bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alfuzosin 10 mg once daily for treating benign prostatic hyperplasia: a 3‐year experience in real‐life practice
Authors: Vallancien Guy , Emberton Mark , Alcaraz Antonio , Matzkin Haim , Van Moorselaar R. Jeroen A. , Hartung Rudolf , Harving Niels , Elhilali Mostafa ,   ALF‐ONE Study Group
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVES

To assess the 3‐year efficacy and safety of the selective α1‐blocker alfuzosin at 10 mg once daily in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in ‘real‐life practice’. The influence of treatment response on the risk of acute urinary retention (AUR) and BPH‐related surgery was also analysed.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 689 European men (mean age 67.6 years) were enrolled by general practitioners in a 3‐year open‐label study with alfuzosin at 10 mg once daily. They were asked to complete the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), its eighth question (bother score), and the Danish Prostatic Symptom Score for sexual function (DAN‐PSSsex). Efficacy was analysed at the endpoint in the intent‐to‐treat population. The impact of baseline variables (age, PSA level, IPSS and bother severity) and dynamic variables (IPSS worsening of ≥4 points and bother at the last available assessment under treatment) on the risk of AUR and BPH‐related surgery was evaluated.

RESULTS

With alfuzosin, IPSS improved by 6.4 points (−33.4%) from baseline (P < 0.001), reaching ≥3 points and >6 points in 71.3% and 47.2% of men, respectively. There were also significant (P < 0.001) improvements from baseline in nocturia (−0.8, −25.5%), bother score (−1.7, −40.7%) and DAN‐PSSsex weighted scores with treatment. Symptom relief was rapid and maintained over 3 years. Overall, 78 men (12.4%) had an IPSS worsening of ≥4 points, 16 (2.6%) had AUR, and 36 (5.7%) required BPH‐related surgery. Symptom deterioration during treatment and high baseline PSA values were the best predictors of AUR and BPH‐related surgery. Alfuzosin was well tolerated, dizziness being the most frequent adverse event (4.5%) possibly related to vasodilatation. Ejaculatory disorders were uncommon (0.4%). Changes in blood pressure remained marginal, including in men aged ≥65 years and those receiving antihypertensive agents.

CONCLUSION

Alfuzosin administered for 3 years at 10 mg once daily in real‐life practice is effective and well tolerated. High PSA values and symptom worsening under treatment appear the best predictors of AUR and BPH‐related surgery in the long term. Treatment with alfuzosin might thus help to identify patients at risk of LUTS/BPH progression in order to optimize their management.
Is the utility of prostate‐specific antigen velocity for prostate cancer detection affected by age?
Authors: Loeb Stacy , Roehl Kimberly A. , Catalona William J. , Nadler Robert B.
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether prostate‐specific antigen velocity (PSAV) is useful for prostate cancer detection in men from different age groups, and whether the same PSAV thresholds can reasonably be applied to all men aged ≥40 years.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From a large prostate cancer screening study, 13 615 men had data on age and a calculable PSAV. We used statistical analysis to examine the ability of PSAV to predict prostate cancer risk in each age decade.

RESULTS

For men of all ages, the median PSAV was 0.6–0.7 ng/mL/year in men with prostate cancer, and 0–0.1 ng/mL/year in men with no prostate cancer (P < 0.005 for all). On receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the area under the curve was 0.800, 0.697, 0.693, and 0.668 for predicting prostate cancer risk using PSAV for men aged 40–49, 50–59, 60–69 and ≥70 years, respectively. In the multivariate model controlling for race, family history, and the total PSA level, both PSA and PSAV were significant independent predictors of prostate cancer risk in men of all ages.

CONCLUSIONS

The PSAV is significantly higher in men of all ages with prostate cancer compared with men with no prostate cancer; although on ROC analysis it performed the best in young men. Interestingly, the median PSAV in men with prostate cancer was <0.75 ng/mL/year regardless of age, suggesting that this threshold may be too high. Overall, this data confirms that PSAV is a useful tool for prostate cancer detection for men aged ≥40 years.
High‐intensity focused ultrasound in prostate cancer; a systematic literature review of the French Association of Urology
Authors: Rebillard Xavier , Soulié Michel , Chartier‐Kastler Emmanuel , Davin Jean‐Louis , Mignard Jean‐Pierre , Moreau Jean‐Luc , Coulange Christian ,   Association Francaise d’Urologie
Published: March 2008

We discuss the efficacy and safety of high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) in patients with prostate cancer, to define the best indications for HIFU in daily clinical practice as primary therapy. We searched Medline and Embase for clinical studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of HIFU in prostate cancer (July 2007), and abstracts presented at the 2005–2007 annual meetings of the European Association of Urology and American Urological Association were screened. In all, 37 articles/abstracts were selected. As the data on HIFU as salvage therapy were limited, we focused on HIFU as primary therapy. Studies consisted of case series only. Included patients were ≈70 years old with T1‐T2 N0M0 disease, Gleason Score ≤7, a prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level of ≤28 ng/mL and a prostate volume of ≤40 mL. Negative biopsy rates with the AblathermTM device (EDAP TMS S.A., Vaulx‐en‐Velin, France) were 64–93%, and a PSA nadir of ≤0.5 ng/mL was achieved in 55–84% of patients. The 5‐year actuarial disease‐free survival rates were 60–70%. The most common complications were stress urinary incontinence, urinary tract infection, urethral/bladder neck stenosis or strictures, and erectile dysfunction. For the Ablatherm device, the rate of complications has been significantly reduced over the years, due to technical improvements in the device and the use of transurethral resection of the prostate before HIFU. In conclusion, HIFU as primary therapy for prostate cancer is indicated in older patients (≥70 years) with T1‐T2 N0M0 disease, a Gleason score of <7, a PSA level of <15 ng/mL and a prostate volume of <40 mL. In these patients HIFU achieves short‐term cancer control, as shown by a high percentage of negative biopsies and significantly reduced PSA levels. The median‐term survival data also seem promising, but long‐term follow‐up studies are needed to further evaluate cancer‐specific and overall survival rates before the indications for primary therapy can be expanded.
Clinical relevance of health‐related quality of life outcomes with darifenacin
Authors: Abrams Paul , Kelleher Con , Huels Jasper , Quebe‐Fehling Erhard , Omar Mohamed A. , Steel Michael
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVE

To determine the clinical relevance of changes in health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with overactive bladder (OAB) treated with darifenacin.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data were pooled from three randomized, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group, fixed‐dose, 12‐week studies. After 2‐week washout, treatment‐free or placebo run‐in periods, patients with OAB (n = 1059; 85% women; age 19–88 years) were randomized to 12 weeks’ treatment with darifenacin controlled‐release 7.5 mg (n = 337) or 15 mg once daily (n = 334) or placebo (n = 388). The King’s Health Questionnaire (KHQ) was used to assess HRQoL at baseline and Week 12. The clinical significance of changes in KHQ domain scores was assessed using the concept of minimum important difference (MID), using two different methods.

RESULTS

Darifenacin treatment was associated with significantly greater improvements than placebo in six primary KHQ domain scores known to be of importance to patients with OAB. In addition, a significantly greater proportion of darifenacin‐treated patients met or exceeded reference MID vs placebo in these domains (Incontinence Impact, Severity Measures, Role Limitations, Social Limitations, Emotions and Physical Limitations; P = 0.01). In darifenacin‐treated patients, there were significant correlations between the reductions in incontinence episodes per week and improvements in KHQ scores (P < 0.001). The strongest correlations were in the Incontinence Impact, Social Limitations, Role Limitations, Severity Measures and Emotions domains.

CONCLUSIONS

Darifenacin treatment was associated with significant, clinically relevant improvements in HRQoL in patients with OAB, shown using the concept of MID to interpret change in KHQ scores.
Single‐incision laparoscopic surgery: initial urological experience and comparison with natural‐orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery
Authors: Raman Jay D. , Cadeddu Jeffrey A. , Rao Pradeep , Rane Abhay
Published: March 2008

Laparoscopic approaches have increasingly assumed a central role in the management of benign and malignant surgical diseases. While laparoscopy is less morbid than open surgery, it still requires several incisions, each ≥1–2 cm long. Each incision risks morbidity from bleeding, hernia and/or internal organ damage, and incrementally decreases cosmesis. An alternative to conventional laparoscopy is single‐incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS), in which articulating or bent instrumentation with specialized multi‐lumen ports is used. These technical innovations obviate the need to externally space trocars for triangulation, thus allowing the creation of a small, solitary portal of entry into the abdomen. Laboratory and early clinical series showed the feasibility as well as safe and successful completion of SILS. Natural‐orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is another exciting development in minimally invasive urology, but existing flexible endoscopes and instruments are limited in providing a platform for this form of advanced surgery, resulting in the slow adoption of NOTES. Future work is needed to improve existing instrumentation, increase clinical experience, assess the benefits of both surgical approaches, and explore other potential applications for these novel techniques.
The lymph node yield during robot‐assisted radical cystectomy
Authors: Guru Khurshid A. , Sternberg Kevan , Wilding Gregory E. , Tan Wei , Butt Zubair M. , Mohler James L. , Kim Hyung L.
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the lymph node yield (LNY) during robot‐assisted radical cystectomy (RC), as it has been questioned as to whether robot assistance allows adequate pelvic LN dissection (LND), especially during the initial experience.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 67 consecutive patients were selected for robot‐assisted RC and LND with open urinary diversion from October 2005 to November 2007. Data was collected prospectively in a standard fashion as part of a quality assurance programme. Nine patients were excluded (three had unresectable disease and six underwent palliative cystectomy) and the remainder were divided into five groups. Data included demographics, operative variables, complications and pathological outcomes. Evidence of the LNY curve was examined using nonlinear regression to compare the number of LNs obtained.

RESULTS

The mean (range) patient age was 67 (36–90) years and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 27 (17–45) kg/m2. The mean operative duration for the robot‐assisted pelvic LND was 44 (19–85) min. There was one postoperative complication that required exploration for vascular injury. The mean number of LNs retrieved was 18 (6–43). The mean LNY for each of the five groups was 13, 16, 21, 19 and 23, respectively, and neither BMI nor previous major abdominal surgery affected LNY.

CONCLUSION

Robot‐assisted RC with pelvic LND was performed safely. LNY was oncologically acceptable and increased with experience.
A comparison of the performance of microsatellite and methylation urine analysis for predicting the recurrence of urothelial cell carcinoma, and definition of a set of markers by Bayesian network analysis
Authors: Rouprêt Morgan , Hupertan Vincent , Yates David R. , Comperat Eva , Catto James W.F. , Meuth Mark , Lackmichi Amine , Ricci Sylvie , Lacave Roger , Gattegno Bernard , Richard François , Hamdy Freddie C. , Cussenot Olivier
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVE

To compare the potential of two diagnostic methods for detecting recurrence of urothelial cell carcinoma (UCC) of the bladder, by (i) detecting alterations in microsatellite DNA markers and loss of heterozygosity (LOH), and (ii) detecting aberrant gene hypermethylation, as UCC has a high recurrence rate in the urinary tract and the disease can invade muscle if new tumours are overlooked.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Over 1 year, urine samples were retrieved from 40 patients already diagnosed with bladder UCC (30 pTa, two pTis, eight pT1). Samples were collected 6 months after bladder tumour resection, during the follow‐up schedule. We used samples to analyse nine microsatellite markers and the methylation status of 11 gene promoters. Receiver operating characteristic curves were generated and Bayesian statistics used to create an interaction network between recurrence and the biomarkers.

RESULTS

During the study, 15 of the 40 patients (38%) had a tumour recurrence and 14 were identified by cystoscopy (reference method). Overall, microsatellite markers (area under curve, AUC 0.819, 95% confidence interval, CI, 0.677–0.961) had better performance characteristics than promoter hypermethylation (AUC 0.448, 0.259–0.637) for detecting recurrence. A marker panel of IFNA, MBP, ACTBP2, D9S162 and of RASSF1A, and WIF1 generated a higher diagnostic accuracy of 86% (AUC 0.92, 0.772–0.981).

CONCLUSION

Microsatellite markers have better performance characteristics than promoter hypermethylation for detecting UCC recurrence. These data support the further development of a combination of only six markers from both methods in urinary DNA. Once validated, it could be used routinely during the follow‐up for the early detection and surveillance of UCC from the lower and upper urinary tract.
Stability and Change in Personality Traits From Late Adolescence to Early Adulthood: A Longitudinal Twin Study
Authors: Blonigen Daniel M. , Carlson Marie D. , Hicks Brian M. , Krueger Robert F. , Iacono William G.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT
We conducted a longitudinal‐biometric study examining stability and change in personality from ages 17 to 24 in a community sample of male and female twins. Using Tellegen's (in press) Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire (MPQ), facets of Negative Emotionality (NEM) declined substantially at the mean and individual levels, whereas facets of Constraint (CON) increased over time. Furthermore, individuals in late adolescence who were lowest on NEM and highest on CON remained the most stable over time, whereas those exhibiting the inverse profile (higher NEM, lower CON) changed the most in a direction towards growth and maturity. Analyses of gender differences yielded greater mean‐level increases over time for women as compared to men on facets of CON and greater mean‐level increases for men than women on facets of Agentic Positive Emotionality (PEM). Biometric analyses revealed rank‐order stability in personality to be largely genetic, with rank‐order change mediated by both the nonshared environment (and error) as well as genes. Findings correspond with prior evidence of a normative trend toward growth and maturity in personality during emerging adulthood.
Differential Stability and Individual Growth Trajectories of Big Five and Affective Traits During Young Adulthood
Authors: Vaidya Jatin G. , Gray Elizabeth K. , Haig Jeffrey R. , Mroczek Daniel K. , Watson David
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT
Big Five and affective traits were measured at three assessments when participants were on average 18, 21, and 24 years old. Rank‐order stability analyses revealed that stability correlations tended to be higher across the second compared to the first retest interval; however, affective traits consistently were less stable than the Big Five. Median stability coefficients for the Big Five increased from .62 (Time 1 vs. Time 2) to .70 (Time 2 to Time 3); parallel increases also were observed for measures of negative affectivity (median rs=.49 and .55, respectively) and positive affectivity (median rs=.48 and .57, respectively). Growth curve analyses revealed significant change on each of the Big Five and affective traits, although many of the scales also showed significant variability in individual trajectories. Thus, rank‐order stability is increasing for a range of personality traits, although there also is significant variability in change trajectories during young adulthood.
What Makes A Hero? The Impact of Integrity on Admiration and Interpersonal Judgment
Authors: Schlenker Barry R. , Weigold Michael F. , Schlenker Kristine A.
Published: March 2008

ABSTRACT
Principled and expedient ideologies affect self‐regulation and guide people along divergent ethical paths. A more principled ideology, indicative of higher claimed integrity, involves a greater personal commitment to ethical beliefs, standards, and self‐schemas that facilitate positive social activities and help resist the temptation of illicit activities. Two studies showed that differences in reported integrity are related to people's preferences for and judgments of others. Those higher in integrity spontaneously described their heroes as more principled, honest, spiritual, and benevolently oriented toward others (Study 1). In addition, integrity was related to people's evaluations of characters who made ethical or unethical career decisions (Study 2). The judgments of those higher in integrity were greatly influenced by whether or not the decision was ethical but were largely unaffected by the consequences (career success or failure), whereas those lower in integrity were less influenced by whether the decision was ethical and more influenced by the career consequences.
Pulmonary gas exchange in the morbidly obese
Authors: Zavorsky G. S. , Hoffman S. L.
Published: March 2008

The literature on pulmonary gas exchange at rest, during exercise, and with weight loss in the morbidly obese (body mass index or BMI ≥ 40 kg m−2) is reviewed. Forty‐one studies were found (768 subjects weighted mean = 40 years old, BMI = 48 kg m−2). The alveolar‐to‐arterial oxygen partial pressure difference (AaDO2) was large at rest in upright subjects at sea level (23, range 5–38 mmHg) while the arterial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) was low (81, range 50–95 mmHg). Arterial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) was normal. At peak exercise (162 W), gas exchange improves. Weight loss of 45 kg (BMI = −13 kg m−2) over 18 months is associated with an improvement in PaO2 (by 10 mmHg, range 1–23 mmHg), a reduction in AaDO2 (by 8 mmHg, range −3 to −16 mmHg), and PaCO2 (by −3 mmHg, range 3 to −14 mmHg) at rest. Every 5–6 kg reduction in weight increases PaO2 by 1 and reduces AaDO2 by 1 mmHg, respectively. Morbidly obese women have better gas exchange at rest compared with morbidly obese men which is likely due to lower waist‐to‐hip ratios in women than from differences in weight or BMI.
Indirect costs of obesity: a review of the current literature
Authors: Trogdon J. G. , Finkelstein E. A. , Hylands T. , Dellea P. S. , Kamal‐Bahl S. J.
Published: March 2008

This study reviews the recent literature on the relationship between obesity and indirect (non‐medical) costs. Medline and Web of Science searches were conducted to identify published studies from 1992 to present that report indirect costs by obesity status; 31 studies were included. The indirect costs were grouped into six categories: costs associated with absenteeism, disability, premature mortality, presenteeism, workers’ compensation, and total indirect costs. Compared with non‐obese workers, obese workers miss more workdays due to illness, injury, or disability. Costs of premature mortality vary substantially across countries. The results for presenteeism and workers’ compensation were mixed. More research is needed to determine obesity's causal role in increasing indirect costs, especially for workers’ compensation and presenteeism. Cohort and longitudinal study designs should be a priority.
Tracking of childhood overweight into adulthood: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Singh A. S. , Mulder C. , Twisk J. W. R. , Van Mechelen W. , Chinapaw M. J. M.
Published: March 2008

Overweight and obesity in youth are important public health concerns and are of particular interest because of possible long‐term associations with adult weight status and morbidity. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature and update evidence concerning persistence of childhood overweight. A computerized bibliographical search – restricted to studies with a prospective or retrospective longitudinal design – was conducted. Two authors independently extracted data and assessed the methodological quality of the included studies in four dimensions (i) study population and participation rate; (ii) study attrition; (iii) data collection and (iv) data analysis. Conclusions were based on a rating system of three levels of evidence. A total of 25 publications were selected for inclusion in this review. According to a methodological quality assessment, 13 studies were considered to be of high quality. The majority of these high‐quality studies were published after 2001, indicating that recently published data, in particular, provide us with reliable information. All included studies consistently report an increased risk of overweight and obese youth becoming overweight adults, suggesting that the likelihood of persistence of overweight into adulthood is moderate for overweight and obese youth. However, predictive values varied considerably. Limiting aspects with respect to generalizability and methodological issues are discussed.
RESEARCH INVOLVING PRISONERS: CONSENSUS AND CONTROVERSIES IN INTERNATIONAL AND EUROPEAN REGULATIONS
Authors: ELGER BERNICE S.
Published: March 2008

This article examines international and European regulations on research involving prisoners for consensus, differences, and their consequences, and offers a critical evaluation of the various approaches. Agreement exists that prisoners are at risk of coercion, which might interfere with their ability to provide voluntary informed consent to research. Controversy exists about the magnitude of this risk and the consequences that should follow from this risk. Two strategies are proposed for a method of protecting prisoners that does not lead to discrimination: first, more caution to assure non‐coerced consent and second, restrictions on the type of research. Most regulations stress the importance of the principle of equivalence of healthcare in places of detention as part of an efficient protection against research risks and discrimination.

All the presented approaches have shortcomings. While ‘over‐use’ of prisoners for research as compared to the general population is ethically unjustified, not granting prisoners access to studies beneficial to their own health because of over‐strict regulations is equally unjustified. A middle solution should be preferred, one that grants a minimum of protection together with the lowest possible barriers. Research that does not entail a direct benefit for the individual detainee should be restricted to types of research that have a benefit for detainees as a group and that are of low risk. What will ultimately protect prisoners best, while producing the greatest benefit for them, is access to the same healthcare available to members of the community including research as a true option.
THE STATUS OF THE IN VITRO EMBRYO
Authors: GORDON JOHN STEWART
Published: March 2008

The volume presents 20 essays on the ontological, moral, and legal status of the in vitro embryo.
NEUROSTIMULATION AND THE MINIMALLY CONSCIOUS STATE
Authors: GLANNON WALTER
Published: March 2008

Neurostimulation to restore cognitive and physical functions is an innovative and promising technique for treating patients with severe brain injury that has resulted in a minimally conscious state (MCS). The technique may involve electrical stimulation of the central thalamus, which has extensive projections to the cerebral cortex. Yet it is unclear whether an improvement in neurological functions would result in a net benefit for these patients. Quality‐of‐life measurements would be necessary to determine whether any benefit of neurostimulation outweighed any harm in their response to different degrees of cognitive and physical disability. These measures could also indicate whether the technique could be ethically justified and whether surrogates could give proxy consent to its use on brain‐injured patients.
CLARIFYING APPEALS TO DIGNITY IN MEDICAL ETHICS FROM AN HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: VAN DER GRAAF RIEKE , VAN DELDEN JOHANNES JM
Published: March 2008

Over the past few decades the concept of (human) dignity has deeply pervaded medical ethics. Appeals to dignity, however, are often unclear. As a result some prefer to eliminate the concept from medical ethics, whereas others try to render it useful in this context. We think that appeals to dignity in medical ethics can be clarified by considering the concept from an historical perspective. Firstly, on the basis of historical texts we propose a framework for defining the concept in medical debates. The framework shows that dignity can occur in a relational, an unconditional, a subjective and a Kantian form. Interestingly, all forms relate to one concept since they have four features in common: dignity refers, in a restricted sense, to the ‘special status of human beings’; it is based on essential human characteristics; the subject of dignity should live up to it; and it is a vulnerable concept, it can be lost or violated. We argue that being explicit about the meaning of dignity will prevent dignity from becoming a conversation‐stopper in moral debate. Secondly, an historical perspective on dignity shows that it is not yet time to dispose of dignity in medical ethics. At least Kantian and relational dignity can be made useful in medical ethics.
Social Competence with Peers in Third Grade: Associations with Earlier Peer Experiences in Childcare1
Authors:   National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Early Child Care Research Network
Published: March 2008

The early developmental antecedents of individual differences in children's social functioning with peers in third grade were examined using longitudinal data from the large‐scale National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) study of early child care. In a sample of 1,364 children, with family and child factors controlled, the frequency of positive and negative peer interactions in childcare between 24 and 54 months and the number of hours spent in childcare peer groups of different sizes (alone, dyad, small, medium, large) predicted third graders' peer competence at three levels of analysis: individual social skills, dyadic friendships, and peer‐group acceptance. Children who had more positive experiences with peers in childcare had better social and communicative skills with peers in third grade, were more sociable and co‐operative and less aggressive, had more close friends, and were more accepted and popular. Children with more frequent negative experiences with peers in childcare were more aggressive in third grade, had lower social and communicative skills, and reported having fewer friends. When children spent more time in small‐sized peer groups in childcare (four or fewer children at 24 months of age up to seven or fewer at 54 months), they were more sociable and co‐operative in third grade, but their teachers rated them as more aggressive, suggesting that such children may be more socially outgoing and active both positively and negatively. Like those who spent more time in small peer groups, children who spent more hours in medium‐sized groups received higher ratings for peer aggression by their third‐grade teachers. Children who spent more time with one other child in childcare or in small peer groups had fewer classroom friends in third grade as reported by the teacher but not according to maternal report or self‐report. There were no significant associations between the amount of time children spent in large childcare‐based peer groups and third‐grade peer social competence.
Social‐cognitive Competence, Peer Rejection and Neglect, and Behavioral and Emotional Problems in Middle Childhood
Authors: Hoglund Wendy L. G. , Lalonde Christopher E. , Leadbeater Bonnie J.
Published: March 2008

This prospective, longitudinal study examines individual differences in two conceptually related but empirically distinct domains of social‐cognitive competence (cognitive interpretive understanding and interpersonal perspective co‐ordination) as moderators of the relation between peer rejection and neglect and behavioral and emotional problems in grades 2 and 3. As expected, peer rejection and neglect increased risks for behavioral and emotional problems whereas interpretive understanding (understanding of mental states) and perspective co‐ordination (awareness of others' emotions and motives) reduced risks for aggressive, disruptive, inattentive, and anxious, sad, withdrawn behaviors. Assumptions that awareness of others' perspectives bestows consistent benefits for children experiencing peer problems were challenged. Unexpectedly, rejection and neglect increased risks for behavioral and emotional problems for children who demonstrated average and high levels of perspective co‐ordination. More advanced perspective co‐ordination may heighten children's sensitivity to peer relationship problems and result in general maladjustment, both concurrently and over time. Less advanced perspective co‐ordination may also be responsible for the ‘optimistic bias’ that has been noted in aggressive children.
The Parent's Capacity to Treat the Child as a Psychological Agent: Constructs, Measures and Implications for Developmental Psychopathology
Authors: Sharp Carla , Fonagy Peter
Published: March 2008

Recent studies of the relationship between parenting and child development have included a focus on the parent's capacity to treat the child as a psychological agent. Several constructs have been developed to refer to this capacity, for example maternal mind‐mindedness, reflective functioning, and parental mentalizing. In this review article, we compare and contrast different constructs from diverse theoretical backgrounds that have been developed to operationalize parental mentalizing. We examine the empirical evidence to date in support of each of the constructs and review the relevant measures associated with each construct. Next, we discuss the possibility that these apparently diverse constructs may tap into the same underlying neurobiological socio‐cognitive system. We conclude by proposing a testable model for describing the links between parental mentalization, the development of mentalizing in children, and child psychopathology.
Targeting social assistance in Azerbaijan: what can we learn from micro‐data?
Authors: Fan Lida , Habibov Nazim
Published: March 2008

This article investigates the targeting performance of social assistance programmes in Azerbaijan, a low‐income country in transition from a centrally‐planned economy to a market economy. Micro‐data from a nationally‐representative household survey are used, through the employment of several empirical approaches, to assess the extent to which social assistance identified the neediest households. The set of empirical evidence presented in this article shows a low targeting effectiveness of the social assistance programmes. It indicates that a significant proportion of the poor did not benefit from social assistance, whilst a substantial share of social benefits was leaked to the non‐poor. The receipt of benefits was also weakly associated with a variety of indicators of living standards including consumption, education, number of children, ownership of dwelling, household durables, motor vehicles, agricultural assets, and access to sanitation and utility supply as well as social capital. It is argued that the current social assistance programmes should be reformed to increase the success in reaching the poor.
Predictive factors of acculturation attitudes and social support among Asian immigrants in the USA
Authors: Baek Choi Jong , Thomas Madhavappallil
Published: March 2008

This study examines acculturation attitude and its relation to social support among Asian immigrants. The data were collected from 242 Korean, Indian and Filipino immigrants in the USA using the Acculturation Attitude Scale and the Social Support Index. Findings showed that Koreans had a less positive attitude toward acculturation than did Indian and Filipino participants. Acculturation attitude was positively correlated with educational level and English fluency. This study also found a negative correlation between acculturation attitude and social support. Social support from friends and English fluency were identified as significant predictor variables in determining the level of acculturation attitude. These findings not only contribute to social work education and practice, but also increase cultural sensitivity and awareness in working with these populations.
Gall insects can avoid and alter indirect plant defenses
Authors: Tooker John F. , Rohr Jason R. , Abrahamson Warren G. , De Moraes Consuelo M.
Published: March 2008

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2008.02455.xCommentary p 462
Textile coloration industry in India
Authors: Teli M D
Published: March 2008

This review paper discusses the diversity of the textile sector in India, including its nature, the number of stakeholders and its effect on the overall national economy. It focuses on the significant role the coloration industry is expected to play in the near future, as this is the most problematic step in textile production with respect to profitability, planning and technology. While carrying out analysis of the textile and clothing industry, it also deals with the transformation the industry has undergone in the last two decades in terms of the selection of textile product mix in different regions of India from the point of view of profitability, the use of modern technology and selection criteria of colourants and specialised chemicals. These changes are viewed in respect of improved quality demands, measures undertaken to minimise the pollution level of the environment, and other related factors. In parallel, the growth of the dyestuff and speciality chemical industry, which has a direct relationship with this industry, is also discussed. It attempts to reflect upon the efforts of the Indian government in encouraging modernisation of the textile processing industry in terms of the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme and other policy supports in relation to the response from the industry. Finally, the paper highlights the amount of human resource development needed to achieve the ambitious targets the government has put before the textile and clothing industry.
Synthesis, spectral characterisation and antimicrobial activity of new disazo dyes derived from heterocyclic coupling components
Authors: Seferoğlu Zeynel , Ertan Nermin , Yılmaz Ebru , Uraz Güven
Published: March 2008

Two series of new disazo dyes were prepared by diazotising 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylsulphonamide and 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylurea and coupling with 3‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐pyrazoline‐5‐one, 2‐methylindole, 8‐hydroxyquinoline, 2‐phenylindole, 1‐methyl‐2‐phenylindole, 3‐amino‐1‐phenyl‐pyrazoline‐5‐one. These dyes were characterised by ultraviolet–visible, Fourier transform infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic techniques and elemental analysis. The spectral characterisation of the dyes was evaluated with respect to visible absorption properties in various solvents. The effects of acid and base on the visible absorption maxima of the dyes were also reported. In addition, the antimicrobial effect of the dyes was evaluated.
Effect of corona discharge treatment on indigo dyed cotton fabric
Authors: Nourbakhsh Shirin , Yazdanshenas Mohammad Esmail
Published: March 2008

The present study proposes new conditions for achieving the aged‐look effect of denim. Indigo dyed cotton fabrics were treated by corona discharge at different power levels and number of passages. Colorimetric parameters of corona treatment were assessed by the CIE L*a*b* colorimetric system and the pH and colour fastness of samples were tested. The surfaces of dyed samples were studied by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier Transform–infrared/attenuated total reflectance (FTIR/ATR) analysis. Under the same conditions of corona treatment, the faded‐look effect was reduced as the depth of dyeing was increased. Increasing the power and the number of passages increases L* and b* and decreases a* values. This indicates that samples become lighter and yellower but soaping can reduce yellowness. FTIR/ATR results show that indigo dye oxidises, and isatin and anthranilic acid are produced. The pH levels of corona‐treated samples reduce as the power and number of passages increase. This acidification is in agreement with the results of FTIR/ATR analysis.
Correlation of near infrared absorption and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy scattering with tissue neovascularization and collagen concentration in a diabetic rat wound healing model
Authors: Weingarten Michael S. , Papazoglou Elisabeth S. , Zubkov Leonid , Zhu Linda , Neidrauer Michael , Savir Guy , Peace Kim , Newby John G. , Pourrezaei Kambiz
Published: March 2008

The objective of this paper was to correlate optical changes of tissue during wound healing measured by near infrared (NIR) and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) with histologic changes in an animal model. Amplitude and phase of scattered light were obtained in a diabetic rat and control model and biopsies were taken for blood vessel ingrowth and collagen concentration. NIR absorption coefficient correlated with blood vessel ingrowth over time, in both the control and diabetic animals. DRS data correlated with collagen concentration. Previous publications by this group documented only the NIR changes during the wound healing process but this is the first reported correlation with histology data. The ability to correlate DRS scattering with collagen concentration during healing is another important and novel finding. This technology may play an important role clinically in assessing the efficacy of wound healing agents in diabetics.
Serum amyloid P inhibits dermal wound healing
Authors: Naik‐Mathuria Bindi , Pilling Darrell , Crawford Jeff R. , Gay Andre N. , Smith C. Wayne , Gomer Richard H. , Olutoye Oluyinka O.
Published: March 2008

The repair of open wounds depends on granulation tissue formation and contraction, which is primarily mediated by myofibroblasts. A subset of myofibroblasts originates from bone‐marrow‐derived monocytes which differentiate into fibroblast‐like cells called fibrocytes. Serum amyloid P (SAP) inhibits differentiation of monocytes into fibrocytes. Thus, we hypothesized that the addition of exogenous SAP would hinder the normal wound healing process. Excisional murine dorsal wounds were either injected with SAP (intradermal group) or the mice were treated with systemic SAP (intraperitoneal group) and compared with animals treated with vehicle. Grossly, SAP‐treated wounds closed slower than respective controls in both groups. Histologically, the contraction rate was slower in SAP‐treated wounds in both groups and the reepithelialization rate was slower in the intraperitoneal group. Furthermore, significantly less myofibroblasts expressing α‐smooth muscle actin were noted in the intraperitoneal group wounds compared with controls. These data suggest that SAP delays normal murine dermal wound healing, probably due to increased inhibition of fibrocyte differentiation, and ultimately a decreased wound myofibroblast population. SAP may provide a potential therapeutic target to prevent or limit excessive fibrosis associated with keloid or hypertrophic scar formation. Furthermore, SAP removal from wound fluid could potentially accelerate the healing of chronic, nonhealing wounds.
RGTA OTR 4120, a heparan sulfate proteoglycan mimetic, increases wound breaking strength and vasodilatory capability in healing rat full‐thickness excisional wounds
Authors: Tong Miao , Zbinden Mariken M. , Hekking Ineke J. M. , Vermeij Marcel , Barritault Denis , Van Neck Johan W.
Published: March 2008

ReGeneraTing Agents (RGTAs), a family of polymers engineered to protect and stabilize heparin‐binding growth factors, have been shown to promote tissue repair and regeneration. In this study, the effects of one of these polymers, RGTA OTR4120, on healing of full‐thickness excisional wounds in rats were investigated. Two 1.5 cm diameter circular full‐thickness excisional wounds were created on the dorsum of a rat. After creation of the wounds, RGTA OTR4120 was applied. The progress of healing was assessed quantitatively by evaluating the wound closure rate, vasodilatory capability, and wound breaking strength. The results showed a triple increase of the local vascular response to heat provocation in the RGTA OTR4120‐treated wounds as compared with vehicle‐treated wounds. On days 14 and 79 after surgery, the wounds treated with RGTA OTR4120 gained skin strength 12% and 48% of the unwounded skin, respectively, and displayed a significantly increased gain in skin strength when compared with control animals. These results raise the possibility of efficacy of RGTA OTR4120 in accelerating surgically cutaneous wound healing by enhancing the wound breaking strength and improving the microcirculation.
Two‐stage growth of porphyroblastic biotite and garnet in the Barrovian metapelites of the Imjingang belt, central Korea
Authors: KIM Y. , CHO M.
Published: March 2008

Porphyroblastic biotite and garnet in the Barrovian metapelites of the Imjingang belt, Korea, were investigated to unravel the sequence and mechanism of mineral growth. Poikiloblastic biotite contains straight inclusion trails (Si) discontinuous to the major foliation, and develops clear zones at the grain margin. These microstructures suggest an initial growth of biotite between two contractional deformations (Dn−1 and Dn) followed by an overgrowth during Dn. Although garnet poikiloblasts contain variable Si patterns, their major growth is likely to have occurred during Dn on the basis of compositional relationships among variable garnet types. Early poikiloblasts of both minerals were formed by chemical replacement of the matrix that consisted mainly of chlorite, muscovite and quartz. Subsequent growth of biotite was governed by a crack‐filling mechanism, and was accompanied by the production of extensional cracks inside or around biotite, providing fluid pathways. The overgrowth of garnet was favoured at the biotite–garnet interface, and the consequence was a partial replacement of inclusion‐poor garnet after biotite subsequent to Dn. In addition, clear zones and pressure shadows as well as the matrix around biotite porphyroblasts were replaced by garnet, suggesting an inheritance of various pre‐existing microstructures in the Si pattern of garnet. Further attention is thus required for any attempt to delineate the microstructural interaction between deformation and metamorphism, particularly in a sample containing early‐grown porphyroblasts. Microstructural evidence for the two‐stage growth of biotite and garnet is present up to the kyanite zone, indicating that this growth mechanism is prevalent during progressive metamorphism of Barrovian metapelites.
Catastrophic Losses and Insurer Profitability: Evidence From 9/11
Authors: Chen Xuanjuan , Doerpinghaus Helen , Lin Bing‐Xuan , Yu Tong
Published: March 2008

Abstract

We examine the effects of 9/11 on the insurance industry, hypothesizing a short‐run claim effect, resulting from insufficient premium ex ante for catastrophic losses, and a long‐run growth effect, resulting from ex post insurance supply reductions and risk updating. Following Yoon and Starks (1995) we use short‐ and long‐run abnormal forecast revisions to measure both effects, analyzing them as a function of firm‐specific characteristics. We find that firm type, loss estimates, reinsurance use, and tax position are important determinants of the short‐run position. Firm type, loss estimates, financial strength, underwriting risk, and reinsurance are key determinants of the firm's long‐run position.
Flood Hazards, Insurance Rates, and Amenities: Evidence From the Coastal Housing Market
Authors: Bin Okmyung , Kruse Jamie Brown , Landry Craig E.
Published: March 2008

Abstract

This study employs the hedonic property price method to examine the effects of flood hazard on coastal property values. We utilize Geographic Information System data on National Flood Insurance Program flood zones and residential property sales from Carteret County, North Carolina. Our results indicate that location within a flood zone lowers property value. Price differentials for flood risk and the capitalized value of flood insurance premiums are roughly equivalent—both exhibiting a nonlinear relationship in flood probability. Our results support the conclusion that flood zone designation and insurance premiums convey risk information to potential buyers in the coastal housing market.
Informational Cascade in the Insurance Market
Authors: Seog S. Hun
Published: March 2008

Abstract

We develop an informational cascade model based on Bikhchandani, Hirshleifer, and Welch (1992) with applications to the insurance market. We investigate the existence of cascades and the effects of public information on cascades. We apply the results to insurance markets to explain how catastrophic events may lead to demand increases, how loss shocks may lead to insurance cycles, and how the heterogeneity of policyholders affects the choice of limited tort auto insurance in Pennsylvania.
THE REDISCOVERY OF PETITOT'S RIVIERE LA RONCIERE‐LE NOURY
Authors: Fraser J.K.
Published: March 2008

The country between Great Bear Lake and the Arctic coast is drained by three long rivers, the Anderson, the Horton and the Hornaday. A map published in 1875 by Father Emile Petitot showed a river called La Roncière‐Le Noury, and its existence was doubted by later explorers. These doubts were based on the fact that no large river entered the sea where Petitot had marked it on the map. Evidence was advanced to support the opinion that the Roncière is the same river as the Hornaday. The evidence included a similarity in the character of the rivers as described by Petitot and from recent field work by the author, the description by Stefansson of a misfit delta where Petitot's river was shown entering the sea, and the discovery by Mackay of a post‐glacial drainage channel terminating in this delta.