bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integral Equation Methods for Multiple Crack Problems and Related Topics
Authors: Chen Y. Z.
Published: July 2007

The content of this review consists of recent developments covering an advanced treatment of multiple crack problems in plane elasticity. Several elementary solutions are highlighted, which are the fundamentals for the formulation of the integral equations. The elementary solutions include those initiated by point sources or by a distributed traction along the crack face. Two kinds of singular integral equations, three kinds of Fredholm integral equations, and one kind of hypersingular integral equation are suggested for the multiple crack problems in plane elasticity. Regularization procedures are also investigated. For the solution of the integral equations, the relevant quadrature rules are addressed. A variety of methods for solving the multiple crack problems is introduced. Applications for the solution of the multiple crack problems are also addressed. The concept of the modified complex potential (MCP) is emphasized, which will extend the solution range, for example, from the multiple crack problem in an infinite plate to that in a circular plate. Many multiple crack problems are addressed. Those problems include: (i) multiple semi-infinite crack problem, (ii) multiple crack problem with a general loading, (iii) multiple crack problem for the bonded half-planes, (iv) multiple crack problem for a finite region, (v) multiple crack problem for a circular region, (vi) multiple crack problem in antiplane elasticity, (vii) T-stress in the multiple crack problem, and (viii) periodic crack problem and many others. This review article cites 187 references.
Areal velocity and angular momentum for non-planar problems in particle mechanics
Authors: Casey James
Published: July 2007

The concept of areal velocity is intrinsically and historically connected with that of angular momentum. For central force fields the area swept out in the orbital plane by a particle’s radius vector is proportional to the time. For non-planar problems, it is shown that a particle’s position vector sweeps out a general conical surface and that interesting kinematical relations hold. The areal velocity vector is always perpendicular to the conical surface and is proportional to the angular momentum of the particle. In some problems, the magnitude of the areal velocity is constant while its direction changes. In others, only a component of the areal velocity vector is constant. A moving orthonormal basis associated with the areal velocity is defined and a matrix equation for the angular velocities of the basis vectors is found to have an elegant form, involving “sweeping” and “tilting” components. Illustrative examples are provided and some historical background is included.
Matrix analysis of classical elastic collisions
Authors: Carter John H. , Lieber Michael
Published: July 2007

The velocities of two bodies before and after an elastic collision can be related by a matrix transformation in one and two dimensions. We demonstrate a very simple relation between the one- and two-dimensional collision matrices.
Photon counting statistics using a digital oscilloscope
Authors: Martínez Ricci M. L. , Mazzaferri J. , Bragas A. V. , Martínez O. E.
Published: July 2007

We present a photon counting experiment designed for an undergraduate physics laboratory. The statistics of the number of photons of a pseudo-thermal light source is studied in two limiting cases: much longer and much shorter than the coherence time, giving Poisson and Bose-Einstein distributions, respectively. The experiment can be done in a reasonable time using a digital oscilloscope without the need of counting boards. The use of the oscilloscope has the advantage of allowing the storage of the data for further processing. The stochastic nature of the detection phenomena adds additional value because students are forced to do data processing and analysis.
Vibration-rotation coupling in a Morse oscillator
Authors: Burkhardt C. E. , Leventhal J. J.
Published: July 2007

The Morse function is invaluable for describing the vibrational motion of diatomic molecules. The time independent Schrödinger equation can be solved in closed form for this potential only if molecular rotation is ignored or if the rotation is isolated from the vibrational motion by approximating it as a rigid rotor. To find the dependence of the energy eigenvalues on the vibrational and rotational state to a level of approximation that includes vibrational-rotational coupling, a higher level of approximation than the rigid rotor model is required. We present a method that can be understood by undergraduates, thus making the Morse potential a more useful example. The method yields results that are identical to those presented by Morse, but in a more elementary way.
Spatial Regulation of an E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Directs Selective Synapse Elimination
Authors: Ding Mei , Chao Dan , Wang George , Shen Kang
Published: July 2007

Stereotyped synaptic connectivity can arise both by precise recognition between appropriate partners during synaptogenesis and by selective synapse elimination. The molecular mechanisms that underlie selective synapse removal are largely unknown. We found that stereotyped developmental elimination of synapses in the
Caenorhabditis elegans
hermaphrodite-specific motor neuron (HSNL) was mediated by an E3 ubiquitin ligase, a Skp1–cullin–F-box (SCF) complex composed of SKR-1 and the F-box protein SEL-10. SYG-1, a synaptic adhesion molecule, bound to SKR-1 and inhibited assembly of the SCF complex, thereby protecting nearby synapses. Thus, subcellular regulation of ubiquitin-mediated protein degradation contributes to precise synaptic connectivity through selective synapse elimination.
Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia in Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Patients
Authors: Foglia Elizabeth , Meier Mary Dawn , Elward Alexis
Published: July 2007

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is the second most common hospital-acquired infection among pediatric intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Empiric therapy for VAP accounts for approximately 50% of antibiotic use in pediatric ICUs. VAP is associated with an excess of 3 days of mechanical ventilation among pediatric cardiothoracic surgery patients. The attributable mortality and excess length of ICU stay for patients with VAP have not been defined in matched case control studies. VAP is associated with an estimated $30,000 in attributable cost. Surveillance for VAP is complex and usually performed using clinical definitions established by the CDC. Invasive testing via bronchoalveolar lavage increases the sensitivity and specificity of the diagnosis. The pathogenesis in children is poorly understood, but several prospective cohort studies suggest that aspiration and immunodeficiency are risk factors. Educational interventions and efforts to improve adherence to hand hygiene for children have been associated with decreased VAP rates. Studies of antibiotic cycling in pediatric patients have not consistently shown this measure to prevent colonization with multidrug-resistant gram-negative rods. More consistent and precise approaches to the diagnosis of pediatric VAP are needed to better define the attributable morbidity and mortality, pathophysiology, and appropriate interventions to prevent this disease.
Establishing elemental turnover in exercising birds using a wind tunnel: implications for stable isotope tracking of migrants
Authors: Hobson Keith A. , Yohannes Elizabeth
Published: July 2007

Stable isotope measurements are being used increasingly to track migratory wildlife, especially birds. This approach relies on the assumption that tissue isotopic values represent a known period of dietary integration and that such a period is long enough to provide information on previous geographic origin. To date, such measurements have been obtained by switching isotopic composition of diets of sedentary captive individuals. The assumption has been that such measurements of elemental turnover likely represent minimal estimates, since wild migratory birds undergo increased metabolism and exercise during migratory flights. We tested this assumption using isotopic manipulation of diet on captive Rosy Starling ( Sturnus roseus (L., 1758)) conditioned for flight in a wind tunnel. We used four control (no exercise) and four experimental (exercised) birds. For both groups, diet was switched from primarily a C-3 content to a C-4 content and blood samples were taken throughout our experiment until day 53. Contrary to expectation, δ13C values in blood did not follow an exponential model of growth to a plateau under the new diet. Instead, the best fit was a linear increase in δ13C value of the blood cellular fraction following the switch (day 15) until day 50, after which no further isotopic change was noted. We found no difference between experimental and control groups in the rate of carbon turnover. Our results support the contention that metabolic costs of migratory flight in conditioned birds may not result in increases in carbon elemental turnover in tissues and that previous estimates of tissue isotopic turnover based on captive, nonexercised birds may be applied to wild birds.
Habitat deterioration affects antipredatory behavior, body condition, and parasite load of female Psammodromus algirus lizards
Authors: Amo Luisa , López Pilar , Martín José
Published: July 2007

Deforestation may increase predation risk for prey because it may make prey more conspicuous and limit the number of refuges suitable to avoid predators. Therefore, prey may need to increase the magnitude of escape responses. However, excessive antipredatory effort might lead to a loss of body mass and a decrease in defense against parasites, with important consequences for short- and long-term fitness. We analyzed whether Psammodromus algirus (L., 1758) lizards that inhabit patches with different levels of deterioration of the vegetation within the same oak forest differed in relative abundance numbers, microhabitat use, antipredatory strategies, and health state. Results showed lizards selected similar microhabitats regardless of the level of deterioration of the vegetation and relative abundance of lizards was similar in both areas. However, habitat deterioration seemed to increase predation risk, at least for females, because they were detected at longer distances in deteriorated areas. Females seemed to adjust their antipredatory behavior accordingly to high risk of predation by increasing approach distances allowed to predators. The costs associated with frequent antipredatory displays might explain why females in deteriorated habitats had lower body condition and greater blood parasite loads than females in natural areas. This loss of body condition and increased parasitemia might have deleterious consequences for female fitness and therefore affect the maintenance of lizard populations in the long-term.
Transmission-relevant behaviours shift with pathogen infection in wild house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus)
Authors: Hawley D.M. , Davis A.K. , Dhondt A.A.
Published: July 2007

Host individuals who are infected with a pathogen may alter their behaviour in ways that influence transmission. We observed a marked population of house finches ( Carpodacus mexicanus (Muller, 1776)) in Ithaca, New York, to test whether individuals change their behaviour at feeding stations when infected with a prevalent bacterial pathogen, Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG). We found that house finches with conjunctival lesions consistent with MG infection fed for longer bouts of time than individuals without conjunctivitis. Furthermore, the same individuals that were observed both with and without conjunctivitis during 3 years of study were more likely to feed alone and associated in significantly smaller flocks when conjunctivitis signs were present. These results suggest house finches alter their foraging and social behaviour at feeding stations when visibly infected with MG. Since MG transmission is thought to primarily occur at feeders, these changes in host behaviour likely have important consequences for MG transmission dynamics.
The Emergence, Content, and Institutionalization of Hate Crime Law: How a Diverse Policy Community Produced a Modern Legal Fact
Authors: Jenness Valerie
Published: July 2007

This review provides an overview of the emergence, content, and institutionalization of hate crime law as a unique form of criminal and civil rights law originating in the United States and increasingly finding a home in other countries. From the introduction and politicization of the term hate crime in the late 1970s to the increased enforcement of hate crime law at the beginning of the twenty-first century, social movements have constructed the problem of hate-motivated violence; politicians at the federal and state levels have passed legislation defining the parameters of hate crime; appellate court judges have decided the constitutionality of hate crime law; and law enforcement officials have classified, reported, investigated, and prosecuted incidents as hate crime. At the same time, media attention to hate crime has increased, defining the concept for the masses while leading to and reflecting growing acceptance of the idea that criminal conduct is different when it involves an act motivated by (some types of) bigotry, hatred, or bias and manifested as discrimination against (some types of) minorities. An examination of these changes suggests that lawmaking transcends the moment at which a statute is adopted; it is best understood as a larger process of policy domain formation that is enabled and constrained by a policy community intimately connected to extralegal political processes and the workings of loosely coupled bureaucratic structures comprising the criminal justice system.
Expression of SERCA isoform with faster Ca2+ transport properties improves postischemic cardiac function and Ca2+ handling and decreases myocardial infarction
Authors: Talukder M. A. Hassan , Kalyanasundaram Anuradha , Zhao Xue , Zuo Li , Bhupathy Poornima , Babu Gopal J. , Cardounel Arturo J. , Periasamy Muthu , Zweier Jay L.
Published: July 2007

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is associated with contractile dysfunction, arrhythmias, and myocyte death. Intracellular Ca2+ overload with reduced activity of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) is a critical mechanism of this injury. Although upregulation of SERCA function is well documented to improve postischemic cardiac function, there are conflicting reports where pharmacological inhibition of SERCA improved postischemic function. SERCA2a is the primary cardiac isoform regulating intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis; however, SERCA1a has been shown to substitute SERCA2a with faster Ca2+ transport kinetics. Therefore, to further address this issue and to evaluate whether SERCA1a expression could improve postischemic cardiac function and myocardial salvage, in vitro and in vivo myocardial I/R studies were performed on SERCA1a transgenic (SERCA1a+/+) and nontransgenic (NTG) mice. Langendorff-perfused hearts were subjected to 30 min of global ischemia followed by reperfusion. Baseline preischemic coronary flow and left ventricular developed pressure were significantly greater in SERCA1a+/+ mice compared with NTG mice. Independent of reperfusion-induced oxidative stress, SERCA1a+/+ hearts demonstrated greatly improved postischemic (45 min) contractile recovery with less persistent arrhythmias compared with NTG hearts. Morphometry showed better-preserved myocardial structure with less infarction, and electron microscopy demonstrated better-preserved myofibrillar and mitochondrial ultrastructure in SERCA1a+/+ hearts. Importantly, intraischemic Ca2+ levels were significantly lower in SERCA1a+/+ hearts. The cardioprotective effect of SERCA1a was also observed during in vivo regional I/R with reduced myocardial infarct size after 24 h of reperfusion. Thus SERCA1a+/+ hearts were markedly protected against I/R injury, suggesting that expression of SERCA 1a isoform reduces postischemic Ca2+ overload and thus provides potent myocardial protection.
Functional arginine vasopressin system in early heart maturation
Authors: Gutkowska Jolanta , Miszkurka Malgorzata , Danalache Bogdan , Gassanov Natig , Wang Donghao , Jankowski Marek
Published: July 2007

Since the neurohypophyseal hormone 8-arginine vasopressin (AVP) is involved in cardiovascular tissue hypertrophy and myocyte differentiation, it is possible that local AVP plays a role in heart maturation. AVP-specific RIA, RT-PCR, and immunoblot measurement of AVP receptors (VR) were used to investigate heart tissues from newborn and adult rats. To test AVP's role in differentiation and specialization into ventricle-like cardiomyocytes, we studied GFP-P19Cl6 stem cells, which express green fluorescence protein (GFP) reporter under transcriptional control of the myosin light chain-2v promoter. VR1 transcripts and proteins were higher in adult than in newborn rat hearts. In contrast, VR2 increased from postnatal day 1 to 5 and was barely detected in the adult rat heart. In cardiomyocytes expressing troponin C, immunofluorescence revealed VR2 and VR1. Intracellular cAMP increased 6.5- and 8.9-fold in response to the selective VR2 agonist 1-desamino-8-d-AVP (DDAVP) after 1 and 24 h, respectively. Cardiac AVP was high in 1- and 5-day-old (330 ± 26 and 276 ± 53 pg/mg protein, respectively) but low in 66-day-old (98 ± 15 pg/mg protein) rats. AVP immunostaining was detected in the tunica adventitia and endothelium of the coronary vessels. The possible role of AVP in cardiomyogenesis was indicated by DDAVP-AVP-dependent differentiation of GFP-P19Cl6 stem cells into contracting cells displaying GATA-4, a cardiac-specific marker, and ventricle-specific myosin light chain. Together, it is suggested that the AVP system is implicated in postnatal cardiac maturation.
Aerobic exercise attenuates inducible TNF production in humans
Authors: Sloan Richard P. , Shapiro Peter A. , DeMeersman Ronald E. , McKinley Paula S. , Tracey Kevin J. , Slavov Iordan , Fang Yixin , Flood Pamela D.
Published: July 2007

Aerobic exercise reduces coronary heart disease risk, but the mechanisms of this protection are not fully understood. Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease mediated by monocyte-derived macrophages, which accumulate in arterial plaques and become activated to release factors, including cytokines, that cause damage. Here we studied the effects of aerobic training on monocyte production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in whole blood ex vivo. Healthy young sedentary adults ( n = 61, age 20–45 yr) were randomized to a moderate- (M) or a high- (H) intensity 12-wk training program. Whole blood was extracted before and after training, and then it was stimulated by addition of lipopolysaccharide (LPS); inducible TNF was measured in the plasma. Data were analyzed according to intention to treat principles using a random-effect model to determine the impact of training group on maximal aerobic capacity and LPS-stimulated TNF after correcting for covariates. Analyses revealed improvement in aerobic capacity in both the H (9%) and the M (7%) groups. However, aerobic training led to significant ( P < 0.001) decreases in TNF release only in the H group. These data suggest that in healthy young adults, a 12-wk high-intensity aerobic training program downregulates blood monocyte production of stimulated cytokine release.
Effects of Colon Cancer Risk Counseling for First-Degree Relatives
Authors: Glanz Karen , Steffen Alana D. , Taglialatela Lauren A.
Published: July 2007

Background: Individuals with a first-degree relative who has had colorectal cancer are at increased risk for colorectal cancer and thus can benefit from early detection. Tailored risk counseling may increase adherence to screening guidelines in these persons. The present study evaluated a culturally sensitive Colon Cancer Risk Counseling (CCRC) intervention for relatives of colorectal cancer patients.

Methods: A randomized trial evaluated personalized CCRC sessions with print materials and follow-up phone calls compared with a comparable General Health Counseling (GHC) intervention. One hundred and seventy-six siblings and children of colorectal cancer patients, living in Hawaii, were assessed at baseline and 4 and 12 months after intervention. Physician verification of colorectal cancer screening reports supplemented survey data.

Results: The CCRC intervention had a significant treatment effect at 4 months (13% greater increase than for GHC) that plateaued to a trend at 12 months. For those who were nonadherent at baseline, the CCRC led to a 17% net increase in screening adherence. Participants rated the CCRC intervention better than GHC for the amount and usefulness of new information.

Conclusions: Using a study design that compared risk counseling to an attention-matched and tailored control condition provided a rigorous test of CCRC that emphasized the relevance of family experience with colorectal cancer. The combination face-to-face, phone, and small media risk counseling intervention for people with a family history of colorectal cancer should be considered for adoption in health care and public health settings. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(7):1485–91)
Physical Inactivity in Adult Survivors of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study
Authors: Florin Todd A. , Fryer G. Edgar , Miyoshi Thomas , Weitzman Michael , Mertens Ann C. , Hudson Melissa M. , Sklar Charles A. , Emmons Karen , Hinkle Andrea , Whitton John , Stovall Marilyn , Robison Leslie L. , Oeffinger Kevin C.
Published: July 2007

Purpose: To determine if adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are less active (and more inactive) than the general population and to identify modifying factors.

Patients and Methods: Physical activity was assessed by self-report in 2,648 adult survivors of the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study. Participants in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey administered through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) were used as a comparison group.

Results: Survivors had a mean age of 28.7 years (range, 18.0-44.0 years) and were a mean of 23.1 years from their cancer diagnosis (range, 16.0-33.8 years). In multivariate models, ALL survivors were more likely to not meet CDC recommendations for physical activity [odds ratio (OR), 1.44; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.32-1.57] and more likely to be inactive (OR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.56-1.94) in comparison with the BRFSS general population. Survivors treated with >20-Gy cranial radiotherapy were at particular risk. Compared with BRFSS participants and adjusted for age, race, and ethnicity, survivors were more likely to not meet CDC recommendations (females: OR, 2.07, 95% CI, 1.67-2.56; males: OR, 1.43, 95% CI, 1.16-1.76) and more likely to be inactive (females: OR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.50-2.31; males: OR, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.45-2.32).

Conclusions: Long-term survivors of childhood ALL are less likely to meet physical activity recommendations and more likely to report no leisure-time physical activity in the past month. This level of inactivity likely further increases their risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and all-cause mortality. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(7):1356–63)
Risk of Breast Cancer After Exposure to Fertility Drugs: Results from a Large Danish Cohort Study
Authors: Jensen Allan , Sharif Heidi , Svare Edith I. , Frederiksen Kirsten , Kjær Susanne Krüger
Published: July 2007

Background: Few epidemiologic studies have examined the association between fertility drugs and breast cancer risk, and results have been contradicting. Using data from the largest cohort of infertile women to date, the aim of this study was to examine the effects of fertility drugs on breast cancer risk overall and according to histologic subtypes.

Method: A cohort of 54,362 women with infertility problems referred to all Danish fertility clinics between 1963 and 1998 was established. A detailed data collection, including information of type and amount of treatment, was conducted. We used case-cohort techniques to calculate rate ratios (RR) of breast cancer associated with use of five groups of fertility drugs, after adjustment for parity status.

Results: Three hundred thirty-one invasive breast cancers were identified in the cohort during follow-up through 1998. Analyses within cohort showed no overall increased breast cancer risk after use of gonadotrophins, clomiphene, human chorionic gonadotrophin, or gonadotrophin-releasing hormone, whereas use of progesterone increased breast cancer risk (RR, 3.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.3-8.6). For all groups of fertility drugs, no relationships with number of cycles of use or years since first use of fertility drug were found. However, gonadotrophins may have a stronger effect on breast cancer risk among nulliparous women (RR, 1.69; 95% confidence interval, 1.03-2.77). Similar risk patterns were present for ductal, lobular, and tumors of other histologies, indicating identical etiologies.

Conclusion: The results showed no strong association between breast cancer risk and use of fertility drugs. Follow-up is, however, needed to assess long-term breast cancer risk after use of progesterone and among nulliparous women exposed to gonadotrophins. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(7):1400–7)
Early- and Late-Onset Breast Cancer Types Among Women in the United States and Japan
Authors: Matsuno Rayna K. , Anderson William F. , Yamamoto Seiichiro , Tsukuma Hideaki , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Kobayashi Ken , Devesa Susan S. , Levine Paul H.
Published: July 2007

Background: Although differences in breast cancer incidence among Occidental and Asian populations are often attributed to variations in environmental exposures and/or lifestyle, fewer studies have systematically examined the effect of age-related variations.

Methods: To further explore age-related geographic breast cancer variations, we compared age-specific incidence patterns among cases of female invasive breast cancer from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program and the Osaka Cancer Registry (1978-1997).

Results: In SEER, there were 236,130 Whites, 21,137 Blacks, and 3,304 Japanese-Americans in Hawaii with invasive breast cancer. In Osaka, there were 25,350 cases. Incidence rates per 100,000 woman-years ranged from 87.6 among Whites to 21.8 in Osaka. Age-specific incidence rates increased rapidly until age 50 years for all race/ethnicity groups, and then continued to increase more slowly for Whites, Blacks, and Japanese-Americans in Hawaii but plateaud for Osaka. Age-specific incidence rates in SEER reflected bimodal (early-onset and late-onset) breast cancer populations, whereas Osaka had only an early-onset age distribution. These age-specific differences in incidence among SEER and Osaka persisted after adjustment for calendar-period and birth-cohort effects using age-period-cohort models.

Conclusions: Results confirm striking age-specific differences among Occidental and native Japanese breast cancer populations, probably due to complex age-related biological and/or environmental variations among Occidental and Asian breast cancer populations. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(7):1437–42)
Body Mass Index, Physical Activity, and Risk of Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Birmann Brenda M. , Giovannucci Edward , Rosner Bernard , Anderson Kenneth C. , Colditz Graham A.
Published: July 2007

Several studies have reported a positive relation of baseline body mass index (BMI) with multiple myeloma, but data on other correlates of energy balance are limited. We undertook the present analyses to further examine the role of energy balance in multiple myeloma etiology in two large prospective cohorts with biennially updated exposure data. We followed members of the Nurses' Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study cohorts from baseline until multiple myeloma diagnosis, death, or 2002. Adult height and current weight were reported at enrollment, and weight every 2 years thereafter. Physical activity was queried at baseline and updated every 2 to 4 years. We computed age-adjusted relative risks (RR) of multiple myeloma for categories of BMI and physical activity using Cox proportional hazards regression. We conducted analyses on each cohort separately and on both cohorts combined. We confirmed 215 incident cases of multiple myeloma in the combined cohort of 136,623 individuals (>2.1 million person-years at risk). BMI was positively associated with multiple myeloma in all analyses. The association was strongest in men with a BMI of ≥30 kg/m2 (versus a BMI of <22.0 kg/m2; RR, 2.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.0-6.0) and modest in overweight (BMI, 25-29.9 kg/m2) and obese (BMI, ≥30 kg/m2) women [versus BMI of <22.0 kg/m2; RR (95% confidence interval), 1.6 (1.0-2.7) and 1.2 (0.7-2.2), respectively]. Physical activity was not significantly related to multiple myeloma risk, although an inverse association was suggested in women. In conclusion, obesity seems to have an etiologic role in multiple myeloma, but the role of other correlates of energy balance remains uncertain. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(7):1474–8)
New Insights Into the Role of Lipoprotein(a)-Associated Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A
2
in Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Tsimikas Sotirios , Tsironis Loukas D. , Tselepis Alexandros D.
Published: July 2007

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] plays an important role in atherosclerosis. The biological effects of Lp(a) have been attributed either to apolipoprotein(a) or to its low-density lipoprotein-like particle. Lp(a) contains platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase, an enzyme that exhibits a Ca
2+
-independent phospholipase A
2
activity and is complexed to lipoproteins in plasma; thus, it is also referred to as lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A
2
. Substrates for lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A
2
include phospholipids containing oxidatively fragmented residues at the
sn-2
position (oxidized phospholipids; OxPLs). OxPLs may play important roles in vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis. Plasma levels of OxPLs present on apolipoprotein B-100 particles (OxPL/apolipoprotein B) are correlated with coronary artery, carotid, and peripheral arterial disease. Furthermore, OxPL/apolipoprotein B levels in plasma are strongly correlated with Lp(a) levels, are preferentially sequestered on Lp(a), and thus are potentially subjected to degradation by the Lp(a)-associated lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A
2
. The present review article focuses specifically on the characteristics of the lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A
2
associated with Lp(a) and discusses the possible role of this enzyme in view of emerging data showing that OxPLs in plasma are preferentially sequestered on Lp(a) and may significantly contribute to the increased atherogenicity of this lipoprotein.
The Mechanical Performance and Histomorphological Structure of the Descending Aorta in Hyperthyroidism
Authors: Moulakakis Konstantinos G. , Sokolis Dimitrios P. , Perrea Despina N. , Dosios Theodosios , Dontas Ismene , Poulakou Maria V. , Dimitriou Constantinos A. , Sandris George , Karayannacos Panayotis E.
Published: July 2007

Thyroid hormones decrease systemic vascular resistance by directly affecting vascular smooth muscle relaxation. There is limited literature about their effect on the mechanical performance of the aortic wall. Therefore, the authors determined the influence of hyperthyroidism on the mechanical properties and histomorphological structure of the descending thoracic aorta in rats. Severe hyperthyroidism was induced in 20 male Wistar rats by administering L-thyroxine (T4) in their drinking water for 8 weeks; age-matched normal euthyroid rats acted as controls. Animals were sacrificed, and the mechanical and histomorphometrical characteristics of the descending thoracic aorta were studied. The aortic wall of hyperthyroid rats was stiffer than that of euthyroid animals at the upper physiologic levels of stress or strain (p < 0.05) but less stiff at the lower physiologic and lower levels (p < 0.05). The aorta of hyperthyroid animals compared with that of euthyroid ones showed an increase of the internal and external diameters (p < 0.05), the media area (p < 0.05), the number of smooth muscle cell nuclei (p < 0.05), and the collagen density (p < 0.05) and a decrease in the elastin laminae thickness (p < 0.001) and elastin density (p < 0.001). In hyperthyroid rats, the aortic wall was stiffer at the upper physiologic and higher levels of stress and strain. These changes correlated with microstructural changes of the aortic wall. The coexistence of hyperthyroidism with disease states or clinical conditions that predispose to increased arterial pressure may be associated with increased arterial stiffness and have undesirable consequences on the mechanical performance of the thoracic aorta and hemodynamic homeostasis. These changes could lead to an increased risk for developing vascular complications.
Autoantibodies to the Atheroma Component Beta2-Glycoprotein I and Risk of Symptomatic Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Franck Marcus , Staub Henrique L. , Petracco João B. , Norman Gary L. , Lassen Andrew J. , Schiavo Nádia , Borges Rodrigo B. K. , von Mühlen Carlos A.
Published: July 2007

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is mostly related to atherosclerosis. Autoimmunity and, in particular, antibodies to cardiolipin (aCL) and phospholipid cofactors such as beta2-glycoprotein I (beta2-gpI) might influence the development of atheroma. Beta2-glycoprotein I (beta2-gpI) has been found in atheroma. It has previously been shown that immunoglobulin A (IgA) anti-beta2-gpI antibodies are associated with a risk of cerebral ischemia and myocardial infarction. This case control study aimed to determine whether elevated levels of aCL/anti-beta2-gpI antibodies are associated with a risk of symptomatic PAD (sPAD). Cases comprised a nonselected population of patients with sPAD (intermittent claudication or critical ischemia). Patient recruitment was based on arteriography changes. Controls were selected from patients admitted to orthopedic wards as a result of fractures or muscle-ligamentous disorders. Age, sex, race, hypertension, smoking, diabetes mellitus, and hypercholesterolemia were evaluated as risk factors in both groups. IgG/IgM/IgA aCL and anti-beta2-gpI were detected by enzyme-linked immunoabsorbant assays (ELISA). To estimate the grade of association of antibodies with sPAD, odds ratios (OR) were calculated. Logistic regression was utilized for adjustment of confounding factors. Seventy-seven cases and 93 controls were studied. The mean age was 61.5 years for cases and 47.5 years for controls (p <0.001). Among the risk factors evaluated, the presence of hypertension showed the strongest association with sPAD (OR 12.1; 95%CI 5.8—30). The presence of IgA anti-beta2-gpI was independently associated with sPAD (OR 5.4; 95%CI 1.8—15.8; p = 0.01). IgA aCL was strongly associated with the outcome (nonadjusted OR 11.5 after Agresti correction). IgA aCL and IgA anti-beta2-gpI antibodies were not associated with any known risk factors for sPAD or with arteriography changes. The occurrence of these autoantibodies might represent one of the links between autoimmunity and atherosclerosis in patients with sPAD.
The Longitudinal Effects of Fenfluramine-Phentermine Use
Authors: Fleming Richard M. , Boyd Larry B.
Published: July 2007

The use of previous anorectic medications and the combined use of the anorectic medications fenfluramine and phentermine (Fen-Phen) have been associated with varying degrees of valvular regurgitation and pulmonary hypertension. More recent reports have suggested a lower incidence of both than was previously reported. Comparisons of patients with similar body mass index (BMI) have been missing as well as information regarding chamber dimensions and pressures. Using transthoracic 2D, M-mode, and Doppler echocardiography, 57 men and women (30 Fen-Phen and 27 BMI-matched individuals/BMIMCG) were studied to determine their chamber dimensions, wall motion, diastolic function, valvular abnormalities, left ventricular ejection fractions (LVEFs), and pulmonary artery pressures (pAPs). The 30 Fen-Phen subjects were studied shortly after discontinuing the medications and again 6 to 12 months later. The results in these subjects were then compared with the valvular findings of 660 randomly selected cardiac patients with non-Fen-Phen-induced heart disease (NFPHD). Valvular regurgitation was greatest among patients who had recently discontinued the use of Fen-Phen (EFP) with 57% of all valves having regurgitation, 87.5% of which were “mild.” These same individuals also had the largest left ventricles at end (LVEDD) diastole (5.03 ±0.22 cm) and systole (LVESD). The LVESDs were statistically larger (p ≤ 0.05) than that seen in the other groups, while at the same time their LVEFs were statistically (p ≤ 0.01) lower (53.44 ±9.48%). These same patients had statistically (p ≤ 0.05) greater PAPs (29.21 ±10.52 mm Hg), which were associated with a lower incidence rate (14%) of pulmonic regurgitation (PR). The number of people with aortic regurgitation (AR), statistically (p ≤ 0.05) decreased (40%) as the duration of time since discontinuing Fen-Phen increased (late Fen-Phen/LFP). However, for those individuals who continued to have AR, there was an increase in the number of people who progressed from mild to moderate AR, with an associated increase in LVEDD (5.41 ±0.55 cm), LVESD (3.51 ± 0.84 cm), and LVEF (63.45 ±15.25%). The LFP studies showed a statistical (p ≤ 0.001) increase in PR with a subsequent drop in PAPs from 29.21 ±10.52 mm Hg in the early (EFP) studies to 14.02 ±1.35 mm Hg, which was augmented with weight-bearing and Valsalva maneuvers. The reduction in the percentage of individuals with valvular regurgitation and pulmonary hypertension appears to be due to changes in the heart valves, pressures, and chamber size. The incidence of tricuspid and mitral regurgitation decreased with time, while pulmonic and aortic regurgitation tended to increase or become more severe when present.
Longitudinal trends in academic web links
Authors: Payne Nigel , Thelwall Mike
Published: July 2007

Longitudinal studies of web change are needed to assess the stability of webometric statistics and this paper forms part of an on-going longitudinal study of three national academic web spaces. It examines the relationship between university inlinks and research productivity over time and identifies reasons for individual universities experiencing significant increases and decreases in inlinks over the last six years. The findings also indicate that between 66 and 70% of outlinks remain the same year on year for all three academic web spaces, although this stability conceals large individual differences. Moreover, there is evidence of a level of stability over time for university site inlinks when measured against research productivity. Surprisingly, however, inlink counts can vary significantly from year to year for individual universities, for reasons unrelated to research which undermines their use in webometrics studies.
Hispanic Test-Session Behavior on the Woodcock Johnson Psychoeducational Battery— Third Edition
Authors: Frisby Craig L. , Osterlind Steven J.
Published: July 2007

This study examined potential differential examiner ratings for a large sample of self-identified Hispanics on the Woodcock Johnson Psychoeducational Battery—Third Edition (WJ-III) Test Session Observation Checklist (TSOC). Both between-group (Hispanics vs. non-Hispanics) and within-group analyses (Hispanics disaggregated by first spoken language, language spoken in the home, and mother's highest educational level) were conducted. Four research hypotheses were tested through 44 analyses. Most comparisons were not statistically significant, and across- and within-group differences had minimal influence in analyses that were statistically significant. The authors conclude that there is no compelling evidence of substantial systematic differences in examiner ratings of Hispanics' test-session behaviors on the WJ-III.
The Influence of Informants on Ratings of Children's Behavioral Functioning
Authors: Konold Timothy R. , Pianta Robert C.
Published: July 2007

Standardized rating scales remain the primary mechanism through which child behaviors are recorded. Despite the many advantages of such systems, the documented lack of agreement among different informants' ratings of the same child remains a pervasive problem for clinicians. This study examines the degree to which observed behavior ratings were influenced by different informants, relative to the traits these measures were designed to assess. A correlated trait-correlated method confirmatory factor analysis model is estimated on a multitrait-multimethod design in which five behavioral traits were completely crossed with three informants (mothers, fathers, and teachers). Behavioral ratings were completed on 562 first-grade children. Results indicate that ratings of child behavior are heavily influenced by the informant, that informant influences are relatively independent of one another, and that the influence of method variance is often greater than the influence of the trait being assessed.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Assessment Practices by Practicing School Psychologists
Authors: Koonce Danel A.
Published: July 2007

The purpose of the current study is to examine school psychologists' assessment practices of children presenting with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptomology using a case vignette. A random sample of 500 members of the National Association of School Psychologists is sent surveys; 246 are included in the study (49%). Results indicate some regional differences in the use of instruments and procedures selected by the respondents based on the case vignette. The most commonly selected assessment instruments and procedures are reflective of an approach consistent with a best practice, ongoing problem-solving process. Limitations of current practices are discussed.
Use of the Devereux Scales of Mental Disorders for Children and Adolescents with Emotional Disturbance
Authors: Reddy Linda A. , Pfeiffer Steven I. , Files-Hall Tara M.
Published: July 2007

The present study was designed to investigate the discriminant validity of the Devereux Scales of Mental Disorders (DSMD; Naglieri, LeBuffe, & Pfeiffer, 1994) in relation to a widely used behavior rating scale, the Teacher Report Form (TRF; Achenbach, 1991), in children and adolescents with emotional disturbance (ED). A matched sample of 148 children and adolescents, 74 in regular education and 74 in special education settings for ED, were rated by teachers using the DSMD and TRF. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) analyses and d-ratios yielded statistically significant differences ( p < .01) between groups and moderate to large effect sizes. Receiver operator characteristic analyses indicated that in general the TRF produced higher area under the curve (AUC) estimates than the DSMD across age groups for the total and composite scale scores. Classification efficiency statistics at the recommended cutoff T-score of 60 for the total scale revealed that the DSMD performed as well as the TRF. Results generalized well across base rates, with the DSMD producing slightly higher positive predictive power than the TRF, and the TRF exhibiting a greater negative predictive power than the DSMD.
The Test Anxiety Inventory for Children and Adolescents (TAICA)
Authors: Lowe Patricia A. , Lee Steven W. , Witteborg Kristin M. , Prichard Keri W. , Luhr Megan E. , Cullinan Christopher M. , Mildren Bethany A. , Raad Jennifer M. , Cornelius Rebecca A. , Janik Melissa
Published: July 2007

The Test Anxiety Inventory for Children and Adolescents (TAICA) is a new multidimensional measure used to assess test anxiety in elementary and secondary school students. The TAICA is a 45-item self-report measure consisting of a Total Test Anxiety scale, four debilitating test anxiety subscales (Cognitive Obstruction/Inattention, Physiological Hyperarousal, Social Humiliation, and Worry), a facilitating test anxiety scale (Performance Enhancement/ Facilitation Anxiety), and a Lie scale. In the present study, the psychometric properties of the TAICA scores are examined with a volunteer sample of 206 children and adolescents. Results of the study indicate that the TAICA scores have strong to very strong internal consistency reliability and temporal stability (1- to 3-week test-retest interval). Evidence supporting the construct validity of the TAICA scores was found.
Factor Structure of the Test Anxiety Inventory for Children and Adolescents (TAICA) Scores Across Gender Among Students in Elementary and Secondary School Settings
Authors: Lowe Patricia A. , Lee Steven W.
Published: July 2007

The factor structure of the Test Anxiety Inventory for Children and Adolescents, a new multidimensional measure used to assess test anxiety in elementary and secondary school students, is examined across gender. The sample consisted of 696 elementary and secondary school students (391 girls and 305 boys). Coefficient of congruence and salient variable similarity index values reported between each pair of six matched factors (Cognitive Obstruction/ Inattention, Performance Enhancement/Facilitation Anxiety, Physiological Hyperarousal, Social Humiliation, Worry, and Lie) and the Total Test Anxiety factor suggest that the factor structure is similar across gender. Results of a planned multivariate group comparison and three analyses of variance found that girls scored statistically significantly higher than boys on the debilitating test anxiety factors and boys scored statistically significantly higher on the Lie factor. No gender difference was found on the Performance Enhancement/Facilitation Anxiety factor. Implications of the findings are discussed.
Physical Child Abuse and Adolescent Violent Delinquency: The Mediating and Moderating Roles of Personal Relationships
Authors: Salzinger Suzanne , Rosario Margaret , Feldman Richard S.
Published: July 2007

Adolescent personal relationships with parents and peers are studied for their mediating and moderating roles in the effect of preadolescent physical abuse on adolescent violent delinquency. One hundred physically abused preadolescents and 100 matched nonabused classmates were studied at 10 and 16 years. Adolescent attachment to parents and verbal and physical abuse in relationships with parents during adolescence mediated between preadolescent abuse and later violent delinquency. Friends' delinquency in adolescence and verbal and physical abuse with best friends in adolescence moderated the relationship between early abuse and later violent delinquency. Low levels of delinquency among friends significantly decreased risk for violent delinquent outcome for abused as contrasted to nonabused adolescents. Abusive behavior with best friends exacerbated risk for violent delinquent outcome more for abused than for nonabused adolescents. Attachment to friends was not found to play a significant role in the relationship between childhood abuse and adolescent violent delinquency.
Potential Pathways From Stigmatization and Internalizing Symptoms to Delinquency in Sexually Abused Youth
Authors: Feiring Candice , Miller-Johnson Shari , Cleland Charles M.
Published: July 2007

Although childhood sexual abuse (CSA) has been linked to risk for delinquency, research is limited on the potential pathways from CSA to subsequent delinquent outcomes. A total of 160 youth with confirmed CSA histories were interviewed at the time of abuse discovery, when they were 8 to 15 years of age, and again 1 and 6 years later. The findings supported the proposed relations from stigmatization following the abuse (abuse-specific shame and self-blame attributions) and internalizing symptoms to subsequent delinquency through anger and affiliation with deviant peers. This longitudinal research suggests that clinical interventions for victims of CSA must be sensitive to these affective and cognitive processes and how they affect delinquent activity.