bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond the Shooter Game
Authors: Eastin Matthew S. , Griffiths Robert P.
Published: October 2006

Investigating male game players, this study explores how game interface (virtual reality [VR] and standard console), game content (fighting, shooting, and driving), and game context (human and computer competition) influence levels of presence and hostile expectation bias—the expectation others will think, feel, speak, and act aggressively during social conflict. In addition to game interface and game content influencing hostile expectations, significant interactions were detected for hostile expectations. Presence, although not as predicted, also significantly differed across game interface and game content. Through the development and testing of each gaming experience, this study demonstrates that simply testing violent and nonviolent game situations underestimates the complexity of contemporary video-game play.
A Close Look at Revealing Secrets and Some Consequences That Follow
Authors: Afifi Walid A. , Caughlin John P.
Published: October 2006

During a 2-month period this investigation followed 342 individuals who were keeping a secret, focusing on predictors and outcomes of revelation. Rumination, identity-related concerns, and self-esteem were the variables of interest. Rumination at the beginning of the study was associated negatively with self-esteem and was positively correlated with identity-related concerns. Despite their positive association with one another, rumination and the identity factors clashed in their impact on the decision to reveal the secret. Finally, the revelation of secrets seems to decrease rumination and increase self-esteem, but only to the extent that the target’s reaction was positive and the revelation decreased the self-relevance of the secret for the discloser, respectively. A complex picture emerges of the process of secret concealment and revelation.
Optimal design of the shifted switching planes for VSC of a third-order system
Authors: Bartoszewicz Andrzej , Nowacka Aleksandra
Published: October 2006

In this paper, a new sliding mode control algorithm for a third-order uncertain, non-linear and time-varying dynamic system subject to unknown disturbance and input constraint is proposed. The algorithm employs a time-varying switching plane. At the initial time tt0, the plane passes through the point determined by the system initial conditions in the error state space. Afterwards, the plane moves with a constant velocity to the origin of the space. Two methods of switching plane parameter selection are presented. The first one ensures the minimization of the integral of the absolute error (IAE) over the whole period of the control action and the second one minimizes the integral of the time multiplied by the absolute error (ITAE). In both cases the input constraint is satisfied. The switching plane is chosen in such a way that the reaching phase is eliminated, insensitivity of the system to the external disturbance and the model uncertainty is guaranteed from the very beginning of the proposed control action and fast, monotonic error convergence to zero is achieved.
Putting progress in its place
Authors: Livingstone David N.
Published: October 2006

The idea of progress disconcerts. While it is enshrined as an object in our research audit culture, its very existence is queried in many groves of the modern academy. Here I contend that the idea of ‘progress in geography’ has meant different things, at different times, in different places, and that it has been put to different cultural and political uses. The realization that ‘progress in geography’has its own geography might lead us in the direction of destabilizing the notion to the point of undermining it altogether. I believe that to be mistaken. Instead I argue for the retrieval of a chastened form of the idea of progress as a regulative ideal both epistemologically and morally.
Late Quaternary paleoenvironmental changes in East Africa: a review of multiproxy evidence from palynology, lake sediments, and associated records
Authors: Kiage Lawrence M. , Liu Kam-biu
Published: October 2006

This paper presents an overview of paleoenvironmental changes in East Africa during the late Quaternary based on evidence from pollen, diatoms, microscopic charcoal, and lake level records and associated proxies. The paleoenvironmental records derived from different proxies complement each other to provide a more accurate and complete assessment of the paleoenvironmental changes in East Africa. The records show that the period prior to c. 42,000 14C yr BP was characterized by warm climatic conditions similar to the present. This was followed by a change to cold dry conditions from 42,000 to 30,000 14C yr BP, and cold and moist conditions from 30,000 to 21,000 14C yr BP. Temperatures during the latter period leading to the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) were probably 2 to 4.1°C lower than the present. Between c. 21,000 and 12,500 14C yr BP East Africa's environment was generally cool, punctuated by two significant episodes of prolonged desiccation. Warm and moist conditions punctuated by rapid climatic changes prevailed in the region during the deglacial and middle Holocene period. Ice core records document two significant and abrupt drought events in the region, one at 8300 14C yr BP and the other at 5200 14C yr BP. The onset of a longer and more extensive desiccation period commencing 4000 14C yr BP was registered in nearly all sites. The climate of East Africa was generally drier than present during the Medieval Warm Period (MWP) while fairly wet conditions prevailed during the Little Ice Age (LIA) interrupted by three episodes of aridity, more severe than those of more recent times. Whereas this review advances our understanding of climate and vegetational changes in East Africa beyond the Last Glacial Maximum, it also highlights limitations of the paradigms that explain the forcing mechanisms behind the changes. However, unequivocal interpretation of the multiproxy data from East Africa with respect to paleoenvironmental changes becomes extremely complex and challenging especially when the anthropogenic input is considered.
Military Logistics during the Reign of Edward I of England, 1272-1307
Authors: Bachrach David Stewart
Published: October 2006

Logistics, the administrative systems by which military forces are supplied, played a crucial role in the conduct of medieval warfare. This was certainly true of the royal armies dispatched by King Edward I of England (r. 1272-1307) to fight campaigns in Gascony, Flanders, Wales, and Scotland. This study focuses on the administrative and bureaucratic systems developed by the English royal government to keep tens of thousands of soldiers supplied with food, wine, and other necessities during Edward I’s wars of conquest within Britain, in Wales and Scotland.
Improvised Destruction: Arnold, LeMay, and the Firebombing of Japan
Authors: Ralph William W.
Published: October 2006

The area firebombing campaign waged against the cities of Japan in the waning months of the Second World War represented a stunning departure from early-war American bombing strategy. This policy evolved from the relationship between the USAAF commander, General Henry Arnold, and his subordinates in the field. Arnold had grown to trust a young field commander, Major General Curtis LeMay, so much that he sent him to bomb Japan with just one criterion -get results. Arnold needed these immediate, eye-catching results because they would provide benefits for the service well beyond simply beating Japan. There was little systematic and nothing pre-ordained about the course of the campaign, made possible because the most senior leaders abrogated their responsibility to oversee and perhaps check the incendiary campaign and the destruction and death that accompanied it.
Ethical Conflicts in Prehospital Emergency Care
Authors: Sandman Lars , Nordmark Anders
Published: October 2006

This article analyses and presents a survey of ethical conflicts in prehospital emergency care. The results are based on six focus group interviews with 29 registered nurses and paramedics working in prehospital emergency care at three different locations: a small town, a part of a major city and a sparsely populated area. Ethical conflict was found to arise in 10 different nodes of conflict: the patient/carer relationship, the patient’s self-determination, the patient’s best interest, the carer’s professional ideals, the carer’s professional role and self-identity, significant others and bystanders, other care professionals, organizational structure and resource management, societal ideals, and other professionals. It is often argued that prehospital care is unique in comparison with other forms of care. However, in this article we do not find support for the idea that ethical conflicts occurring in prehospital care are unique, even if some may be more common in this context.
Competent Patients’ Refusal of Nursing Care
Authors: Dudzinski Denise M , Shannon Sarah E
Published: October 2006

Competent patients’ refusals of nursing care do not yet have the legal or ethical standing of refusals of life-sustaining medical therapies such as mechanical ventilation or blood products. The case of a woman who refused turning and incontinence management owing to pain prompted us to examine these situations. We noted several special features: lack of paradigm cases, social taboo around unmanaged incontinence, the distinction between ordinary versus extraordinary care, and the moral distress experienced by nurses. We examined this case on the merits and limitations of five well-known ethical positions: pure autonomy, conscientious objection, paternalism, communitarianism, and feminism. We found each lacking and argue for a ‘negotiated reliance’ response where nurses and others tread as lightly as possible on the patient’s autonomy while negotiating a compromise, but are obligated to match the patient’s sacrifice by extending themselves beyond their usual professional practice.
Development and Initial Validation of the Stress of Conscience Questionnaire
Authors: Glasberg Ann-Louise , Eriksson Sture , Dahlqvist Vera , Lindahl Elisabeth , Strandberg Gunilla , Söderberg Anna , Sørlie Venke , Norberg Astrid
Published: October 2006

Stress in health care is affected by moral factors. When people are prevented from doing ‘good’ they may feel that they have not done what they ought to or that they have erred, thus giving rise to a troubled conscience. Empirical studies show that health care personnel sometimes refer to conscience when talking about being in ethically difficult everyday care situations. This study aimed to construct and validate the Stress of Conscience Questionnaire (SCQ), a nine-item instrument for assessing stressful situations and the degree to which they trouble the conscience. The items were based on situations previously documented as causing negative stress for health care workers. Content and face validity were established by expert panels and pilot studies that selected relevant items and modified or excluded ambiguous ones. A convenience sample of 444 health care personnel indicated that the SCQ had acceptable validity and internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha exceeded 0.83 for the overall scale). Explorative factor analysis identified and labelled two factors: ‘internal demands’ and ‘external demands and restrictions’. The findings suggest that the SCQ is a concise and practical instrument for use in various health care contexts.
Studies on the decontamination of surfaces exposed to cytotoxic drugs in chemotherapy workstations
Authors: Roberts Sarah , Khammo Nancy , McDonnell Gerald , Sewell Graham J
Published: October 2006

Objective. The aim of this study was to examine the removal and deactivation of cytotoxic contamination from surfaces of a pharmaceutical isolator workstation.

Methods. Three marker cytotoxic drugs were evaluated in three phases using decontamination technologies currently available in the pharmaceutical and healthcare environments. Phase I investigated the physical removal of contamination by detergents. Phase II and III investigated the effectiveness of detergents and Vaporised Hydrogen Peroxide (VHP®) in degrading cytotoxic drugs, respectively.

Results. 5-Flurouracil, doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide were removed from a surface by wiping with detergents. VHP® and alkaline detergents caused degradation of doxorubicin. The observed effect with detergent cleaning was pH dependent, but neither of the technologies applied had any effect on the chemical stability of 5-flurouracil and cyclophosphamide under the conditions tested.
The incidence of extravasation of vinca alkaloids supplied in syringes or mini-bags
Authors: Gilbar Peter J , Carrington Christine V
Published: October 2006

Study objective. The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the incidence of vinca alkaloid extravasation following administration via syringes or mini-bags.

Methods. An electronic survey was sent to pharmacy departments at hospitals throughout Australia. The survey was designed to collect data on the administration methods of vinca alkaloids (vincristine, vinblastine, vinorelbine) and the corresponding documented incidence of extravasation. The questionnaire requested the following information: how the drugs were prepared for administration (syringe or mini-bag); volume of each product; number of items supplied; and the number of cases of extravasation reported for each product.

Results. Questionnaires were sent to 228 hospital pharmacy departments in Australia. Sixty-eight questionnaires were received (29.8%), including responses from most major cancer centres. Data represented a range of 3 to 120 months (mean: 38 months) of clinical experience. The reported incidence of vincristine extravasation from syringes was 0.03% (11/37 084) and 0.041% (3/7255) with mini-bags. One case of vinblastine extravasation was reported with syringes 0.013% (1/7913), none from mini-bags (0/1421). Vinorelbine data were difficult to interpret as cases may represent phlebitis rather than extravasation. The reported incidence from vinorelbine syringes was 0.029% (2/6914) and 0.146% (8/5475) with mini-bags. Excluding vinorelbine data, the reported vinca alkaloid extravasation episodes from syringes (0.027%) and mini-bags (0.035%) were found to be similar and infrequent.

Conclusion. The data suggest that vinca alkaloids can be given safely as low volume, short infusions via mini-bags. Policies and practices that ensure the same careful monitoring of infusional therapy as is recommended with administration by syringe may further reduce the incidence of untoward effects. Mini-bags should be used for the administration of vinca alkaloids and this practice will prevent the inadvertent intrathecal administration of vinca alkaloids via syringes.
Factoring Consumers’ Perspectives Into Policy Decisions for Nursing Competence
Authors: Lazarus Jean B. , Lee N. Genell
Published: October 2006

Health care delivery competence and accountability have typically been defined from providers’ perspectives, rather than those of consumers as purchasers of services. In 1999, in the face of broad public concern about nursing competence the Alabama Board of Nursing developed an accountability model that established consumers at the center of the model and placed accountability for competent nursing practice at all levels of providers including regulatory agencies, health care organizations, educators, and licensees. The Board then authorized two research projects involving first, consumers perceptions on nursing competence and regulation, and second, comparing their perceptions with those of licensees, nurse educators, and organizational leaders (N = 1,127). Comparative data evidenced significant differences between consumers’ and other participants’ perceptions. This article highlights how policy implications derived from research resulted in regulatory changes for nursing competence. Five years of progress in policy changes made in the interest of public safety are summarized.
Innovations in Health Care Delivery: Responses to Global Nurse Migration—A Practice Example
Authors: Floyd Jeanne
Published: October 2006

The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) mission is to promote excellence in nursing and health care globally through credentialing programs and related services. Among these programs, the Magnet Recognition Program recognizes health care institutions that excel at changing their cultures to provide excellent patient care. In recent years, ANCC has partnered with health care organizations and researchers internationally to extend the Magnet Program to other countries. There is flexibility in the Magnet Program to be able to do this; however, we must continue to refine the meaning and necessary level of flexibility to be applied. It is important, as we move forward, that we honor one of the Magnet tenets: to celebrate milestones.
The Road Less Traveled: Nursing Advocacy at the Policy Level
Authors: Spenceley Shannon M. , Reutter Linda , Allen Marion N.
Published: October 2006

A frequent observation made about nursing advocacy at the policy level is its absence—or at least its invisibility. Yet there is a persistent belief that nurses will participate in advocacy at the societal level in matters of health. Although gaps exist in our knowledge about how to advocate at the policy level, the authors suggest that a number of other factors contribute to the disconnect between what nurses are expected to do in terms of policy advocacy and what they actually do. There are two main purposes in this article: to review the epistemological foundations of advocacy in nursing, and to present a discussion of other factors that limit our participation in policy advocacy. The authors discuss challenges within the discipline, in the practice context, and at the interface of the worlds of policy and nursing practice. The article concludes with a discussion of possible strategies for moving forward.
The Global Nursing Shortage: An Overview of Issues and Actions
Authors: Oulton Judith A.
Published: October 2006

Today’s global nursing shortage is having an adverse impact on health systems around the world. A major initiative by the International Council of Nurses (ICN) yielded important information regarding the shortage and solutions to it. These are organized into five priority areas: policy intervention; macroeconomics and health sector funding; workforce planning and policy, including regulation; positive practice environments; and retention and recruitment (includes migration); and nursing leadership. Internationally momentum is building, providing the opportunity to bring attention to these issues and to take action. This article presents an overview of the global nursing shortage (which, since 2002, has been termed a global crisis), provides the perspectives of the ICN, and discusses the ICN’s initiatives regarding that crisis. Founded in 1899, the ICN is the world’s first and largest organization for health professionals. As a federation of national nurses’ associations in 129 countries, ICN represents the more than 13 million nurses working worldwide. It works to ensure quality nursing care for all, sound health policies globally, the advancement of nursing knowledge, and the presence worldwide of a respected, competent professional workforce.
Insurers’ Contracting Policies on Nurse Practitioners as Primary Care Providers: The Current Landscape and What Needs to Change
Authors: Hansen-Turton Tine , Ritter Ann , Begun Heather , Berkowitz Sandra L. , Rothman Nancy , Valdez Brian
Published: October 2006

A national survey showed that most insurance companies refuse to credential nurse practitioners as primary care providers in nurse-managed health centers. These prohibitive policies, along with weak federal and state laws, threaten the long-term sustainability of nurse-managed health centers as safety-net health care providers and limit the ability for nurse practitioners to become an accepted primary health care source in the United States. Interviews with national managed care organizations revealed that these companies’ current business practice and policies are unlikely to change without regulatory change at state and/or federal levels.
An Overview of Papers Presented at Building Global Alliances III: The Impact of Global Nurse Migration on Health Services Delivery
Authors: Nichols Barbara L.
Published: October 2006

Global nurse migration has become a major phenomenon, impacting health service delivery in both developed and developing countries. The phenomenon has created a global labor market for health professionals and fueled international recruitment. International migration and recruitment are viewed as solutions to staffing shortages for some countries and as exacerbating problems for others. As a result, migration and recruitment have become prominent features of the international health policy debate.
Noninfectious papilloma virus–like particles inhibit HIV-1 replication: implications for immune control of HIV-1 infection by IL-27
Authors: Fakruddin J. Mohamad , Lempicki Richard A. , Gorelick Robert J. , Yang Jun , Adelsberger Joseph W. , Garcia-Pineres Alfonso J. , Pinto Ligia A. , Lane H. Clifford , Imamichi Tomozumi
Published: October 2006

Human papilloma virus (HPV)–like particles (VLPs) have been used as a vaccine to prevent HPV infection. Recent studies demonstrate that VLPs bind to dendritic cells and induce the expression of antiviral cytokines such as interferon-α (IFN-α), interleukin-10 (IL-10) and IFN-γ. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of VLPs on HIV-1 replication in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), CD4+ T cells, and macrophages. Here, we show that VLPs suppress the replication of both X4 and R5 HIV-1 without affecting the expression of CD4, CXCR4, and CCR5. Soluble factor(s) released by PBMCs and macrophages on VLPs treatment inhibited HIV-1 replication. To determine the inhibitory factors, DNA microarray analysis was performed using VLP-treated PBMCs and macrophages. VLPs induced the genes associated with IFN induction, immune responses, and antiviral responses, among with the recently described cytokine IL-27. Subsequently, IL-27 was found to be a potent inhibitor of HIV-1 replication in PBMCs, CD4+ T cells, and macrophages. Taken together, our studies identify a novel role of IL-27 in restricting HIV-1 replication and suggest that further examination of the inhibitory property of IL-27 may pave the way for a novel therapy for HIV-1 infection.
Differential epitope mapping of antibodies to PDC-E2 in patients with hematologic malignancies after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and primary biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Bellucci Roberto , Oertelt Sabine , Gallagher Meagan , Li Sigui , Zorn Emmanuel , Weller Edie , Porcheray Fabrice , Alyea Edwin P. , Soiffer Robert J. , Munshi Nikhil C. , Gershwin M. Eric , Ritz Jerome
Published: October 2006

A unique characteristic of the autoimmune liver disease primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is the presence of high-titer and extremely specific autoantibodies to the E2 component of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC-E2). Autoantibodies to PDC-E2 antigen have only been detected in patients with disease or in those who subsequently develop PBC. One exception has been a subgroup of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and received donor lymphocyte infusions (DLIs) after transplantation. These patients developed high-titer antibodies to a variety of myeloma-associated antigens, including PDC-E2, coincident with rejection of myeloma cells in vivo. To examine the specificity of autoantibodies to PDC in these patients, we screened sera from patients with MM, chronic leukemias, monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance (MGUS), PBC, and healthy donors. Three of 11 patients with MM (27%) and 2 of 6 patients with chronic leukemias (33%) developed anti–PDC-E2 antibodies in association with DLI response; 2 of 12 (17%) patients in the MGUS pretreatment control population also had detectable anti-PDC responses. Interestingly, the epitope specificity of these PDC-E2 autoantibodies was distinctive, suggesting that the mechanisms leading to loss of tolerance in the transplantation patients are distinct from PBC.
Identification of BMP9 and BMP10 as functional activators of the orphan activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1) in endothelial cells
Authors: David Laurent , Mallet Christine , Mazerbourg Sabine , Feige Jean-Jacques , Bailly Sabine
Published: October 2006

ALK1 is an endothelial-specific type I receptor of the TGFβ receptor family whose heterozygous mutations cause hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia type 2. Although TGFβ1 and TGFβ3 have been shown to bind ALK1 under specific experimental conditions, they may not represent the physiological ligands for this receptor. In the present study, we demonstrate that BMP9 induces the phosphorylation of Smad1/5/8 in microvascular endothelial cells, and this phosphorylation lasts over a period of 24 hours. BMP9 also activates the ID1 promoter–derived BMP response element (BRE) in a dose-dependent manner (EC50 = 45 ± 27 pg/mL), and this activation is abolished by silencing ALK1 expression or addition of ALK1 extracellular domain. Overexpression of endoglin increases the BMP9 response, whereas silencing of both BMPRII and ActRIIA expressions completely abolishes it. BMP10, which is structurally close to BMP9, is also a potent ALK1 ligand. Finally, we demonstrate that BMP9 and BMP10 potently inhibit endothelial cell migration and growth, and stimulate endothelial expression of a panel of genes that was previously reported to be activated by the constitutively active form of ALK1. Taken together, our results suggest that BMP9 and BMP10 are two specific ALK1 ligands that may physiologically trigger the effects of ALK1 on angiogenesis.
Genome-wide mapping of ORC and Mcm2p binding sites on tiling arrays and identification of essential ARS consensus sequences in S. cerevisiae
Authors: Xu Weihong , Aparicio Jennifer G , Aparicio Oscar M , Tavaré Simon
Published: October 2006

Background

Eukaryotic replication origins exhibit different initiation efficiencies and activation times within S-phase. Although local chromatin structure and function influences origin activity, the exact mechanisms remain poorly understood. A key to understanding the exact features of chromatin that impinge on replication origin function is to define the precise locations of the DNA sequences that control origin function. InS. cerevisiae, Autonomously Replicating Sequences (ARSs) contain a consensus sequence (ACS) that binds the Origin Recognition Complex (ORC) and is essential for origin function. However, an ACS is not sufficient for origin function and the majority of ACS matches do not function as ORC binding sites, complicating the specific identification of these sites.

Results

To identify essential origin sequences genome-wide, we utilized a tiled oligonucleotide array (NimbleGen) to map the ORC and Mcm2p binding sites at high resolution. These binding sites define a set of potential Autonomously Replicating Sequences (ARSs), which we term nimARSs. The nimARS set comprises 529 ORC and/or Mcm2p binding sites, which includes 95% of known ARSs, and experimental verification demonstrates that 94% are functional. The resolution of the analysis facilitated identification of potential ACSs (nimACSs) within 370 nimARSs. Cross-validation shows that the nimACS predictions include 58% of known ACSs, and experimental verification indicates that 82% are essential for ARS activity.

Conclusion

These findings provide the most comprehensive, accurate, and detailed mapping of ORC binding sites to date, adding to the emerging picture of the chromatin organization of the budding yeast genome.
Prevalence and predictors of home and automobile smoking bans and child environmental tobacco smoke exposure: a cross-sectional study of U.S.- and Mexico-born Hispanic women with young children
Authors: Gonzales Melissa , Malcoe Lorraine Halinka , Kegler Michelle C , Espinoza Judith
Published: October 2006

Background

Detrimental effects of environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure on child health are well documented. Because young children's primary exposure to ETS occurs in homes and automobiles, voluntary smoking restrictions can substantially reduce exposure. We assessed the prevalence of home and automobile smoking bans among U.S.- and Mexico-born Hispanics in the southwestern United States, and examined the influence of mother's country of birth and smoking practices on voluntary smoking bans and on child ETS exposure.

Methods

U.S.- and Mexico-born Hispanic mothers of children aged 2 through 12 years were systematically sampled from health clinics in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In-person interviews were conducted with 269 mothers (75.4% response rate) to obtain information on main study outcomes (complete versus no/partial home and automobile smoking bans; child room and automobile ETS exposure) and risk factors (mother's country of birth, maternal and household smoking behaviors). Data were analyzed with chi square tests and logistic regression models.

Results

Three-fourths (74–77%) of U.S.-born and 90–95% of Mexico-born mothers reported complete automobile and home smoking bans. In multivariate analyses, mother's U.S nativity, mother's current smoking, and presence of other adult smokers in the home were associated with significantly increased odds of not having a complete home or automobile smoking ban. Mother's smoking was associated with child ETS exposure both indoors (odds ratio [OR] = 3.31) and in automobiles (OR = 2.97). Children of U.S.-born mothers had increased odds of exposure to ETS indoors (OR = 3.24; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.37–7.69), but not in automobiles. Having complete smoking bans was associated with substantially reduced odds of child ETS exposure both indoors (OR = 0.10; 95% CI: 0.04–0.27) and in automobiles (OR = 0.14; 95% CI: 0.05–0.36).

Conclusion

This study of Hispanic mothers in the southwestern U.S. indicates that there are substantial differences between U.S.- and Mexico-born mothers in the prevalence of home and automobile smoking bans, and resulting child ETS exposure. Tobacco interventions to increase smoke-free environments for U.S. Hispanic children should focus on both home and automobile smoking practices, especially among U.S.-born mothers, and utilize strategies that impact smoking practices of all household members.
Chronic Nicotine Exposure Enhances Insulin-Induced Mitogenic Signaling via Up-Regulation of α7 Nicotinic Receptors in Isolated Rat Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Wada Tsutomu , Naito Maiko , Kenmochi Hiroki , Tsuneki Hiroshi , Sasaoka Toshiyasu
Published: October 2006

Insulin resistance and smoking are significant risk factors for cardiac and cerebral vascular diseases. Because vascular smooth muscle cells play a key role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, we investigated the effect of nicotine on insulin-induced mitogenic signaling in aortic vascular smooth muscle cells isolated from Sprague Dawley rats. RT-PCR revealed the expression of α2–7, α10, β1–3, δ, and ε subunits of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) in the cells. Short-term nicotine treatment stimulated phosphorylation of p44/42-MAPK, p38-MAPK, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3. However, an additive effect of nicotine pretreatment on insulin stimulation was only observed on p44/42-MAPK. The nicotine-induced phosphorylation of p44/42-MAPK and [methyl-3H]thymidine incorporation were effectively suppressed by a α7-nAChR-selective antagonist, methyllycaconitine, and the phosphorylation of p44/42-MAPK was stimulated by a α7-nAChR-specific agonist, GTS21. Furthermore, the phosphorylation was mediated via calmodulin kinase II, Src, and Shc. Interestingly, long-term (48-h) pretreatment with nicotine increased the amount of α7-AChR in the plasma membrane and insulin-induced phosphorylation of p44/42-MAPK. These results provide the first evidence that acute exposure to nicotine enhances insulin-induced mitogenesis predominantly by affecting the phosphorylation of p44/42-MAPK and that chronic exposure further augments the insulin signal via up-regulation of α7-nAChR, which may be crucial for the development and progression of atherosclerosis in large vessels.
Imaging the alternative silencing ofFGFR2exon IIIb in vivo
Authors: Bonano Vivian I. , Oltean Sebastian , Brazas Robert M. , Garcia-Blanco Mariano A.
Published: October 2006

Alternative splicing multiplies genomic coding capacity and regulates proteomic composition. A well-studied example of this plasticity leads to the synthesis of functionally distinct isoforms of the Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor-2 (FGFR2). The regulation of this isoform diversity necessitates the silencing ofFGFR2exon IIIb, which is mediated by flanking intronic splicing silencers and the polypyrimidine tract binding protein (PTB). To visualize this splicing decision in vivo, we developed mice harboring a green fluorescent protein construct that reports on the silencing of exon IIIb. The animals also harbor a red fluorescent protein reporter of constitutive splicing as an allelic control. This dual reporter system revealed that in various organs and cell types the silencing of exon IIIb required the intronic silencers. In neurons, which do not express PTB, we observed robust silencer-dependent repression of exon IIIb, suggesting that the neural paralog, brain PTB, can take over this function. In the epidermis, however, the intronic silencers were not required for efficient silencing. This work provides a first glimpse at splicing regulation among different cell types in vivo and promises the drafting of an anatomic map of splicing decisions.
Structure-guided mutational analysis of T4 RNA ligase 1
Authors: Wang Li Kai , Schwer Beate , Shuman Stewart
Published: October 2006

T4 RNA ligase 1 (Rnl1) is a tRNA repair enzyme that circumvents an RNA-damaging host antiviral response. Whereas the three-step reaction scheme of Rnl1 is well established, the structural basis for catalysis has only recently been appreciated as mutational and crystallographic approaches have converged. Here we performed a structure-guided alanine scan of nine conserved residues, including side chains that either contact the ATP substrate via adenine (Leu179, Val230), the 2′-OH (Glu159), or the γ phosphate (Tyr37) or coordinate divalent metal ions at the ATP α phosphate (Glu159, Tyr246) or β phosphate (Asp272, Asp273). We thereby identified Glu159 and Tyr246 as essential for RNA sealing activity in vitro and for tRNA repair in vivo. Structure–activity relationships at Glu159 and Tyr246 were clarified by conservative substitutions. Eliminating the phosphate-binding Tyr37, and the magnesium-binding Asp272 and Asp273 side chains had little impact on sealing activity in vitro or in vivo, signifying that not all atomic interactions in the active site are critical for function. Analysis of mutational effects on individual steps of the ligation pathway underscored how different functional groups come into play during the ligase–adenylylation reaction versus the subsequent steps of RNA–adenylylation and phosphodiester formation. Moreover, the requirements for sealing exogenous preformed RNA–adenylate are more stringent than are those for sealing the RNA–adenylate intermediate formed in situ during ligation of a 5′-PO4 RNA.
Idea Generation, Creativity, and Incentives
Authors: Toubia Olivier
Published: October 2006

Idea generation (ideation) is critical to the design and marketing of new products, to marketing strategy, and to the creation of effective advertising copy. However, there has been relatively little formal research on the underlying incentives with which to encourage participants to focus their energies on relevant and novel ideas. Several problems have been identified with traditional ideation methods. For example, participants often free ride on other participants’ efforts because rewards are typically based on the group-level output of ideation sessions.

This paper examines whether carefully tailored ideation incentives can improve creative output. I begin by studying the influence of incentives on idea generation using a formal model of the ideation process. This model illustrates the effect of rewarding participants for their impact on the group and identifies a parameter that mediates this effect. I then develop a practical, web-based asynchronous “ideation game,” which allows the implementation and test of various incentive schemes. Using this system, I run two experiments that demonstrate that incentives do have the capability to improve idea generation, confirm the predictions from the theoretical analysis, and provide additional insight on the mechanisms of ideation.
Effects of Brand Preference, Product Attributes, and Marketing Mix Variables in Technology Product Markets
Authors: Sriram S. , Chintagunta Pradeep K. , Neelamegham Ramya
Published: October 2006

We develop a demand model for technology products that captures the effect of changes in the portfolio of models offered by a brand as well as the influence of the dynamics in its intrinsic preference on that brand’s performance. To account for the potential correlation in the preferences of models offered by a particular brand, we use a nested logit model with the brand (e.g., Sony) at the upper level and its various models (e.g., Mavica, FD, DSC, etc.) at the lower level of the nest. Relative model preferences are captured via their attributes and prices. We allow for heterogeneity across consumers in their preferences for these attributes and in their price sensitivities in addition to heterogeneity in consumers’ intrinsic brand preferences. Together with the nested logit assumption, this allows for a flexible substitution pattern across models at the aggregate level. The attractiveness of a brand’s product line changes over time with entry and exit of new models and with changes in attribute and price levels. To allow for time-varying intrinsic brand preferences, we use a state-space model based on the Kalman filter, which captures the influence of marketing actions such as brand-level advertising on the dynamics of intrinsic brand preferences. Hence, the proposed model accounts for the effects of brand preferences, model attributes and marketing mix variables on consumer choice. First, we carry out a simulation study to ensure that our estimation procedure is able to recover the true parameters generating the data. Then, we estimate our model parameters on data for the U.S. digital camera market. Overall, we find that the effect of dynamics in the intrinsic brand preference is greater than the corresponding effect of the dynamics in the brand’s product line attractiveness. Assuming plausible profit margins, we evaluate the effect of increasing the advertising expenditures for the largest and the smallest brands in this category and find that these brands can increase their profitability by increasing their advertising expenditures. We also analyze the impact of modifying a camera model’s attributes on its profits. Such an analysis could potentially be used to evaluate if product development efforts would be profitable.
On Customized Goods, Standard Goods, and Competition
Authors: Syam Niladri B. , Kumar Nanda
Published: October 2006

In this study, we examine firms’ incentive to offer customized products in addition to their standard products in a competitive environment. We offer several key insights. First, we delineate market conditions in which firms will (will not) offer customized products in addition to their standard products. Surprisingly, we find that when firms offer customized products they are able to not only expand demand, but can also increase the prices of their standard products relative to when they do not. Second, we find that when a firm offers customized products it is a dominant strategy for it to also offer its standard product. This result highlights the role of standard products and the importance of retaining them when firms offer customized products. Third, we identify market conditions under which ex ante symmetric firms will adopt symmetric or asymmetric customization strategies. Fourth, we highlight how the degree of customization offered in equilibrium is affected by market parameters. We find that the degree of customization is lower when both firms offer customized products relative to the case when only one firm offers customized products. Finally, we show that customizing products under competition does not lead to a prisoner’s dilemma.
Estimating Heterogeneous EBA and Economic Screening Rule Choice Models
Authors: Gilbride Timothy J. , Allenby Greg M.
Published: October 2006

Consumer choice in surveys and in the marketplace reflects a complex process of screening and evaluating choice alternatives. Behavioral and economic models of choice processes are difficult to estimate when using stated and revealed preferences because the underlying process is latent. This paper introduces Bayesian methods for estimating two behavioral models that eliminate alternatives using specific attribute levels. The elimination by aspects theory postulates a sequential elimination of alternatives by attribute levels until a single one, the chosen alternative, remains. In the economic screening rule model, respondents screen out alternatives with certain attribute levels and then choose from the remaining alternatives, using a compensatory function of all the attributes. The economic screening rule model gives an economic justification as to why certain attributes are used to screen alternatives. A commercial conjoint study is used to illustrate the methods and assess their performance. In this data set, the economic screening rule model outperforms the EBA and other standard choice models and provides comparable results to an equivalent conjunctive screening rule model.
Absorptive Capacity in High-Technology Markets: The Competitive Advantage of the Haves
Authors: Narasimhan Om , Rajiv Surendra , Dutta Shantanu
Published: October 2006

The rapid rate of knowledge obsolescence in many high-technology markets makes it imperative for firms to renew their technological bases constantly. Given its critical importance, excellence in renewal of technological base would serve as a dynamic capability. Drawing on past literature, we identify this dynamic capability associated with acquiring and utilizing external technological know-how with the notion of absorptive capacity (AC).

We ask the following questions: (a) What would cause some firms to have a higher AC than others? and, (b) What is the impact of AC on a firm’s profitability?

We build a conceptual framework suggesting that marketing, R&D, and operations capabilities have a significant positive impact on a firm’s AC. We test our framework on a data set of firms in high-technology markets. Using an econometric technique called stochastic frontier estimation, we infer the AC of firms from an observation of the know-how they actually absorb. We find that firm-specific capabilities significantly impact AC. Also, we find that AC has a significant impact on profitability and that this impact is moderated by the pace of technological change: the greater the pace of change, the greater the impact.
Bone scanning in the assessment of mandibular invasion by oral cavity carcinomas
Authors: Weisman Robert A. , Kimmelman Charles P.
Published: October 2006

Mandibular invasion alters the staging and treatment of oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma, and thus its detection is essential to the head and neck oncologist. There is little information assessing the accuracy of the radionuclide bone scan and the roentgenogram in determining mandibular invasion. The present study reports data on 40 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity for whom bone scans, mandibular roentgenograms, and histologic examination of the mandible were available. The bone scan correctly predicted mandibular invasion in 8 of 9 cases; the false positive rate was 53% as a result of mandibular inflammatory changes. The bone scan was more accurate than the roentgenogram in predicting tumor invasion of the mandible, but the bone scan had a higher false positive rate. A normal bone scan and roentgenogram virtually precluded tumor involvement of the mandible. We conclude that the bone scan is an important adjunct in the prediction of carcinomatous invasion of the mandible in squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity.
Combined treatment of advanced cancer of the laryngopharynx and cervical esophagus
Authors: Schechter Gary L. , Baker John W. , El‐Mahdi Anas M. , Bumatay Joseph T.
Published: October 2006

Advanced cancer of the laryngopharynx and cervical esophagus is difficult to treat because of the malnutrition produced by pain and obstruction and the problems related to reconstruction. This paper presents the initial results of a regimen used in 14 patients in which there is rapid reversal of nutritional deficiencies, radical resection, and reconstruction using the gastric pull‐up technique and administration of postoperative radiotherapy. Excellent overall palliation and decreased hospitalization have been achieved using this regimen without diminishing chances for cure.
Salivary and bronchial immunoglobulins in patients with respiratory tract carcinoma
Authors: Dvorak Kenneth J. , Katz Robert L.
Published: October 2006

Patients with carcinoma of the respiratory tract have been demonstrated to have elevated levels of immunoglobulins in the secretions bathing these areas. The clinical significance of this finding has remained unclear. In the present study, IgA and IgG levels were correlated with 5 year survival statistics in 53 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma. Our findings indicate that there is no correlation between local IgA or IgG level and length of patient survival.
Herpes zoster oticus: Surgery based upon prognostic indicators and results
Authors: May Mark , Blumenthal Frank
Published: October 2006

We studied 28 patients with herpes zoster oticus prospectively over the six‐year period between August 1974 and June 1980. We found that the results of measuring tear production, submandibular salivary flow, the response to maximal stimulation, and evoked electromyography gave us sufficient information to group these patients according to prognosis — either unfavorable or favorable —for spontaneous return of facial function. When the test results were 26% or more of normal, 100% of the patients had complete recovery without treatment; when the test results were 25% or less of normal, 69% had incomplete recovery: 19% had fair and 50% had poor recovery. Of the 31% with complete recovery, 4 were operated upon.

The natural history of herpes zoster oticus in patients with a poor prognosis was improved if a transmastoid extralabyrinthine subtemporal decompression of the labyrinthine segment of the facial nerve was performed within 10 days of onset of the paralysis. The decision to perform this surgery was based upon the results of the prognostic tests mentioned above.
Surgical treatment of external auditory canal cholesteatoma
Authors: Anthony Philip F. , Anthony W. P.
Published: October 2006

The authors present a series of 12 ears in 10 patients ranging from 18 to 72 years old with external auditory canal cholesteatomas (EACC) seen over an 8 year period. Males and females were equally involved. The left ear was involved 3 times as frequently as the right. No association with sinus or bronchial diseases was seen. Two cases were examined, 3′i and 7 years before the development of any external auditory canal symptoms, and were normal. Two cases of bilateral involvement by EACC were reported. The clinical findings of EACC in this series are discussed.

The authors describe a method of surgical treatment used in 12 ears with an average 3 year follow‐up and excellent results. The technique involves the excision of the involved skin and periosteum followed by bone debridement. Fascia was used when 1. a large amount of skin had been removed, 2. mastoid air cells were exposed, 3. a soft tissue graft was used to fill a bony defect, or 4. when a portion of the tympanic membrane was sacrificed or its continuity interrupted.