bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment Compliance and Early Termination of Therapy: A Comparative Study
Authors: Lazaratou Helen , Anagnostopoulos Dimitris C. , Vlassopoulos Maria , Tzavara Chara , Zelios George
Published: March 2006

Background: Compliance in therapy appears to be linked to the process of therapeutic alliance. A positive patient–therapist relationship usually leads to successful completion of therapy. The aim of this study was to compare evidence, collected at two time periods in a Community Mental Health Center in Athens, on factors affecting treatment compliance. The hypothesis was that by modifying the therapeutic team’s functioning, noncompliance could be reduced. Methods: Epidemiological data were collected from child and adolescent out-patient files at two time periods: time period A, 1990–1994, n = 455 (sample A) and time period B, 2000–2002, n = 476 (sample B). Variables pertaining to the patient, his family and recommended treatment were examined. Student’s t test and the Pearson χ2 test were used in order to explore the correlation of the variables with treatment completion in each sample. Logistic regression analyses were used to determine whether the effect of each variable on treatment completion differed between the two samples. Results: In sample A, most patients (58.6%) did not comply with therapy. The type of recommended treatment, the number of sessions, season of admission and the type of presented problem were found to correlate with treatment completion. Between the two time periods, certain modifications were implemented in the team’s functioning (less diagnostic sessions, focused psychotherapy techniques, less time interval between referral and first diagnostic appointment). A significant reduction in the early termination rate (45.7%) was noted in sample B. The type of recommended treatment, the number of sessions, the family’s situation, the mother’s educational level and the patient’s gender were related to treatment completion in sample B. The effect of the type of proposed treatment and the mean number of sessions of the completed treatments differed significantly between the two samples. Conclusions:Early termination rates in therapy decreased between two time periods. This decrease may be attributed to modifications in the team’s functioning, aimed at improving the therapeutic relationship. The limitation of this study is that only those factors pertaining to the service’s organization and functioning were investigated.
Growth Hormone Responses to Low-Dose Physostigmine in Elderly vs. Young Women and Men
Authors: Rubin Robert T. , Miller Thomas H. , Rhodes Michael E. , Czambel R. Kenneth
Published: March 2006

Background: Growth hormone (GH) secretion is a sensitive measure of CNS cholinergic neurotransmission, and GH decreases considerably with age. Cholinesterase inhibitors, which increase acetylcholine concentrations, have been used in elderly subjects to investigate the neuroendocrine effects of aging and Alzheimer’s disease. However, there have been only a few studies of a potential sex difference in GH responses to cholinesterase inhibitors in elderly subjects, with mixed results. Objective: We therefore administered low-dose physostigmine (PHYSO), a cholinesterase inhibitor, to normal, non-hormone-replaced, elderly women and men, to ascertain a potential sex difference in GH response. We hypothesized: (1) elderly women and men would have similar hormone responses, because of relatively low circulating estrogen in the women, and (2) the elderly women would have significantly lower baseline GH and GH responses to cholinergic challenge than the young women we studied previously. Methods: Normal elderly women and men ≧65 years of age meeting stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria were studied on three test days, 4–7 days apart, by serial blood sampling for several hours for baseline GH, followed by administration of low-dose PHYSO (first and third days) or saline (second day) at 18:00 h. Frequent blood sampling was continued for several hours. Plasma GH and hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal cortical hormones were measured in each sample. Results: PHYSO administration produced no side effects in about half the elderly subjects and mild side effects in the other half, with no significant female-male differences and no significant relationship between the presence or absence of side effects and GH response. PHYSO significantly increased GH compared to saline, to a similar degree in the elderly women and men. The elderly women had a significantly greater GH response to PHYSO than did the young women, whereas GH responses were similar in the elderly and young men. Conclusions: These results indicate similar GH responses to low-dose PHYSO in elderly women compared to elderly men, and a significantly greater GH response in elderly women compared to young women. A likely mechanism is increased sensitivity of central cholinergic systems that inhibit somatostatin and/or enhance GHRH release from the hypothalamus.
Application of Attachment Theory for Psychological Support in Palliative Medicine during the Terminal Phase
Authors: Petersen Yvonne , Koehler Lotte
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose: The situation leading to the death of a close relative is a unique and irrevocable experience of separation which evokes a state of emotional strain for the patient and the family. This situation therefore is an especially effective trigger of the so-called ‘attachment system’. Attachment research in recent decades has shown that already in early infancy every person develops special attachment strategies activated in cases whenever a person cannot cope on its own with dangers. Only four such patterns of attachment have been specified, namely ‘secure’, ‘insecure-avoidant’, ‘insecure-ambivalent/enmeshed’ and ‘disoriented/disorganized’. Since the dying are usually brought to the hospital by members of the family, the doctor responsible for treatment can perceive with unusual clarity the patterns of attachment within the family system, and can integrate such observation into her treatment strategy. This article suggests an attachment-informed therapy in the field of palliative medicine. It seems apparent that such approaches provided by the attachment theory for relief during the terminal phase are not only relevant in a palliative context but also applicable within the overall field of medicine and care-giving relating to terminal patients and their families. Methods: To the doctor familiar with the attachment patterns and the conditions of their formation, clinical observation easily reveals which pattern is active among the dying and the accompanying members of the family. Here, cases are used to show how these insights can be realized in the psychotherapeutic care of patients and their families on a palliative ward. For example, in a case of ‘avoidant’ attachment, denied emotions can be addressed carefully and still existent hopes for protection and support can be reinforced; in a case of so-called ‘ambivalent-enmeshed’ attachment, overly intense relationships can be disentangled, and in a case of ‘disorganized’ attachment, emotion regulation can be supported and clarity in the relationships can be promoted. Results: The clinical results show that psychotherapeutic intervention based on insights imparted by the attachment theory are of special benefit in relieving the psychological strain for the dying and their families.
Between- and Within-Individual Effects of Visual Contrast Sensitivity on Perceptual Matching, Processing Speed, and Associative Memory in Older Adults
Authors: Anstey Kaarin J. , Butterworth Peter , Borzycki Maria , Andrews Sally
Published: March 2006

Background: Although cross-sectional studies have demonstrated associations between visual contrast sensitivity and cognitive test performance, it remains unclear whether peripheral visual or perceptual factors explain the association. Objective: We aimed at determining whether reducing static contrast of the study stimuli would simulate the performance deficits on measures of processing speed and associative memory that are associated with aging. Methods: We investigated the mechanism by which vision and memory are associated in a sample of 91 volunteers aged 60–87 years. In tests of perceptual matching, digit-symbol matching, and associative memory, the level of static contrast of the stimuli was manipulated, with three contrast levels. The duration of stimuli presentation was also manipulated in the associative memory task in a full-factorial experimental design. Accuracy and response latencies (for correct trials) were measured. Results: Experimental results showed that within subjects, lower contrast was associated with longer latencies, indicating an effect on information processing speed. Regression analyses replicated previous findings of a moderate to strong association between visual contrast sensitivity and cognitive performance in cross-sectional studies. Conclusion: These results provide support for a theory in which visual aging is associated with slower encoding of information as well as being involved at a more central level.
A New in vivo Method for Measuring Caries Activity Using Quantitative Light-Induced Fluorescence
Authors: Meller C. , Heyduck C. , Tranæus S. , Splieth C.
Published: March 2006

The aim of this in vivo study was to assess the association between caries prevalence and activity parameters and the properties of etched sites measured with quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF). In a clinical method, two areas of a deciduous tooth were etched in each of 44 children (mean age 8.23 years ± 1.45) with 36% phosphoric acid gel for 1 min and 4 min, respectively. ΔQ of the etched site was measured immediately after the etching (ΔQ1) and 24 h later (ΔQ2) with QLF. In addition, deft/DMFT, approximal plaque (API), bleeding on probing (mod. PBI), active carious lesions and currently used fluorides were recorded. In a regression analysis for the deft, the use of fluoridated salt (standardized coefficient SC = –0.25) and fluoride gel (SC = –0.37) showed the greatest effect, as did the fluoride gel (SC = –0.26) and gingival bleeding (SC = 0.50) for the number of active carious lesions. The deft and the number of active carious lesions correlated significantly (r = 0.70, p < 0.001). ΔQ1 and ΔQ2 showed a significant statistical correlation with the age-adjusted deft (0.39 < r < 0.52, p < 0.01) and with the number of active lesions (0.42 < r < 0.59, p < 0.01). Correlations between ΔQ and the API, PBI and the fluoride scores were slightly weaker but also statistically significant. In a principal-component analysis, these parameters were approximately identical, indicating a strong relationship between the different variables and ΔQ. This relationship was especially strong for the deft and the active carious lesion scores. In conclusion, these data suggest that the degree of demineralization by etching and its changes with time are associated with caries activity and that this method might be used for the early assessment of caries activity.
An in vitro Comparison between Two Methods of Electrical Resistance Measurement for Occlusal Caries Detection
Authors: Kühnisch J. , Heinrich-Weltzien R. , Tabatabaie M. , Stösser L. , Huysmans M.C.D.N.J.M.
Published: March 2006

Because of different measurement techniques and the easier design of the CRM prototype, this in vitro study aimed to compare the diagnostic performance and reproducibility of two electrical methods (Electronic Caries Monitor III, ECM and Cariometer 800, CRM) for occlusal caries detection, and to evaluate the effect of staining/discoloration of fissures on diagnostic performance. Hundred and seventeen third molars with no apparent occlusal cavitation were selected. Six examiners inspected all specimens independently, using the CRM, and a subgroup of 4 using the ECM. Histological validation using a stereomicroscope was performed after hemisectioning. Intra- and interexaminer reproducibility was assessed by Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) and Bland and Altman analysis. Diagnostic performance parameters included sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP) and area under the ROC curve (Az). The CCC yielded an intra- and interexaminer reproducibility of 0.69/0.62 (ECM) and of 0.79/0.74 (CRM). The mean intra- and interexaminer 95% range of measurements (range between Bland and Altman limits of agreement) given in percentages of the instrument reading were 67%/65% for the ECM and 28%/33% for the CRM. Az at the D3–4 level was 0.74 (ECM) and 0.78 (CRM). The CRM showed at least equivalent diagnostic performance to the ECM. However, improvement is still desirable. Diagnostic performance appeared to be enhanced in discolored lesions; however, this may be related to sample lesion distribution characteristics.
Performance of Four Dentine Excavation Methods in Deciduous Teeth
Authors: Celiberti P. , Francescut P. , Lussi A.
Published: March 2006

This in vitro study aimed to assess the speed and caries removal effectiveness of four different new and conventional dentine excavation methods. Eighty deciduous molars were assigned to four groups. Teeth were sectioned longitudinally through the lesion centre. Images of one half per tooth were captured by light microscope and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) to assess the caries extension. The halves were then reassembled and caries removed using round carbide bur (group 1), Er:YAG laser (group 2), hand excavator (group 3) and a polymer bur (group 4). The time needed for the whole excavation in each tooth was registered. After excavation, the halves were photographed by light microscope. Caries extension obtained from CLSM images were superimposed on the post-excavation images, allowing comparison between caries extension and removal. The regions where caries and preparation limits coincided, as well as the areas of over- and underpreparation, were measured. Steel bur was the fastest method, followed by the polymer bur, hand excavator and laser. Steel bur exhibited also the largest overpreparation area, followed by laser, hand excavator and polymer bur. The largest underpreparation area was found using polymer bur, followed by laser, hand excavator and steel bur. Hand excavator presented the longest coincidence line, followed by polymer and steel burs and laser. Overall, hand excavator seemed to be the most suitable method for carious dentine excavation in deciduous teeth, combining good excavation time with effective caries removal.
Effects of Irradiation on in situ Remineralization of Human and Bovine Enamel Demineralized in vitro
Authors: Kielbassa A.M. , Hellwig E. , Meyer-Lueckel H.
Published: March 2006

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of irradiation and surface condition on in situ remineralization of demineralized human and bovine enamel. Specimens (n = 96) obtained from 24 human molars and 24 bovine incisors were prepared. The surfaces of half of the specimens were abraded while the others remained natural. Each of the 12 human and bovine abraded and sound specimens was irradiated fractionally up to 46.5 Gy (3.1 Gy/day, 5 days/week), while the remaining samples were not irradiated. Prior to and following the demineralization (pH 5.0; 14 days) all specimens were partly covered with nail varnish (control). After in vitro demineralization 2 irradiated and 2 nonirradiated specimens were inserted into both buccal aspects of 12 intraoral appliances, which were worn by 12 persons for a period of 6 weeks. All samples were brushed twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste. Mineral analyses revealed a significant influence on mineral loss (ΔZdemin), mineral gain (ΔΔZ), lesion depth (LDdemin), and lesion depth reduction (ΔLD) of the variables ‘material’ and ‘irradiation’ (p < 0.05; ANOVA). Reciprocal interactions could be observed between these two variables for ΔZdemin, ΔΔZ, and LDdemin, due to significantly reduced values found for the irradiated, abraded bovine specimens compared to the nonirradiated ones (p < 0.05; Bonferroni post hoc test). It can be concluded that neither irradiation nor abrasion influenced in vitro demineralization or in situ remineralization of the human specimens, whereas abrasion hampered demineralization in irradiated, bovine specimens.
The Relative Efficacy of Fluoride Toothpastes Assessed with pH Cycling
Authors: ten Cate J.M. , Exterkate R.A.M. , Buijs M.J.
Published: March 2006

This study addressed the dose response between fluoride toothpastes and in vitro de- and remineralization, to predict the efficacy of toothpastes and understand the mode of action in the range 0–3,000 ppm F. Enamel lesions were pH-cycled with calcium uptake and loss being assessed daily. Both ‘shallow’ (about 50 µm deep) and ‘deep’ (about 200 µm deep) lesions were studied. F treatments were given in 30 (w/v)% toothpaste dilutions for up to 5 min daily. Calcium loss during the demineralization periods showed a dose response, resulting in 72% reduction for 3,000 ppm F compared to 0 ppm F. Calcium uptake during remineralization was increased in the F compared to non-F groups, with F concentration being less important than its mere presence. Significant differences were observed in F response between shallow and deep lesions, suggesting that this parameter should be included when testing caries-preventive products. Microradiographic analysis showed that lesion depth and severity had increased significantly in the non-F groups. In the F groups, the original lesion was partly remineralized, while a new lesion had formed beyond the original lesion front. Mineral loss of this second lesion correlated inversely with the F concentration of the treatments. These data revealed that fluoride can drive demineralization further into enamel by making the surface tissue less soluble, hence by not neutralizing acids penetrating into the tissue. It is also concluded that depth analysis of mineral uptake and loss is important to understand the mode of action of different F products.
Effect of a Casein/Calcium Phosphate-Containing Tooth Cream and Fluoride on Enamel Erosion in vitro
Authors: Lennon Á.M. , Pfeffer M. , Buchalla W. , Becker K. , Lennon S. , Attin T.
Published: March 2006

The aim of this study was to determine whether a tooth cream containing casein/calcium phosphate (CasCP) protects enamel against erosion. Sixty bovine enamel specimens were prepared for profilometry and distributed into five groups. Specimens were rinsed with artificial saliva interrupted by 1% citric acid (pH 2.3) for 30 s 6 times daily for 14 days. Group 1 (n = 12) was not treated (control); in group 2 (n = 12) CasCP was applied for 120 s twice daily; in group 3 (n = 12) 250 ppm fluoride as NaF was applied for 120 s twice daily; in group 4 (n = 12) CasCP was applied for 120 s, then 250 ppm fluoride for 120 s twice daily, and in group 5 (n = 12) amine fluoride (AmF) gel (12,500 ppm fluoride) was applied for 120 s twice daily. Differences between groups with respect to erosive enamel loss (profilometrically determined depth after 7 and 14 days) were tested by the Mann-Whitney test (α = 0.05). After 7/14 days’ erosive cycling, specimens treated with AmF gel showed significantly less enamel loss (18.5/35.5 µm; medians) than those treated with CasCP (25.5/46.9 µm), 250 ppm fluoride (25.0/ 40.9 µm), CasCP and 250 ppm fluoride (23.9/47.4 µm) or with no treatment (26.3/49.8 µm). It is concluded that highly fluoridated acidic AmF gel can protect enamel against erosion while CasCP, 250 ppm fluoride or a combination of CasCP and 250 ppm fluoride provide little protection.
Effect of a Calcium Prerinse on Salivary Fluoride after a 228-ppm Fluoride Rinse
Authors: Vogel G.L. , Chow L.C. , Carey C.M. , Schumacher G.E. , Takagi S.
Published: March 2006

The objective of this study was to determine if a concentrated calcium prerinse given before a fluoride rinse would cause an increase in the post rinse sali vary fluoride (F). A panel of 5 subjects used a 30, 150 or 300 mmol/l calcium lactate prerinse followed by a 1-min NaF rinse. All calcium prerinses significantly increased the 1-hour saliva F relative to the NaF control without a prerinse. The maximum increase was produced by the 150 mmol/l calcium lactate prerinse and was about ninefold higher than the NaF control.
Right Bundle Branch Block: A New Parameter Revealing the Progression Rate of Mitral Stenosis
Authors: Ocal Arslan , Yildirim Nesligul , Ozbakir Cemal , Saricam Ersin , Ozdogan Ozgur Ulas , Arslan Serpil , Tufekcioglu Omac , Sabah Irfan
Published: March 2006

Background: Mitral stenosis has a generally slow but often variable clinical course. However, the factors that influence the rate of stenosis progression have not been completely identified. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether right bundle branch block (RBBB) may be related to the rapid progression of pure mitral stenosis besides echocardiographic parameters. Methods: Four hundred and thirty-six patients (300 females) were reviewed retrospectively. The patients were classified according to RBBB existence in electrocardiography: group A included 83 patients with RBBB existence, and group B contained 353 patients without RBBB. The patients were further classified as subjects who had an echocardiographic valve score ≤8 (325 patients, group 1) and those with a valve score >8 (111 patients, group 2). Results: The mean age of the patients was similar in groups A and B. In group A, the mean mitral valve gradient was higher (12.63 ± 4.43 vs. 10.58 ± 3.37 mm Hg; p < 0.0001), the mitral valve area smaller (1.05 ± 0.2 vs. 1.14 ± 0.52 cm2; p = 0.011), and the systolic pulmonary artery pressure higher (53.5 ± 16.2 vs. 46.9 ± 13.2 mm Hg; p = 0.001) than in group B. The mean age and mitral valve area were similar in groups 1 and 2. The mean mitral valve gradient (10.5 ± 3.7 vs. 12.3 ± 3.0 mm Hg; p < 0.0001) and systolic pulmonary artery pressure were higher in group 2 (46.7 ± 13.3 vs. 52.5 ± 15 mm Hg; p < 0.0001). Conclusion: These findings indicate that RBBB existence correlates with the severity of the disease and the grade of valve calcification in moderate and severe pure mitral stenosis.
Antibodies against Four Proteins from a Streptococcus pyogenes Serotype M1 Strain and Levels of Circulating Mannan-Binding Lectin in Acute Poststreptococcal Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Skattum L. , Åkesson P. , Truedsson L. , Sjöholm A.G.
Published: March 2006

Background: Responses against antigens from the potentially nephritogenic Streptococcus pyogenes serotype M1 in patients with acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis (AGN) were studied to seek indications of expression of these antigens during the preceding infection. Also, the question was asked whether the complement protein mannan-binding lectin (MBL) is required for development of the hypocomplementemia associated with AGN. Hypothetically, the lectin pathway might trigger the alternative pathway, which is consistently activated in AGN. Methods: Antibodies against three proteins associated with M1, M1 protein, streptococcal inhibitor of complement (SIC) and protein H, an IgG-binding protein, were determined by ELISA in 56 children and 17 adults with AGN. Antibodies against streptococcal cysteine proteinase, which is produced by all serotypes of S. pyogenes, were also examined. MBL concentrations were measured in the same 71 patients by a sandwich ELISA. Results: Increased concentrations of antibodies were found against all four streptococcal proteins, albeit not uniformly distributed between different subgroups of patients. The prevalence of low MBL concentrations (<100 µg/l) including 2 patients with undetectable MBL (<10 µg/l) was similar in AGN (11%) and in controls (16%). Conclusions: Our results give evidence of exposure to SIC and protein H in conjunction with AGN. This implies that SIC and protein H and/or cross-reacting proteins may have a role in the pathogenesis of AGN or that streptococci expressing SIC or protein H are nephritogenic for other reasons. The finding of MBL-deficient individuals among the patients demonstrates that MBL is not necessary for the recruitment of complement in AGN.
Comparative Effects of Pranidipine with Amlodipine in Rats with Heart Failure
Authors: Veeraveedu Punniyakoti T. , Watanabe Kenichi , Ma Meilei , Gurusamy Narasimman , Palaniyandi Suresh S. , Wen Juan , Prakash Paras , Wahed Mir Imam Ibne , Kamal Fadia A. , Mito Sayaka , Kunisaki Megumi , Kodama Makoto , Aizawa Yoshifusa
Published: March 2006

The aim of the present study was to compare the cardioprotective properties of long-acting calcium channel antagonist pranidipine with amlodipine in rat model of heart failure induced by autoimmune myocarditis. Twenty-eight days after immunization the surviving rats were randomized for the oral administration of low-dose amlodipine (1 mg/kg/day), high-dose amlodipine (5 mg/kg/day), pranidipine (0.3 mg/kg/day) or vehicle (0.5% methylcellulose). After oral administration for 1 month, the animals underwent echocardiography and hemodynamic analysis. Histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and Western immunoblotting were carried out in the heart samples. Both pranidipine and high-dose amlodipine increased survival rate. Although the heart rate did not differ among the four groups, left ventricular end-diastolic pressure was significantly decreased and ±dP/dt was increased in the pranidipine- and high-dose amlodipine-treated rats, but not in low-dose amlodipine-treated rats. In comparison to amlodipine treatment, pranidipine treatment significantly reduced myocyte size and central venous pressure. Furthermore, both pranidipine and high-dose amlodipine treatment significantly reduced myocardial protein levels of atrial natriuretic peptide and inducible nitric oxide synthase, whereas pranidipine only significantly decreased tumor necrosis factor-α, and improved sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ATPase2 protein levels. We conclude that pranidipine ameliorates the progression of left ventricular dysfunction and cardiac remodeling in rats with heart failure after autoimmune myocarditis in a lower dose when compared to amlodipine and which may be a clinically potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of heart failure.
Analysis of Prognostic Factors of Chemoradiation Therapy for Advanced Hypopharyngeal Cancer – Does Tumor Volume Correlate with Central Necrosis and Tumor Pathology?
Authors: Tsou Yung An , Hua Jun Hong , Lin Meng Hung , Tsai Ming Hsui
Published: March 2006

Objectives: Not all patients with hypopharyngeal cancer who undergo concurrent chemoradiation therapy have a good prognosis. We hope to find the significant prognostic factors that could help us in patient selection for concurrent chemoradiation therapy. Study Design: We used a retrospective analysis on several prognostic factors which may affect the treatment outcome and prognosis. Methods: We studied 51 patients with stage III–IV hypopharyngeal cancer who underwent chemoradiation therapy as the first treatment method. Possible significant prognostic factors (i.e. tumor volume, central necrosis, pathology, age) were collected to determine whether they correlate with local disease control and survival. Results: Primary tumor volume correlated with local disease control and survival. The greatest risk for local failure was found among patients with primary tumor volumes >19.0 ml (p = 0.001). Other relatively significant prognostic factors were pathology and central necrosis. The survival rate among patients with primary tumor volumes >19.0 ml was only 39.3% compared with 78.3% for patients with volumes <19.0 ml (p = 0.036). A proportional hazard model indicated that significant parameters associated with overall survival were primary tumor volume (p = 0.036) and central necrosis (p = 0.008). According to the cancer cell differentiation, the hazard risk in the well-differentiated group was 5.62 folds higher than in the poorly differentiated group (p = 0.05). Patients with an initial complete response had a primary tumor volume <19 ml (p = 0.001, 0.016), poorly differentiated pathology (p = 0.001, 0.016), and no central necrosis (p = 0.001, 0.016). Other relatively poor significant factors were T stage above III (p = 0.047), cervical lymphadenopathy beyond level II (p = 0.046), and a nodal volume >10.0 ml (p = 0.029). N stage, age and gender were not significant prognostic factors. Conclusion: Tumor volume is the most important prognostic factor of treatment outcome for patients with hypopharyngeal cancer and should always be taken into consideration in treatment planning. Other possible prognostic factors which affect the initial complete response rate and survival rate including central necrosis, pathology, nodal number and nodal volume, T stage above III, and cervical lymphadenopathy beyond level II have a relatively low correlation with treatment outcome. In our study, there was a correlation between tumor volume and central necrosis, but no significant correlation between pathological differentiation and tumor volume, although both affect treatment outcome.
Conversion And The Religious Market: A Theological Perspective
Authors: Houtepen Anton
Published: March 2006

This article wants first of all to describe, which historical-theological factors contributed to an important shift of meaning of the concept of conversion from the 18th and 19th century onwards. A more communal and covenantal, theocentric and ecclesial understanding of religious belonging has gradually shifted towards an individual personal, experiential, anthropocentric and charismatic interpretation. Evangelicals and Pentecostals share the idea of 'heartfelt religion', interpreting conversion as a sudden and momentous event, usually after a personal crisis. The historical churches rather stress the lifelong challenge of conversion, related to participation in church life, the liturgy and the sacraments.The second part deals with a series of Roman Catholic-Pentecostal ecumenical dialogues about the problems arising between these rather opposite ideas of Christian conversion. Different ecclesiological and pneumatological points of view are at stake here. Major problems arise when people from the older churches are invited to change their affiliation and want to renew their baptismal votes with the 'baptism in the Holy Spirit'. Dialogue partners tend to avoid all forms of proselytism, but common evangelisation and common witness, let alone ecumenical cooperation toward church unity or ecclesial communion still seem to be a bridge too far.
Exorcism And Conversion To African Pentecostalism
Authors: Anderson Allan
Published: March 2006

The rapid growth of Pentecostal forms of Christianity in Africa in recent years can partly be attributed to the prevalent practice of exorcism or 'deliverance' that characterises it. This essay considers the phenomenon from the perspective of the African popular religious spirit world, where spirits and 'demons' abound. It begins with a discussion of the 'translation' of pre-modern African religious ideas into Christian discourse, and gives several case studies from West Africa and especially from Southern Africa. It concludes that Pentecostal Christianity with its offer of 'deliverance' from evil powers fulfils a felt need and therefore produces a 'product' that is attractive in Africa's religious market, resulting in multiple conversions.
Impact of Trade Liberalization on the Environment in Developing Countries
Authors: Feridun Mete , Ayadi Folorunso Sunday , Balouga Jean
Published: March 2006

This article aims at investigating the impact of trade openness on pollution and resource depletion in Nigeria. Results indicate that pollution is positively related to trade intensity and real GDP per square kilometer, while capital to labor ratio and GNP are negatively related to pollution. In addition, strong evidence suggests that trade intensity, real GDP per square kilometer and GNP are positively related to environmental degradation indicating that the technique, scale, and total effects of liberalization are detrimental to the environment. The composition effect of trade liberalization on natural resource utilization, on the other hand, is beneficial. A number of policy implications emerge from the study for Nigeria as well as other developing economies.
SAARC-COMESA
Authors: Trivedi Sonu
Published: March 2006

The people of Asia and Africa share a common destiny, that is, to improve their lives and determine their place within the global community of nations through joint action, based on reliance on their resources and collective strength. Recent developments in the rapidly evolving global trading system, especially the formation and consolidation of formidable trading blocs, leave Africa and Asia with little choice but to commit themselves more firmly to regional co-operation and integration. This article examines inter-regional co-operation between these two regions, specifically between the South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation (SAARC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA). Based on the assumption that enhanced bilateral co-operation is a prerequisite for extending and deepening inter-regional co-operation, this article highlights the economic relations between India and the COMESA countries as a model for enhanced co-operation between these two regions in the future.
Intensity dependence of auditory evoked dipole source activity in polydrug ecstasy users: evidence from an 18 months longitudinal study
Authors: Daumann Jörg , Till Bianca , Fischermann Thomas , Rezk Markus , Gouzoulis-Mayfrank Euphrosyne
Published: March 2006

Numerous animal studies have been able to demonstrate neurotoxic damage to central serotonergic systems after exposure to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy). It has been suggested that a high loudness dependence of auditory evoked potentials (LDAEP) and, particularly, of the tangential N1/P2 source activity is associated with a low functioning of serotonergic activity. Therefore, the LDAEP may be used as a non-invasive indicator for a possible neurotoxic damage caused by the long-term use of ecstasy in recreational users. We recorded auditory evoked potentials (AEP) with a passive listening paradigm in 18 polydrug ecstasy users at baseline (t1) and after 18 months (t2). Several aspects of ecstasy use, such as frequency of use, cumulative lifetime dose or period of abstinence were associated with the LDAEP for several tangential dipoles at both measuring times. However, we failed to demonstrate any signi.cant relationship between drug use reported at follow-up and AEP changes from baseline to follow-up. Despite some incertitude these data suggest, yet do not unambiguously con.rm, the hypothesis that abstinent ecstasy users present with diminished central serotonergic activity. This feature of information processing is potentially related to the neurotoxic potential of ecstasy. However, alternative interpretations of these data refer to possible preexisting traits and the potential impact of other illicit drugs, particularly amphetamine, since ecstasy users typically exhibit polydrug use patterns. Thus, further research with larger sample sizes and prospective study designs are needed to de.nitively establish a causative link between ecstasy use and neurotoxicity-related dysfunctions in sensory processing.
The confounding problem of polydrug use in recreational ecstasy/MDMA users: a brief overview
Authors: Gouzoulis-Mayfrank Euphrosyne , Daumann Jörg
Published: March 2006

The popular dance drug ecstasy (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine -- MDMA) is neurotoxic upon central serotonergic neurons in laboratory animals and possibly also in humans. In recent years, several studies reported alterations of serotonergic transmission and neuropsychiatric abnormalities in ecstasy users which might be related to MDMA-induced neurotoxic brain damage. To date, the most consistent .ndings associate subtle cognitive, particularly memory, de.cits with heavy ecstasy use. However, most studies have important inherent methodological problems. One of the most serious confounds is the widespread pattern of polydrug use which makes it dif.cult to relate the .ndings in user populations to one speci.c drug. The present paper represents a brief overview on this issue. The most commonly co-used substances are alcohol, cannabis and stimulants (amphetamines and cocaine). Stimulants are also neurotoxic upon both serotonergic and dopaminergic neurons. Hence, they may act synergistically with MDMA and enhance its long-term adverse effects. The interactions between MDMA and cannabis use may be more complex: cannabis use is a wellrecognized risk factor for neuropsychiatric disorders and it was shown to contribute to psychological problems and cognitive failures in ecstasy users. However, at the cellular level, cannabinoids have neuroprotective actions and they were shown to (partially) block MDMA-induced neurotoxicity in laboratory animals. In future, longitudinal and prospective research designs should hopefully lead to a better understanding of the relation between drug use and subclinical psychological symptoms or neurocognitive failures and, also, of questions around interactions between the various substances of abuse.
MDMA in humans: factors which affect the neuropsychobiological profiles of recreational ecstasy users, the integrative role of bioenergetic stress
Authors: Parrott Andy C.
Published: March 2006

Many recreational ecstasy/MDMA users display neuropsychobiological de.cits, whereas others remain problem free. This review will investigate some of the drug and non-drug factors which in.uence the occurrence of these de.cits. Acute and chronic MDMA usage are both important. Intensive use within a session is often associated with more problems. In term of lifetime usage, novice users generally remain unimpaired, whereas most heavy users report memory or other psychobiological problems which they attribute to ecstasy. These complaints are con.rmed by objective de.cits in working memory, attention, frontal-executive, and episodic memory tasks. Psychobiological de.cits include disturbed sleep, sexual dysfunction, reduced immuno-competence, and increased oxidative stress. Further MDMA-related factors which may contribute to these changes, include acute and chronic tolerance, and drug dependence. Around 90ñ95% of ecstasy/MDMA users also take cannabis, and this can independently contribute to the adverse neuropsychobiological pro.les; although in some situations the acute co-use of these two drugs may be interactive rather than additive, since cannabis has relaxant and hypothermic properties. Alcohol, nicotine, amphetamine, and other drugs, can also affect the psychobiological pro.les of ecstasy polydrug users in complex ways. Pure MDMA users are rare but they have been shown to display signi.cant neurocognitive de.cits. Psychiatric aspects are debated in the context of the diathesisstress model. Here the stressor of ecstasy polydrug drug use, interacts with various predisposition factors (genetic, neurochemical, personality), to determine the psychiatric outcome. Recreational MDMA is typically taken in hot and crowded dances/raves. Prolonged dancing, feeling hot, and raised body temperature, can also be associated with more psychobiological problems. This is consistent with the animal literature, where high ambient temperature and other metabolic stimulants boost the acute effects of MDMA, and cause greater serotonergic neurotoxicity. In conclusion, the neuropsychobiological effects of MDMA are modulated by a wide range of drug and non-drug factors. These multiple in.uences are integrated within a bioenergetic stress model, where factors which heighten acute metabolic distress lead to more neuropsychobiological problems.
A review of acute effects of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine in healthy volunteers
Authors: Dumont G. J. H. , Verkes R. J.
Published: March 2006

This review of the literature aims to identify the acute effects of MDMA (ecstasy) in healthy volunteers. The wide range of relevant but methodologically diverse tests was .rst grouped into clusters to allow an evaluation of tests that would otherwise have been excluded due to their low frequency of utilization. The following three types of tests were evaluated: (1) functional tests quantifying executive, attention, visual, motor, visuomotor and auditory functions, (2) phenomenological tests assessing personal, subjective experiences, and (3) physiological measures re.ecting neurophysiological, endocrine and physiological parameters.

MDMA showed robust effects on most of the phenomenological and physiological tests. Functional tests were scarce, preventing any meaningful conclusions to be drawn from their evaluation other than that these tests should be incorporated into future acute-effect studies.

A striking doseñresponse relationship appeared for cardiovascular effects. At doses below 1.0 mg/kg MDMA no change was observed relative to placebo while above this dose all studies reported signi.cant increases. Furthermore, pupil size, plasma cortisol and plasma prolactin levels proved responsive to MDMA administration. The reported subjective effects of MDMA matched the entactogenic profile.

Although interest in the action of MDMA is considerable, the existing knowledge about the cognitive effects of MDMA in humans is still rather limited and further research into the drug's effects is recommended, also in view of potential therapeutic uses of the drug.
Activity of subcutaneous interleukin-12 in AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma
Authors: Little Richard F. , Pluda James M. , Wyvill Kathleen M. , Rodriguez-Chavez Isaac R. , Tosato Giovanna , Catanzaro Andrew T. , Steinberg Seth M. , Yarchoan Robert
Published: March 2006

Interleukin-12 (IL-12) enhances Th1-type T-cell responses and exerts antiangiogenic effects. We initiated a phase 1 pilot study of IL-12 in 32 patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)–related Kaposi sarcoma (KS) whose KS was progressing while on antiretroviral therapy. Fifteen patients had poor prognosis T1S1 disease. IL-12 was administered subcutaneously twice weekly at doses from 100 to 625 ng/kg. The maximum tolerated dose was 500 ng/kg, and the principal toxicities were flulike symptoms, transaminase or bilirubin elevations, neutropenia, hemolytic anemia, and depression. No tumor responses were seen at the lowest dose (100 ng/kg), but 17 of 24 evaluable patients at the higher doses had partial or complete responses (response rate, 71%; 95% confidence interval, 48%-89%). Only 3 of 17 patients had a change in antiretroviral therapy before responding, and there were no significant differences between responders and nonresponders with regard to changes in CD4 counts or viral loads. Patients had increases in their serum IL-12, interferon-γ, and inducible protein-10 (IP-10) after the first dose, and increases above baseline persisted after week 4. These results provide preliminary evidence that IL-12 has substantial activity against AIDS-related KS with acceptable toxicity and warrants further investigation for this indication.
Quantitative proteomics reveals posttranslational control as a regulatory factor in primary hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Unwin Richard D. , Smith Duncan L. , Blinco David , Wilson Claire L. , Miller Crispin J. , Evans Caroline A. , Jaworska Ewa , Baldwin Stephen A. , Barnes Kay , Pierce Andrew , Spooncer Elaine , Whetton Anthony D.
Published: March 2006

The proteome is determined by rates of transcription, translation, and protein turnover. Definition of stem cell populations therefore requires a stem cell proteome signature. However, the limit to the number of primary cells available has restricted extensive proteomic analysis. We present a mass spectrometric method using an isobaric covalent modification of peptides for relative quantification (iTRAQ), which was employed to compare the proteomes of approximately 1 million long-term reconstituting hematopoietic stem cells (Lin–Sca+Kit+; LSK+) and non–long-term reconstituting progenitor cells (Lin–Sca+Kit–; LSK–), respectively. Extensive 2-dimensional liquid chromatography (LC) peptide separation prior to mass spectrometry (MS) enabled enhanced proteome coverage with relative quantification of 948 proteins. Of the 145 changes in the proteome, 54% were not seen in the transcriptome. Hypoxia-related changes in proteins controlling metabolism and oxidative protection were observed, indicating that LSK+ cells are adapted for anaerobic environments. This approach can define proteomic changes in primary samples, thereby characterizing the molecular signature of stem cells and their progeny.
c-Myb is an essential downstream target for homeobox-mediated transformation of hematopoietic cells
Authors: Hess Jay L. , Bittner Claudia B. , Zeisig Deniz T. , Bach Christian , Fuchs Uta , Borkhardt Arndt , Frampton Jon , Slany Robert K.
Published: March 2006

Abdominal-type HoxA genes in combination with Meis1 are well-documented on-cogenes in various leukemias but it is unclear how they exert their transforming function. Here we used a system of conditional transformation by an inducible mixed lineage leukemia-eleven-nineteen leukemia (MLL-ENL) oncoprotein to overexpress Hoxa9 and Meis1 in primary hematopoietic cells. Arrays identified c-Myb and a c-Myb target (Gstm1) among the genes with the strongest response to Hoxa9/Meis1. c-Myb overexpression was verified by Northern blot and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Also MLL-ENL activated c-Myb through up-regulation of Hoxa9 and Meis1. Consequently, short-term suppression of c-Myb by small inhibitory RNA (siRNA) efficiently inhibited transformation by MLL-ENL but did not impair transformation by transcription factor E2A-hepatic leukemia factor (E2A-HLF). The anti c-Myb siRNA effect was abrogated by coexpression of a c-Myb derivative with a mutated siRNA target site. The introduction of a dominant-negative c-Myb mutant had a similar but weaker effect on MLL-ENL-mediated transformation. Hematopoietic precursors from mice homozygous for a hypo-morphic c-Myb allele were more severely affected and could be transformed neither by MLL-ENL nor by E2A-HLF. Ectopic expression of c-Myb induced a differentiation block but c-Myb alone was not transforming in a replating assay similar to Hoxa9/Meis1. These results suggest that c-Myb is essential but not sufficient for Hoxa9/Meis1 mediated transformation. (Blood. 2006;108:297-304)
Teaching More by Lecturing Less
Authors: Knight Jennifer K. , Wood William B.
Published: March 2006

We carried out an experiment to determine whether student learning gains in a large, traditionally taught, upper-division lecture course in developmental biology could be increased by partially changing to a more interactive classroom format. In two successive semesters, we presented the same course syllabus using different teaching styles: in fall 2003, the traditional lecture format; and in spring 2004, decreased lecturing and addition of student participation and cooperative problem solving during class time, including frequent in-class assessment of understanding. We used performance on pretests and posttests, and on homework problems to estimate and compare student learning gains between the two semesters. Our results indicated significantly higher learning gains and better conceptual understanding in the more interactive course. To assess reproducibility of these effects, we repeated the interactive course in spring 2005 with similar results. Our findings parallel results of similar teaching-style comparisons made in other disciplines. On the basis of this evidence, we propose a general model for teaching large biology courses that incorporates interactive engagement and cooperative work in place of some lecturing, while retaining course content by demanding greater student responsibility for learning outside of class.