bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncoupling of pathways that promote postmitotic life span and apoptosis from replicative immortality of Caenorhabditis elegans germ cells
Authors: Ahmed Shawn
Published: November 2006

A dichotomy exists between germ and somatic cells in most organisms, such that somatic cell lineages proliferate for a single generation, whereas the germ cell lineage has the capacity to proliferate from one generation to the next, indefinitely. Several theories have been proposed to explain the unlimited replicative life span of germ cells, including the elimination of damaged germ cells by apoptosis or expression of high levels of gene products that prevent aging in somatic cells. These theories were tested in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans by examining the consequences of eliminating either apoptosis or the daf‐16, daf‐18 or sir‐2.1 genes that promote longevity of postmitotic somatic cells. However, germ cells of strains deficient for these activities displayed an unlimited proliferative capacity. Thus, C. elegans germ cells retain their youthful character via alternative pathways that prevent or eliminate damage that accumulates as a consequence of cell proliferation.
SUBORDINATED BINOMIAL OPTION PRICING
Authors: Chang Carolyn W. , Chang Jack S. K. , Tian Yisong Sam
Published: November 2006

We extend the binomial option pricing model to allow for more accurate price dynamics while retaining computational simplicity. The asset price in each binomial period evolves according to two independent and successive Bernoulli trials on trade occurrence/nonoccurrence and up/down price movement. Subordination leads to a trinomial tree with stochastic volatility in calendar time. We derive utility‐dependent valuation results incorporating the leverage effect and test the model empirically.
A Prospective Analysis of Low‐Grade Gastric MALT Lymphoma after Helicobacter pylori Eradication
Authors: Hong Seong Soo , Jung Hwoon‐Yong , Choi Kee Don , Song Ho June , Lee Gin Hyug , Oh Tae Hoon , Jo Ji‐Yun , Kim Kyu‐Jong , Byeon Jeong‐Sik , Myung Seung‐Jae , Yang Suk‐Kyun , Hong Weon‐Seon , Kim Jin‐Ho , Min Young Il
Published: November 2006

Background:  Primary gastric low‐grade B‐cell lymphoma of mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT lymphoma) is known to be successfully treated with anti‐Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) therapy alone. However, there are few reports on long‐term results after eradication therapy. The aims of this study were to analyze the rate and the interval to reach complete remission (CR), and to assess the rate and the factors affecting recurrence of MALT lymphoma.

Materials and Methods:  Between 1996 and 2003, a total of 90 H. pylori‐infected patients with low‐grade MALT lymphoma were included in this study. For initial staging, endoscopic ultrasonography, chest–abdomen–pelvis CT scans, and bone marrow examination were taken. All patients were made to take anti‐H. pylori therapy for 14 days. Tumoral response was assessed by endoscopy every 3 months till CR and every 6 months after achieving CR.

Results:  Among 90 treated patients, 85 (94.4%) reached CR. The median interval to CR was 3 months (range, 1–24). Seventy‐nine (92.9%) patients were in CR at 12 months. Median follow‐up period after CR was 45 months (range 15–109). Among 77 patients who were followed‐up after CR, 8 (10.4%) patients were proved with recurrence of MALT lymphoma. Cumulative recurrence rate was 2.7, 11.5, and 12.2% at 1, 2, and 3 years. The presence of H. pylori was only a significant risk factor affecting recurrence.

Conclusions:  The status of H. pylori is the most important risk factor affecting recurrence. Therefore, adequate eradication regimen and accurate regular evaluation for H. pylori status are needed during follow up of primary gastric low‐grade B‐cell MALT lymphoma.
Petrogenesis of lawsonite and epidote eclogite and blueschist, Sivrihisar Massif, Turkey
Authors: DAVIS P. B. , WHITNEY D. L.
Published: November 2006

The Sivrihisar Massif, Turkey, is comprised of blueschist and eclogite facies metasedimentary and metabasaltic rocks. Abundant metre‐ to centimetre‐scale eclogite pods occur in blueschist facies metabasalt, marble and quartz‐rich rocks. Sivrihisar eclogite contains omphacite + garnet + phengite + rutile ± glaucophane ± quartz + lawsonite and/or epidote. Blueschists contain sodic amphibole + garnet + phengite + lawsonite and/or epidote ± omphacite ± quartz. Sivrihisar eclogite and blueschist have similar bulk composition, equivalent to NMORB, but record different P–T conditions: ∼26 kbar, 500 °C (lawsonite eclogite); 18 kbar, 600 °C (epidote eclogite); 12 kbar, 380 °C (lawsonite blueschist); and 15–16 kbar, 480–500 °C (lawsonite‐epidote blueschist). Pressures for the Sivrihisar lawsonite eclogite are among the highest reported for this rock type, which is rarely exposed at the Earth's surface. The distribution and textures of lawsonite ± epidote define P–T conditions and paths. For example, in some lawsonite‐bearing rocks, epidote inclusions in garnet and partial replacement of matrix epidote by lawsonite suggest an anticlockwise P–T path. Other rocks contain no epidote as inclusions or as a matrix phase, and were metamorphosed entirely within the lawsonite stability field. Results of the P–T study and mapping of the distribution of blueschists and eclogites in the massif suggest that rocks recording different maximum P–T conditions were tectonically juxtaposed as kilometre‐scale slices and associated high‐P pods, although all shared the same exhumation path from ∼9–11 kbar, 300–400 °C. Within the tectonic slices, alternating millimetre–centimetre‐scale layers of eclogite and blueschist formed together at the same P–T conditions but represent different extents of prograde reaction controlled by strain partitioning or local variations in fO2 or other chemical factors.
Work while in high school in Canada: its labour market and educational attainment effects
Authors: Parent Daniel
Published: November 2006

Abstract Based on Statistics Canada's 1991 School Leavers Survey and its 1995 Follow‐up, the objective of this paper is to assess the impact of working while in high school both on the probability of graduating from high school and on future wages. The results for both men and women show a strong negative effect of working while in school on the probability of graduation, although the results for females are more sensitive to the specifications used. There is very little evidence that working while in school has a positive effect on the wage at the time of the 1995 interview.
A Novel Pacing Maneuver to Localize Focal Atrial Tachycardia
Authors: MOHAMED UWAIS , SKANES ALLAN C. , GULA LORNE J. , LEONG‐SIT PETER , KRAHN ANDREW D. , YEE RAYMOND , SUBBIAH RAJESH , KLEIN GEORGE J.
Published: November 2006

Background: Although focal atrial tachycardias cannot be entrained, we hypothesized that atrial overdrive pacing (AOP) can be an effective adjunct to localize the focus of these tachycardias at the site where the post‐pacing interval (PPI) is closest to the tachycardia cycle length (TCL).

Methods: Overdrive pacing was performed in nine patients during atrial tachycardia, and in a comparison group of 15 patients during sinus rhythm. Pacing at a rate slightly faster than atrial tachycardia in group 1 and sinus rhythm in group 2 was performed from five standardized sites in the right atrium and coronary sinus. The difference between the PPI and tachycardia or sinus cycle length (SCL) was recorded at each site. The tachycardia focus was then located and ablated in group 1, and the atrial site with earliest activation was mapped in group 2.

Results: In both groups the PPI‐TCL at the five pacing sites reflected the distance from the AT focus or sinus node. In group 1, PPI‐TCL at the successful ablation site was 11 ± 8 msec. In group 2, PPI‐SCL at the site of earliest atrial activation was 131 ± 37 msec (P < 0.001 for comparison). In groups 1 and 2, calculated values at the five pacing sites were proportional to the distance from the AT focus or sinus node, respectively.

Conclusions: The PPI‐TCL after‐AOP of focal atrial tachycardia has a direct relationship to proximity of the pacing site to the focus, and may be clinically useful in finding a successful ablation site.
Response of retinal arteriole diameter to increased blood pressure during acute hyperglycaemia
Authors: Jeppesen Peter , Knudsen Søren T. , Poulsen Per L. , Mogensen Carl E. , Schmitz Ole , Bek Toke
Published: November 2006

Purpose:  To study retinal response in terms of arteriole diameter and retinal thickness secondary to an increase in arterial blood pressure during acute hyperglycaemia.

Methods:  In a randomized, double‐blinded, cross‐over study, nine healthy persons were subjected to clamping of blood glucose to either 5 mmol/l or 15 mmol/l using somatostatin to control endogenous insulin secretion. The response of retinal arterioles in terms of diameter as determined with the retinal vessel analyser (RVA) and retinal thickness as assessed by optical coherence tomography (OCT) were measured after an increase in arterial blood pressure induced by isometric exercise. Arterial feeding pressure in the eye was assessed from the ophthalmic artery pressure and pulse amplitude measured by ophthalmodynamometry.

Results:  Isometric exercise induced a significant increase in mean arterial blood pressure and a significant contraction of the retinal arterioles. An acute increase in blood glucose from 5 mmol/l to 15 mmol/l did not affect either the diameter of retinal vessels or retinal thickness.

Conclusions:  Acute hyperglycaemia per se does not change isometric exercise‐induced retinal arteriolar contraction. Metabolic factors other than blood glucose are suspected to be involved in the impairment of retinal autoregulation as seen in hyperglycaemia induced by oral glucose intake.
LOW‐FIELD MRI AND ARTHROSCOPY OF MENISCAL LESIONS IN TEN DOGS WITH EXPERIMENTALLY INDUCED CRANIAL CRUCIATE LIGAMENT INSUFFICIENCY
Authors: MARTIG SANDRA , KONAR MARTIN , SCHMÖKEL HUGO G. , RYTZ UELI , SPRENG DAVID , SCHEIDEGGER JÜRG , HÖHL BIRGIT , KIRCHER PATRICK R. , BOISCLAIR JULIE , LANG JOHANN
Published: November 2006

Little is known about the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance of canine meniscal lesions. The aim of this study is to describe the MR appearance of meniscal lesions in dogs with experimentally induced cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) deficiency. The pilot study revealed dogs weighing approximately 10 kg to be too small for meniscal evaluation on low‐field MRI. In the main study, dogs weighing approximately 35 kg were used. The left CCL was transected and low‐field MRI was performed regularly until 13 months post‐surgery. Normal menisci were defined as grade 0. Intrameniscal lesions not reaching any surface corresponded to grade 1 if focal and to grade 2 if linear or diffuse. Grade 3 lesions consisted in linear tears penetrating a meniscal surface. Grade 4 lesions included complex signal changes or meniscal distortion. Between 2 and 13 months post‐surgery, all dogs developed grade 4 lesions in the medial meniscus. Most of them corresponded to longitudinal or bucket handle tears on arthroscopy and necropsy. Two dogs showed grade 3 lesions reaching the tibial surface of the lateral meniscus on MRI but not in arthroscopy. Such tears are difficult to evaluate arthroscopically; MRI provides more accurate information about the tibial meniscal surface. Grades 1 and 2 lesions could not be differentiated from presumably normal menisci with our imaging technique. An MRI grading system better adapted to canine lesions has yet to be developed. MRI is a helpful tool for the diagnosis of complete tears in the canine meniscus, especially in larger dogs.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING FEATURES OF PRESUMED NORMAL HEAD AND NECK LYMPH NODES IN DOGS
Authors: KNEISSL SIBYLLE , PROBST ALEXANDER
Published: November 2006

To document the magnetic resonance imaging appearance of presumed normal lymph nodes of the head and neck in the dog, 91 studies of dogs with no detectable disease in the head acquired on a low‐field unit were reviewed. If lymph nodes were imaged, symmetry, signal intensity, homogeneity, and size as well as the relation to the surrounding fat were noted. To improve the description of lymph node topography, we used corresponding E12 plastinated embedded sections of a dog. Compared with surrounding fat, lymph nodes were hypointense in T1 images. In T1‐weighted images after intravenous contrast medium lymph nodes were isointense. In T2‐weighted images, lymph nodes were slightly hypointense to surrounding fat. In T1 and T2 images, a hypointense band, created by the chemical shift artifact, could be seen at the lymph node‐fat boundary along the frequency encoding gradient. In some dogs the lymph node hilus was characterized by vessels indenting the capsule of the lymph node. The facial vein is a consistent landmark to identify mandibular lymph nodes, and the mandibular salivary gland is a useful landmark to localize the medial pharyngeal lymph nodes. The parotid salivary gland or the external acoustic meatus were useful markers to identify the parotid lymph nodes, which were not consistently seen. In some dogs, nodules within the lymphoreticular tissue of the soft palate were seen.
IMAGING DIAGNOSIS—PULMONARY METASTASES IN NEW WORLD CAMELIDS
Authors: GALL DAVID A. , ZEKAS LISA J. , VAN METRE DAVID , HOLT TIMOTHY
Published: November 2006

The radiographic appearance of pulmonary metastatic disease from carcinoma is described in a llama and an alpaca. In one, a diffuse miliary pattern was seen. In the other, a more atypical unstructured interstitial pattern was recognized. Metastatic pulmonary neoplasia in camelids may assume a generalized miliary or unstructured pattern.
Elections: Reliability Trumps Competence: Personal Attributes in the 2004 Presidential Election
Authors: WATTENBERG MARTIN P.
Published: November 2006

This research note presents data demonstrating that George W. Bush enjoyed a substantial advantage over John Kerry in terms of how voters perceived their personal qualities. This advantage was particularly evident on reliability, integrity, and strength of leadership. Multivariate analysis of voting choices supports the conclusion that these factors provided the crucial margin of victory for Bush's reelection in 2004.
Structural Investigations of the Membrane-Embedded Rotor Ring of the F-ATPase from
Clostridium paradoxum
Authors: Meier Thomas , Ferguson Scott A. , Cook Gregory M. , Dimroth Peter , Vonck Janet
Published: November 2006

The Na
+
-translocating F-ATPase of the thermoalkaliphilic bacterium
Clostridium paradoxum
harbors an oligomeric ring of c subunits that resists dissociation by sodium dodecyl sulfate. The c ring has been isolated and crystallized in two dimensions. From electron microscopy of these c-ring crystals, a projection map was calculated to 7 Å resolution. In the projection map, each c ring consists of two concentric, slightly staggered, packed rings, each composed of 11 densities representing the α-helices. On the basis of these results, it was determined that the F-ATPase from
C. paradoxum
contains an undecameric c ring.
TLRS in the Gut. II. Flagellin-induced inflammation and antiapoptosis
Authors: Neish Andrew S.
Published: November 2006

Flagellin is bacterial protein that serves as a danger signal across a wide variety of eukaryotes and is a potent inducer of inflammatory effector responses in the mammalian gut. Recent findings utilizing purified flagellin and flagellate/aflagellate bacteria in in vitro and in vivo systems have revealed the important roles played by flagellin in the initial encounter between mucosa and flagellate bacteria, specifically in the modulation of apoptotic responses.
Priming of Head Premotor Circuits During Oculomotor Preparation
Authors: Corneil Brian D. , Munoz Douglas P. , Olivier Etienne
Published: November 2006

Large, rapid gaze shifts necessitate intricate coordination of the eyes and head. Brief high-frequency bursts of activity within the intermediate and deeper layers of the superior colliculus (dSC) encode desired gaze shifts regardless of component movements of the eyes and head. However, it remains unclear whether low-frequency activity emitted by oculomotor neurons within the dSC and elsewhere has any role in eye-head gaze shifts. Here we test the hypothesis that such low-frequency activity contributes to eye-head coordination by selectively priming head premotor circuits. We exploited the capacity for short-duration (10 ms, 4 pulses) dSC stimulation to evoke neck muscle responses without compromising ocular stability, stimulating at various intervals of a “gap-saccade” task. Low-frequency neural activity in many oculomotor areas (including the dSC) is known to increase during the progression of the gap-saccade task. Stimulation was passed during either a fixation-interval while a central fixation point was illuminated, a 200-ms gap-interval between fixation point offset and target onset, or a movement-interval following target onset. In the two monkeys studied, the amplitude of evoked responses on multiple neck muscles tracked the known increases in low-frequency oculomotor activity during the gap-saccade task, being greater following stimulation passed at the end of the gap- versus the fixation-interval, and greater still when the location of stimulation during the movement interval coincided with the area of the dSC generating the ensuing saccade. In one of these monkeys, we obtained a more detailed timeline of how these results co-varied with low-frequency oculomotor activity by stimulating, across multiple trials, at different times within the fixation-, gap- and movement-intervals. Importantly, in both monkeys, baseline levels of neck EMG taken immediately prior to stimulation onset did not co-vary with the known pattern of low-frequency oculomotor activity up until the arrival of a transient burst associated with visual target onset. These baseline results demonstrate that any priming of the head premotor circuits occurs without affecting the output of neck muscle motoneurons, We conclude that low-frequency oculomotor activity primes head premotor circuits well in advance of gaze shift initiation, and in a manner distinct from its effects on the eye premotor circuits. Such distinctions presumably aid the temporal coordination of the eyes and head despite fundamentally different biomechanics.
Development of Spontaneous Miniature EPSCs in Mouse AVCN Neurons During a Critical Period of Afferent-Dependent Neuron Survival
Authors: Lu Yong , Harris Julie A. , Rubel Edwin W.
Published: November 2006

During a critical period prior to hearing onset, cochlea ablation leads to massive neuronal death in the mouse anteroventral cochlear nucleus (AVCN), where cell survival is believed to depend on glutamatergic input. We investigated the development of spontaneous miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) in AVCN neurons using whole cell patch-clamp techniques during [postnatal day 7 (P7)] and after (P14, P21) this critical period. We also examined the effects of unilateral cochlea ablation on mEPSC development. The two main AVCN neuron types, bushy and stellate cells, were distinguished electrophysiologically. Bushy cell mEPSCs became more frequent and faster between P7 and P14/P21 but with little change in amplitude. Dendritic filtering of mEPSCs was not detected as indicated by the lack of correlation between 10 and 90% rise times and decay time constants. Seven days after cochlea ablation at P7 or P14, mEPSCs in surviving bushy cells were similar to controls, except that rise and decay times were positively correlated ( R = 0.31 and 0.14 for surgery at P7 and P14, respectively). Consistent with this evidence for a shift of synaptic activity from the somata to the dendrites, SV2 staining (a synaptic vesicle marker) forms a ring around somata of control but not experimental bushy cells. In contrast, mEPSCs of stellate cells showed few significant changes over these ages with or without cochlea ablation. Taken together, mEPSCs in mouse AVCN bushy cells show dramatic developmental changes across this critical period, and cochlea ablation may lead to the emergence of excitatory synaptic inputs impinging on bushy cell dendrites.
Heparanase, Hyaluronan, and CD44 in Cancers: A Breast Carcinoma Perspective
Authors: Götte Martin , Yip George W.
Published: November 2006

Glycosaminoglycans are major constituents of the cancer cell surface and the tumor stroma. The heparan sulfate degrading enzyme heparanase, hyaluronan, and its receptor CD44 are up-regulated in breast cancer, generating a microenvironment that promotes tumor progression and metastasis. Recent experimental and clinical evidence shows that heparanase, hyaluronan, and CD44 regulate cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as tumor-associated angiogenesis and are correlated with patient survival. These findings suggest that they may be used as prognostic factors and targets for breast cancer treatment. (Cancer Res 2006; 66(21): 10233-7)
Membrane Ganglioside Enrichment Lowers the Threshold for Vascular Endothelial Cell Angiogenic Signaling
Authors: Liu Yihui , McCarthy James , Ladisch Stephan
Published: November 2006

Malignant tumor progression depends on angiogenesis, requiring vascular endothelial cell migration, and proliferation, triggered by tumor-derived vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF). We show that gangliosides, which are actively shed by tumor cells and bind to normal cells in the tumor microenvironment, have the potential to sensitize vascular endothelial cells to respond to subthreshold levels of VEGF: Ganglioside enrichment of human umbilical vein vascular endothelial cells (HUVEC) caused very low, normally barely stimulatory, VEGF concentrations to trigger robust VEGF receptor dimerization and autophosphorylation, as well as activation of downstream signaling pathways, and cell proliferation and migration. Thus, by dramatically lowering the threshold for growth factor activation of contiguous normal stromal cells, shed tumor gangliosides may promote tumor progression by causing these normal cells to become increasingly autonomous from growth factor requirements by a process that we term tumor-induced progression of the microenvironment. (Cancer Res 2006; 66(21): 10408-14)
Disulfiram, a Clinically Used Anti-Alcoholism Drug and Copper-Binding Agent, Induces Apoptotic Cell Death in Breast Cancer Cultures and Xenografts via Inhibition of the Proteasome Activity
Authors: Chen Di , Cui Qiuzhi Cindy , Yang Huanjie , Dou Q. Ping
Published: November 2006

Disulfiram (DSF), a member of the dithiocarbamate family capable of binding copper and an inhibitor of aldehyde dehydrogenase, is currently being used clinically for the treatment of alcoholism. Recent studies have suggested that DSF may have antitumor and chemosensitizing activities, although the detailed molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Copper has been shown to be essential for tumor angiogenesis processes. Consistently, high serum and tissue levels of copper have been found in many types of human cancers, including breast, prostate, and brain, supporting the idea that copper could be used as a potential tumor-specific target. Here we report that the DSF-copper complex potently inhibits the proteasomal activity in cultured breast cancer MDA-MB-231 and MCF10DCIS.com cells, but not normal, immortalized MCF-10A cells, before induction of apoptotic cancer cell death. Furthermore, MDA-MB-231 cells that contain copper at concentrations similar to those found in patients, when treated with just DSF, undergo proteasome inhibition and apoptosis. In addition, when administered to mice bearing MDA-MB-231 tumor xenografts, DSF significantly inhibited the tumor growth (by 74%), associated with in vivo proteasome inhibition (as measured by decreased levels of tumor tissue proteasome activity and accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins and natural proteasome substrates p27 and Bax) and apoptosis induction (as shown by caspase activation and apoptotic nuclei formation). Our study shows that inhibition of the proteasomal activity can be achieved by targeting tumor cellular copper with the nontoxic compound DSF, resulting in selective apoptosis induction within tumor cells. (Cancer Res 2006; 66(21): 10425-33)
PRKAR1A Inactivation Leads to Increased Proliferation and Decreased Apoptosis in Human B Lymphocytes
Authors: Robinson-White Audrey J. , Leitner Wolfgang W. , Aleem Eiman , Kaldis Philipp , Bossis Ioannis , Stratakis Constantine A.
Published: November 2006

The multiple neoplasia syndrome Carney complex (CNC) is caused by heterozygote mutations in the gene, which codes for the RIα regulatory subunit (PRKAR1A) of protein kinase A. Inactivation of PRKAR1A and the additional loss of the normal allele lead to tumors in CNC patients and increased cyclic AMP signaling in their cells, but the oncogenetic mechanisms in affected tissues remain unknown. Previous studies suggested that PRKAR1A down-regulation may lead to increased mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling. Here, we show that, in lymphocytes with PRKAR1A-inactivating mutations, there is increased extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 and B-raf phosphorylation and MAPK/ERK kinase 1/2 and c-Myc activation, whereas c-Raf-1 is inhibited. These changes are accompanied by increased cell cycle rates and decreased apoptosis that result in an overall net gain in proliferation and survival. In conclusion, inactivation of PRKAR1A leads to widespread changes in molecular pathways that control cell cycle and apoptosis. This is the first study to show that human cells with partially inactivated RIα levels have increased proliferation and survival, suggesting that loss of the normal allele in these cells is not necessary for these changes to occur. (Cancer Res 2006; 66(21): 10603-12)
Non-Compaction on Autopsy in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Finsterer Josef , Stöllberger Claudia , Feichtinger Hans
Published: November 2006

Left ventricular hypertrabeculation (LVHT) /non-compaction is frequently associated with neuromuscular disorders. Recently, LVHT has been detected in a 28-year patient with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Here, the patho-anatomic findings of this patient are presented, which showed LVHT located within in the apex and the anterior and lateral wall, being the most demanded segments during systole. The septum and the left ventricular outflow tract were not involved. The patho-anatomic specimen also showed aberrant bands and false tendons, a frequent finding in hearts with LVHT. The patho-anatomic findings were in line with those of LVHT patients with or without neuromuscular disorders.
Pioglitazone Improves Endothelial Function in Non-Diabetic Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Staniloae C. , Mandadi V. , Kurian D. , Coppola J. , Bernaski E. , El-Khally Z. , Morlote M. , Pinassi E. , Ambrose J.
Published: November 2006

Objective: To test the hypothesis that pioglitazone, a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma agonist, will improve endothelial function in non-diabetic subjects with coronary artery disease, we conducted a prospective study to evaluate the effect of this medication on the brachial artery vasomotor function and circulating markers of endothelial activation. Methods: Baseline characteristics were collected. After initial endothelial function assessment, patients were treated with pioglitazone hydrochloride 30 mg daily. The medication was continued for 12 weeks and endothelial function was reassessed as well as the inflammatory markers. The study medication then was stopped, and all the tests were repeated 12 weeks later. Results: Seventeen subjects completed all three-study phases. Mean age was 58 (range: 36–77 years). Compared with the baseline, the endothelium-dependent vasodilation improved significantly with the treatment (p < 0.001) from 4.4 ± 3.9 to 8.4 ± 4.1%, a relative increase of 91%. After withdrawal of treatment, the endothelium-dependent vasodilation returned towards baseline values. There was no change in endothelium-independent vasodilatation (12.27 ± 6.35 to 13.9 ± 9.23%, to 12.42 ± 5.35%, p = 0.177). The urine asymmetric dimethlyarginine levels decreased significantly with the treatment, but also returned to the initial values after the wash-out period (1.27 ± 0.5 µmol/ml to 0.97 ± 0.3 µmol/ml to 1.34 ± 0.5 µmol/ml, p = 0.017). No difference in the lipid profile, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, or fibrinogen levels was seen. Conclusion: Pioglitazone rapidly improves endothelial function in non-diabetic patients with coronary artery disease. This improvement is associated with a change in mean urinary asymmetric dimethylarginine levels, although a cause and effect cannot be determined from this investigation.
Effectiveness of Repeat Enhanced External Counterpulsation for Refractory Angina in Patients Failing to Complete an Initial Course of Therapy
Authors: Lawson William E. , Barsness Gregory , Michaels Andrew D. , Soran Ozlem , Kennard Elizabeth D. , Kelsey Sheryl F. , Hui John C.K.
Published: November 2006

Aims: This study examined the causes and results of retreatment of patients who failed to complete an initial 35-hour Enhanced External Counterpulsation (EECP) course. Methods and Results:Data of 2,311 successive angina patients from the International EECP Patient Registry were analyzed, 86.5% completed their EECP course (Complete cohort). Of the 13.5% patients failing to complete the initial course (Incomplete cohort), 28.3% had repeat EECP within 1 year vs. 10.1% of the Complete group. The predictors of failure to complete the initial course of EECP were: female gender, heart failure, use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers, and use of nitroglycerin. For the Complete group, 83.4% had a reduction of at least one Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) class after their initial EECP course, vs. 21.7% in the Incomplete group (p < 0.001). After repeat treatment, 66.2% of the Incomplete group achieved at least one CCS class reduction vs. 69.4% of the Complete group (p = NS) undergoing retreatment. The independent predictors for those who return to successfully complete their second course were patients who stopped their first course because of clinical events, and candidacy for coronary artery bypass grafting at the time of initial treatment. Conclusion: The results of retreatment of those who failed to complete their initial EECP course were comparable to those who completed their initial treatment, with similar reductions of CCS angina class.
Agitation in Dutch Institutionalized Patients with Dementia: Factor Analysis of the Dutch Version of the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory
Authors: Zuidema Sytse U. , de Jonghe Jos F.M. , Verhey Frans R.J. , Koopmans Raymond T.C.M.
Published: November 2006

Background/Aims: To establish the construct validity of the Dutch version of the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI-D) in institutionalized patients with dementia. Methods: The CMAI-D was administered to a large sample of 1,437 patients with moderate to severe dementia, receiving nursing home or outreaching nursing home care. Exploratory factor analysis was used to examine the behavioral dimensions underlying CMAI-D observations. Results: A restricted 3-factor solution showed 3 factors, i.e. physical aggression, physically nonaggressive behavior and verbally agitated behavior, with prevalences of 62, 67 and 62%, respectively. An unrestricted factor solution revealed 3 additional behavioral dimensions: hiding/hoarding, vocal agitation and a factor of miscellaneous items (i.e. repetitious mannerisms, spitting), which occurred in 30, 28 and 35% of the patients, respectively. Conclusion: The 3-factor solution of physical aggression, physically nonaggressive behavior and verbally agitated behavior corroborates earlier findings in other patient samples and therefore establishes the construct validity in institutionalized patients with severe dementia. The robustness of these findings across different care settings suggests that agitated behaviors have a common basis. In addition, unrestricted factor analysis showed 3 other important independent behavioral symptoms in dementia, but they are in fact too small to be used as a subscale. These findings might add to the taxonomy of agitation and aggression in dementia.
Delusional Denial of Pregnancy as a Special Form of Cotard’s Syndrome
Authors: Walloch Judith Esther , Klauwer Christian , Lanczik Mario , Brockington Ian Frazer , Kornhuber Johannes
Published: November 2006

The following case report describes a pregnant woman who was convinced that her pregnancy was non-existent despite being in an advanced stage of clinically obvious pregnancy. The nosologically unspecific syndrome of denial of pregnancy is discussed by reviewing the literature. Based on the existing literature it will be explained why this specific syndrome is considered to indicate a special form of Cotard’s syndrome.
When a Native “Goes Researcher”
Authors: Jacob Michelle M.
Published: November 2006

This article explores the contexts and meanings of researcher subjectivity within a specifically racialized field setting, the North American Indigenous Games. Drawing on literature of feminist critique and using the concepts of subjectivity and identity work, the author analyzes ways in which “authentic Indianness” and “White privilege” affect the research process. At the heart of the analysis is an important epistemological question: How do power dynamics affect the knowledge production processes involved in research?
Defining international social work
Authors: Xu Qingwen
Published: November 2006

English

Interest in international social work has been growing, as social workers are increasingly confronting problems stemming from international forces. However, there is no agreement on defining this particular field of practice. This agency-oriented study presents the aspect of today's international social work -- the global context's penetration of the local context.

French

L'intérêt envers le travail social international ne cesse de croître, les travailleurs sociaux étant de plus en plus souvent interpellés par les problèmes que le personnel international essaie d'endiguer. Toutefois, il n'existe pas d'entente régissant ce champ d'exercice particulier. Cette recherche axée sur l'agence présente la situation actuelle du travail social international -- en mettant l'accent sur la pénétration du contexte mondial dans le contexte local.

Spanish

El interés por el trabajo social internacional crece a medida que los trabajadores sociales confrontan más problemas provocados por fuerzas internacionales. A pesar de ello, no existe un consenso sobre la definición de este campo particular de práctica. Este estudio, basado en la experiencia de una agencia, presenta el aspecto del trabajo social internacional de hoy la penetración del contexto global en el local.
The effects of an intervention group with the support of non-pharmacological Chinese medicine on older Chinese adults with insomnia
Authors: Chan Kai-fong , Ng Petrus , Ng Ka-ying
Published: November 2006

English

This article reports a pilot study on an intervention group which integrated behavioral treatment and non-pharmacological Chinese medicine to reduce the problem of insomnia for older Chinese adults. Findings showed that the six-session group intervention was effective. The highlight of each session was presented and implications for social work practice discussed.

French

Cet article présente les résultats d'un projet pilote en intervention de groupe, mené pour répondre aux problèmes d'insomnie de la population âgée de Hong Kong. Ce projet a fait appel à des traitements comportementaux et à la pharmacopée traditionnelle chinoise. Les résultats indiquent que les interventions de groupe ont été concluantes. On aborde également les implications pour le travail social en Chine et ailleurs.

Spanish

Se informa sobre un estudio piloto de una intervención de grupo para tratar los problemas de insomnio entre personas mayores en Hong Kong. Esta intervención integra los tratamientos de conducta y medicina china no farmacológica. Los resultados sugieren que la intervención de grupo fue efectiva. Se exponen las implicaciones para el trabajo social en China y en otros lugares.
A suggested push model for interpreting the dilemmas of institutional care, community care and family care of mental-health consumers
Authors: Yip Kam-shing
Published: November 2006

English

This article suggests a push model for analyzing dilemmas between institutional care, community care and family care of mental-health consumers. In the USA community care is overloaded by inappropriate de-institutionalization. In Hong Kong, family caregivers are severely burdened by poor community care and highly institutionalized services.

French

Cet article suggéré un modèle dit de poussée dans l'analyse des dilemmas qui surgissent entre les soins d'ordre institutionnel, communautaire et familiaux auprès des clientèles en santé mentale. Aux États-Unis, les organismes communautaires sont surchargés dus à des pratiques de désinstitutionnalisation inappropriées. Á Hong Kong, les soignants familiaux se sentient écrasés par un lourd fardeau en raison de la pauvreté des soins.

Spanish

Se sugiere un modelo (`push model') para analizar los dilemmas entre el cuidado institucional, el cuidado familiar, y el cuidado comunitario de pacientes de salud mental. En los EE.UU el cuidado comunitario está sobrecargadas debido a los escasos cuidados comunitarios y a una alta institucionalización.
Welfare lobby groups responding to globalization
Authors: Mendes Philip
Published: November 2006

English

Theories of globalization suggest that national lobby groups continue to exert influence on social policy agendas and outcomes. Yet little has been written about the impact of globalization on the political and ideological context within which pro-welfare state advocacy groups operate. This article explores the response of an Australian welfare lobby group to the challenges posed by globalization.

French

Les théories de la mondialisation soutiennent que les groupes de pression nationaux continuent d'exercer leur influence sur les projets et les définitions des politiques sociales. Pourtant, on recense peu d'écrits sur la façon dont la mondialisation influence le contexte politique et idéologique dans lequel travaillent les groupes de pression en faveur de l'aide sociale. Cette étude explore la position d'un groupe de pression australien en égard aux défis de la mondialisation.

Spanish

Las teorías de la globalización sugieren que los grupos nacionales de presión continúan ejerciendo influencia en las agendas y resultados de la política social. Se ha escrito poco sobre el impacto de la globalización en el contexto política social. Se ha escrito poco sobre el impacto de la globalización en el contexto político e ideológico, en el cual operan los grupos que abogan en pro del bienestar. Este artículo explora las respuestas de un grupo australiano de presión por el bienestar, frente a los desafióos que ofrece la globalización.
When children have problems
Authors: Shor Ron
Published: November 2006

English

In this comparative study of parents' help-seeking approaches, immigrants from the former Soviet Union indicated a lower level of willingness to help and different rationales for seeking help from both formal and informal sources than did Israeli-born parents.

French

Cette étude comparée sure les stratégies de demande d'aide pour les enfants en difficulté démontre que les immigrants des anciennes républiques de l'Union Soviétique sont moins enclins à rechercher de l'aide que les parents de nationalité israélienne et que leurs motifs diffèrent auprès des sources formelles ou informelles d'aide.

Spanish

En un estudio comparativo sobre los padres que buscan ayuda cuando sus hijos tienen problemas, los inmigrantes de la antigua Unión Soviética indicaron menor nivel de buena voluntad para ayudar -- y diferente racionalidad en la búsqueda de fuentes formales e informales -- que los padres nacidos en Israel.
Modelling the Firm in its Market and Organizational Environment: Methodologies for Studying Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Crouch Colin
Published: November 2006

The study of corporate social responsibility (CSR) can best be mainstreamed within the wider social science literature if it is defined as firms voluntarily assuming responsibility for their externalities, thereby setting the puzzle of how this can be reconciled with the maximization of shareholder value as the central challenge of the subject. Means of resolving the puzzle require modelling the firm interacting with its environment as both a market actor and as an organization, and in particular through the interaction between these two. Such an approach has no need of a separate concept of ‘stakeholders’. The analysis develops through the firm's relations with actual and potential political action (raising the separate issue of corporate citizenship), and the tastes of consumers, investors and employees—the last raising interesting implications for principal–agent theory.
Friction and Wear Characteristics of PEEK and its Composite under Water Lubrication
Authors: Unal H. , Mimaroglu A.
Published: November 2006

The friction and wear performance of pure polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and 30% carbon fiber-reinforced PEEK composite were comparatively evaluated under dry sliding and water drops lubrication. The sliding experiments were carried out on a pin-on-disc tribometer. The contact configuration used was a polymer pin on a rotating AISI D2 steel disc. Wear tests were carried out at room temperature under 50, 100, 150, and 200 N loads and at 0.40 m/s sliding speed. The results show that the coefficient of friction for pure PEEK increases with the increase in load value, while the coefficient of friction for 30% carbon fiber-reinforced PEEK is not significantly influenced by the increase in load. In addition, the coefficient of friction for PEEK + 30%CF is lower than that of pure PEEK at both dry sliding and water-lubricated conditions. Moreover, for the range of load and speed of this study, the coefficient of friction using water lubricant registered lower values than that of the dry condition. Finally, the specific wear rates for pure PEEK and PEEK + 30%CF composite under water-lubricated conditions were in the order of 10−15 m2/N, while under dry sliding conditions this value is in the order of 10−14 m2/N.
Fiberboard Composites from Wood-fiber Bonded with Renewable Wood Resin
Authors: Sain M. M. , Ghosh A. , Banik I.
Published: November 2006

The brief report presented here deals with the feasibility of using renewable wood resin, in a mixture with urea-formaldehyde (UF) resin, as a binder in the manufacture of composite fiberboard. To make the fiberboards more economical and performance-driven, the UF resin is partially replaced by wood resin and the properties of the composites measured. The results indicate a satisfactory mechanical performance of the wood resin substituted fiberboard as allocated by the ANSI AHA standard. Resin curing conditions are optimized to obtain the desired performance of the composites.
Thermal Stresses in a Thermoplastic Composite Disc under a Steady State Temperature Distribution
Authors: Sayman Onur , Arman Yusuf
Published: November 2006

In the present study, an elastic-plastic stress analysis is carried out in a thermoplastic composite disc reinforced by steel fibers curvilinearly under a steady state temperature distribution. Elastic, elastic-plastic, and residual stresses are calculated in the solution. The largest tangential stress and the highest residual stress components are found around the inner portion of the disc. The solution is also performed by the finite element solution. Both solutions are observed to be in good agreement.
Effect of Fiber Length and Fiber Weight Ratio on Tensile Properties of Sun hemp and Palmyra Fiber Reinforced Polyester Composites
Authors: Dabade B. M. , Reddy G. Ramachandra , Rajesham S. , Kiran C. Udaya
Published: November 2006

Short sun hemp and palmyra fiber reinforced polyester composites are developed using varied fiber lengths and weight ratio. The variation of tensile load at break with varied fiber length and varied weight ratios has been studied. The optimum length of fiber and optimum weight ratios of respective fibers are found in this experimental study.
Adjustment Scales for Children and Adolescents and Native American Indians
Authors: Canivez Gary L. , Bohan Kathy J.
Published: November 2006

The present study reports on the replication of the core syndrome factor structure of the Adjustment Scales for Children and Adolescents (ASCA) for a sample of 229 Native American Indian (Yavapai Apache) children and adolescents from rural north-central Arizona. The six ASCA core syndromes produced the identical two-factor solution as the standardization sample, an independent sample, and a sample of Native American Indians (Ojibwe) from north-central Minnesota. Principal-axis analysis using multiple criteria for the number of factors to extract and retain was used with varimax, direct oblimin, and promax rotations producing identical results and nearly identical factor structure coefficients. As with earlier studies, it was concluded that the ASCA measures two independent global dimensions of youth psychopathology (Overactivity and Underactivity) that are similar to the conduct problems/externalizing and withdrawal/internalizing dimensions commonly found in the child psychopathology assessment literature.
Two Cases of Tetanus?
Authors: Horn Janneke , Vroom Margreeth B. , Tijssen Marina A. J. , Schultz Marcus J.
Published: November 2006

Tetanus is a rare infectious disease in Western countries that leads to diagnostic difficulties. Several diseases may mimic tetanus, and diagnostic considerations can at times be difficult, especially in critically ill patients, who need prompt treatment. Two patients are presented who were diagnosed with and treated for tetanus. However, the course of these patients’ diseases strongly suggested that the diagnoses were incorrect. The article includes reflections on these 2 difficult diagnostic cases. These 2 cases illustrate the importance of proposing alternative diagnoses in suspected tetanus in Western countries. This may prevent loss of valuable time and prevent a delay of possibly effective therapy.