bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Video‐assisted Thyroidectomy: Report on the Experience of a Single Center in More than Four Hundred Cases
Authors: Lombardi Celestino Pio , Raffaelli Marco , Princi Pietro , De Crea Carmela , Bellantone Rocco
Published: April 2006

Background

We report on our series of patients selected for video‐assisted thyroidectomy (VAT) over a 7‐year period and discuss the results obtained.

Methods

Video‐assisted thyroidectomy is a gasless procedure performed under endoscopic vision through a single 1.5–2.0‐cm skin incision, using a technique very similar to conventional surgery. Eligibility criteria were these: thyroid nodules <35 mm; thyroid volume <30 ml; no previous conventional neck surgery. Small, low‐risk, papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTC) were considered eligible.

Results

A total of 473 VATs were attempted on 459 patients. Locoregional anesthesia was used in 15 patients. Conversion was necessary in 6 (difficult dissection in 1 case, large nodule size in 3, gross lymph node metastases in 2). Thyroid lobectomy was successfully performed in 110 cases, total thyroidectomy in 343, and completion thyroidectomy in 14. In 66 patients with carcinoma, central neck nodes were removed through the same access. Concomitant parathyroidectomy was performed in 14 patients. Pathology showed benign disease in 277 cases, PTC in 175, and medullary microcarcinoma in 1. Postoperative complications included 8 transient recurrent nerve palsies, 64 transient hypocalcemias, 3 definitive hypocalcemias, 1 postoperative hematoma, and 2 wound infections. Postoperative pain was minimal and the cosmetic result excellent. In patients with PTC no evidence of recurrent or residual disease was shown.

Conclusions

Indications for VAT are still limited (20% of patients who require thyroidectomy). Nonetheless, in selected patients, it seems a valid option for thyroidectomy and it could be considered even preferable to conventional surgery because of its significant advantages, especially in terms of cosmetic result.
Interactions between rod and L-cone signals in deuteranopes: Gains and phases
Authors: KILAVIK BJØRG ELISABETH , KREMERS JAN
Published: April 2006

The dynamics of interactions between rod and L-cone driven signals were studied psychophysically in two deuteranopic observers. Flicker detection thresholds for different ratios of rod to L-cone modulation were measured at temporal frequencies between 1 and 15 Hz. A model, which assumes that rod and L-cone driven signals are vector added, can describe the threshold data adequately. We found that up to about 8–10 Hz temporal frequency, rod and L-cone signals interact additively, whereas at higher frequencies the interaction is subtractive. Rod and L-cone signal strengths depend similarly on temporal frequency and are maximal between 3 and 5 Hz. The phase difference between rod and L-cone signals increases linearly with temporal frequency, indicating that their responses have a delay difference of about 20 to 30 ms, consistent with involvement of the faster rod pathway. The data would suggest a nearly complete additivity of the rod and cone driven signals when using flashed stimuli. But, literature data showed only partial additivity of the two, suggesting that different postreceptoral mechanisms are involved in the two tasks.
Spatio-temporal characterization of retinal opsin gene expression during thyroid hormone-induced and natural development of rainbow trout
Authors: VELDHOEN KATHY , ALLISON W. TED , VELDHOEN NIK , ANHOLT BRADLEY R. , HELBING CAREN C. , HAWRYSHYN CRAIG W.
Published: April 2006

The abundance and spatial distribution of retinal cone photoreceptors change during thyroid hormone (TH)-induced and natural development of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). These changes are thought to allow the fish to adapt to different photic environments throughout its life history. To date, the ontogeny of rainbow trout cone photoreceptors has been examined using physiological and morphological approaches. In this study, we extended these observations by measuring opsin gene expression in retinal quadrants during natural and TH-induced development. Gene expression during natural development was investigated in retinae from fish at both parr and smolt stages. The role of TH in modulating opsin gene expression was determined in TH-treated parr and control fish sampled after two, nine, and 22 days of treatment. Total RNA was isolated from each retinal quadrant and steady-state opsin mRNA levels were measured using reverse transcriptase real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR) analysis. Expression of ultraviolet-sensitive opsin (SWS1), rod opsin (RH1), middle wavelength-sensitive opsin (RH2), and long wavelength-sensitive opsin (LWS) transcripts vary spatially in the parr retina. Smolts, compared to parr, had downregulated SWS1 expression in all quadrants, lower LWS expression dorsally, higher RH1 expression nasally, and higher RH2 expression dorsally. In TH-treated parr, SWS1 opsin expression was downregulated in the nasal quadrants by two days. SWS1 displayed the greatest degree of downregulation in all quadrants after nine days of treatment, with an increase in short wavelength-sensitive (SWS2) and RH2 opsin mRNA expression in the temporal quadrants. This study reveals that opsin genes display spatially significant differences within rainbow trout retina in their level of mRNA expression, and that regulation of opsin expression is a dynamic process that is influenced by TH. This is particularly evident for SWS1 gene expression in parr following TH-induced and natural development.
ROUSSEAU'S GIFT TO GENEVA
Authors: ROSENBLATT HELENA
Published: April 2006

People often seem to forget that Rousseau dedicated his Second Discourse to “The Republic of Geneva.” This is a shame because, in doing so, they miss precious clues not only about the meaning of the Discourse itself, but also about its place in Rousseau's political thought as a whole. It is also rather curious, because Rousseau's dedicatory letter to Geneva is actually not so easy to overlook; in the Pléiade edition it takes up more than ten pages of tightly worded text and is thus almost twice as long as Rousseau's more frequently cited “Preface” that follows it. Ignoring the dedication is, of course, part of a larger and more general problem in Rousseau scholarship: the still widespread tendency to read Rousseau out of historical context and with little concern for his intended meaning.
Alpha-Linolenic Acid Content of Commonly Available Nuts in Hangzhou
Authors: Li Duo , Yao Ting , Siriamornpun Sirithon
Published: April 2006

The total lipid content of eight species of nuts available in Hangzhou ranged from 49.5 g/100 g weight in Cannabis sativa to 75.4 g/100 g in walnut. The predominant content of lipid is triacylglycerol, ranging from 91.1% in Cannabis sativa to 98.4% in macadamia. There were two polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in all nuts analyzed; 18:2n-6 and 18:3n-3. The content of 18:3n-3 ranging from 0.2% in almond to 15.2% in Cannabis sativa, 18:2n-6 ranged from 2.5% in macadamia to 61.6% in pine nut. The proportion of total PUFA in analyzed eight nut species ranging from 2.8% in macadamia to 71.7% in walnut (p < 0.001). Monounsaturated fatty acid composition ranged from 18.0% in Cannabis sativa to 82.6% in macadamia (p < 0.001). The proportion of saturated fatty acid ranged from 7.4% in filbert to 14.7% of total fatty acids in macadamia (p < 0.001). No C20 fatty acids were detected in any of the samples in the present study. The lipids content and fatty acid compositions in analyzed samples were varied between nut species. Cannabis sativa and walnut contained relatively high 18:3n-3, consumption of several these nuts each day can contribute to n-3 PUFA intake, especially for the vegetarian population.
In Vivo Antioxidant Activity of Procyanidin-Rich Extracts from Grape Seed and Pine (Pinus Maritima) Bark in Rats
Authors: Busserolles Jérôme , Gueux Elyett , Balasinska Bozena , Piriou Yannick , Rock Edmond , Rayssiguier Yves , Mazur Andrzej
Published: April 2006

Background: In vitro evidence exists for the potential antioxidant benefits of procyanidin-rich extracts, but in vivo studies are scarce. We have evaluated the effects of selected procyanidin-rich extracts on oxidative stress in rats in condition of prolonged consumption of these compounds and also after single administration i.e. in postprandial conditions. Methods: Rats were fed for 8 weeks with diets supplemented with either a grape seed extract (GE), a pine bark extract (PE), or a high-degree polymerized pine bark extract (HPE). An additional study was performed in order to assess the postprandial effect of these extracts on plasma antioxidant capacity. The ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) were determined in plasma. For lipid peroxidation study of heart tissue, homogenates were prepared and TBARS were measured after lipid peroxidation induced by FeSO4-ascorbate. Results: After 8 weeks of dietary treatment, total antioxidant capacity in plasma was significantly higher in the GE and PE groups as compared with the other two groups. Plasma TBARS concentrations and heart susceptibility to peroxidation were not significantly different between the groups. In the postprandial state, by comparing plasma antioxidant capacity 2 hours after ingestion of the different procyanidin-rich extracts (500 mg/kg body weight), we observed that FRAP values were higher in the procyanidin-rich extracts groups as compared with the control group. Moreover, plasma FRAP concentration was significantly higher in the GE group as compared with the other groups. Conclusion: The results of the present experiment constitute positive evidence for an in vivo antioxidant effect at the plasma level of procyanidin-containing plant extracts.
Influence of Training Status on Glycemic Index
Authors: Mettler Samuel , Wenk Caspar , Colombani Paolo C.
Published: April 2006

The glycemic index (GI) represents the relative postprandial blood glucose response to the ingestion of a food containing carbohydrate. Although regular physical exercise may influence glucose metabolism, it is not yet known if chronically performed exercise also affects the GI. The objective of this study was, therefore, to determine the GI of common meals (three breakfast cereals: B, C, D) in healthy, nonsmoking young males who were either endurance-trained (n = 12) or sedentary (n = 11). Glucose was used as the reference food. The GI value between the endurance-trained and sedentary subjects differed significantly (p < 0.01). Pair-wise comparisons between endurance-trained and sedentary subjects within the different test meals were significant for test meal D (p = 0.002), marginally non-significant for meal C (p = 0.052) and not significant for meal B (p = 0.204). These results suggest that the GI of some complex foods may depend on the training status of healthy young subjects.
Validierung einer deutschen Version des “Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire“ (MLQ Form 5 x Short) von
Authors: Felfe Jörg
Published: April 2006

Zusammenfassung. Vor dem Hintergrund des organisationalen Wandels und veränderter Anforderungen an Führungskräfte werden in der Führungsforschung seit Mitte der 80er Jahre verstärkt Ansätze der charismatischen beziehungsweise transformationalen Führung diskutiert und untersucht. Die meisten empirischen Befunde hierzu basieren auf Erhebungen, bei denen unterschiedliche Versionen des Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) eingesetzt wurden. In diesem Beitrag werden die Ergebnisse von Validierungsuntersuchungen zu einer deutschen, adaptierten Fassung der aktuellen Version 5 x Short des MLQ ( Bass & Avolio, 1995 ) berichtet. Überprüft wurden die psychometrischen Qualitäten sowie Fragen der Validität auf der Grundlage unterschiedlicher betrieblicher Stichproben mit über N = 3500 Befragten. Die gefundene Faktorenstruktur lässt sich im Rahmen des Gesamtmodells interpretieren, wobei die Anzahl der Faktoren etwas von der theoretisch postulierten Vorgabe abweicht. Insgesamt zeigt sich eine gute Konstruktvalidität. Weiterführend wird der Frage nachgegangen, inwieweit sich deutsche und nordamerikanische Stichproben bei der Einschätzung ihrer Führungskräfte mit dem MLQ unterscheiden. Abschließend werden Ansatzpunkte für Modifikationen und Verbesserungen angegeben, die bei einer Weiterentwicklung des Instruments berücksichtigt werden sollten.
Effektivität von EMDR bei psychisch traumatisierten Kindern und Jugendlichen
Authors: Hensel Thomas
Published: April 2006

Zusammenfassung. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) ist ein eigenständiges, effektives und empirisch gut belegtes Verfahren zur Behandlung chronischer posttraumatischer Belastungsstörung (PTBS) im Erwachsenenalter. Die vorliegende Arbeit gibt einen Überblick über den Forschungsstand des Einsatzes von EMDR bei traumatisierten Kindern und Jugendlichen. Die existierenden kontrolliert-randomisierten Studien werden zusammengefasst und in ihrer methodologischen Güte eingeschätzt. Die empirische Bewährtheit und Effektivität des Verfahrens wird dargestellt. Die Ergebnisse weisen - wenn auch auf schmaler empirischer Basis - darauf hin, dass EMDR bei Kindern und Jugendlichen hinsichtlich der Symptomreduktion und Effizienz (geringe Behandlungsdauer) vergleichbar wirksam ist wie bei Erwachsenen. Fragen der Integration des Verfahrens in die bestehende Versorgungsstruktur werden diskutiert.
Ferromagnetism in cobalt-doped n-GaN
Authors: Dhara S. , Sundaravel B. , Nair K. G. M. , Kesavamoorthy R. , Valsakumar M. C. , Chandrasekhar Rao T. V. , Chen L. C. , Chen K. H.
Published: April 2006

Ferromagnetic ordering is reported in the postannealed samples of Co doped n-GaN formed by Co+ implantation. A maximum Curie temperature ∼250K is recorded for the sample with 8at.% Co. Particle induced x-ray emission–channeling study confirmed the substitutional Co in Ga lattice site. Local atomic arrangement around magnetic impurities is also analyzed using Raman study. A disordered model with carrier mediated coupling of localized magnetic moments is made responsible for the observed ferromagnetic ordering.
Mechanistic enquiry into the effect of increased pacing rate on the upper limit of vulnerability
Authors: Bourn David W , Maleckar Mary M , Rodriguez Blanca , Trayanova Natalia A
Published: April 2006

The goal of this study is to investigate the mechanisms responsible for the increase in the upper limit of vulnerability (ULV; highest shock strength that induces arrhythmia) following the increase in pacing rate. To accomplish this goal, the study employs a three-dimensional bidomain finite element model of a slice through the canine ventricles. The preparation was paced eight times at a basic cycle length (BCL) of either 80 or 150 ms followed by delivery of shocks of various strengths and timings. Our results demonstrate that the shock strength, which induced an arrhythmia 50% of the time, increased 20% for the faster pacing compared to the slower pacing. Analysis of the mechanisms underlying the increased vulnerability revealed that delayed post-shock activations originating in the tissue depths appear as breakthrough activations on the surfaces of the preparation following an isoelectric window (IW). However, the IW duration was consistently shorter in the faster-paced preparation. Consequently, breakthrough activations appeared on the surfaces of this preparation earlier, when the tissue was less recovered, resulting in higher probability of unidirectional block and reentry. This explains why shocks of the same strength were more likely to result in arrhythmia induction when delivered to a preparation that was rapidly paced.
Methodological aspects of 3D and automated 2D analyses of white matter neuronal density in temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Eriksson S. H. , Free S. L. , Thom M. , Martinian L. , Sisodiya S. M.
Published: April 2006

White matter neuronal density has been correlated with clinical outcome after temporal lobectomy for refractory epilepsy. Both morphometric 2D (two‐dimensional) and stereological 3D (three‐dimensional) analyses of neuronal density have been performed. 3D analyses are thought to be more accurate than 2D counts, but more time‐consuming. We compared 3D and automated 2D measurements in the same specimens. Adjacent 20‐µm (for 3D analyses) and 5‐µm (for 2D analyses) sections from 10 temporal lobectomies were stained for NeuN immunohistochemistry. Analysis of 100% of a region of interest (ROI) in deep white matter was performed using an image analysis system (Histometrix, Kinetic Imaging, UK). 3D analyses were undertaken using × 63 magnification (6 h/case). Automated 2D analyses were undertaken using automatic neuronal identification at × 10 magnification with three to four repeats (1.5 h/case). The range of neuronal densities for 3D measurements was 2120–4910 neurones/mm3, and for automated 2D measurements 17.4–47.1 neurones/mm2. There was a linear correlation between the two methods with an r2 of 0.58. The limits of agreement for the two methods were 1718 to −2234 neurones/mm3. Count–recount variability was 1.4–9.9% for the 3D and 5.1–36.6% for the automated 2D measurements. We found a wide range of white matter neuronal densities using either analysis. The low agreement between methods, and the high count–recount variability for the automated 2D analyses, indicate that despite being more time‐consuming, rigorous 3D stereological analyses have to be performed to obtain reliable results. These findings have implications for studies requiring neuronal counts in normal and disease states.
Patterns of spatial autocorrelation of assemblages of birds, floristics, physiognomy, and primary productivity in the central Great Basin, USA
Authors: Fleishman Erica , Mac Nally Ralph
Published: April 2006

We fitted spatial autocorrelation functions to distance‐based data for assemblages of birds and for three attributes of birds’ habitats at 140 locations, separated by up to 65 km, in the Great Basin (Nevada, USA). The three habitat characteristics were taxonomic composition of the vegetation, physical structure of the vegetation, and a measure of primary productivity, the normalized difference vegetation index, estimated from satellite imagery. We found that a spherical model was the best fit to data for avifaunal composition, vegetation composition, and primary productivity, but the distance at which spatial correlation effectively was zero differed substantially among data sets (c. 30 km for birds, 20 km for vegetation composition, and 60 km for primary productivity). A power‐law function was the best fit to data for vegetation structure, indicating that the structure of vegetation differed by similar amounts irrespective of distance between locations (up to the maximum distance measured). Our results suggested that the spatial structure of bird assemblages is more similar to vegetation composition than to either vegetation structure or primary productivity, but is autocorrelated over larger distances. We believe that the greater mobility of birds compared with plants may be responsible for this difference.
Stress as a cause of chronic recurrent vulvovaginal candidosis and the effectiveness of the conventional antimycotic therapy
Authors: Meyer Harald , Goettlicher Sigurd , Mendling Werner
Published: April 2006

Chronic Candida vulvovaginitis cannot, at present, be treated effectively with local or oral antimycotic medication. Göttlicher & Meyer [Vulvovaginalmykose. Klinische Ergebnisse einer epidemiologischen Langzeitstudie, Thieme, Stuttgart (1998); Mycoses41 (1998) 49] formulated a hypothesis to explain this fact. They say that stress is the main cause of vulvovaginal mycosis, and that frequently cited predisposing somatic risk factors are not causing the illness. Two research projects were carried out to test this hypothesis. The first project was conceived to provide direct evidence for two empirical statements derived from the Göttlicher–Meyer hypothesis: (i) stress as a predictor of vulvovaginitis is least valid as the commonly assumed somatic factors and (ii) combinations of factors that reliably discriminate index women from symptom‐free women point to aspects of psychosocial development, particularly stress, and not to somatic factors. Between March and November 1999, 309 successive patients were randomly chosen from those successively treated in one in‐patient and two out‐patient settings. Of those chosen, 117 had had at least one episode of vaginal candidosis within the 2 years prior to enlistment in the study. The remaining 192 patients had experienced no such illness. For the 117 index patients both of the above empirical statements were confirmed by statistical analyses. The second project was designed to test predictions concerning the ineffectiveness of traditional antimycotic treatment derived from the Göttlicher–Meyer hypothesis. Three different empirical statements were derived from the hypothesis – each based on the assumption of a Poisson distribution of relapses that remains uninfluenced by treatment attempts. Each of the statements was tested and confirmed in independent samples – the first in the sample used in project one, the second in a sample of 206 women insured by public Healths Management Organizations (HMOs) and the third in a sample of 179 women insured by private HMOs. Each patient had evidenced Candida albicans vulvovaginitis at least once in the time interval between 1996 and 2000. Statistical analyses confirmed each of the empirical statements, thereby substantiating the Göttlicher–Meyer hypothesis. The authors conclude that (i) psychosocial factors, particularly stress, are the primary causes of Candida albicans vulvovaginitis. Accompanying somatic factors are of little statistical significance in explaining occurrence and relapse. (ii) Traditional antimycotic treatment influences only the symptoms of the illness, not its causes, and has no effect on the probability of a relapse. Increased treatment effectiveness can be achieved only at the cost of a complete re‐orientation concerning the causes of vaginal mycosis. Interventions designed to strengthen the patients’ immune response are among the most promising.
Auftrag und Grenzen der Sozialen Krankenversicherung
Authors: Zweifel Peter
Published: April 2006

This contribution seeks to answer two questions, (1) What are the reasons for a demand for social health insurance (SHI)?, and (2) What are the limits to the growth of SHI? A review of the reasons for the existence of SHI reveals that while economists have emphasized the possible contribution of SHI to efficiency, the available evidence points to public choice reasons, which also seem to explain better the growth of SHI. Indeed, since private insurance redistributes as well (albeit governed by chance), it is tempting for politicians to use SHI for systematic redistribution (the extent of which cannot easily be detected by net payers). Turning to the supply of SHI, two dimensions are studied in some detail, viz. efforts at product innovation and at risk selection. Competing suppliers of SHI, while hampered by risk adjustment which sanctions innovators for attracting the young, are predicted to invest in innovation. A monopolistic public SHI scheme, by way of contrast, does not need to select risks and, on the other hand, it is predicted to refrain from product innovation. This is but one limit to the growth of SHI; the ultimate one is citizens’ lack of willingness to pay for its continuing expansion, about which some evidence for the case of Switzerland is presented.
Priming Race in Biracial Observers Affects Visual Search for Black and White Faces
Authors: Chiao Joan Y. , Heck Hannah E. , Nakayama Ken , Ambady Nalini
Published: April 2006

We examined whether or not priming racial identity would influence Black-White biracial individuals' ability to visually search for White and Black faces. Black, White, and biracial participants performed a visual search task in which the targets were Black or White faces. Before the task, the biracial participants were primed with either their Black or their White racial identity. All participant groups detected Black faces faster than White faces. Critically, the results also showed a racial-prime effect in biracial individuals: The magnitude of the search asymmetry was significantly different for those primed with their White identity and those primed with their Black identity. These findings suggest that top-down factors such as one's racial identity can influence mechanisms underlying the visual search for faces of different races.
The Work of the British Government's Air Survey Committee And its Impact on Mapping in the Second World War
Authors: Collier Peter
Published: April 2006

It has been asserted by Clough (1952), amongst others, that British Military Survey was poorly prepared for the outbreak of war in 1939. An examination of the work carried out between the wars by the Air Survey Committee would seem to contradict that view. In this paper, the work of the Air Survey Committee is discussed and a brief assessment made of the impact of its work on British mapping during the Second World War.
Least-Squares Finite Element Analysis for Transient Radiative Transfer in Absorbing and Scattering Media
Authors: An W. , Ruan L. M. , Tan H. P. , Qi H.
Published: April 2006

In some radiative transfer processes, the time scales are usually on the order of 10−9-10−15s, so the transient effect of radiation should be considered. In present research, a finite element model, which is based on the discrete ordinates method and least-squares variational principle, is developed to simulate the transient radiative transfer in absorbing and scattering media. The numerical formulations and detailed steps are given. Moreover, two transient radiative transfer problems are investigated and the results are compared with those by integral method and finite volume method. It indicates that the present model can simulate the transient radiative transfer effectively and accurately.
A Phase II Trial of Intraperitoneal Photodynamic Therapy for Patients with Peritoneal Carcinomatosis and Sarcomatosis
Authors: Hahn Stephen M. , Fraker Douglas L. , Mick Rosemarie , Metz James , Busch Theresa M. , Smith Debbie , Zhu Timothy , Rodriguez Carmen , Dimofte Andreea , Spitz Francis , Putt Mary , Rubin Stephen C. , Menon Chandrakala , Wang Hsing-Wen , Shin Daniel , Yodh Arjun , Glatstein Eli
Published: April 2006

Purpose: A previous phase I trial of i.p. photodynamic therapy established the maximally tolerated dose of Photofrin (Axcan Pharma, Birmingham, AL)-mediated photodynamic therapy and showed encouraging efficacy. The primary objectives of this phase II study were to determine the efficacy and toxicities of i.p. photodynamic therapy in patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis and sarcomatosis.

Experimental Design: Patients received Photofrin 2.5 mg/kg i.v. 48 hours before debulking surgery. Intraoperative laser light was delivered to the peritoneal surfaces of the abdomen and pelvis. The outcomes of interest were (a) complete response, (b) failure-free survival time, and (c) overall survival time. Photosensitizer levels in tumor and normal tissues were measured.

Results: One hundred patients were enrolled into one of three strata (33 ovarian, 37 gastrointestinal, and 30 sarcoma). Twenty-nine patients did not receive light treatment. All 100 patients had progressed by the time of statistical analysis. The median failure-free survival and overall survival by strata were ovarian, 2.1 and 20.1 months; gastrointestinal cancers, 1.8 and 11.1 months; sarcoma, 3.7 and 21.9 months. Substantial fluid shifts were observed postoperatively, and the major toxicities were related to volume overload. Two patients died in the immediate postoperative period from bleeding, sepsis, adult respiratory distress syndrome, and cardiac ischemia.

Conclusions: Intraperitoneal Photofrin-mediated photodynamic therapy is feasible but does not lead to significant objective complete responses or long-term tumor control. Heterogeneity in photosensitizer uptake and tumor oxygenation, lack of tumor specificity for photosensitizer uptake, and the heterogeneity in tissue optical properties may account for the lack of efficacy observed.
Invasive Assessment of the Coronary Microcirculation
Authors: Ng Martin K.C. , Yeung Alan C. , Fearon William F.
Published: April 2006

Background—

A simple, reproducible invasive method for assessing the coronary microcirculation is lacking. A novel index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR) has been shown in animals to correlate with true microvascular resistance and, unlike coronary flow reserve (CFR), to be independent of the epicardial artery. We sought to compare the reproducibility and hemodynamic dependence of IMR with CFR in humans.

Methods and Results—

Using a pressure-temperature sensor-tipped coronary wire, thermodilution-derived CFR and IMR were measured, along with fractional flow reserve (FFR), in 15 coronary arteries (15 patients) under the following hemodynamic conditions: (1) twice at baseline; (2) during right ventricular pacing at 110 bpm; (3) during intravenous infusion of nitroprusside; and (4) during intravenous dobutamine infusion. Mean CFR did not change during baseline measurements or during nitroprusside infusion but decreased during pacing (from 3.1±1.1 at baseline to 2.3±1.2 during pacing,
P
<0.05) and during dobutamine infusion (from 3.0±1.0 to 1.7±0.6 with dobutamine,
P
<0.0001). By comparison, mean values for IMR and FFR remained similar throughout all hemodynamic conditions. The mean coefficient of variation between 2 baseline measurements was significantly lower for IMR (6.9±6.5%) and FFR (1.6±1.6%) than for CFR (18.6±9.6%;
P
<0.01). Mean correlation between baseline measurements and each hemodynamic intervention was superior for IMR (
r
=0.90±0.05) and FFR (
r
=0.86±0.12) compared with CFR (
r
=0.70±0.05;
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

Compared with CFR, IMR provides a more reproducible assessment of the microcirculation, which is independent of hemodynamic perturbations. Simultaneous measurement of FFR and IMR may provide a comprehensive and specific assessment of coronary physiology at both epicardial and microvascular levels, respectively.
Evaluation of the Drug Interaction Potential of Aplaviroc, a Novel Human Immunodeficiency Virus Entry Inhibitor, Using a Modified Cooperstown 5 + 1 Cocktail
Authors: Johnson Brendan M. , Song Ivy H. , Adkison Kimberly K. , Borland Julie , Fang Lei , Lou Yu , Berrey M. Michelle , Nafziger Anne N. , Piscitelli Stephen C. , Bertino Joseph S.
Published: April 2006

Aplaviroc is a novel CCR5 antagonist, a class of compounds under investigation as viral entry inhibitors for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus infection. A modified Cooperstown 5 +1 cocktail was used to assess the drug interaction potential of aplaviroc. Fifteen healthy subjects were administered single oral doses of caffeine (CYP1A2), warfarin (CYP2C9), omeprazole (CYP2C19), dextromethorphan (CYP2D6), and midazolam (CYP3A) alone (reference treatment) and during steady‐state administration of aplaviroc (400 mg every 12 hours, test treatment). Metabolite‐to‐parent area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC) ratios (paraxanthine/caffeine and 5‐hydroxyomeprazole/omeprazole), oral clearance (S‐warfarin), AUC (midazolam), and metabolite‐to‐parent urinary excretion ratio (dextrorphan/dextromethorphan) were determined. The test‐to‐reference treatment ratios (geometric mean ratio and 90% confidence interval) were caffeine, 1.06 (0.97–1.17); S‐warfarin, 0.93 (0.76–1.15); omeprazole, 1.07 (0.98–1.16); dextromethorphan, 1.17 (0.97–1.42); midazolam, 1.30 (1.04–1.63). No significant inhibition of CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, or CYP2D6 enzyme activity was observed. Mild inhibition of CYP3A isozymes should not preclude the use of concomitant CYP3A substrates in future clinical studies with aplaviroc.
Polydiacetylene Supramolecules Embedded in PVA Film for Strip-type Chemosensors
Authors: Kim Jong-Man , Chae Sang Kyun , Lee Young Bok , Lee Ji-Seok , Lee Gil Sun , Kim Tai-Young , Ahn Dong June
Published: April 2006

Blue-to-red color change of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) films embedded with functional polydiacetylene supramolecules was observed by thermal stress or specific molecular recognition.
Portrait of a Robber Baron: Charles T. Yerkes
Authors: Roberts Sidney I.
Published: April 2006

Chicago's traction king was a master of corruption and financial legerdemain, but his contempt for public opinion proved at last to be his undoing. Out of such flamboyant transgressions great reform movements grew, and the character of all big business operators was made suspect.
Market Entry and Economic Adaptation: Spiegel's First Decade in Mail Order
Authors: Smalley Orange A.
Published: April 2006

The Spiegel venture into mail-order installment credit marketing is examined here in detail to illustrate application of the tools of economic analysis to a specific historical situation. Whether through chance or intuition, the innovator in this example, though lacking virtually all the pertinent data, made precisely the adaptation that hindsight analysis discloses to have been most likely to succeed.
Studies In Enterprise, 1958: A Selected Bibliography of American and Canadian Company Histories and Biographies of Businessmen
Authors: Daniells Lorna M.
Published: April 2006

This is a Supplement to Studies in Enterprise, published in Boston, Baker Library, Harvard University Graduate School of Business Administration, 1957 (169 pp., $4.50). It lists the most significant books and pamphlets published since the Spring of 1957. It also includes a few earlier it books that had previously escaped the compiler's attention, as well as a selection of articles that appeared in historical journals and a few general consumer and trade publications during the year 1958.
Institutional Foundations of Pricing Policy in the Steel Industry
Authors: Barloon Marvin J.
Published: April 2006

The decision of the U. S. Supreme Court in the Cement Institute case (1948) had the effect of outfowing the system of basing point pricing used in the steel industry. But until 1953 the decision had relatively little effect on steel price competition because a strong sellers' market prevailed. In the future, as idle capacity continues, steel executives almost certainly will evolve a new method of securing uniform delivered prices. This objective for pricing policy is dictated by two broad sets of factors: the organizational structure of the industry (fewness of firms, an undifferentiated product, and inelastic demand), and the geographical distribution of the phnts of the largest producers. This article analyzes the multiple basing point system used up to 1948, the temporary expedients employed from 1948 to 1954, and the probable pricing policies of the future.
Problems of French Investment in Italian Railways: A Document of 1868
Authors: Cameron Rondo E.
Published: April 2006

French investors, their undertakings in Italy oppressed by “an unbelievable mixture of ignorance, government anarchy, and bad faith,” appealed for intervention by their government. The controversy gave rise to a remarkable report depicting the condition of Italian railroads and giving vital evidence about government-business relationships of the day.
The Earliest Fire Insurance Company in Berlin and Brandenburg, 1705–1711
Authors: Dorwart Reinhold A.
Published: April 2006

The first fire insurance program of the Hohenzollern was an important phase in the growth of the concept of risk coverage, incorporating many features regarded as standard in modern insurance practice. The Brandenburg-Berlin scheme also reflected the strengths and weaknesses of a benevolent despotism in its attempts to force the citizenry to protect itself against an admitted menace of major proportions.
The Eastern Rail-road Company to 1855
Authors: Kennedy Charles J.
Published: April 2006

Compared with the great inter-regional networks, the Eastern Railroad did not loom large. Its creation, however, is an integral part of New England history and well worthy of inclusion in any first chapter of American railroading history. The development pattern is one of piece-meal extension from several population centers, the linking of the segments, and the proliferation of branch lines. External difficulties took the shape of competition from stage and boat lines, and the rivalry of the fledgling Boston & Maine. Internally, the chief problems revolved around establishment of an effective management organization and the maintenance of adequate financial controls. Threading a populous route from Boston to Portland, Eastern's future seemed bright. Yet, in a faint foreshadowing of events of a far later day, main-line profits were swallowed up by operation of branch connections built or acquired with more enthusiasm than foresight and, once acquired, not easily disowned.
Albert Fink and the Pooling System
Authors: Gilchrist D. T.
Published: April 2006

In the energetic attempt to control destructive competition through pooling, Albert Fink occupied a position of prominence analogous to that enjoyed by Morgan in the consolidation movement that was to follow. Fink's rational advocacy did much to dispel the notion that the railroads were exercising irresponsible censorship over the affairs of the business community. His rate-making ideas and techniques were a lasting contribution to scientific railroad management.
The Eastern Rail-road Company, 1855–1884
Authors: Kennedy Charles J.
Published: April 2006

The main lines of the Eastern Rail-road served a rich coastal trade, yet even in an age of great commercial expansion this historic railroad enterprise courted continual disaster. The crisis of 1855 (Spring, 1957, Business History Review) had been compounded out of unprofitable branch connections, poor management, and a major defalcation. Reorganization promised a better future, but history repeated. Management generally chose to cover up, rather than correct, the operational and financial weaknesses that existed. New mistakes were made — and concealed. Ineffective management controls left power concentrated in a few careless hands. The inevitable final crisis in the mid-seventies paved the way for absorption of Eastern by the Boston & Maine — a major step in the building of that system. Through this narrative of repetitious error runs the thread of railroading progress — cut-and-try improvements in management techniques, in competitive strategy, and in operating methodology.
Rochester's Flour-Milling Industry in Pre-Canal Days
Authors: Beame Edmond M.
Published: April 2006

The early development of Rochester as a flour-milling center demonstrates several themes. Here, as in countless other places, the resiliency of the petty capitalist in the face of natural disasters and violent commodity price swings stands clear. But the early millers, flexible and energetic in entrepreneurial activity, were also, like their product, perishable. The broader and more important pattern is that of the persistence of an industry favored by basic geographic and market circumstances. Individual milk succumbed in rapid sequence, but rapidly they were replaced. Surviving the handicap of limited capital, the milling industry burst its heal bonds and exploited the regional potentialities of water access to Canada. Transition to what then amounted to a national market came in 1823, when the Erie Canal linked Rochester with the Hudson. Thus a new epoch was forecast, when a broadened market would not only stimulate local growth but shape it through complex economic influences hitherto little felt by the millers on the Genesee.
Are Business History and Economic Theory Compatible?
Authors: Stout Donald E.
Published: April 2006

The pragmatic approach adopted by business historians has inhibited utilization of their findings for theoretical purposes. Economic theory, at the same time, has hitherto provided no apparatus for attacking a whole range of problems deemed vital by historians today. The consequent breach between business history and economic theory, however, may be bridged by the development of new theoretical tools. Linear programming, statistical decision theory, and the theory of games are examples of arenas where the skills and interests of historian and theorist can converge.
A Review Article
Authors: Boulding Kenneth E. , Galbraith John Kenneth
Published: April 2006

Historians have awaited with great interest a new endeavor to tell the story of business in America — not in a narrow or technical way, but broadly related to the social environment of which business is one part. Economic historians, business historians, sociologists, and many other specialists have gathered extensive data on phases of business behavior, and are continuing to do so at a commendably prolific rate. The job of synthesis, however, has been neglected, perhaps because of its formidable demands. No two scholars would be likely to agree on the content and emphasis of any volume, such as the one reviewed here, that describes the development of American business. This circumstance does not detract from either the usefulness of the effort or the value of the criticism. The increasingly specialized nature of scholarship demands both the stimulus of a general thesis and wide reactions to that thesis if historical perception is to be kept abreast of accumulating evidence.
A Railroad for Turkey: the Chester Project, 1908–1913
Authors: DeNovo John A.
Published: April 2006

There was an interlude when enchantment with Dollar Diplomacy overcame the reluctance of Washington to become involved in Near East politics. The Chester project, however, was defeated by German imperialism, lack of popular support for business ambitions abroad, and vacillation by the promoters themselves. The time for effective alliance between the State Department and American businessmen was not yet at hand.
A Needed Distinction in Fashion Study
Authors: Redlich Fritz
Published: April 2006

The term Tracht is examined with a view toward its introduction into English usage to distinguish between long-term and short-term changes in clothing style.
A Conjecture about Fashion and Vertical Process Integration
Authors: Rosenbloom Richard S.
Published: April 2006

The prosperity of an industrial enterprise depends upon its ability to adapt continuously to the evolving market for its goods. This paper considers the consequences of one kind of industrial strategy — vertical integration — when the relevant market is strongly influenced by fashion.
God and Dun & Bradstreet, 1841–1851
Authors: Wyatt-Brown Bertram
Published: April 2006

The curious fusion of business failure and evangelical Christianity that initiated the United States' largest credit-reporting agency is explored in this portrait of The Mercantile Agency's founder, Lewis Tappan.
The First Printed Share Certificate: An Important Link in Financial History
Authors: Shelton John P.
Published: April 2006

To stimulate further research in the history of business instruments, the Review offers this illustrated record of a search for the earliest evidence of printed corporate securities.
The Commercial Bank of Lake Erie, 1831–1843
Authors: Scheiber Harry N.
Published: April 2006

Although short-lived, the Commercial Bank of Lake Erie played an active role in the economic life of its locale. Its history contrasts the hopes and the realities of commercial banking on the American frontier.
American Business and Foreign Aid: The Eisenhower Years
Authors: DiBacco Thomas V.
Published: April 2006

How well did the American business traditions of domestic “self-regulation” and foreign “dollar diplomacy” fit the economic and diplomatic environment of the Eisenhower era? Professor DiBacco suggests that the issue of foreign aid — in particular, economic assistance — provided an opportunity for articulately testing old and new business creeds.
Carriers, Courts, and the Commodities Clause
Authors: LeDuc Thomas
Published: April 2006

The contradictory and inconsistent history of the origin, interpretation, and enforcement of the “commodities clause” of the Hepburn Act of 1906 is the basis for this analysis of one aspect of government-business relations in the American transportation industry.
The European Coal and Steel Community: Operations of the First European Antitrust Law, 1952-1958
Authors: Schmitt Hans A.
Published: April 2006

The nature and application of Europe's first supranational antitrust law are the subjects of Professor Schmitt's analysis. The problems and policies regarding mergers and combinations experienced during the first six years of ECSC are of particular importance in the study of the evolution of international government-business relationships.
American Merchants and the China Opium Trade, 1800–1840
Authors: Downs Jacques M.
Published: April 2006

Although much has been written about the British opium trade, American traffic in the drug has received little attention. Professor Downs' article reveals that American merchants played a significant innovating role in developing new sources of supply and expanding the market. These activities forced the monopolistic British East India Company to protect its opium trade to China and led to the Opium War in 1839, when the Chinese government attempted to stop importation of the narcotic.
“On Liberal Terms:” The Boston Hide-Merchants in California
Authors: Fritzsche Bruno
Published: April 2006

From Dana's Two Years before the Mast, a vast literary audience has read of the activities of Boston hide-traders in California during the 1840's. But Dana's understanding of the business of which he was a small part was far less accurate than his knowledge of ships and the sea. This gap is now filled by Dr. Fritzsche's analysis of the mechanics and profitability of the trade.
The Changing Concept of “Human Nature” in the Literature of American Advertising
Authors: Curti Merle
Published: April 2006

In their debates over the functions of advertising (such as “tell versus sell” and “inform versus manipulate”), practitioners have employed various conceptualizations of the “nature” of man. Implicitly and explicitly, as Professor Curti reveals, these views also tell us much about the “nature” of American society in the twentieth century.
Washington and Wall Street: The New Deal and Investment Bankers, 1933–1940
Authors: Carosso Vincent
Published: April 2006

Professor Carosso analyzes the impact of New Deal legislation upon the nation's investment banking community. Although some adjustments in banking methods resulted, the reforms did not effect any fundamental changes in the position of investment bankers in the American economy.
Business History: Present Status and Future Needs
Authors: Hidy Ralph W.
Published: April 2006

Professor Hidy considers many recent contributions to business history and suggests some fruitful areas for future research.
Taxpayers or Investors: Who Paid for the Land-Grant Railroads?
Authors: Mercer Lloyd J.
Published: April 2006

Professor Mercer examines the subsidies to seven major land-grant railroads in the United States and Canada and finds that such subsidies made very substantial contributions toward paying for the investment in those railroads.
The Transformation of Bethlehem Steel, 1904-1909
Authors: Hessen Robert
Published: April 2006

Charles M. Schwab's aggressive and innovative leadership of Bethlehem Steel early in this century made that firm a success. To some extent, however, the growth of Bethlehem was made possible by the conservative strategy of E. H. Gary's giant U.S. Steel. The dominant firm's willingness to tolerate the loss of a portion of its sales to smaller rivals made their survival and expansion easier than would have been the case in a more vigorously competitive environment.