SZ group) hamsters were treated with NAC, AG or PM for four weeks from several days after SZ injection.

Results

Non‐fasting plasma glucose and glycoalbumin levels were significantly reduced in SZ animals by NAC or PM treatment. Glucose tolerance test revealed that fasting plasma glucose levels of SZNAC and SZPM animals were low, similar to the corresponding control animals. Thirty minutes after glucose injection, amelioration in the plasma glucose levels of SZNAC and SZPM animals was observed. Immunohistochemistry revealed that the pancreata of SZNAC, SZAG and SZPM animals showed significantly higher percentages of insulin‐positive area than those of non‐treated SZ animals. The plasma 8OHdG and malondialdehyde plus 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal (4HNE) levels were significantly decreased especially in SZNAC and SZPM animals. 4HNE‐positive cells stained by anti‐4HNE antibody were reduced in the islets of each agent‐treated animal. SZNAC and SZPM animals showed significantly increased β‐cell proliferation determined by insulin and BrdU double staining. All SZ groups treated with NAC, AG or PM had the high expression levels of Reg and INGAP, which are known to be expressed in regenerating islets.

Conclusions

These data suggest that NAC and PM treatment of SZ‐injected diabetic hamsters reduces oxidative stress and restores β‐cell function, but that AG treatment has little beneficial effect on the diabetic conditions of SZ‐injected hamsters. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mortality in type 2 diabetic subjects prescribed metformin and sulphonylurea drugs in combination: cohort study
Authors: Gulliford Martin , Latinovic Radoslav
Published: April 2004

Background

In the UK Prospective Diabetes Study, treatment with sulphonylurea and metformin in combination was associated with increased mortality. We compared mortality in subjects treated either with metformin or sulphonylurea drugs alone, or in combination.

Methods

Cohort study in 263 general practices in the United Kingdom. Subjects were aged ≥30 years. Outcome was survival from first prescription of oral hypoglycaemic drugs till death from any cause. Transfer to metformin and sulphonylurea in combination was modelled as a time‐dependent covariate. Hazard ratios were adjusted for age, sex, year of treatment, presence of coronary heart disease or prescription of cardiovascular drugs. Analyses were also stratified by propensity score.

Results

There were 8488 subjects who were initially prescribed sulphonylureas with a total of 20 783 person years of follow‐up and 1157 deaths. The crude mortality rate was 58.56 per 1000 person years during suphonlyurea as sole treatment. In 1868 subjects who were prescribed additional metformin, the mortality rate was 39.75 per 1000. The adjusted hazard ratio was 1.06 (95% confidence interval 0.85 to 1.31, P = 0.616). There were 3099 subjects initially treated with metformin with a total of 7306 person years of follow‐up and 176 deaths. During metformin‐only treatment, the mortality rate was 25.48 per 1000. After addition of sulphonylurea in 867 subjects, mortality was 19.35 per 1000. The adjusted hazard ratio was 0.95 (0.64 to 1.40, P = 0.801).

Conclusions

In this large non‐randomized study, there was no evidence of increased mortality risk following prescription of sulphonylurea and metformin in combination, as compared to either drug prescribed singly. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Superparamagnetic CoO‐MCM‐41 Nanocomposites with Uniform and Highly Dispersed Magnetic Nanoclusters
Authors: Haskouri Jamal El , Cabrera Saúl , Guillem Carmen , Latorre Julio , Beltrán Aurelio , Marcos M. Dolores , Gómez‐García Carlos J. , Beltrán Daniel , Amorós Pedro
Published: April 2004

Superparamagnetic CoO‐MCM‐41 mesoporous nanocomposites, with variable cobalt amounts, in the form of well‐dispersed CoO‐like clusters, were prepared in a large compositional range by a one‐step reproducible procedure employing co‐hydrolysis and co‐condensation of the inorganic precursors in a water/triethanolamine medium. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004)
Treatment of pharmaceutical industry process wastewater using the extractive membrane bioreactor
Authors: dos Santos L. M. Freitas , Biundo G. Lo
Published: April 2004

This paper describes the performance characterization of the Extractive Membrane Bioreactor (EMB) when treating pharmaceutical industry process wastewater contaminated with Dichloromethane (DCM). EMB technology, which employs extraction and biodegradation in a single step, has proved a potential alternative for the treatment of harsh inorganic waste streams contaminated with organic compounds. It is particularly successful for the destruction of toxic Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) such as DCM without incurring air‐stripping. A mixed culture was enriched to achieve complete biodegradation of DCM and total mineralization was confirmed by measurement of stoichiometric chloride release. The laboratory scale EMB was fed the process wastewater without any pre‐treatment or dilution and was operated for 16 days with removals >95%for the entire period of operation. The applicability of the EMB to treatment of a range of pharmaceutical industry wastewaters and its costs are discussed.
Estimates of air emissions from asphalt storage tanks and truck loading
Authors: Trumbore David C.
Published: April 2004

Title V of the 1990 Clean Air Act requires the accurate estimation of emissions from all U.S. manufacturing processes, and places the burden of proof for that estimate on the process owner. This paper is published as a tool to assist in the estimation of air emissions from hot asphalt storage tanks and asphalt truck loading operations. Data are presented on asphalt vapor pressure, vapor molecular weight, and the emission split between volatile organic compounds and particulate emissions that can be used with AP‐42 calculation techniques to estimate air emissions from asphalt storage tanks and truck loading operations. Since current AP‐42 techniques are not valid in asphalt tanks with active fume removal, a different technique for estimation of air emissions in those tanks, based on direct measurement of vapor space combustible gas content, is proposed. Likewise, since AP‐42 does not address carbon monoxide or hydrogen sulfide emissions that are known to be present in asphalt operations, this paper proposes techniques for estimation of those emissions. Finally, data are presented on the effectiveness of fiber bed filters in reducing air emissions in asphalt operations.
Sustainability: Waste minimization, green chemistry and inherently safer processing
Authors: Mulholland Kenneth L. , Sylvester Robert W. , Dyer James A.
Published: April 2004

Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary defines sustainable as “maintain, or cause to continue, in existence or a certain state.” The word “sustainable” is now used to define a world that is able to “maintain in existence” all life that now exists. To attain that goal, human activities will need to change. Waste Minimization, Green Chemistry, and Inherently Safer Processes all seek to manufacture chemicals in an environmentally sustainable way by reducing waste generation, minimizing the impact of chemicals and chemical processes on the environment and the public, and minimizing any hazards to the workers. In this paper, we discuss the synergies among these concepts. The three disciplines must better coordinate their efforts to capitalize on the total teachings, develop and retrofit manufacturing processes using the best technologies, and ensure the highest return projects. In the end, the ultimate chemical process will produce a non‐toxic, recyclable or easily biodegradable product that meets society's needs, produces no waste, is inherently safer, and uses renewable feed materials.