bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting tissue-specific enhancers in the human genome
Authors: Pennacchio Len A. , Loots Gabriela G. , Nobrega Marcelo A. , Ovcharenko Ivan
Published: January 2007

Determining how transcriptional regulatory signals are encoded in vertebrate genomes is essential for understanding the origins of multicellular complexity; yet the genetic code of vertebrate gene regulation remains poorly understood. In an attempt to elucidate this code, we synergistically combined genome-wide gene-expression profiling, vertebrate genome comparisons, and transcription factor binding-site analysis to define sequence signatures characteristic of candidate tissue-specific enhancers in the human genome. We applied this strategy to microarray-based gene expression profiles from 79 human tissues and identified 7187 candidate enhancers that defined their flanking gene expression, the majority of which were located outside of known promoters. We cross-validated this method for its ability to de novo predict tissue-specific gene expression and confirmed its reliability in 57 of the 79 available human tissues, with an average precision in enhancer recognition ranging from 32% to 63% and a sensitivity of 47%. We used the sequence signatures identified by this approach to successfully assign tissue-specific predictions to ∼328,000 human–mouse conserved noncoding elements in the human genome. By overlapping these genome-wide predictions with a data set of enhancers validated in vivo, in transgenic mice, we were able to confirm our results with a 28% sensitivity and 50% precision. These results indicate the power of combining complementary genomic data sets as an initial computational foray into a global view of tissue-specific gene regulation in vertebrates.
Acquired haemophilia masked by warfarin therapy
Authors: VADIKOLIA C. M. , RIDDELL A. , BROOKS S. , YEE T. T. , BROWN S. , LEE C.
Published: January 2007

Acquired haemophilia is a rare phenomenon and prompt diagnosis is essential for successful treatment. Early laboratory detection could minimize its potentially devastating consequences and reduce mortality but when a masking element such as anticoagulant therapy is present, delay in diagnosis is not uncommon. A prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) may be falsely attributed to warfarin alone, particularly when it is associated with oral anticoagulant overdose. We describe two patients on treatment with warfarin who presented with a bleeding diathesis and disproportionately prolonged APTT, which led to the diagnosis of antibodies directed against factor VIII.
Subcellular trafficking of the yeast plasma membrane ABC transporter, Pdr5, is impaired by a mutation in the N‐terminal nucleotide‐binding fold
Authors: De Thozée Cédric Pety , Cronin Susan , Goj Agnieszka , Golin John , Ghislain Michel
Published: January 2007

The plasma membrane ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporter, Pdr5p, mediates resistance to many different xenobiotic compounds in yeast. We have isolated several mutated forms that fail to confer resistance to cycloheximide and itraconazole. Here, we examined two variants, the expression of which was abnormally low when cells reach the stationary phase of growth. The Pdr51157 variant lacked the C‐terminal transmembrane domain due to the presence of a nonsense mutation at codon 1158. The second variant, Pdr5L183P, contained a Leu183Pro substitution close to the Walker A motif in the N‐terminal nucleotide‐binding domain. This substitution impaired UTPase activity as well as protein stability. The Pdr5L183P variant induced the unfolded protein response and was targeted to the proteasome for degradation. Fluorescence microscopy showed that the highly unstable Pdr5L183P was mislocalized to endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐associated compartments, whereas the truncated Pdr51157 protein was retained in the ER. When threonine 363 (located in the first nucleotide‐binding domain, close to the Walker B motif) in Pdr5L183P was replaced with isoleucine, this double mutant conferred partial drug resistance. These results suggest that Pdr5p requires a properly folded nucleotide‐binding domain for trafficking to the plasma membrane.
The bacteriophage λQ anti‐terminator protein regulates late gene expression as a stable component of the transcription elongation complex
Authors: Deighan Padraig , Hochschild Ann
Published: January 2007

The Q protein of bacteriophage λ (λQ) is a transcription anti‐terminator required for the expression of the phage's late genes under the control of promoter PR′. To effect terminator read‐through, λQ must gain access to RNA polymerase (RNAP) via a promoter‐restricted pathway. In particular, λQ modifies RNAP by binding a specific DNA site embedded in PR′ and interacting with RNAP in the context of a specific paused early elongation complex. The resultant λQ‐modified transcription elongation complex is competent to read through downstream termination signals. Here we use a chromatin‐immunoprecipitation assay to test the hypothesis that λQ functions as a stable component of the transcription elongation complex. Our results indicate that, in vivo, the λQ‐modified transcription elongation complex contains Q as a stably associated subunit. Furthermore, we find that in the physiologically relevant context of an induced λ lysogen, Q remains stably associated with RNAP as it transcribes at least 22 kb of the phage late operon. Thus, our findings suggest that the promoter‐specific pathway leading to λQ‐mediated terminator read‐through results in the formation of a highly stable λQ‐containing transcription elongation complex capable of traversing the entire late operon.
Surface appendages of bacterial spores
Authors: Driks Adam
Published: January 2007

Bacilli and Clostridia generate dormant, highly resistant cells, called spores, in response to stress. Spores of many species are decorated by morphologically diverse structures of unknown function called appendages that have yet to be studied at the molecular level. In this issue, Walker et al. employ reverse genetics to identify genes encoding protein components of the ornate ribbon‐like appendages of the spores of Clostridium taeniosporum. Their results reveal striking commonalities between these genes and those encoding outer structures in phylogenetically and taxonomically distinct spore‐forming species. The insights gained from this work demonstrate the value of analysis of non‐model spore formers.
Crh1p and Crh2p are required for the cross‐linking of chitin to β(1‐6)glucan in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae cell wall
Authors: Cabib Enrico , Blanco Noelia , Grau Cecilia , Rodríguez‐Peña José Manuel , Arroyo Javier
Published: January 2007

In budding yeast, chitin is found in three locations: at the primary septum, largely in free form, at the mother‐bud neck, partially linked to β(1‐3)glucan, and in the lateral wall, attached in part to β(1‐6)glucan. By using a recently developed strategy for the study of cell wall cross‐links, we have found that chitin linked to β(1‐6)glucan is diminished in mutants of the CRH1 or the CRH2/UTR2 gene and completely absent in a double mutant. This indicates that Crh1p and Crh2p, homologues of glycosyltransferases, ferry chitin chains from chitin synthase III to β(1‐6)glucan. Deletion of CRH1 and/or CRH2 aggravated the defects of fks1Δ and gas1Δ mutants, which are impaired in cell wall synthesis. A temperature shift from 30°C to 38°C increased the proportion of chitin attached to β(1‐6)glucan. The expression of CRH1, but not that of CRH2, was also higher at 38°C in a manner dependent on the cell integrity pathway. Furthermore, the localization of both Crh1p and Crh2p at the cell cortex, the area where the chitin–β(1‐6)glucan complex is found, was greatly enhanced at 38°C. Crh1p and Crh2p are the first proteins directly implicated in the formation of cross‐links between cell wall components in fungi.
Donors whose blood reacts falsely positive in transfusion microbiology screening assays need not be lost to transfusion
Authors: Moore M. C. , Howell D. R. , Barbara J. A. J.
Published: January 2007

summary Donations that repeatedly react in transfusion microbiology screening assays are usually discarded; with appropriate confirmatory testing on the index and on follow‐up samples, the great majority of these can be shown to be falsely positive. Under carefully controlled conditions, with secure information transfer, these donations, although still reactive in the primary screening assays, can be made available for clinical use after testing and obtaining negative results with alternative assays from a list of assays evaluated as suitable for the release of blood donations. We will describe a generic algorithm that can be applied to all markers.
A survey of the demographics of blood use
Authors: Cobain T. J. , Vamvakas E. C. , Wells A. , Titlestad K.
Published: January 2007

summary Epidemiological information was obtained by a series of questions to experts in the field of epidemiology of transfusion from the United States, England, Australia and Denmark. Although it became clear that the methods for collecting the data had differed between the countries, useful information was obtained for all questions. The data highlighted some major differences between the countries: the incident rate for red cell transfusion varied from 44·7 to 54·1 units, for platelets from 2·0 to 6·0 units and for plasma from 4·8 to 13·8 units transfused per 1000 population per year. Age and sex distribution of transfused patients was similar in all countries. Most of the red cell products are transfused to older recipients, and the distribution between men and women is approximately equal. The distribution for platelets is over a wider age range, and the difference between men and women is marked, with men predominating in all countries. The distribution for plasma is also directed to the elderly, and there is a predominance of men. The relationship between the disease or surgical procedure and the use of blood products was similar between countries. The use of red cells in cardiovascular surgery predominated. Neoplasms and digestive disorders were also prevalent. Neoplasms, including those relating to haematology, were the main use for platelets, but cardiovascular surgery was also important. In all countries, plasma is largely used in cardiovascular surgery. Two countries provided data relating to the number of units per transfusion episode including information relating to massive transfusion. In Australia, red cell use of ≥50 units per episode was largely associated with multiple traumas. In Denmark, it was associated with gastrointestinal bleeding and various medical requests.
Characterization of immune system alterations following preoperative autologous blood donation for elective hip replacement surgery
Authors: Karger R. , Weber C. , Schmidt J. , Kretschmer V.
Published: January 2007

summary Preoperative autologous blood donation (PABD) has been shown to decrease natural killer (NK) cell function in cancer patients, raising concerns about an increased cancer recurrence risk owing to PABD. It is unclear whether PABD leads to other immunomodulatory effects that might affect more short‐term risks like postoperative infectious complications in surgical patients. Lymphocyte subsets (CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, B cells, NK cells) were determined in 86 consecutive patients donating 2 units of autologous whole blood prior to elective hip replacement surgery. In addition, cytokine secretion patterns of monocytes [tumour necrosis factor (TNF)] and lymphocytes [interferon‐γ, interleukin (IL)‐2, IL‐4, IL‐10] upon stimulation were determined in a random subgroup of 58 patients. Analyses were performed immediately before the first donation and on the day prior to operation. Granulocytes increased during PABD by 4·6% (P < 0·01). Lymphocytes decreased by 8·8% (P < 0·01), accompanied by a relative rise in CD4+ T cells by 10·7% (P < 0·01) and in B cells by 10·3% (P < 0·01), and a fall of NK cells by 20·8% (P < 0·01). Stimulated TNF secretion of monocytes was suppressed (−12·3%, P < 0·01). The effect on the reactivity of lymphocytes and the T helper 1 (Th1)/Th2 balance were variable. The observed changes of innate and cellular immunity might influence the risk of perioperative infectious complications.
Recommendations for the surveillance of young women at increased risk for breast cancer
Authors: Hadden WE
Published: January 2007

A review of the published reports regarding screening for breast cancer in young, at‐risk women has been undertaken. Draft recommendations for surveillance of these women with imaging methods such as mammography, ultrasound and MRI have been made.
Role of radiotherapy in the management of organ transplant recipients diagnosed with non‐melanoma skin cancers
Authors: Veness MJ , Harris D
Published: January 2007

Organ transplantation has had a major effect on the lives of thousands of patients worldwide. In Australia and New Zealand, over 13 000 patients have become organ transplant recipients (OTR). Following transplantation, patients require lifelong immunosuppression to prevent organ rejection. The loss of immune surveillance results in OTR experiencing a higher incidence of infection and malignancy in comparison with the general (immunocompetent) population. Non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most common malignancy worldwide, arising most often on the sun‐exposed head and neck. Organ transplant recipients experience a higher incidence of NMSC when compared with the general population and a higher incidence of squamous cell carcinoma compared with basal cell carcinoma. Organ transplant recipients also develop NMSC at a younger age and experience multiple new NMSC. Australians experience the highest incidence of NMSC in the world with a consequence that NMSC arising in OTR can lead to significant morbidity and even mortality. Radiation oncologists treating patients with skin cancer will almost certainly make recommendations in the setting of NMSC arising in OTR. The aim of this article is to discuss the role of radiotherapy in the management of OTR diagnosed with NMSC. The emphasis will be on the treatment of patients with a high‐risk NMSC (e.g. squamous cell carcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, unfavourable basal cell carcinoma) because this reflects the most common clinical scenario in which a recommendation of radiotherapy, usually adjuvant, may be considered.
Radiation: Facts, fallacies and phobias
Authors: Wigg DR
Published: January 2007

There is frequent debate in the media and the scientific published reports about the use of radiation for diagnosis and treatment, the benefits and risks of the nuclear industry, uranium mining and the storage of radioactive wastes. Driving this debate is increasing concern about reliance on fossil fuels for power generation for which alternatives are required. Unfortunately, there is generally a poor understanding of the relevant basic sciences compounded by widespread irrational fear of irradiation (radiation phobia). Radioactivity, with special reference to uranium and plutonium is simply described. How radiation affect tissues and the potential hazards to individuals and populations are explained. The origins of radiation phobia and its harmful consequences are examined. Whether we like it or not, Australia is heavily involved in the uranium industry by virtue of having one‐third of the world’s known reserves, exports of which are worth approximately $470m annually. As this paper has been written as simply as possible, it may also be of interest to readers who may have had little scientific training. It may be downloaded from the web using references provided in this article. It is concluded that ignorance and fear are major impediments to rational debate on radiation issues.
Using ultrasonic fetal size measurements to estimate gestational age in Brisbane, Australia
Authors: Schluter PJ , Pritchard G , Gill MA
Published: January 2007

The purpose of this paper was to construct population‐specific charts of gestational age (GA) from antenatal ultrasound biometry assessment using a large sample of normal Australian pregnancies when examination was carried out to a standard protocol by experienced operators. All consenting eligible women attending a large Brisbane clinic between January 1993 and April 2003 with GA between 15 and 41 weeks, determined before examination from the last menstrual period date and concordant with the biometric‐derived gestation published within the Australian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (ASUM) policies and statements, were recruited into the prospective study if fulfilling the inclusion criteria. Biparietal diameter, femur length, abdominal circumference and head circumference measurements were recorded using ASUM standard protocol for mid and third trimester obstetric morphology scans. Statistical analyses were carried out using polynomial regression models and thorough diagnostic checks were undertaken. Included within the study were separate scans for 20 555 pregnancies from 17 660 women. Equations, means and 95% reference intervals for GA were derived for each sonographic measurement. These new population‐specific regression equations complement those previously published in the same sample of Australian pregnancies. Once validated, we believe they should form the basis of a new Australian standard for ASUM.
Imaging and intervention of retroperitoneal fibrosis
Authors: Geoghegan T , Byrne AT , Benfayed W , McAuley G , Torreggiani WC
Published: January 2007

Retroperitoneal fibrosis is a rare condition characterized by the development of fibrous plaques in the retroperitoneal space. The fibrous plaques characteristically arise distal to the bifurcation of the abdominal aorta and progress to encase the iliac vessels distally and are defined by the associated encasement of one or both ureters. Imaging plays an important role in not only establishing the diagnosis, but also in monitoring disease progression. Historically, the radiological diagnosis was made predominantly by intravenous urography and retrograde pyelography. More recently, advances in cross‐sectional imaging with ultrasound and contrast‐enhanced CT have allowed for a more precise diagnosis as well as helping to accurately define the extent of the disease. At our institution, we have found ultra‐fast MRI to also play a useful role in establishing the diagnosis. In particular, magnetic resonance urography using HASTE (half Fourier‐acquired single shot turbo spin‐echo) sequences allow a safe alternative to intravenous urography, particularly in patients with poor renal function. The purpose of this article is to describe the role of the various imaging methods available to the radiologist and to emphasize the important role that the interventional radiologist now plays, not only in obtaining tissue for diagnosis, but also in providing treatment of the disease by percutaneous nephrostomy drainage and subsequent stent placement in select cases.
Feasibility study on the MammoSite in early‐stage breast cancer: Initial experience
Authors: Borg M , Yeoh E , Bochner M , Butters J , Van Doorn T , Farshid G , Kollias J , Kotasek D , Gill G , Lim A , Olver I , Parnis F , Rush G
Published: January 2007

The aims of this study were to evaluate the feasibility, practicality, efficacy and safety of the delivery of accelerated partial breast irradiation using the MammoSite for the boost phase. Six patients aged 53–69 years with stage T1N0, T2N0, Grade I–II invasive ductal carcinoma received 9–10 Gy prescribed at 1 cm from the MammoSite balloon surface in two fractions of 4.5–5 Gy 6 h apart. The MammoSite was inserted 20–37 days postoperatively. External beam radiation therapy to the whole breast commenced 1–5 days after accelerated partial breast irradiation. The maximum skin dose ranged from 3 to 9 Gy. The skin‐cavity distance ranged from 7 to 19 mm. Local discomfort resolved as the scar healed spontaneously within 3–5 days. No Grade III or higher acute toxicity or local infection was recorded. The ease of insertion and accuracy of dosimetry makes the MammoSite suitable for use in properly selected women with early‐stage breast cancer in a trial setting.
Current practice when treating lung cancer in Australasia
Authors: Holloway L
Published: January 2007

A multidisciplinary meeting was held by the radiation oncology department of South Western Sydney Area Cancer Services in March 2003. This meeting was advertised in all radiation oncology departments in Australia and New Zealand. As a precursor to this meeting, a survey was undertaken on the use of radiotherapy for treating lung cancer. All departments in Australia and New Zealand were asked to participate. The survey considered planning techniques, delivery set‐up and prescription doses for non‐small‐cell and small‐cell lung cancer and palliative and radical treatments. A wide range in the techniques used was seen across departments, particularly when prescription doses and fractionation were considered.
Intercostal artery aneurysms complicating thoracic aortic coarctation: Diagnosis with magnetic resonance angiography
Authors: Salanitri GC
Published: January 2007

The case report of a 46‐year‐old woman diagnosed with complete aortic coarctation and multiple intercostal artery aneurysms using ‘ultrafast time‐resolved’ multiphase contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance angiography and conventional single‐phase, high‐resolution breath‐hold contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance angiogram techniques is presented. A review of intercoastal artery aneurysms occurring in conjunction with aortic coarctation and the various contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance angiography techniques currently available is provided.
Radiotherapy in the management of recurrent synovial chondromatosis
Authors: Chong CCW , Kneebone A , Kirsh G
Published: January 2007

Synovial chondromatosis is a rare, benign condition characterized by the formation of multiple cartilaginous nodules that are generally intra‐articular and can lead to chronic pain and limit the function of involved joints. We report on the novel use of radiotherapy that was used to treat a 42‐year‐old man with rapid recurrences of extensive synovial chondromatosis in the knee refractory to multiple operations. Based on follow‐up MRI scans and clinical findings, the disease process was halted with no progression seen over 5 years.
Mode I and mixed mode fracture of polysilicon for MEMS
Authors: CHO S. W. , JONNALAGADDA K. , CHASIOTIS I.
Published: January 2007

An experimental study was carried out to investigate the local and effective fracture behaviour of polycrystalline silicon for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). The apparent mode I critical stress intensity factor was determined from MEMS‐scale tension specimens containing atomically sharp edge pre‐cracks, while local deformation fields were recorded near the crack tip, with high resolution by the in situ Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)/Digital Image Correlation (DIC) method previously developed by this group. The effective mode I critical stress intensity factor varied in the range 0.843–1.225 MPa√m. This distribution of values was attributed to local (in grain) cleavage anisotropy and to enhanced grain boundary toughening. The same sources resulted in very different local and macroscopic (apparent) stress intensity factors, which, combined with the small grain size of polysilicon (0.3 μm,) were the reason for subcritical crack growth that was evidenced experimentally by AFM topographic and AFM/DIC displacement measurements. The effect of local in‐grain anisotropy and granular inhomogeneity was stronger under mixed mode loading of edge cracks inclined at angles up to 55° with respect to the applied far‐field load. The KI–KII locus was characterized by scatter in the KIc values but on average it followed the curves calculated by the maximum tensile stress and the maximum energy release rate criteria calculated assuming isotropy.
Polymorphisms of KCNJ11 (Kir6.2 gene) are associated with Type 2 diabetes and hypertension in the Korean population
Authors: Koo B. K. , Cho Y. M. , Park B. L. , Cheong H. S. , Shin H. D. , Jang H. C. , Kim S. Y. , Lee H. K. , Park K. S.
Published: January 2007

Aims  Kir6.2 is found in the pancreatic B‐cell, cardiac and skeletal muscle and non‐vascular smooth muscle. KCNJ11, encoding Kir6.2, has been shown to be associated with both Type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease in several populations. In this study, we investigated whether polymorphisms in KCNJ11 are associated with Type 2 diabetes and other metabolic phenotypes in the Korean population.

Methods  We sequenced KCNJ11 to identify common polymorphisms using 24 Korean DNA samples. Of the 14 polymorphisms found in KCNJ11, six common ones [genomic sequence (g.)−1709A>T, g.−1525T>C, g.67G>A (E23K), g.570C>T (A190A), g.1009A>G (I337V), and g.1388C>T] were genotyped in 761 Type 2 diabetic patients and in 630 non‐diabetic subjects.

Results  All the polymorphic loci in KCNJ11 are in strong linkage disequilibrium in the Korean population and act as one haplotype block. g.67G>A and g.1009A>G were associated with an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes [age, sex, and body mass index (BMI)‐adjusted odds ratios (OR) = 1.376 (1.085–1.745), P = 0.008 and 1.411 (1.111–1.791), P = 0.005, respectively], as was one haplotype (A‐T‐A‐C‐G‐C in the order of polymorphisms as shown above) containing g.67A and g.1009G [OR = 1.359 (1.080–1.709), P = 0.009]. The haplotype (A‐T‐A‐C‐G‐C) was also strongly associated with hypertension [OR = 1.655 (1.288–2.126), P < 0.001].

Conclusions  Polymorphisms in KCNJ11 are associated with Type 2 diabetes and also with hypertension in the Korean population.
The financial costs of healthcare treatment for people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes in the UK with particular reference to differing severity of peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Currie C. J. , Poole C. D. , Woehl A. , Morgan C. Ll. , Cawley S. , Rousculp M. D. , Covington M. T. , Peters J. R.
Published: January 2007

Aims  To characterize symptom severity of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in people with diabetes and to characterize its association with healthcare resource use.

Methods  The study was undertaken in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan, UK. A postal survey was posted to subjects identified as having diabetes. Demography, quality of life (EQ‐5D and SF‐36) and symptoms of neuropathy (NTSS‐6 and QOL‐DN) data were collected. These data were linked to routine healthcare data coded into healthcare resource groups (HRGs) and subsequently costed according to UK National reference costs.

Results  Survey responses were received from 1298 patients, a 32% response rate. For patients with a clinically confirmed diagnosis of DPN, the mean NTSS‐6‐SA score was 6.16 vs. 3.19 (P < 0.001). Duration of diabetes did not change across groups defined by severity of neuropathy symptoms, but mean HbA1c and body mass index values did increase with symptom severity (range 7.6–8.1%, P = 0.023; and 28.0–30.9 kg/m2, P < 0.001, respectively). General linear modelling showed that the NTSS‐6‐SA score was a significant predictor of both annual health resource costs and yearly prescribed drug costs. On average, each 1‐point increase in NTSS‐6‐SA score predicted a 6% increase in primary and secondary care costs and a 3% increase in log transformed drug costs.

Conclusion  This study demonstrated that severity of DPN symptoms was associated with increased healthcare resource use, thus costs.
Recommendations for the diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease and other disorders associated with dementia: EFNS guideline
Authors: Waldemar G. , Dubois B. , Emre M. , Georges J. , McKeith I. G. , Rossor M. , Scheltens P. , Tariska P. , Winblad B.
Published: January 2007

The aim of this international guideline on dementia was to present a peer‐reviewed evidence‐based statement for the guidance of practice for clinical neurologists, geriatricians, psychiatrists, and other specialist physicians responsible for the care of patients with dementia. It covers major aspects of diagnostic evaluation and treatment, with particular emphasis on the type of patient often referred to the specialist physician. The main focus is Alzheimer's disease, but many of the recommendations apply to dementia disorders in general. The task force working group considered and classified evidence from original research reports, meta‐analysis, and systematic reviews, published before January 2006. The evidence was classified and consensus recommendations graded according to the EFNS guidance. Where there was a lack of evidence, but clear consensus, good practice points were provided. The recommendations for clinical diagnosis, blood tests, neuroimaging, electroencephalography (EEG), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, genetic testing, tissue biopsy, disclosure of diagnosis, treatment of Alzheimer's disease, and counselling and support for caregivers were all revised when compared with the previous EFNS guideline. New recommendations were added for the treatment of vascular dementia, Parkinson's disease dementia, and dementia with Lewy bodies, for monitoring treatment, for treatment of behavioural and psychological symptoms in dementia, and for legal issues. The specialist physician plays an important role together with primary care physicians in the multidisciplinary dementia teams, which have been established throughout Europe. This guideline may contribute to the definition of the role of the specialist physician in providing dementia health care.
Disseminated xanthogranulomas associated with adult T‐cell leukaemia/lymphoma: a case report and review the association of haematologic malignancies
Authors: Chiou C‐C , Wang P‐N , Yang L‐C , Kuo T‐T , Hong H‐S
Published: January 2007

Xanthogranuloma (XG) is rarely observed in adults and has been reported to be associated with chronic myelogenous leukaemia (CML) and/or neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). A 68‐year‐old woman with adult T‐cell leukaemia/lymphoma (ATLL) gradually developed disseminated XGs over the 3 years since disease onset. Histopathological examination of a skin biopsy revealed the presence of histiocytes in the dermis with a few Touton giant cells admixed with lymphoid cells. The lesions of XGs persisted despite chemotherapy with prednisolone and chlorambucil for her ATLL. This is the first report of disseminated XGs associated with ATLL. The association of disseminated XGs with haematologic malignancies was reviewed and the possible pathogenesis of this association will be discussed.
Sensitive skin: psychological effects and seasonal changes
Authors: Misery L , Myon E , Martin N , Consoli S , Boussetta S , Nocera T , Taieb C
Published: January 2007

Introduction  Sensitive skin is a frequent disorder, but its effects and its variability are unknown.

Objectives  To investigate the effects of sensitive skin first on quality of life and the psyche, and secondly, on seasonal changes.

Methods  The French Opinion Poll Institute (IPSOS) conducted two opinion polls in March and July 2004. Samples included, respectively, 1006 and 1001 individuals, from a representative national sample of the French population aged 15 years or older. The polling subjects were interviewed by phone and selected by the quota method (gender, age, occupation of household head, type of geographical area and region). Questions about their perception of their sensitive skin and about potential aggravating factors were asked. Quality of life was assessed using the SF‐12 questionnaire and depressive symptoms using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) rating scale.

Results  The characteristics of the two samples were strictly similar. Persons with sensitive skin and very sensitive skin were more numerous in summer than in winter. In both surveys, the degree of sensitivity was significantly higher in the female population. Quality of life was worse in people with sensitive or very sensitive skin, above all in its psychological component – the more sensitive the skin, the more the quality of life deteriorated. There was no significant relationship between depressive symptoms and skin sensitivity in the ‘very sensitive’ or ‘sensitive’ groups.

Conclusion  Our study was the first to show seasonal changes in skin reactivity and to study the psychological impacts of sensitive skin.
Comparison of metallothionein‐overexpression with sentinel lymph node biopsy as prognostic factors in melanoma
Authors: Weinlich G , Topar G , Eisendle K , Fritsch PO , Zelger B
Published: January 2007

Background  Metallothioneins (MT) are ubiquitous, intracellular small proteins with high affinity for heavy metal ions. Immunohistochemical MT overexpression in paraffin‐embedded tissues of patients with primary melanoma is associated with poor prognosis. While sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy is an established surgical technique for high‐risk melanoma patients with predictive value for progression, the benefit of this procedure for the individual patient's overall survival remains unclear.

Aim and methods  We examined the role of MT overexpression in comparison with SLN biopsy in melanoma patients as a prognostic marker for progression and survival. One hundred and fifty‐eight (158) patients underwent SLN biopsy due to high‐risk melanoma. Primary melanoma specimens were investigated by using a monoclonal antibody against MT on routinely fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissues. The patients were followed up (median 37 months); the data of disease free survival and overall survival were calculated with a broad panel of statistical analyses.

Results  Twenty‐eight (18%) out of 158 recruited melanoma patients developed metastases, 17 (11%) patients died due to widespread disease. Kaplan–Meier curves gave significant disadvantages for the MT‐positive as well as the SLN‐positive group for progression and survival. In the Fisher's exact test and Pearson's χ2‐test MT overexpression was highly significant for progression, whereas SLN biopsy failed significance. In univariate as well as multivariate Cox regression analysis MT overexpression proved an excellent marker for progression (P = 0.007 and P = 0.009), although the P‐values for survival were not significant. In contrast, while in the univariate analysis SLN biopsy did not show significant results for progression it did for survival, and in the multivariate analysis reached a P‐value < 0.05 for both measured endpoints.

Conclusion  Results corroborate the validity of MT overexpression in primary melanoma as a useful prognostic marker in melanoma patients. Accuracy is comparable and to some degree supplementary to the results of SLN biopsy.
Technique and Ethos in Nonviolent Action: The Woman Suffrage Case
Authors: Lakey George
Published: January 2007

The Woman's Party, a militant woman's suffrage organization, was active in nonviolent protests from 1916 through 1919. The party members, who drew their inspiration from the woman suffrage movement in Great Britain, were predominately middle and upper class. They were motivated to protest by the descrepancy between their relatively high social status and their relatively low political power.

Although they continued to agitate for equal rights after the suffrage ammendment became part of the Constitution, they did not generalize their concern to an explicitly pacifist ethic but continued to emphasize the particularistic ideology of feminism.
Status Discrepancy and the Radical Rejection of Nonviolence
Authors: Bell Inge Powell
Published: January 2007

Interviews with Negro members of the Congress of Racial Equality during 1961–1963 show that the commitment to nonviolence was both extensively and intensively weak. Cross tabulation of attitudes on nonviolence with attitudes toward war indicates no consistent pacifism, but a tendency for radicals to reject military service while accepting violence in the movement, and for moderates to accept military service while rejecting violence in the movement. Radicalism was associated with inconsistent status experiences: Northern upbringing and the combination of high occupational and educational status with low racial status. Exposure to radical ideas was also a strong factor. The connection between the verbal, ideological radicalism of the CORE activists and actual ghetto insurrections is complex. The predominantly middle class CORE members are unlikely to engage in such class‐alien behavior, but they do produce an ideology which politicizes lower class Negro youths and legitimates spontaneous violence as a form of protest.
On the Concept of Value‐Commitments
Authors: Parsons Talcott
Published: January 2007

This paper analyzes the nature of value‐commitments, conceived as a generalized symbolic medium of interchange in the processes of social interaction, in this respect paralleling money, power, and influence. Commitments constitute moral obligations of units of a system of social interaction to maintain the integrity of a value‐pattern and to strive toward its implementation in action through combination with non‐value factors. Stability of commitments is a basic condition of the compatibility of wide moral freedom with the exigencies of social functioning. Like the other three media, commitments are not bound by a zero‐sum condition, but can be expanded, especially through charismatic movements.
Empirical Considerations on the Problem of Social Integration*
Authors: Tomeh Aida K.
Published: January 2007

The present study analyzes differences in perception of neighborhood and residential mobility as related to formal and informal participation. Results show that perceived similarity is related to neighborhood participation, while residential mobility is related to formal group membership. These relationships, with very few exceptions, seem to persist even in the presence of other control variables like age, education and religion. A significant proportion of the urban community participates frequently with neighbors and belongs to church and other formal groups. These activities are generally high in the suburb and low in the inner city regardless of differences in perception of neighborhood and residential mobility except for membership in organizational groups: the high membership in the suburb occurs under conditions of perceived similarity. The theoretical implications suggest a re‐evaluation of the mode of life in the modern urban community and emphasize the significance of taking the perceptual as well as the behavioral context into account in sociological analysis.
Personal Influence Networks and Voluntary Association Affiliation*
Authors: Booth Alan , Babchuk Nicholas
Published: January 2007

Individuals ordinarily have considerable information about voluntary associations even before they seriously think about joining a group. In becoming affiliated, members usually rely on personal networks and often several persons are consulted. When mass media sources are utilized in the affiliation process, they serve as a stimulus or catalyst (not one respondent in the sample joined an organization solely on the basis of mass media sources of information). Those with an extensive network of friends and relatives often become members through informal leaders. Moreover, they are sought out and encouraged to join. Individuals who have fewer primary‐group resources frequently become members through formal leaders and themselves initiate the contact which results in membership. Finally, personal influence networks are more likely to play an important role for those joining expressive rather than instrumental voluntary associations.
A History and Analysis of Radical Activism in Sociology, 1967–1969, with Special Reference to the Sociology Liberation Movement, the Black Caucus, the Executive Council, the War in Vietnam and a Few Other Things*
Authors: Brown Carol
Published: January 2007

Radical activism in sociology can be explained as reaction against developments in American society, university structure, social theory and the American Sociology Association. Beginning in 1967 with a controversy over a Vietnam resolution, it has grown to include organized opposition through the Sociology Liberation Movement and the separation of the Black Sociologists Association. The assumptions behind sociology as an academic field and an occupation, have been and are being tested and found erroneous by an increasing number of sociologists.
The Sociological Dimensions of Military Co‐Optation in the United States*
Authors: Sperber Irwin
Published: January 2007

The American military exercises social control at home as well as abroad, by non‐violent as well as violent means. Especially significant is its use of differential co‐optative appeals to control potentially revolutionary strata of youth. Through an examination of military recruiting literature it is possible to discover that different inducements for enlistment, ranging from professionalism to patriotism are offered to women, intellectuals, minority and working class youth. Further, through selectively granting deferments as part of the channeling process, the Selective Service System reinforces the American social structure. Such reinforcement is necessary for the preservation of American corporate liberalism, but simultaneously contributes to the radicalization of youth as a class.
Consensus and Reforms in the “Great Society”
Authors: Etzioni Amitai
Published: January 2007

One main reason the Great Society never took off was that its programs were not buttressed by a thorough bargaining process with the appropriate interests. While innovative programs can be “sold” to the voters, a consensus among the myriad interest groups and publics that comprise the American polity, such as supported federal aid to education, is vital if they are to survive. To this end, a mechanism that would function outside our relatively ineffectual representative structure, one used successfully in France, is proposed: participatory planning. Existing components of such a plan and others that would be required, such as more sophisticated social data, are outlined.
Oil in Santa Barbara and Power in America*
Authors: Molotch Harvey
Published: January 2007

The eruption of oil in Santa Barbara Channel has led to important revelations regarding the nature of power in America: who has it–and more importantly, how it is exercised such that existing societal institutions function to undermine dissent and minimize the opportunities for authentic change. The response of local aggrieved citizens to the system thus operating provides additional evidence that the development of radical left perspectives is induced by objective conditions of the American social system. The implications of “accidents” and different forms of “events” for the study of power are discussed.
Professors and Pressure: Some Structural Sources of Support for a Teachers' Union
Authors: Faia Michael A.
Published: January 2007

Although there is an apparent lack of consensus about the nature and sources of “structural strain” in society, it is shown that the traditions represented by Marx, Durkheim, Merton, Cloward and Ohlin, and several “status discrepancy” theorists are at least partially reconcilable within the framework of reference group theory and structural balance theory. The resultant model, utilizing the ideas of “convergence” and “discrepancy” vis‐à‐vis a given reference group, is then applied as a basis for explaining variations in support for a college teachers' union.
Equality and Inequality in Modern Society, or Social Stratification Revisited
Authors: Parsons Talcott
Published: January 2007

This paper attempts both to “bring up to date” the author's conception of social stratification as set forth in two previous general papers written in 1940 and 1953, and to broaden the field of consideration by giving special attention to the forces pressing toward equality in various respects, as well as the bases of inequality. The position taken is that the erosion of the legitimacy of the traditional bases of inequality has brought to a new level of prominence value‐commitment to an essential equality of status of all members of modern societal communities.

Inequalities, among units of societal structure which are essential in such fields as economic productivity, authority and power, and culturally based competence, must be justified in terms of their contribution to societal functioning. The balancing of the respects in which all members of the societal community and many of its collective subunits must be held to be equal with the imperatives of inequality constitutes one of the primary foci of the problem of integration in modern society. A few suggestions about the mechanisms by which this integrative process can operate are presented.
Educational Stratification in the United States*
Authors: Hauser Robert M.
Published: January 2007

Recent research on education in the stratification system of the United States is reviewed in light of the demands for data and interpretation which would be generated by a set of national accounts for educational stratification. A descriptive scheme for locating school variables and educational outcomes in the stratification process is proposed. The basic characteristics of the present system of educational stratification in the United States are outlined. Some of the difficulties of measuring changes in the stratification process are illustrated. Methods and results of large‐scale surveys of educational stratification are reviewed. Our limited capacity to produce detailed interpretations of the process of stratification which can be generalized to population cohorts is a major obstacle to improved knowledge and policy in the area of educational stratification.
Socioeconomic Achievement and Religion: The American Case
Authors: Warren Bruce L.
Published: January 2007

Religious preference at several points in the life cycle is examined with regard to its affect on socioeconomic achievement and with regard to how religious preference is influenced by education, occupation, and income. The importance of considering the several major denominations separately instead of as a single category is demonstrated. When this is done Jews, Presbyterians, and Episcopalians have above average socioeconomic achievements; Methodists and Catholics are near the mean; and Baptists are below the average. Controlling for social origins and early achievements greatly attenuates the differences, but does not remove them with regard to education and income.
Stratification and Ethnic Groups
Authors: Lieberson Stanley
Published: January 2007

Ethnic stratification is compared with other forms of stratification, particularly those based on economic class. Using “ethnic” in its broadest sense, it is clear that such groups are most likely to move toward creation of their own separate nation‐state. As a consequence, there are certain outcomes of ethnic stratification that cannot be accounted for in a general theory of stratification or one based solely on economic dimensions. An ethnic stratification system will also affect other forms of stratification in the society. For example, class alliances will be weaker if a given economic level is occupied by different ethnic strata. The added proliferation of statuses in a society with ethnic stratification compounds the political process. Other ways are also considered in which the presence of an ethnic hierarchy in the nation interacts with and affects age, sex, and economic stratification.
Social Integration, Psychological Well‐Being, and Their Socioeconomic Correlates*
Authors: Hodge Robert W.
Published: January 2007

Unidimensional conceptions of socioeconomic status require that alternative indicators of one's position in the stratification system have similar effects upon the consequences of socioeconomic level. We show herein that different indicators of social participation and psychological well‐being are in fact associated with different indicators of socioeconomic status. Thus, any attempt to combine these indicators—educational attainment, occupational pursuit, family income, or occupational origins—into a single index of socioeconomic status will prove unsatisfactory because its component parts have different consequences for the same variable. We also show in this paper precisely how certain formulations of the effects of inconsistency and mobility are wholly redundant and only represent a logically possible way of interpreting the linearly additive effects of the variables used to define inconsistency and mobility.